Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: ETIAS Authorization
Most visa-exempt travelers to Czechia now need ETIAS authorization (€7) - a straightforward online application that takes about 10 minutes and is valid for three years. Apply at least 72 hours before your trip to avoid delays. This electronic travel authorization is required for all short stays in the Schengen Area, including Czechia.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages for stamps. For Czechia, ensure it meets biometric standards if you're from a visa-exempt country.
Double-check expiration dates well in advance, as some countries require additional validity for re-entry, and Czech border officials may scrutinize documents closely at airports like Prague's Václav Havel Airport.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many others can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa in Czechia as part of the Schengen Zone.
Registration might be needed for longer stays through local authorities, especially if you're planning to work or study; always confirm with the Czech Ministry of Interior for the latest list of eligible nationalities.
Visa Applications
For required visas, apply online via the Schengen visa system (€80 fee), submitting documents like proof of funds (€50/day recommended), accommodation details, and travel insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses.
Processing takes 15-45 days depending on your location and the embassy's workload; apply at the Czech embassy or VFS Global center in your home country for efficiency.
Border Crossings
Czechia's borders with Germany, Poland, Austria, and Slovakia are largely seamless via Schengen, but expect quick checks at airports and occasional spot checks on trains or roads.
Land crossings are efficient with ETIAS verification possible via mobile app; if driving, ensure your vehicle documents are in order for EU cross-border travel.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is essential, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities like hiking in the Bohemian Paradise or skiing in the Krkonoše Mountains.
Policies start at €5/day from reputable providers; Czechia requires proof of insurance for visa applications, so choose coverage that explicitly includes Schengen-wide validity.
Extensions Possible
You can extend your stay for valid reasons like medical issues or business by applying at a local Foreign Police office before your visa or ETIAS expires.
Fees are around €30-50 with supporting documents required; extensions are granted case-by-case and rarely exceed the original 90 days without strong justification.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Czechia uses the Czech Koruna (CZK). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks. ATMs are plentiful, but avoid airport exchanges for better rates.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Prague by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for low-cost carriers flying into Václav Havel Airport from major European hubs.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at traditional hospodas for hearty meals under 300 CZK, skipping touristy spots near Old Town Square to save up to 50% on food costs.
Local markets like Prague's farmers' markets offer fresh produce, sausages, and trdelník pastries at great prices, providing authentic flavors without the markup.
Public Transport Passes
Get a Prague Card for unlimited travel at 1,300 CZK for 3 days, cutting intercity costs significantly with free public transport and museum discounts.
ČD rail passes for regional trains start at 500 CZK, ideal for day trips to Kutná Hora or Telč, and often include bike transport options.
Free Attractions
Visit public parks like Letná in Prague, stroll across Charles Bridge, and explore free viewpoints of castles in Český Krumlov, which are cost-free and offer authentic experiences.
Many museums and galleries have free entry on the first Wednesday or Sunday of each month, allowing budget travelers to immerse in Czech history without spending.
Card vs Cash
Cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry cash for rural markets, small pubs, and trams where contactless might not work.
Withdraw from bank ATMs like ČSOB for better rates than exchange bureaus or hotels, and notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Museum Passes
Use the Prague Visitor Pass for entry to multiple sites at 1,200 CZK for 48 hours, perfect for cultural trips including the National Museum and Jewish Quarter.
It pays for itself after visiting 4-5 attractions, with added perks like audio guides and priority entry to avoid lines at popular spots.
Smart Packing for Czechia
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack layers for variable weather, including waterproof jackets for Prague's frequent rains and light sweaters for cooler evenings in historic towns.
Include modest attire for visiting churches and castles like Prague Castle, and breathable fabrics for summer beer garden outings; opt for versatile pieces that mix well for multi-day itineraries.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/E), power bank for long castle tours, offline maps of Prague's trams, and a camera for capturing Gothic architecture.
Download translation apps like Google Translate for Czech phrases, and a VPN for secure Wi-Fi at cafes; consider a portable charger for all-day hikes in Bohemian Switzerland.
Health & Safety
Carry travel insurance documents, basic first-aid kit with motion sickness remedies for winding roads, any prescriptions, and high-SPF sunscreen for outdoor festivals.
Include hand sanitizer, insect repellent for forested national parks like Šumava, and a reusable face mask for crowded indoor sites; Czech pharmacies stock most needs but pack extras for rural areas.
Travel Gear
Pack a daypack for sightseeing on cobblestone streets, reusable water bottle for free public fountains, quick-dry towel for spa towns like Karlovy Vary, and cash in small CZK denominations.
Bring copies of IDs, a money belt for security in busy tourist areas, and a lightweight scarf for versatile use in churches or as sun protection during summer walks.
Footwear Strategy
Opt for sturdy hiking boots for trails in the Czech Paradise and comfortable walking sneakers for endless exploration of Prague's medieval streets and bridges.
Waterproof shoes are crucial given Czechia's variable weather and occasional floods; pack insoles for support during long days visiting multiple UNESCO sites like Telč or Kroměříž.
Personal Care
Include biodegradable toiletries, lip balm with SPF for outdoor adventures, and a compact umbrella or poncho for unpredictable Central European showers.
Travel-sized items help with packing light for train hops between cities; don't forget moisturizer for dry winter air and eco-friendly sunscreen for eco-conscious hikes in protected areas.
When to Visit Czechia
Spring (March-May)
Ideal for blooming cherry blossoms along the Vltava River in Prague and emerging greenery in Moravian vineyards, with mild temperatures of 10-15°C and fewer crowds than summer.
Perfect for city walks, Easter markets in České Budějovice, and hiking without the heat; shoulder season means lower hotel rates and easier access to attractions like Karlštejn Castle.
Summer (June-August)
Peak season for music festivals like Prague Spring and outdoor beer gardens with warm weather around 20-25°C, ideal for river cruises and open-air concerts.
Expect higher prices and crowds in historic centers - great for swimming in South Bohemian lakes and exploring castles, but book accommodations early to secure spots.
Autumn (September-November)
Excellent for harvest festivals in wine regions like South Moravia with colorful foliage in the Ore Mountains and temperatures of 10-15°C.
Lower accommodation costs and crisp weather perfect for truffle hunting tours or visiting pumpkin markets; fewer tourists allow for peaceful experiences at sites like the Bone Church in Kutná Hora.
Winter (December-February)
Budget-friendly for Christmas markets in Prague's Old Town Square and Nuremberg-like fairs in Brno with temperatures of 0-5°C and occasional snow.
Ideal for cozy indoor experiences like spa visits in Mariánské Lázně, mulled wine tastings, and avoiding peak seasons; cross-country skiing in the Giant Mountains adds adventure to the chill.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK). Exchange rates fluctuate mildly. Cards widely accepted in cities but carry cash for rural areas and small vendors.
- Language: Czech is official. English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Prague, but basic phrases help in smaller towns.
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1 (observes daylight saving)
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type C/E plugs (European two-pin round)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance; 150 for police specifically in Czechia
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; round up bills or add 10% for good service in restaurants and taxis
- Water: Tap water is safe to drink throughout Czechia, with excellent quality in Prague
- Pharmacies: Widely available as "Lékárna" with green signs; 24-hour options in major cities