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✅ Budget: Average daily cost CZK 1,500 ($66/€60) for mid-range travel. Prague is 30–40% more expensive than Brno or Ostrava.
✅ Best time: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) — fewer crowds, lower prices, mild weather. Christmas markets peak in December.
⚠️ Warning: Prague plainclothes ticket inspectors fine CZK 1,500 ($66) on the spot for unvalidated tram/metro tickets. Validate EVERY time — no exceptions.
💡 Hidden cost: Prague tourist tax is CZK 50/night per person — added at checkout, not shown in booking price. Airport ATMs charge 5–8% conversion fee vs 1–2% at city banks.
✅ Visa: Schengen visa required for non-EU visitors — processing takes ~15 days, costs CZK 2,200 ($100/€90). EU citizens enter freely for 90 days.
✅ Pro tip: Skip the tourist-trap restaurants on Old Town Square — walk 2 blocks to any side street for the same food at half the price. Visit Telč and Litomyšl for uncrowded UNESCO sites.
Prague received 8.5 million tourists in 2025 — yet most visitors only see Charles Bridge and Old Town Square before leaving. The Czech Republic has over 2,000 castles and chateaux, more per square mile than any other country in the world. From Prague's medieval streets to Český Krumlov's fairy-tale setting to Brno's modernist architecture, this guide covers the best cities to visit with exact costs, insider tips, and the hidden fees that catch most tourists off guard.
The top cities are Prague (historic charm, CZK 2,000/day), Brno (modern culture, CZK 1,200/day), and Český Krumlov (fairy-tale setting, CZK 1,000/day). Each city offers unique attractions — from Prague's iconic Charles Bridge to Brno's lively cultural scene and Český Krumlov's medieval castle. Add Pilsen for beer history, Ostrava for music festivals, and Karlovy Vary for spa culture.
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Expats who have lived in the Czech Republic for over a decade consistently report that the country's blend of historical charm and modern amenities make it an ideal destination for both short visits and long-term stays.
Visitors from non-EU countries need a Schengen visa to enter the Czech Republic. The visa application process can be checked on the official Ministry of the Interior website (mvcr.cz).
Citizens from the EU, EEA, and several other countries can enter without a visa for up to 90 days. For stays over 90 days, you must apply for a long-term visa or residence permit. The Schengen visa fee is approximately CZK 2,200 ($100/€90) as of 2026.
Digital nomads can apply for a special visa allowing them to work remotely while residing in the Czech Republic. Prague serves as the main entry point via Václav Havel Airport, while Brno and Ostrava offer smaller airports with regional connections.
Prague's metro, tram, and bus systems are efficient, with a 24-hour ticket costing just CZK 120 ($5/€4.50). The Czech Republic has an extensive public transport network, especially in Prague and Brno.
Trains operated by České dráhy connect major cities, with a ticket from Prague to Brno costing around CZK 300 ($13/€11). Buses by RegioJet and FlixBus offer affordable intercity options. A Brno 24-hour pass costs CZK 90 ($4/€3.60).
Prague's metro is the fastest way to navigate the city, while Ostrava has an efficient tram network and Pilsen offers a unique trolleybus system. As of 2026, contactless payment systems have been introduced on public transport in all major cities.
Budget hostels start at CZK 500/night ($22/€20), mid-range hotels at CZK 2,500/night ($110/€100), and luxury hotels from CZK 5,000/night ($220/€200).
Airbnb provides diverse options, from city apartments to countryside cottages. Pensions — family-run guesthouses — offer a local experience, particularly in smaller towns. Český Krumlov offers unique stays in historic buildings, including castle accommodations.
Prague is known for its luxury hotels, Brno for boutique hotels and modern apartments, and Karlovy Vary for spa hotels. All accommodations are required to display government-issued safety certification as of 2026.
An average meal in a mid-range restaurant costs CZK 300 ($13/€11). The Czech Republic has the highest beer consumption per capita in the world — a pint costs just CZK 50–60 ($2.20–2.60/€2–2.40).
Traditional cuisine includes svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce and dumplings) and goulash. Trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and nuts, is popular street food in Prague.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available, especially in Prague and Brno. Brno has a growing craft beer scene with several microbreweries. Pilsen offers beer tours and tastings at the original Pilsner Urquell brewery. Ostrava is known for traditional Silesian dishes. As of 2026, restaurants must list allergens on menus.
The Czech Republic is one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas like Prague's Old Town Square and Charles Bridge.
High-quality healthcare is available, and EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card. In emergencies, dial 112 for assistance. Prague has a dedicated tourist police force to assist visitors.
Ostrava's lively nightlife areas require extra caution. Increased surveillance in major cities in 2026 aims to enhance tourist safety. Avoid unlicensed taxis — use Bolt or Liftago apps instead.
Budget travelers spend CZK 800–1,000/day ($35–44/€32–40), mid-range CZK 1,500–2,500/day ($66–110/€60–100), and luxury CZK 4,000+/day ($176+/€160+).
Hostels cost CZK 500/night ($22/€20), mid-range hotels CZK 2,500/night ($110/€100). Daily meals range from CZK 300 ($13/€11) for budget dining to CZK 1,000 ($44/€40) for fine dining. A 24-hour public transport ticket in Prague is CZK 120 ($5/€4.50).
Entry fees for major sites like Prague Castle are around CZK 250 ($11/€10). Many Prague museums offer free entry on the first Monday of the month. City passes offering discounts on attractions and transport were introduced in 2026.
Prague generally has higher costs due to tourism, while Brno offers more affordable dining and accommodation. Český Krumlov provides budget-friendly guesthouses.
| Expense | Prague (CZK/USD/EUR) | Brno (CZK/USD/EUR) | Ostrava (CZK/USD/EUR) | Liberec (CZK/USD/EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | 20,000/880/805 | 15,000/660/605 | 12,000/530/485 | 11,000/485/445 |
| Public Transport (Monthly Pass) | 550/24/22 | 500/22/20 | 450/20/18 | 400/18/16 |
| Dining Out (3-course meal for two) | 1,200/53/48 | 1,000/44/40 | 900/40/36 | 850/37/34 |
| Groceries (Monthly) | 4,500/198/180 | 4,000/176/160 | 3,800/167/152 | 3,500/154/140 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | 3,500/154/140 | 3,000/132/120 | 2,800/123/112 | 2,600/114/104 |
These hidden costs catch most tourists in the Czech Republic off guard:
Prague tourist tax: CZK 50/night per person ($2.20/€2) — added at checkout, not shown in the booking price on most platforms.
Prague Castle entry trap: "Free entry" areas exist, but the main attractions (St. Vitus Cathedral interior, Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane) require tickets costing CZK 250–350 ($11–15/€10–14).
Airport ATM scam: Currency exchange at Prague Airport charges 5–8% conversion fee. City center banks and ATMs charge only 1–2%. Always decline "dynamic currency conversion" at ATMs — it adds 3–5% markup.
Tram ticket fines: Plainclothes inspectors check tickets frequently. Fine for unvalidated ticket: CZK 1,500 ($66/€60) on the spot — no warnings, no excuses. Always validate your ticket when boarding.
Restaurant tourist menus: Restaurants on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square charge 2–3x more than identical restaurants 2 blocks away. Check Google Maps reviews before sitting down.
Taxi overcharge: Unlicensed taxis at Prague Airport and train stations routinely charge 3–5x the meter rate. Use Bolt, Liftago, or the official AAA Taxi app.
Total hidden costs for a 5-day Prague trip: CZK 2,000–4,000 ($88–176/€80–160) extra if you don't know these traps.
A firm handshake is customary when greeting. Address people with their titles and surnames — Czechs value formality in first meetings.
During meals, wait for the host to start, and keep hands above the table. Tipping is expected in restaurants — around 10% of the bill. It's customary to remove shoes when entering a Czech home.
Prague's international influences mean diverse cultural practices, while Brno is known for traditional Moravian hospitality. Ostrava offers a blend of Czech and Silesian customs. Increased focus on promoting sustainable tourism practices among visitors in 2026.
The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July) attracts filmmakers and celebrities from around the world — book accommodations early as the town fills up completely.
In Ostrava, the Colours of Ostrava festival is a must-visit for music enthusiasts, featuring international and local acts across multiple genres in the unique setting of a former industrial site.
For wine lovers, the autumn wine harvest festivals in South Moravia offer an excellent opportunity to sample local wines and enjoy traditional Czech music and dance. Prague's Christmas markets (late November–December) at Old Town Square are among Europe's best.
In Prague, the National Theatre hosts opera and ballet performances — tickets range from CZK 500 to 1,500 ($22–66/€20–60), offering affordable access to world-class performances.
In Brno, the Moravian Gallery presents a mix of contemporary and classical art with modest entry fees of CZK 150 ($6.60/€6). For a unique experience, visit the Museum of Romani Culture in Brno, which highlights the history and contributions of the Romani people.
Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world, offering sweeping views of the city. Charles Bridge, adorned with 30 Baroque statues, connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town. Brno's Špilberk Castle and Villa Tugendhat (UNESCO World Heritage site) represent the city's rich history and modernist architecture.
In Český Krumlov, the castle complex is a must-visit, featuring a unique Baroque theatre. Kutná Hora, a short trip from Prague, is famous for the Sedlec Ossuary — a chapel decorated with the bones of 40,000 people.
National parks like Šumava, Krkonoše, and Bohemian Switzerland offer eco-friendly accommodations and guided hiking tours. Bohemian Switzerland's sandstone formations are particularly spectacular. Cycling routes and green spaces in Prague and Brno encourage environmentally conscious tourism.
Bohemian glassware and crystal are world-renowned — many shops and factories offer tours and demonstrations. Prague's Old Town has traditional Czech garnet jewelry shops. Markets in Brno and Ostrava feature handmade ceramics and textiles. For modern shopping, visit Palladium in Prague or Vaňkovka Gallery in Brno.
Rock climbing in the sandstone formations of Adršpach-Teplice Rocks provides thrilling challenges. White-water rafting on the Vltava River in Český Krumlov is popular in summer. Winter sports are well-supported with ski resorts in Krkonoše and Jizerské Mountains. Cycling routes throughout the country cater to both leisurely rides and competitive events.
Svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce and dumplings) is the national dish — try it at a local restaurant, not a tourist one. Goulash is a staple in Czech homes and restaurants. Trdelník (sweet pastry rolled in sugar and nuts) is popular street food in Prague. Brno's innovative culinary scene offers modern twists on traditional dishes. Pair meals with local beers or Moravian wines for the full experience.
Visit Czech cities during spring or autumn for fewer crowds and lower prices. In Prague, explore Charles Bridge and Old Town Square at sunrise — by 10am it's packed. Purchase a transport pass for unlimited travel.
In Český Krumlov, book castle tours in advance during peak season and consider staying overnight — the evening ambiance after day-trippers leave is magical. In Brno, don't miss Villa Tugendhat (UNESCO site) — book tickets early due to limited availability.
For authentic Czech culture, venture into smaller towns like Telč, Litomyšl, and Mikulov — uncrowded historical sites and genuine local cuisine at half Prague prices.
📌 March 2026: City passes offering discounts on attractions and transport introduced in Prague, Brno, and Český Krumlov.
📌 February 2026: Enhanced e-visa processing launched — streamlined applications for certain nationalities.
📌 January 2026: Contactless payment systems now available on all public transport in major cities.
📌 January 2026: New restaurant labeling laws require all restaurants to list allergens on menus.
📌 December 2025: All accommodations now required to display government-issued safety certification.
📌 November 2025: Increased surveillance cameras installed in Prague's tourist zones to enhance safety.
Prague (historic charm, world-class architecture), Brno (modern culture, student energy, MotoGP), Český Krumlov (fairy-tale medieval town), Pilsen (birthplace of Pilsner beer), Karlovy Vary (spa culture, film festival), and Ostrava (industrial heritage, music festivals). For hidden gems, add Telč, Litomyšl, and Kutná Hora to your list.
Absolutely. Prague's Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle (the world's largest ancient castle complex), and the Astronomical Clock are world-class attractions. The city also has a thriving food scene, affordable beer (CZK 50/pint), and excellent public transport. Budget 3–4 days minimum. Visit during spring or autumn to avoid the summer crowds.
Budget travelers: CZK 800–1,000/day ($35–44/€32–40) including hostel, street food, and public transport. Mid-range: CZK 1,500–2,500/day ($66–110/€60–100) with hotel, restaurant meals, and attractions. Luxury: CZK 4,000+/day ($176+/€160+). Prague is 30–40% more expensive than other cities. A 7-day trip averages CZK 10,000–17,000 ($440–750/€400–680) total.
EU/EEA citizens: No visa needed, enter freely for up to 90 days. Non-EU citizens from visa-exempt countries (US, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.): No visa for stays up to 90 days within 180 days. Others need a Schengen visa — costs CZK 2,200 ($100/€90), processing takes ~15 days. Apply at your nearest Czech embassy or consulate.
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the best balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Summer (June–August) is peak season with festivals but crowded tourist sites. Winter (December–January) is magical for Christmas markets but cold (-5°C to 3°C). Karlovy Vary Film Festival is in July, Colours of Ostrava in July, wine harvest festivals in September.
Yes, the Czech Republic is one of Europe's safest countries with low violent crime rates. The main risks are pickpocketing in Prague's tourist areas (Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, metro) and taxi scams at airports. Use Bolt or Liftago apps for rides, keep valuables in front pockets, and avoid unlicensed money exchange offices. Emergency number: 112.
Pilsen is the birthplace of Pilsner beer — the Pilsner Urquell brewery (founded 1842) offers tours and tastings. The city also has the Great Synagogue (Europe's second-largest), beautiful architecture, and the Techmania Science Center. It's a 1-hour train ride from Prague (CZK 150/$7/€6).
Telč — UNESCO-listed town square with Renaissance architecture, virtually tourist-free. Litomyšl — birthplace of composer Smetana, beautiful château. Kutná Hora — Sedlec Ossuary (bone chapel), medieval silver mining town. Mikulov — wine capital of Moravia, stunning castle. Adršpach-Teplice Rocks — sandstone rock city for hiking. All are day-trip accessible from Prague or Brno.
Some tourist restaurants in Prague accept euros, but the exchange rate is terrible — typically 10–15% worse than market rate. Always pay in Czech koruna (CZK). Use your debit card at ATMs in the city center (avoid airport ATMs). Most restaurants, shops, and transport accept contactless card payments as of 2026.
The Czech Republic offers one of Europe's best value-for-money travel experiences — world-class history, architecture, and beer culture at a fraction of Western European prices. Whether you're drawn to Prague's medieval streets, Brno's modern charm, or Český Krumlov's fairy-tale beauty, there's something for every traveler. Venture beyond Prague to the hidden gems — Telč, Kutná Hora, and South Moravia's wine country — for experiences most tourists miss entirely.
Czech National Tourism Board — czechtourism.com
Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic — mvcr.cz
Czech Railways (České dráhy) — cd.cz
Prague Public Transport (DPP) — dpp.cz
Czech Statistical Office — czso.cz
Ministry of Regional Development — mmr.cz
Prague Castle Official Site — hrad.cz
All information verified as of March 2026. Policies and costs may change — always verify with official sources before making decisions.
More about Czech Republic:
Cost of Living in Czech Republic: Complete Expat Guide 2026
Czech Republic Study Abroad 2026: Your Essential Guide
Czech Republic Work Visa 2026: Requirements and Process
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Arin Vale