Welcome to Czechia

Most who visit Czechia will start in pretty Prague, but save time for the country’s numerous other hidden treasures. Starting in the capital city, walk the winding paths of the old Jewish Quarter and watch a centuries-old mechanical clock show in Old Town (the clock dates back to the 15th century!).

Live a real-life fairytale in picture-perfect Cesky Krumlov and its 13th-century, hillside castle. In Pilsen, visit a microbrewery and enjoy a pint in the land where Pilsner Urquell was founded. Take a spa break in Karlovy Vary, where the world’s cognoscenti – from Peter the Great to Beethoven – have soaked in the thermal waters. In Brno, admire the Mies Van der Rohe-designed Villa Tugendhat.

Then go back in architectural time in Kutna Hora, where the town center boasts so many masterpieces that it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gothic Church of St. Barbara is truly remarkable. Come see why Czechia is one of Europe’s favorite travel destinations.

Unique Facts

• If it’s castles you seek, you’re in the right place. There are more than 2,000 castles remaining in the country today. Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world by area (more than 18 acres).
• There are 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Czechia, including the historic centers of Prague and Cesky Krumlov.
• They’re crazy about mushroom hunting here. Toward the end of September, towns celebrate St. Wenceslas Day by heading into the forest to hunt for funghi.
• Czechia is the origin of Pilsner Urquell and, unsurprisingly, Czechs consumer the most beer in the world. Try to attend the Czech Beer Festival in Prague – it lasts 17 days and features 70 kinds of Czech beer.
• Bring an appetite for meat – some of the most pouplar meals include roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, roast duck with dumplings and potatoes and roast beef in cream sauce with, you guessed it, dumplings.

Language

Czechia’s official language is Czech.

When To Go

The best time to go to Czechia is mid-March to mid-November. Mid-March to mid-May and September to mid-November are considered the shoulder seasons and less expensive than the high season, June through August.

Airports

Václav Havel Airport Prague

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months past arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of 90 days or less

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for most travelers when visiting Czechia: Hepatitis A. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Rabies.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and E. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Koruna

There is an extensive intercity train and bus network in Czechia. The larger cities have excellent urban mass transit systems.

Driver’s License

Valid US driver’s license as well as international driving permit required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Prague
Tržiště 15
118 01 Praha 1 – Malá Strana
Czech Republic
Telephone: + (420) 257-022-000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (420) 257-022-000
Fax: + (420) 257-022-809
ACSPrg@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourist Information Centre
Staroměstské nám. 1, Staroměstské nám. 1/4,
110 00 Praha 1-Staré Město
Czechia
Tel: +420 221 714 714

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 155
Police: 112
Fire: 150

Safety and Security

Pickpocketing is common in major tourist areas in Prague, including on public transportation and in the city center, crowded areas and outdoor cafes.

Auto theft and auto break-ins are common. Use parking garages and anti-theft devices.

Be wary of overcharging scams and verify charges paid with credit card are correct before signing.