ABOUT CZECH REPUBLIC

The Czech Republic, located in Central Europe, is a country rich in history and culture. Its capital, Prague, is famous for its breathtaking medieval architecture and vibrant arts scene. Spanning approximately 78,866 square kilometres, the nation is bordered by Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Poland, featuring a diverse landscape of rolling hills, fertile plains, dense forests, and mountain ranges such as the Krkonoše.

Formerly the medieval Kingdom of Bohemia, the region later became part of the Habsburg Monarchy. Following World War I, it joined with Slovakia to form Czechoslovakia, which peacefully separated into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993. Today, the Czech Republic operates as a parliamentary republic, has been a NATO member since 1999, and joined the European Union in 2004.

The economy is robust, driven by strong industrial sectors like automotive and machinery, alongside a growing service sector. The Czech Republic is renowned for its cultural heritage, with Czech as the official language, and is celebrated for its literature, music, and iconic architectural landmarks, especially in Prague. Czech cuisine is hearty and comforting, while the country is internationally recognized for its world-class beer.

Tourism flourishes, with visitors drawn to historic attractions, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Czech Republic is also distinguished by its strong education system and universal healthcare, combining a rich historical legacy with modern advancements.

Entry into the Czech Republic

For citizens of European Union countries, entering the Czech Republic is simple. As a member of the Schengen Area, the country imposes no border restrictions or visa requirements for EU travellers. A national ID card suffices, and a passport is not necessary.

Non-EU visitors should check visa requirements in advance, as entry rules vary by country. The Czech Republic is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from across Europe and beyond. Once you arrive, you'll discover a nation rich in history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

Currency

The official currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK). While euros may be accepted in some tourist areas, it’s advisable to use korunas for most transactions. Approximately 25 CZK equals 1 euro.

Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but car rental companies typically require a credit card, as standard debit cards may not suffice. The country has a well-established network of ATMs, and it is recommended to use those operated by banks to avoid high fees. Independent ATMs, such as Euronet, can charge withdrawal fees of up to €10 or 10% of the transaction.

Electricity

Electricity in the Czech Republic operates at 230 V AC and 50 Hz, consistent with most European countries.

Mobile services

The Czech Republic provides reliable mobile services through major providers like O2, Vodafone, and T-Mobile. These companies offer extensive 4G coverage, with 5G networks steadily expanding. Travelers can choose from a range of prepaid, postpaid, and tourist-specific plans, ensuring affordable and flexible connectivity.

SIM cards are widely available, and EU residents can enjoy roaming without extra charges. Non-EU visitors can easily access local prepaid options, and apps like Airalo are recommended for mobile data needs.

Important telephone numbers

Here are some key telephone numbers in the Czech Republic. The country code is +420.

• Emergency Services (all-in-one): 112
• Police: 158
• Fire Department: 150
• Ambulance: 155
• Municipal Police: 156
• Roadside Assistance (ÚAMK): 1230
• Czech Automobile Club Assistance (ABA): 1240
• Tourist Hotline: +420 221 714 444

Interesting Facts about the Czech Republic

Beer consumption
The Czech Republic holds the title for the highest beer consumption per capita globally. With a rich brewing tradition, it is home to famous breweries like Pilsner Urquell, the origin of the Pilsner style.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The country is home to 14 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic centres of Prague, Český Krumlov, and Kutná Hora, showcasing its remarkable cultural and architectural heritage.

Castle density
With over 2,000 castles, chateaux, and ruins, the Czech Republic boasts the highest density of castles in Europe. Notably, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle worldwide.

Charles University
Established in 1348, Charles University in Prague is one of Europe’s oldest universities and remains a prestigious institution for education and research.

Czech language
The Czech language is known for its complexity, with distinctive diacritics and words like "krk" (neck) that lack vowels.

Velvet revolution
In 1989, the Velvet Revolution peacefully ended the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, a defining moment in modern Czech history.

Czech inventions
The Czech Republic is the birthplace of several notable inventions, including the modern contact lens, created by chemist Otto Wichterle.

Bohemian glass
Renowned for its craftsmanship, Bohemian glass (Czech crystal) has been produced since the 13th century and is highly regarded worldwide.

Landlocked nation
Despite being landlocked, the Czech Republic has a rich tradition of water sports, especially along the Vltava River.

Mushroom picking
Mushroom foraging is a beloved activity among Czechs, particularly during autumn, as the country’s forests provide abundant opportunities for this pastime.