Money

The official currency used in the Czech Republic is the Czech crown (Kč) which has the international abbreviation CZK. One crown is divided into 100 hellers (h), though the smallest denomination of coin is the 50 heller piece.

The Czech Republic has been a member of the EU since May 1 2004, but will only enter the Euro Zone around 2010. You can pay for goods and services in the Czech Republic with cash and cards. There are also places in the country where payment can be made in euros – in most retail chains, electronics shops, at petrol stations and in restaurants. There are exchange offices on literally every corner in large towns.

Exchange offices

You can change money in the Czech Republic in many places but never on the street!

At exchange offices in banks you will pay 2 % of the total sum in commission. In certain banks there is a minimum fee of 50 Kč (1.70 euros). You will pay this only when the 2 % commission comes to less than this amount. In privately run exchange offices it is recommended that you first of all ask for the exact sum you will receive for your money: the sign advertising 0 % commission often relates to buying foreign currency! You can also change money at your hotel reception.

ATMs and credit and debit cards

In the Czech Republic you will find a dense network of ATMs (cash machines) which will accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Maestro, Cirrus and others). The majority of shops and restaurants also accept cards. Cards which a shop or restaurant accepts are usually displayed in the window of the premises. If you don’t see your card name there, ask before purchasing anything whether your card will be accepted.

Numbers to call if you lose your cards

• Visa Czech Republic 800 142 121
• MasterCard Czech Republic 800 142 494

Travellers‘ cheques

American Express, Thomas Cook and Visa customers will have few problems when cashing travellers’ cheques in banks in the Czech Republic. Eurocheques are also widely accepted.

Tipping

Tips aren’t usually left by guests on the table. Should you wish to tip staff, add around 10% onto the bill or round it up. It’s up to you what sum you tell the waiter you wish to pay when he brings the bill. If you say nothing, you will receive the exact change. If you say the word ‘děkuji’ (thank you) when the waiter is giving you the change, he will understand that the remainder has been left as a tip.

Source: www.visitczechia.com

• Important telephone numbers
• Embassies and consulates
• Arriving in the Czech Republic
• Business hours
• Telephones
• Money
• Health insurance
• Air travel and airports
• Rules of the road

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