Czech Republic (CZ)
Czech Republic is a landlocked Central European parliamentary republic of 14 regions, home to the fairy-tale spires of Prague — one of Europe's best-preserved medieval capitals — as well as world-famous Bohemian crystal and glasswork, the birthplace of Pilsner lager, a thriving startup and tech scene anchored in Prague and Brno, and one of the lowest unemployment rates and most stable economies in the EU.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Czech Republic.
Denominations
Coins: 1 Kč, 2 Kč, 5 Kč, 10 Kč, 20 Kč, 50 Kč. Notes: 100 Kč, 200 Kč, 500 Kč, 1000 Kč, 2000 Kč, 5000 Kč.
Payment Culture
Card payments (contactless) are widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops. Cash is still common in smaller towns, local markets, and with tradespersons. Czech Republic is NOT in the Eurozone — euros are not accepted in most places except some tourist areas. Czech Republic uses CZK exclusively. Mobile payment via Google Pay and Apple Pay is growing.
ATM Tips
Use bank ATMs (Česká spořitelna, Komerční banka, ČSOB, Raiffeisenbank) to avoid third-party fees. Private ATMs in tourist areas (especially Old Town Prague) charge high conversion fees. Always decline DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion) — pay in CZK. Foreign cards work well at bank ATMs.
Exchange Tips
Avoid money exchange offices near tourist attractions in Prague — they display misleading rates and charge hidden fees. Use bank branches or ATMs for the best rates. The rate displayed at dodgy changers often applies only to large amounts. Wise and Revolut offer excellent rates for international transfers. The airport and train station exchange offices also have poor rates.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents