What is the currency in Czech Republic?
The Czech Republic has been a member of the European Union since 2004. However, it hasn’t adopted the euro yet and continues to use the Czech crown, “Kč” denoted by the International symbol “CZK”.
In most shops and restaurants in the tourist areas of the city, you can pay in euro, but we recommend using Czech crowns. Please note that that the euro to crown exchange rate is often unfavourable. But, if you do decide to use euro banknotes, when you’re making your purchase be sure to ask about the exchange rate beforehand.
How do I make payments in Prague?
When making payments in Prague, you can exchange euro or other currencies at a bureau de change. Alternatively, you can pay by bank card, or simply withdraw cash from an automated telling machine (ATM). In restaurants, you can increasingly pay via a QR code on the table.
Before you leave for Prague, make sure you are familiar with the terms and conditions applying to your bank card, especially concerning commission and fees, should you be liable to pay them.
In Prague, it is generally possible to get by without Czech crowns, but it is always better to have some cash with you, for example when using public toilets (although even there, in tourist areas, euros may be accepted). For traveling outside Prague, it is essential, as in less touristy places, you might still come across a restaurant or shop that only accepts cash.
You can find information about the best way to change money in our article Currency exchange offices.
To give you an idea, some prices in Prague (as of January 2025)
- Espresso in a restaurant: CZK 60 / approximately EUR 2.40 on average
- A large beer (0.5 litre): CZK 70 / approximately EUR 2.80 on average
- Meal in traditional Czech restaurant (except the dish of the day): from CZK 260 / approximately EUR 10.40
Handy tips
The 50-crown note was withdrawn from circulation in 2011! So, if you find such a banknote in your wallet or purse, we’ll happily swap it for the 50-crown coin: we’re collecting these notes!
