CZECH REPUBLIC FAQ`S
What is the Czech Republic known for?
The Czech Republic is perhaps best-known for its numerous castles and châteaux (over 1,200 of them!). It is also well-known for having some of the most delicious food and drink in Europe, in particular its wines and famed Pilsner-style beer. The Czech Republic has and had a very long Jewish tradition, which is triumphantly on display after the horrors and loss of World War II in such places as the Great Synagogue in Plzen, the third-largest in the world. Finally, the Czech Republic is well-known for its museums, educating visitors on everything from history and art to folk arts and crafts and even life in the former Communist Czechoslovakia.
What are the best places to visit in the Czech Republic?
Naturally a Czech vacation starts in Prague, the City of a Thousand Spires and one of the most romantic capitals in Europe. The country is split up into two parts: Bohemia comprises the western portion of the country and Moravia makes up the east. Bohemia is home to such historic cities as Cesky Krumlov, Karlovy Vary, Ceske Budejovice, and Marianske Lazne. Moravia is home to the country's second-largest city, Brno, and the provincial capitals of Olomouc and Ostrava.
When is the best time to visit the Czech Republic?
One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, the Czech Republic can be enjoyed throughout the year. Most tourists tend to visit during the high season, which begins in June and runs through September. Shoulder seasons, when temperatures are not as hot, sights are not as crowded with tourists, and accommodations might be discounted, occur in April-May and again in October and into the first half of November. The month of December, when Christmas markets open up in town squares across the country, is also a popular tourist draw. For more information, see Best Time to Visit the Czech Republic.
How many days should I spend in the Czech Republic?
We recommend approximately 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in Prague and other major cities.
What is the best way to get around the Czech Republic?
We recommend seeing the Czech Republic by car or by train.
By Car: The Czech Republic`s road system is modern and developed but not quite to the extent of nearby Hungary. There are sixteen highways that criss-cross the country, ten of which lead to the capital, Prague. Note that if you ride on the country`s highways (denoted by a two-lane green sign with an overpass), you will need to purchase an e-vignette; ask your car rental company about it when arriving in the country.
By Train: Rail service in the Czech Republic is efficient, fast, and modern. It is run by Ceske drahy and rail lines criss-cross the country and not only link Prague with Bohemia and Moravia, but also with the countries bordering the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic offers many high-speed lines, such as the EuroCity (since 1991) and the Railjet (since 2014), connecting Prague and Brno with the rest of Central Europe in a faster and more efficient manner. Rail hubs are located in Prague, Brno, Ostrava, and Breclav.
What is the currency of the Czech Republic?
The currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (written in shorthand as Kc). U.S. dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for korunas upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at many locations throughout the country. For more information, see Tipping in the Czech Republic.
Do people speak English in the Czech Republic?
English is widely spoken and understood in Prague, and is common in most tourist areas in the country. We suggest you learn a few common phrases such as hello (Ahoj!), goodbye (Sbohem!), excuse me (prominte) and numbers 1-10 (jedna, dva, tri, ctyri, pet, šest, sedm, osm, devet, deset). To say `do you speak English?`, say `Mluvíš anglicky?`