Travel guide to Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has almost everything - green and vibrant plains, huge rivers, majestic mountains.. And a capital like Prague, which is not only historically fascinating, but also has a highly unique charm, attracting its visitors back over and over again...

The Czech Republic has a continental climate, ensuring warm summers and cold winters. The country is most beautiful during spring and summer, and many museums and other sights also close from September. During winter, the Czech mountains offer excellent possibilities of winter sports.

Czech & Slovak Republics

Koruna (K)

You will easily find Internet cafés in the Czech Republic - the country has many in most larger cities. The main ones are naturally to be found in Prague, but even in the smallest cities you should find an Internet café.

In case of emergency, please call one of the following numbers when in the Czech Republic: Police (158) Fire department (150) Ambulance (155) Towage (154)

Tipping is common in the Czech Republic. The customer normally adds an additional fee to the bill. Taxi drivers and restaurants generally expect an additional 10 per cent.

The Czech Republic is one hour ahead of GMT.

In the Czech Republic, the following units of measure are used: Length: Metres Weight: Kilos

Show common politeness and always ask before taking pictures of people.

Generally, you are advised not to drink the water in the Czech Republic, so please buy bottled water.

Electric current operates on 220 volts AC, 50 cycles.

As in most other Roman-Catholic countries you should pay respect when visiting churches, convents and other religious houses by avoiding the wearing of shorts, short skirts, and exposing bare shoulders.

Banks are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Shops are open from 6/7 a.m. to 6/7 p.m., some stores are open Saturday and Sunday. Office opening hours are from 8.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Animal flesh is the dominant ingredient in the Czech kitchen. Dishes like roast pork with sauerkraut, schnitzel or regular steaks are always be found on the menu, usually they are accompanied by a glass of Czech beer or wine. The local aquavit and liquor is often recommended.

A holiday in the Czech Republic is not likely to be successful if you are confined to a wheelchair. You will find no special assistance in the Czech Republic.

New Year's Day, 1 January May Day, 1 May Day of the Apostles St Cyril and St Methodius, 5 July Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Jan Hus, 6 July Christmas, 24 - 26 December

The Czech Republic has many campsites, and even though the standard is not luxurious you will almost always find a space for rent.

You will find many hotels in all areas and in all price categories in the Czech Republic.

During summer many youth hostels open in all areas of the Czech Republic - they close down outside the tourist season.

Domestic flying is possible between the larger cities. The country's largest airport, Ruzyne, is situated about 20 kilometres from Prague.

You may go by bus between the larger cities and to many of the cities not covered by the railroads. Delays must be expected.

The Czech Republic has a good, well-developed and comfortable railroad network, and most trains depart regularly. You are well advised to book in advance.

Going by taxi is easy and inexpensive during daytime, but the price goes somewhat up in the evening and during night. As many drivers do not speak English, it may be a good idea to bring along a piece of paper indicating your destination.

Many of the roads in the Czech Republic still bear the marks of the communist decline, while the highway grid during the last couple of years has been thoroughly repaired.

Prague has a well-planned, inexpensive and well-developed underground network, connected to almost all parts of town. Moreover the country is perfect for cycling holidays as the landscape is very flat.