What Currency Is Best for Prague?
When planning a trip to Prague, one of the questions that often comes up is what currency to use. While the official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK), many establishments in Prague also accept euros (EUR) as a form of payment. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using both currencies to help you make an informed decision.
The Czech Koruna (CZK)
The Czech koruna is the national currency of the Czech Republic and is widely accepted throughout the country. Using CZK in Prague has several advantages:
- Convenience: Since CZK is the official currency, you will have no trouble using it for all your transactions. You won’t need to worry about exchange rates or potential confusion when receiving change.
- Wider Acceptance: While many establishments in Prague accept euros, not all do.
By using CZK, you ensure that you can pay everywhere without any limitations.
- Potential Cost Savings: Some businesses may offer better prices or discounts when paying in the local currency. This can be particularly true in smaller shops or local markets.
If you decide to use CZK during your stay in Prague, it’s advisable to withdraw cash from ATMs rather than exchanging money at airports or tourist areas. ATMs typically offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees compared to other options.
Euros (EUR)
Euros are widely accepted in Prague due to its popularity as a major European currency. Here are some considerations if you choose to use euros:
- Convenience for Eurozone Residents: If you are from a country that uses euros as its official currency, using euros can be more convenient as it eliminates the need for currency exchange.
- Emergency Backup: Carrying some euros as a backup can be useful in case of emergencies or unexpected situations where you might not have immediate access to CZK.
- Tourist Areas: In popular tourist areas, many businesses accept euros. However, keep in mind that the exchange rate offered may not be as favorable, and you may receive change in CZK.
If you decide to use euros, it’s essential to have some Czech koruna on hand for smaller establishments or places that do not accept euros. Exchanging a small amount of money at a local bank or currency exchange office can ensure you have enough CZK for such situations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Czech koruna (CZK) and the euro (EUR) are widely accepted currencies in Prague. While using CZK provides convenience, wider acceptance, and potential cost savings, having some euros as a backup can be useful.
Ultimately, the best currency for Prague depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. It’s recommended to carry a combination of both currencies to ensure smooth transactions during your visit to this beautiful city.