What Is the Best Currency to Use in Prague?

By Anna Duncan

When traveling to Prague, one of the most important things to consider is the currency you’ll be using. While the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, they have not adopted the Euro as their official currency.

So, what is the best currency to use in Prague? Let’s explore your options.

The Czech Crown (CZK)

The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech Crown, also known as koruna in local language. The CZK comes in coins and banknotes ranging from 1 CZK to 5000 CZK. If you plan on using cash during your trip, it’s recommended that you exchange your money for CZK upon arrival at a bank or exchange office.

Pros:

  • It’s the local currency and widely accepted throughout Prague.
  • You’ll avoid paying extra fees for currency conversion when using local businesses.

Cons:

  • If you’re coming from a country with a strong currency, you may find that prices in Prague seem high.

Euro (EUR)

While not officially accepted as legal tender in the Czech Republic, many businesses in Prague do accept Euros as a form of payment. However, it’s important to note that you may receive change back in CZK and at an unfavorable exchange rate.

Pros:

  • If you’re traveling from another European country that uses the Euro, you won’t have to worry about exchanging your money.

Cons:

  • You may end up paying more due to unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees added by businesses accepting Euros.
  • You’ll need to carry both currencies with you, which can be inconvenient.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Prague, especially in larger establishments such as hotels and restaurants. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you for smaller purchases or places that don’t accept cards.

Pros:

  • You won’t have to worry about exchanging currencies or carrying large amounts of cash with you.
  • Many credit cards offer favorable exchange rates, so you may end up paying less overall.

Cons:

  • You may encounter additional fees when using your card abroad, so it’s important to check with your bank before traveling.
  • If your card is lost or stolen, it can create a major inconvenience during your trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best currency to use in Prague is the Czech Crown (CZK). While Euros and credit/debit cards are also widely accepted, using the local currency will help you avoid unfavorable exchange rates and additional fees.

If you’re unsure where to exchange your money upon arrival in Prague, look for reputable banks or exchange offices that display current exchange rates prominently. By planning ahead and following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Prague has to offer without worrying about currency issues.