If you’re heading to Prague, it’s important to know what currency you’ll actually be spending once you arrive. It’s an issue that is easily overlooked, but getting it wrong can lead to confusion, poor exchange rates, or paying more than you need to.
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, and while the country is part of the European Union, it does not use the euro. This surprises a lot of visitors, especially those travelling around several European cities in one trip, who may assume they can use Euros everywhere they stop.
The official currency used in Prague is the Czech koruna, sometimes called the Czech crown. You’ll see it written as CZK or shown with the symbol Kč.
This is the currency used for everyday payments across the city. Shops, restaurants, public transport and attractions all price things in koruna, and this is what you should expect to pay with during your stay.
Banknotes are available in values of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 koruna. Coins come in smaller denominations and are commonly used for everyday purchases. While the koruna is divided into 100 haléřů, these are no longer used, and cash payments are rounded to the nearest whole koruna.
At first glance, prices can look high if you’re not familiar with the exchange rate. Seeing a meal priced at a few hundred koruna can feel expensive until you realise it’s actually quite reasonable once converted to pounds.
Is the Euro Used in Prague?
As touched on, despite being in the EU, Prague does not use the euro as its official currency. Some tourist focused businesses may accept euros, but this is very much the exception rather than the rule.
If a place does accept euros, the exchange rate is usually poor. You may also receive your change in koruna, which can be confusing if you’re not expecting it. In local cafes, supermarkets, public transport and smaller shops, euros are typically not accepted at all.
Relying on euros can make things more awkward than they need to be. Using koruna is simpler, better value, and avoids misunderstandings at the till.
If you arrive with euros already, it’s usually better to exchange a small amount into koruna rather than trying to spend euros directly.
Paying by Card in Prague
Paying by card in Prague is very easy. Most restaurants, bars, hotels and shops accept card payments, including contactless. Mobile payment systems also work well across the city.
For many visitors, card payments will cover the majority of day to day spending. It’s common to pay for meals, museum tickets and shopping without needing cash at all.
That said, it’s still often worth carrying some cash. Smaller businesses, traditional pubs, market stalls and public toilets may only accept cash. Tips are also often left in cash, even if the main bill is paid by card.
When paying by card, you may sometimes be asked whether you want to be charged in koruna or in pounds. Always choose koruna. Letting your bank handle the conversion usually gives you a much better rate.
Using Cash in Prague
Cash is still part of everyday life in Prague, even though card payments are widespread. Having some koruna in your wallet makes things easier, especially if you’re exploring outside the main tourist areas.
ATMs are easy to find throughout the city, particularly in the centre and near major transport routes. Using an ATM is usually the safest and most cost effective way to get cash.
Be cautious around independent exchange offices, especially those advertising zero commission or unusually good rates. These often come with unfavourable exchange rates hidden in the details. If you do want to exchange money, use reputable offices and always check the rate before agreeing to anything.
A common issue for visitors is being offered dynamic currency conversion at ATMs or card terminals. This is where you’re charged in your home currency rather than koruna. Declining this option and choosing koruna almost always works out cheaper.
Tipping and Everyday Spending
Tipping in Prague is appreciated but not compulsory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving around ten percent for good service is typical. If you’re paying by card and want to tip, it’s best to tell the server the total amount you wish to pay before the transaction is processed.
Taxi drivers, hotel staff and tour guides may also receive small tips, but there is no strict expectation. Tipping is more about good service than obligation.
In terms of everyday costs, Prague is generally good value compared to many Western European cities. Public transport is affordable, food and drink are reasonably priced, and beer is famously inexpensive.
Knowing roughly what things should cost helps you feel more confident when handling the currency and makes it easier to spot anything that seems off.
Should You Exchange Money Before You Go?
For most UK travellers, there’s no real need to exchange koruna before arriving in Prague, however it is likely to be more convenient to do so, to ensure you have cash on hand for restaurants, tipping etc.
At Travel Cash we offer koruna at a great rate, with 0% commission. You can order online or visit one of our locations.
A Quick Note on the Czech Koruna
There has been discussion over the years about whether the Czech Republic will adopt the euro, but there is no confirmed plan to do so. For now, and for the foreseeable future, the koruna remains the official currency.
Once you’ve been in Prague for a day or two, using the koruna quickly becomes second nature. Prices are clearly marked, payments are easy, and the city is well set up for international visitors.
Paying in koruna gives you better value, avoids confusion and makes everyday spending much simpler. With a mix of card payments and a small amount of cash, you’ll have no trouble managing money while enjoying everything the city has to offer.
