Czechia travel guide for first-time visitors

For a first trip to Czechia, plan 4 to 7 nights: three or four in Prague, plus one or two castle towns or a spa town such as Český Krumlov or Karlovy Vary. Check entry rules for your nationality, carry your passport at all times, and remember that the currency is the Czech koruna, not the euro.

Who Czechia suits

Czechia suits travellers who love history, architecture, music and good food without a long-haul budget once on the ground. Couples enjoy Prague's riverside evenings and Bohemian castle towns; families like the castles and the hiking in Bohemian Switzerland; wellness seekers head for the spa towns. It also pairs easily with neighbouring countries for a longer central Europe trip. Browse all regions on our Czechia destination page.

Entry and visas (as of November 2026)

Entry requirements depend on your nationality. Czechia is in the Schengen area, so visa-exempt visitors may stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period across all Schengen countries. If you need a visa, the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs publishes fees (EUR 90 for adults) and links to consulate guidance.

• EES: the EU Entry/Exit System has been fully operational since 10 April 2026. Non-EU visitors register fingerprints and a photo on first entry, free of charge.
• ETIAS: as of November 2026, the official EU ETIAS website says it is not yet in operation. A launch is expected in the last quarter of 2026, with transitional and grace periods of at least 12 months in total; use only the official site when it opens.
• Registration: foreign visitors must register their address with the foreign police within 3 days of arrival. Hotels normally do this for you; failing to register can bring a fine of up to CZK 3,000, according to UK government advice.
• Funds and tickets: border officers may ask for a return or onward ticket and proof that you have enough money for your stay.
• Passports: UK travellers need a passport issued less than 10 years before arrival and valid for at least 3 months after leaving the Schengen area. Other nationalities should check their own government's rules.

Airports, money and essentials

Getting around

Prague's metro, trams and buses reach almost everything a visitor needs, and much of the historic centre is best explored on foot. Trains and coaches connect Prague with Kutná Hora, Karlovy Vary, Brno and Český Krumlov, while private transfers save time on routes with changes. For taxis, UK government advice recommends using a major company or app rather than hailing cars on the street, and checking posted rates before you get in.

Suggested routes by trip length

Our ready-made routes include the 5-night Prague and Bohemian Castles trip and the 4-night Christmas Markets of Prague break. For festive travel, see our Christmas markets guide to Prague and Bohemia.

Etiquette and culture

• Say 'dobrý den' (good day) when entering shops and small restaurants, and 'děkuji' (thank you) when leaving.
• Rounding up the bill or leaving a modest tip for good service is customary in restaurants.
• Dress respectfully and keep noise down in churches, synagogues and the Jewish Quarter.
• Some city-centre bars and restaurants do not admit stag groups, and drunken or offensive behaviour can lead to fines.

Health and safety

Czechia is generally safe for visitors. The UK government's safety advice for Czechia highlights pickpocketing in central Prague, on the airport route and on trams to Prague Castle. It also warns of fake plain-clothes police who ask to inspect your cash; do not show them money, and offer to go to a police station instead. It is a legal requirement to carry ID, so keep your passport with you. Travel insurance with medical cover is essential; UK visitors can use a GHIC or EHIC for state healthcare, but it does not replace insurance.

Practical tips

• Visit Charles Bridge early in the morning to see it before the crowds.
• Allow extra time at the airport for EES registration on your first Schengen entry.
• Budget for the Prague tourist fee of CZK 50 per person per night; our Czechia trip cost guide covers other fees.
• Pick your season with our month-by-month Czechia guide.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Prague's cobbles and hills are hard on the feet.

Ready to start planning? Tell us your interests and our team will build your first Czechia itinerary, or send a custom request for a multi-country trip.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic — Visa fee schedule
2. European Union — What is ETIAS
3. European Union — Revised timeline for the EES and ETIAS
4. European Union — Entry/Exit System (EES)
5. GOV.UK — Czech Republic travel advice: entry requirements
6. GOV.UK — Czech Republic travel advice: safety and security
7. GOV.UK — Czech Republic travel advice: health