In Prague and throughout the Czech Republic, the official currency is the Czech crown (in czech: česká koruna). Everyone uses it here, and it’s accepted everywhere – restaurants, businesses, services, tours, guides, hotels and more. While the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, we have not yet adopted the euro as ours official currency. You’ll find only a handful of places in Prague that accept euros, and you cannot rely on businesses to take them.
The Czech koruna is your only safest option, as it’s official and accepted universally.
Some businesses may try to convince you to pay in another currency, but don’t be misled – you can always pay in Czech crowns if you prefer.
That said, euros are occasionally accepted in certain situations, such as:
- Large hotels – especially international chains.
- Certain restaurants – mostly near major tourist attractions.
- Big shopping malls – a few stores in larger malls may take euros.
- Luxury shops – like some boutiques on Pařížská Street.
- Businesses in the city center – primarily in areas with a high concentration of tourists.
However, euros are far from universally accepted, and you can’t demand that businesses take them. For example, pubs and bars typically do not accept euros at all.
Is It Better to Pay in Euros or Czech Crowns?
In most cases, paying in euros comes with a relatively unfavorable exchange rate that can make your purchase 5-10% more expensive compared to paying in Czech crowns. Businesses that accept euros often do so at a less competitive rate.
The exception is hotels, which may offer a fairer rate – but this varies, so it’s best to confirm with your hotel in advance.
Do I Need Cash?
It’s not absolutely necessary to carry cash, as most businesses in Prague accept credit and debit cards. You can often get by with just your bank card or a popular option like a Revolut card.
That said, there are exceptions. Some restaurants in Prague’s city center do not accept cards. While rare, it happens – often because card transaction fees are too high for the business, or as a way to manage taxes. Such places might also be cutting costs elsewhere, like in the quality of their food or service. To avoid unpleasant surprises, check Google reviews before dining. If a restaurant isn’t listed on Google, it’s a good idea to move on – it might be a scam.
My Recommendation
- Pay in Czech crowns whenever possible – it’s cheaper and accepted everywhere.
- If you need to pay in euros, keep in mind that only about 25% of businesses in tourist areas will accept them, and usually at less favorable rates.
- Carry some cash – have about one-third of your budget in cash (excluding accommodation costs, which are typically payable by card).
- Exchange cash locally – convert your money into Czech crowns at a local exchange office in Prague. One centrally located exchange offers rates close to the mid-market rate, which is often a few percentage points better than banks.
- Use ATMs for cash withdrawals – withdraw Czech crowns directly at the ATM, with the exchange rate depending on your bank (or the ATM provider).
- Consider a Revolut card – set spending limits for extra control and security.
- Never exchange money with anyone on the street – it is 100 % scam and you will loose your money
By planning ahead and using Czech crowns for most transactions, you’ll save money and have a smoother experience exploring the beautiful city of Prague!