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Prague (Praha)

Official language

Czech

Language capabilities

English, German and French

230 volts, 50 Hz; two-pin round plugs / adapter required for three-pin Swiss plugs

Banks

8.00/9.00 am - 4.00/5.00 pm (Mon - Fri)

Opening hours may vary. In larger cities or business districts, some banks may remain open until 6.00 pm.

Shops

8.00/9.00 am - 6.00/7.00 pm (Mon - Fri)
8.00/9.00 am - 12.00 noon/2.00 pm (Sat)

Opening hours may vary. Larger supermarkets and shopping centres often remain open until 9.00 or 10.00 pm from Monday to Saturday. They are generally also open on Sundays, although often with shorter hours, usually from 9.00/10.00 am to 8.00 pm.

• 1 January: New Year's Day (Nový rok)

• Good Friday (Velký pátek) and Easter Monday (Velikonoční pondělí): movable public holidays

• 1 May: Labour Day (Svátek práce)

• 8 May: Victory Day (Den vítězství)

• 5 July: Saints Cyril and Methodius Day (Den slovanských věrozvěstů Cyrila a Metoděje)

• 6 July: Jan Hus Day (Den upálení mistra Jana Husa)

• 28 September: Czech Statehood Day (Den české státnosti)

• 28 October: Independent Czechoslovak State Day (Den vzniku samostatného československého státu)

• 17 November: Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day (Den boje za svobodu a demokracii)

• 24 December: Christmas Eve (Štědrý den)

• 25 December: Christmas Day (1. svátek vánoční)

• 26 December: Second Day of Christmas (2. svátek vánoční)

The Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area. The following information applies to Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland:

• Travel document: A valid Swiss identity card or a valid Swiss passport is required.

• Visa: Swiss citizens do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
• Registration requirement: EU citizens and persons treated as equivalent, including Swiss citizens, who plan to stay for more than 30 days must report their arrival to the Foreign Police within 30 days of entering the country. This does not apply if the accommodation provider has completed the registration or if the traveller is under 15. Current information is available from the official Information Portal for Foreigners.
• Minors: Check the entry formalities for minors with the local authorities. Further information: Authorisation for children travelling abroad.

Information last updated in August 2026

Bohemian Basin

• Summer (June - August): Average temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C. Summers are warm and may occasionally bring hot days of up to 30°C. Moderate rainfall often occurs in the form of thunderstorms.

• Winter (December - February): Average temperatures range from -1°C to 3°C. Winters are mild compared with the higher regions, although cold spells can bring temperatures down to -10°C. Snowfall is possible but not very frequent.

• Spring/autumn (March - May/September - November): Average temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C in spring and from 10°C to 18°C in autumn. Both seasons are mild, with moderate rainfall; spring tends to be slightly wetter.

Bohemian-Moravian Highlands

• Summer (June - August): Average temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C. Summers are cooler than in the Bohemian Basin, especially at higher elevations. Rainfall is more frequent and nights can be cool.

• Winter (December - February): Average temperatures range from -3°C to 0°C. Winters are colder and snowfall is frequent, particularly at higher elevations. Minimum temperatures can reach -15°C.

• Spring/autumn (March - May/September - November): Average temperatures range from 5°C to 12°C in spring and from 7°C to 15°C in autumn. Both seasons are cool and damp, with frequent rainfall and possible late frosts in spring.

Carpathians

• Summer (June - August): Average temperatures range from 14°C to 20°C. Summers are cool, particularly at higher elevations. Rainfall is frequent and temperatures rarely exceed 25°C.

• Winter (December - February): Average temperatures range from -4°C to -1°C. Winters are cold and snowy, especially in the higher Carpathians. Minimum temperatures can fall to -20°C.

• Spring/autumn (March - May/September - November): Average temperatures range from 4°C to 10°C in spring and from 6°C to 13°C in autumn. Both seasons are cool and damp, with frequent rainfall and possible late frosts in spring. Autumn colours are particularly attractive in the forested areas of the Carpathians.

The best time to visit the Czech Republic:

• Swimming holidays: June - August

• City breaks: May - September

• Winter holidays: December - February for skiing and snowboarding at higher elevations in the Carpathians and the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands

• Roaming: Mobile phone use in the Czech Republic may incur roaming charges. Check the rates with your provider before travelling and consider purchasing a suitable roaming package.

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: Local prepaid SIM cards are available for calls and mobile data. Major providers include T-Mobile, Vodafone and O2.

• Prague Castle, Prague: One of the world's largest castle complexes and the historic heart of Prague. It includes St Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace and the picturesque Golden Lane.

• Charles Bridge, Prague: An iconic Gothic bridge across the Vltava connecting the Old Town with Malá Strana, renowned for its Baroque statues and impressive views.

• Old Town Square, Prague: Prague's historic main square, surrounded by colourful Baroque buildings, the Church of Our Lady before Týn and the Astronomical Clock.

• Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj), north-east Bohemia: A UNESCO Global Geopark known for spectacular rock formations, castles and hiking trails.

• Český Krumlov Castle, Český Krumlov: An impressive Renaissance castle with extensive gardens overlooking the picturesque old town, which forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Kutná Hora, Central Bohemia: Known for the Gothic Church of St Barbara and the Sedlec Ossuary, decorated with human bones. The historic town centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Pilsner Urquell Brewery, Plzeň: The birthplace of Pilsner beer, offering brewery tours and the opportunity to taste beer directly from the barrel.

• Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, north-east Bohemia: A spectacular labyrinth of sandstone formations, ideal for hiking and climbing.

• Karlštejn Castle, Central Bohemia: An imposing castle built by Emperor Charles IV to safeguard the imperial regalia and a popular day-trip destination from Prague.

• Šumava National Park, south-west Czech Republic: A protected area with dense forests, clear lakes and numerous walking and cycling routes.

• Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, South Moravia: A vast landscaped estate with magnificent palaces, gardens and numerous Romantic structures, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Moravian Karst (Moravský kras), South Moravia: A protected landscape with impressive karst caves and gorges, including the Punkva Caves and their underground river.

• Olomouc, Moravia: A historic city with the magnificent Baroque Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the impressive Gothic St Wenceslas Cathedral.

• Konopiště Castle, Central Bohemia: A Romantic castle known as the last residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens.

• West Bohemian Spa Triangle (Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně, Františkovy Lázně): Celebrated spa towns known for mineral springs, elegant architecture and wellness facilities.

Traditional Czech cuisine is hearty and often consists of meat, sauces and dumplings. Popular dishes include roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut (Vepřo knedlo zelo) and beef goulash. Other specialities include:

• Dumplings (Knedlíky): A staple of Czech cuisine, often served as an accompaniment to meat dishes. Varieties include potato and bread dumplings.

• Svíčková: A Bohemian classic of beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with dumplings and often garnished with cranberries and cream.

• Czech beer (Pivo): The Czech Republic is world-famous for beer. Popular brands include Pilsner Urquell, Budweiser Budvar and Staropramen. Draught beer is an important part of Czech culture.

• Sweet specialities: Popular desserts include koláče, sweet filled pastries; trdelník, dough baked on a rotating spit and coated with sugar and walnuts; and medovník, a layered honey cake.

• Street food: Markets and festivals often serve traditional snacks such as sausages (Klobása), fried cheese (Smažený sýr) and potato pancakes (Bramboráky).

• Mushroom picking (Houbaření): A popular autumn pastime. The mushrooms collected in the forests are used in many traditional dishes.

• Wine culture in Moravia: South Moravia is known for wine production, including local white wines such as Grüner Veltliner and Müller-Thurgau. Numerous wine festivals and tastings take place in the region.

• Bohemian soups (Polévky): Soups are an important part of Czech cuisine. Well-known examples include garlic soup (Česnečka) and kulajda, a sour soup prepared with mushrooms and dill.

• Spirits: Becherovka, a herbal liqueur from Karlovy Vary, and slivovice, a plum spirit, are commonly served as digestifs.

• Greetings: A handshake with a friendly smile and eye contact is the usual greeting. “Dobrý den” means good day, the informal “Ahoj” means hello and “Dobrý večer” good evening. “Na shledanou” is used to say goodbye.

• Please and thank you: “Děkuji” means thank you, while “Díky” is more informal. “Prosím” means please and is also used when offering something or politely making one's way through a crowd.

• Clothing: Dress depends on the occasion. Smart, conservative clothing is valued in business and formal situations. Casual dress is usual during leisure time, but very revealing clothing should be avoided in churches. Formal attire may be expected in theatres or upmarket restaurants.

• Dining culture: Lunch is traditionally the main meal of the day and often consists of soup followed by a main course. Dinner is generally lighter. Be punctual when invited and consider bringing flowers or a bottle of wine. Keep your hands visible on the table without resting your elbows on it. “Dobrou chuť” means enjoy your meal.

• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces such as restaurants, bars and public transport. Designated smoking areas and outdoor terraces may be available. Ask before smoking in a private home.

• Tipping: Around 10% is customary in restaurants and cafés when the service is satisfactory. State the total amount you wish to pay when settling the bill. Taxi fares are usually rounded up.

• Other: When invited to someone's home, a small gift such as chocolates, flowers or wine is appreciated. Give an odd number of flowers, as even numbers are associated with funerals. Attempts to speak a few words of Czech are valued.

• Drinking water quality: Tap water is generally safe to drink and complies with strict EU standards. It is regularly tested and treated. Quality may vary in some rural areas; bottled water can be used if there are local concerns.

• Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry. Travellers should keep routine vaccinations up to date, particularly diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and poliomyelitis.

• Medical care guaranteed: Medical care is available. The European Health Insurance Card must be presented for medical treatment. Further information is available from the Common Institution under the Federal Health Insurance Act.

• Medication: Carry an adequate supply of essential medicines. Restrictive rules may apply particularly to controlled medicines such as methadone and substances used to treat mental health conditions; check with the competent foreign representation before departure.

Information last updated in August 2026

Inform yourself through the media before and during your trip and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available from the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Travel to the Czech Republic is generally considered safe.

• Tensions in the region remain high because of Russia's continuing military aggression against Ukraine.

• The possibility of terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out in the Czech Republic.

• Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings of all kinds, as unrest is possible. Follow the instructions of the local authorities.

• Theft occurs particularly in Prague. Observe the following precautions:

  • Be especially vigilant near tourist attractions and on public transport and at railway stations.

  • Do not accept drinks or food from strangers in discos and nightclubs and do not leave them unattended. Drinks may be drugged in order to rob the victim.

  • Do not exchange money on the street.

  • Use guarded car parks and, if possible, secure the car with an immobiliser or alarm system.

  • Leave your original documents in the hotel safe, but always carry a photocopy of your passport or identity card.

Information last updated in August 2026

• Driving licence: The Swiss driving licence is recognised for 90 days.

• Car hire: The minimum age is generally 21, depending on the rental company. Drivers normally need to have held their licence for at least one year and a credit card is usually required.

• Traffic rules: Traffic drives on the right. Dipped headlights or daytime running lights are compulsory during the day. An electronic vignette is required for most motorway sections and should be purchased only through the official eDalnice shop or authorised sales points.

• Vehicle equipment: A CH sticker, first-aid kit, high-visibility vest and warning triangle are compulsory. A Green Card is not required for Swiss-registered vehicles. Between 1 November and 31 March, winter tyres with a minimum tread depth of 4 mm are compulsory when there is snow, ice or frost on the road or when such conditions can be expected. They are always compulsory on roads marked with the “Winter Equipment” sign. Studded tyres are prohibited.

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0‰

• Long-distance trains: The Czech Republic has a well-developed long-distance rail network. České dráhy (ČD) is the main operator, with additional services provided by other companies. Trains connect Prague, Brno and Plzeň as well as international destinations such as Vienna, Berlin and Budapest. Tickets can be booked online, at stations or through mobile apps.

• Regional trains: An extensive regional network also serves smaller towns and villages. Services are generally frequent and reliable, although regional journeys may be slower than long-distance connections.

• Buses: The well-developed bus network complements rail services and connects cities, rural areas and tourist attractions. Tickets are sold by drivers, at ticket offices or online, depending on the service.

• Underground/tram: Prague has three underground lines (A, B and C) connected to an extensive tram network. Trams also operate in other cities including Brno and Plzeň.

• Tickets: Public-transport tickets are available from machines, ticket offices, many shops and online. Mobile ticketing apps are available in Prague and other cities. Requirements differ by mode; many urban tickets must be purchased or validated before travel.

• Other: Day passes and tourist tickets offer unlimited travel for a specified period. Tourist information offices can provide current information, and the main networks are generally well signposted with information in English.

• Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG): Direct flights operate from Zurich, Geneva and Basel.

• Brno-Tuřany Airport (BRQ): No current direct scheduled connection from Switzerland has been confirmed.

• Karlovy Vary Airport (KLV): No current direct scheduled connection from Switzerland has been confirmed.

Major airlines serving the Czech Republic include SWISS, easyJet, Smartwings, Ryanair, Wizz Air and Lufthansa, depending on the airport, season and route.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• European emergency number: 112

• Fire brigade: 150

• Ambulance and medical emergencies: 155

• Police: 158

Embassy of Switzerland
Pevnostni 588/7
(entrance via Dělostřelecká 588/18)
16201 Prague 6
Czech Republic
Tel. +420 220 400 611
Email: prague@eda.admin.ch

The Embassy in Prague is responsible for diplomatic relations. Consular matters are handled by the Regional Consular Centre at the Embassy of Switzerland in Vienna.

Special legal provisions

• Narcotics: Offences involving illegal drugs are punishable even when only small quantities are involved.

Natural hazards

• Flooding and landslides: Heavy rain can cause flooding, landslides and damage to infrastructure. Travel may also be temporarily disrupted.