How to Plan a Trip to Czechia

Plan 7-10 days to see Prague plus one other region. Visit April-June or September-October for good weather and fewer crowds. Budget $50-70 per day including accommodation. Book flights 2-3 months ahead and accommodation 1-2 months ahead.

  1. Choose your timeframe. Plan 7-10 days minimum. 7 days covers Prague thoroughly plus day trips. 10-14 days adds a second region like Cesky Krumlov and South Bohemia or Brno and Moravia. Less than 5 days means Prague only.
  2. Pick your season. April-June and September-October are ideal - mild weather, long days, fewer tourists. July-August is peak season with crowds and higher prices. November-March is cold but atmospheric, especially for Christmas markets in December.
  3. Book your flights. Fly into Prague (PRG). Book 2-3 months ahead for best prices. From US expect $600-900 round trip. From Western Europe budget $100-300. Consider Vienna (VIE) as alternative - 4 hour bus to Prague but sometimes cheaper.
  4. Plan your base locations. Stay in Prague 4-6 nights minimum. For longer trips, add Cesky Krumlov (2-3 nights) or Brno (2 nights). Book Prague accommodation in Old Town or Lesser Town for walkability, or Vinohrady for local feel and lower prices.
  5. Sort your transport. Prague has excellent public transport - get a 3-day pass for $17. For other cities, trains are comfortable and reliable. Prague to Cesky Krumlov is 3 hours by bus ($8). Rent a car only for exploring multiple small towns.
  6. Plan key activities. Book Prague Castle tickets online ($15) to skip lines. Reserve beer hall tables for dinner, especially at U Fleku or Lokál. For classical music, book concerts at St. Vitus Cathedral or Rudolfinum 2-4 weeks ahead.
Is Prague enough or should I see other cities?
Prague deserves 4-6 days minimum. If you have 7+ days, add Cesky Krumlov for fairy-tale charm or Brno for modern Czech culture. Skip other cities if you only have 5-6 days total.
Do I need to speak Czech?
No. English is widely spoken in Prague tourist areas and most hotels/restaurants. Learn 'děkuji' (thank you) and 'prosím' (please/you're welcome) - locals appreciate the effort. German is also commonly understood.
Should I exchange money before I go?
No need. ATMs are everywhere and give better rates than exchange booths. Avoid airport exchange counters. Many places accept cards, but carry cash for small vendors and traditional pubs.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
Yes, tap water is perfectly safe and tastes good throughout Czechia. Restaurants may charge for it though - ask for 'voda z kohoutku' (tap water) if you want it free.
When do attractions close?
Most attractions close Mondays. Prague Castle stops admitting visitors at 4pm in winter, 5pm in summer. Museums typically close 6-7pm. Churches often close midday for services. Sunday hours are usually shorter.