The international dialling code for the Czech Republic is +420 (or 00 420). If you are calling from abroad, you must use the dialling code followed by a 9 digit number.
The Czech Republic has a good Internet connection, so other than a few exceptions, you will not have any difficulties with Internet availability.
The electricity network in the Czech Republic has a voltage of 230 V.
Restrictions:
The Czech Republic has adopted a law on restriction of smoking. One of the main points is a ban on smoking in public places (public transport stops – bus stops, railway stations and cultural facilities). In restaurants, the operator is obliged to ensure a non-smoking section
(either a separate room, or non-smoking hours when lunch and dinner are served).
Opening hours, days off, public holidays:
Shops are usually open from Monday to Friday, from 8-9 am until 6 pm.
In larger cities, shops even stay open until 8 or 9 pm. Banks are open on weekdays with usual opening hours of approx. 8 am – 5 pm, later in city centres. Withdrawal of cash from cash machines is possible 24 hours a day including weekends. Post offices are usually open from 8 am until 6 pm.
Festivals and public holidays:
1 January – New Year´s Day, Day of the Renewal of the Independent Czech State (1993)
March/April – Easter Monday
1 May – International Labour Day
8 May – Victory Day (1945)
5 July – Feast of St. Cyril and St. Methodius
6 July – Jan Hus Memorial Day
28 September – Czech Statehood Day
28 October – Foundation of the Independent Czechoslovak State (1918)
17 November – Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy
24 December – Christmas Eve
25 December – Christmas Day
26 December – Boxing Day
Accommodation:
Classification of accommodation facilities in the Czech Republic corresponds to the standards of European countries ranging from two to five stars. You will find a wide variety of accommodation including top-quality luxury hotel suites, comfortable guesthouses suitable for families with children or cheap hostels for students. Those who love adventure can choose from numerous campsites or even spend the night on a barge.
Payment:
Payment cards are regularly accepted in shops and restaurants in large cities. Traveller’s cheques issued by internationally acknowledged companies are mostly accepted by Czech banks without any problems. Remember that banks usually close by 5 pm and do not operate at weekends.
There are three basic means of currency exchange – in a branch of any large bank, in a bureau de change, or withdrawal of cash from any ATM. American Express travellers cheques can be cashed at the nearest American Express branch. Currency exchange is also available at almost all hotels.
Custom regulations:
Customs rules and procedures are similar to those prevailing in the majority of EU countries. Detailed information is available at: http://www.czechtourism.com/holiday/Practical-information/ENTRANCE-TO-THE-CZECH-REPUBLIC-AND-TARIFF-QUOTAS.aspx or http://www.celnisprava.cz/en/Pages/default.aspx