The Czech Republic has been a member of the EU since 2004, yet we continue to use our own currency, known as the “koruna” (Czech Crown = CZK). Therefore, when you visit Prague, you will find that our currency differs from those in Germany (euro), Poland (zloty), or Hungary (forint). This can be quite inconvenient. I understand… that’s why using a card is often the best payment method, especially in Prague.
Who is writing this blog for you?
My name is Dana, a local guide in Prague and the founder of Prague Behind The Scenes, a small tour company. Through my services, I aim to promote sustainable and respectful tourism in the city. In addition to guiding, I also love writing about my hometown—today, I’m focusing on the topic of money and local currency.
Cards: our best friends
Prague is a highly card-friendly city, meaning you won’t need much cash during your stay.
In fact, you can comfortably get by using only your cards. Cards are preferred payment method everywhere in Prague. Some places are even fully cashless!
Additionally, not all establishments accept American Express, so rather bring your Visa or MasterCard.
What should you do if you only have euros / USD when visiting Prague?
Many downtown located businesses in Prague accept euro currency alongside with Czech Crowns. Especially those ones operating in a travel industry (tour guides, travel agencies, hotels, public toilets and majority of supermarkets). But don´t count on that. As I mentioned earlier: we still use our own currency called Czech koruna, Czech Crown, CZK, and accepting euro is not mandatory.
If you come to Prague only with euros or US dollars, GBP, CHF, JPY, AUD… you can always exchange the money here. Just make sure you choose a fair exchange place – please read my article about where locals go to exchange money. It´s not always easy to find a good and fair exchange place. Fair exchange rate for 1 Euro should be around 25 CZK. 1 USD is currently around 23 CZK (information from March 2025). The exchange rates vary, please take this as an indicative info.
Please avoid exchanging money on the streets
Do not allow anyone to lead you to a so-called “recommended” or “better” exchange office. Beware of these “full-time crooks” who operate in the streets of Prague; they often aren’t even locals but part of organized groups from Romania, Bulgaria, or Kazakhstan. Refrain from engaging with them or accepting their offers! You might end up with expired Belarusian rubles or other useless papers.
Where to exchange money in Prague?
Many Czechs, myself included, frequent a place called EXCHANGE CZ located on Štefánikova street. This office provides the most competitive exchange rates. It features a pleasant office environment that is clean and organized, with private boxes, no long lines, and a trustworthy experience—quite the contrast to the downtown exchange offices that often resemble money laundering spots:-) The only drawback is that it’s slightly off the beaten path (but nothing too extreme).
Address: Exchange CZ, Štefánikova 203/23, Prague 5
Where else to exchange money downtown?
By the main entrance to Palladium shopping mall. This exchange office offers good rates and is conveniently situated downtown. Right by the main entrance of Palladium shopping mall. It’s just a 3-minute walk from the Powder Tower or 10 minutes from Old Town Square. You’ll find this exchange office on the left side from the main entrance to the mall. Check the arrow in the picture, you can´t miss it.
Address: Náměstí Republiky 1078/1, Prague 1.
What is the typical amount of cash we carry in our wallets?
Around 1000 CZK (ca 40 euro) but usually even less as we prefer card payments. If you plan paying cash in Prague, one person should have around 2000 – 2500 CZK / day. To cover all standard meals, drinks, tickets. But of course you can perfectly survive here with less than that. On the other hand 2500 CZK will not be enough for someone… Bugdet 2000 – 2500 CZK, I believe, is a good compromise for comfortable stay in Prague.
Where will you need cash in Prague?
Let me think….
…(5 minutes later) Alright, there are still certain places and situations where it’s advisable to carry some cash. For instance, at farmers markets, Christmas markets, public restrooms, and when tipping (please remember to tip in cafes and restaurants, as it’s a polite gesture and tips are not included in the total cost).
Overall, cash is particularly useful for tipping—if you’d like to learn more about tipping etiquette in Prague, be sure to check out my other post.Tipping in Prague – how much to tip and where.
Even guides have card terminals!
Yes, Prague is getting more and more cashless! As a tour guide, I also have a card terminal in my backpack. You can easily pay for your tour after we finish. Handling cash in the street is a bit old fashioned but still possible on my tours. You can choose 🙂
Have a lovely stay in Prague! 💛
Dana, owner and guide for Prague Behind The Scenes | small-group tours and experiences.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want to tour with me: dana@praguebehindthescenes.com
Stay in touch and learn more from a local.
Where to next?
Prague in a less touristy way: small group tours of Prague downtown
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Metro dessert: cult Prague pastry undiscovered by travel bloggers!!!
Souvenirs from Prague: 8 original gifts ideas with Made in the Czech Republic label