Travel Information Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is a very beautiful country with a pleasant climate and incredibly diverse nature. There is a lot to see and numerous activities that will make your stay an adventure. Of course, you can also relax.
The essentials at a glance
You need a vignette.
An EU pet passport is required (with identification and valid rabies vaccination).
Possession of drugs (even in small quantities) is a criminal offence.
Photography is prohibited or only permitted with authorisation in certain (military) restricted zones, museums, and sights.
Smoking is prohibited in restaurants and bars.
The sale of alcohol to persons under 18 is strictly punished.
Alcohol consumption is prohibited between midnight and 9 a.m. in many public places (heavy fines).
Entry requirements
For German nationals, a valid identity card or passport is sufficient for tourist stays. Children need a child's passport.
Within 30 days of entry, there is a registration requirement with the competent foreigners' police. Hotels and guesthouses usually take care of this for their guests.
Pets require an EU pet passport with a microchip (or a clearly legible tattoo if identified before 03.07.2011) as well as valid proof of rabies vaccination.
Language
The official language is Czech. It bears similarities to Polish, Russian, and Croatian and is spoken by around 10.6 million people.
The Czech alphabet consists of 31 letters, some of which are supplemented with accents.
Driving in the Czech Republic
Traffic regulations
Although many traffic rules are similar to those in Germany, there are important differences:
0.0 per mille alcohol limit
Since 2024, a maximum speed of 150 km/h applies on selected motorways
Fines were increased by up to five times in some cases in 2024
A German driving licence is sufficient
Vehicle registration certificate Part I must be carried (IVK recommended)
Trams have right of way
Headlights must be on at all times, year-round
You can find further details in our guide on traffic regulations in the Czech Republic.
Tolls and vignette
A digital vignette has been required for motorways and expressways in the Czech Republic since 2021. Sticker vignettes have been abolished.
The vignette requirement applies to vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight (including motorhomes). Motorcycles, trikes, and trailers are exempt. Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes require an on-board unit.
Exceptions apply, among others, to parts of the D0, D1, and D5, as well as to country roads. Electric and hydrogen vehicles are exempt.
Charging and refuelling
The refuelling and charging network in the Czech Republic is well developed. You will find numerous petrol stations and EV charging points, especially in cities and along motorways.
Super: Natural 95
Super Plus: Natural 98
Diesel: Nafta
Payment can be made in cash or by card. The national currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Mobile payment methods are widely used in cities.
Safety and health
Crime
Pickpocketing and fraud occur particularly in tourist areas. Keep an eye on your valuables and use guarded car parks.
Border controls
Border controls are possible. Always carry valid travel documents and, if applicable, pet passports.
Vaccination protection
There are no mandatory vaccinations, but recommended vaccinations should be checked before travelling.
Medical care
Medical care is good but may vary by region. Private travel health insurance is recommended.
Climate and best time to travel
The best time to travel is between May and September. The country has a temperate continental climate with four seasons.
Currency
The national currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Exchange rate: 1 CZK ≈ 0.04 EUR (as of 17 February 2025).
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey
We wish you a safe journey to the Czech Republic and are happy to help with any questions about toll regulations. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your trip optimally and have suitable toll products displayed to you. If you have any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please contact us by email.
