Travel Information Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a very beautiful country with a pleasant climate and incredibly diverse nature. There is much to see and numerous activities that will turn your stay into an adventure. Of course, you can also simply relax.

The essentials at a glance

• You need a vignette.

• The EU pet passport is required (with identification and valid rabies vaccination).

• Possession of drugs (even in small amounts) is punishable by law.

• Photography is prohibited or only permitted with permission in certain (military) restricted zones, museums, and tourist attractions.

• Smoking is prohibited in restaurants and bars.

• The sale of alcohol to persons under 18 is strictly penalized.

• Alcohol consumption is prohibited between midnight and 9 a.m. in many public places (high fines).

Entry requirements

For German nationals, a valid identity card or passport is sufficient for tourist stays. Children need a children's passport.

Within 30 days of entry, there is a registration requirement with the relevant foreigners' police. Hotels and guesthouses usually handle this for their guests.

Pets require an EU pet passport with a microchip (or a clearly legible tattoo if marked before 03.07.2011), as well as proof of a valid rabies vaccination.

Language

The official language is Czech. It has similarities to Polish, Russian, and Croatian, and is spoken by about 10.6 million people.

The Czech alphabet consists of 31 letters, some of which are supplemented with accents.

Driving in the Czech Republic

Traffic rules

Even though many traffic rules are similar to those in Germany, there are important differences:

• 0.0‰ blood alcohol limit

• Since 2024, a maximum speed of 150 km/h applies on selected motorways

• Fines were increased in 2024, in some cases up to fivefold

• A German driving licence is sufficient

• Vehicle registration certificate Part I must be carried (IVK recommended)

• Trams have the right of way

• Headlights must be used year-round

You can find further details in our guide on traffic rules in the Czech Republic.

Tolls and vignette

Since 2021, a digital vignette has been required for motorways and expressways in the Czech Republic. 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 regionally. Private travel health insurance is recommended.

Climate and best time to travel

The best time to travel is between May and September. The climate is a moderate continental climate with four seasons.

Currency

The national currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Exchange rate: 1 CZK ≈ 0.04 EUR (as of 17.02.2025).

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey

We wish you a good journey to the Czech Republic and are happy to help if you have any questions about toll regulations. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your trip optimally and have suitable toll products displayed for you. If you have any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please contact us by email.