🇨🇿 eSIM plans for Czech Republic

Start in Prague. Walk the Vltava River banks at dawn before crowds arrive. From the Gothic spires of St. Vitus Cathedral to the medieval houses of Old Town Square, the city rewards early risers. For a quieter pace, take a train north to the sandstone labyrinth of Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Central European food is hearty; expect meat, potatoes, and sauerkraut. Whether you explore castle hilltops or forest trails, carry cash for small vendors. Many restaurants add a service charge, so check your bill before tipping. Avoid changing money at tourist exchange booths; use ATMs inside banks for fair rates.

• Prague Castle - A sprawling complex of palaces, gardens, and St. Vitus Cathedral. Arrive by 9am to avoid queues. Allow half a day.
• Charles Bridge - Best seen at sunrise or after 9pm. Crowded by midday. Watch for pickpockets near the towers.
• Old Town Square - Home to the Astronomical Clock. Free to view from outside. Paid entry inside shows the clock mechanism up close.
• Český Krumlov Castle - A UNESCO World Heritage site in South Bohemia. Book entry online the day before. The hilltop views over the Vltava River are worth the climb.
• Kutná Hora - A day trip from Prague. The Gothic St. Barbara’s Church and the old silver mine tour are the highlights. Check mine tour times in advance; last entry is early afternoon.

• Goulash (Guláš) - A thick meat stew, usually beef or pork, seasoned with paprika. Served with bread or dumplings. Not the same as Hungarian goulash; Czech versions are less soupy.
• Trdelník - A sweet pastry rolled in cinnamon and sugar. Popular at markets. Avoid pre-wrapped versions; look for spits roasting over coals for the freshest taste.
• Svíčková - Marinated beef sirloin in a creamy sauce, often served with cranberry and bread dumplings. A Sunday lunch staple in traditional restaurants.
• Fried Cheese (Smažený sýr) - Breaded and deep-fried cheese curds. Sold at street stalls and fairs. Eat immediately while hot and stretchy.
• Becherovka - A herbal liqueur from Karlovy Vary. Served cold in small shots. Bitter and medicinal; not for everyone. Try it as a digestif.

Late spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons. May and June bring mild temperatures and long daylight. September and October offer fewer crowds and golden foliage. These months are ideal for walking tours and outdoor cafés. Winter, from December to February, turns Prague and Český Krumlov into cold but beautiful scenes. Christmas markets run from late November through December. Book accommodation well ahead for December. Summer, July and August, is hot and crowded. Prices peak, and popular sites have long lines. If you visit in summer, plan indoor activities for midday heat. Rain is possible any month; pack a waterproof jacket.

Comfortable walking shoes - Prague’s Old Town and Český Krumlov have cobblestone streets and hills. Flats or sneakers with good grip are essential. Layers and a light jacket - Even in summer, evenings can be cool. A fleece or cardigan works well. Waterproof jacket or umbrella - Sudden rain is common year-round. A compact umbrella fits easily in a daypack. Modest clothing for church visits - Many of Czechia’s cathedrals require covered shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf to cover up quickly. Cash and card - While cards are widely accepted, some smaller shops and rural stalls are cash-only. Czech koruna is the currency; euros are not accepted. Do not rely on foreign ATMs for good rates. Carry a mix of notes and coins.