π¨πΏ A few things to know in Czechia
πΆ Use the crossings
Donβt assume you can simply cross wherever you fancy! If there is a pedestrian crossing, underpass or other designated crossing point within 50 metres, you generally need to use it. And remember β trams have priority, so look both ways and watch the tram tracks!
π Trams are not decorative
They may look charming, but they are very much still working vehicles. Never step onto the road or tracks without checking for trams, and be especially careful when crossing tram tracks.
ποΈ Public transport = trust, but verify
Czech public transport is excellent, but make sure you have a valid ticket. In Prague, tickets bought from machines generally need to be validated when you first use them; tickets bought from the contactless terminals on trams and buses do not need stamping.
π³ Cards are widely accepted
You can pay by card in most places, particularly in cities. Having a little Czech cash (CZK) is still useful for smaller places, markets or the occasional situation where the card machine mysteriously decides it has had enough.
π° The currency is Czech koruna (CZK)
Czechia uses koruna, not euros. Some tourist businesses may accept euros, but you'll generally get a better deal paying in CZK.
πΊ Beer is serious business
A Czech beer may sometimes be cheaper than your soft drink. This is normal. Please do not question it. π
π Be careful with taxis
Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps rather than jumping into an unmarked taxi waiting outside a tourist attraction.
π¦ Look both ways β even when you think you don't need to
Czech roads can have trams, cyclists, scooters and cars coming from directions you aren't expecting. After a few drinks, this becomes even more important. π
π£οΈ Don't worry about the language
In Prague and other tourist areas, English is widely understood. Outside the main tourist areas, a smile, Google Translate and the ability to say βDobrΓ½ denβ will get you surprisingly far.
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π Get the tram!
Honestly, one of the best ways to see Prague is from a tram window. The city has an extensive network of trams, metro and buses, and getting around without a car is very easy.ποΈ Get your ticket before travelling
Prague's public transport operates on a time-based ticket system, so one ticket can cover multiple journeys within its validity period. Just make sure it is valid before you travel.π± Download PID LΓtaΔka
The official Prague public transport app is useful for buying tickets and planning journeys. It's probably easier than trying to work out the ticket machines after a few beers.πΆ Prague is very walkable
The historic centre is compact, so don't automatically jump on public transport. Walking between the Old Town, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square and many other sights is often the best way to see the city.β οΈ Watch your belongings
As with any busy European tourist city, keep an eye on phones and wallets in crowded areas, particularly around the Old Town and on busy public transport.π» One important Prague rule:
If someone says βit's only one more beerβ, they are lying. π -
πΆ Brno is easy to explore on foot
The city centre is compact, so many of the main sights, bars and restaurants are within walking distance.π Public transport is your friend
Brno has an excellent network of trams, buses and trolleybuses. If your accommodation is outside the centre, public transport is usually much easier than driving and finding somewhere to park.ποΈ Don't forget your ticket
Brno operates an integrated public transport system, so make sure you have the appropriate ticket for your journey.π· Brno has a serious food & drink scene
Don't assume Prague gets all the fun. Brno is packed with cafΓ©s, bars, wine bars and restaurants β and it is particularly well known as a gateway to the South Moravian wine region.π The centre gets lively
Brno has a big student population, so the city centre can be surprisingly lively, particularly in the evenings.π³οΈ And yesβ¦ there is a dragon
Look up the story of the Brno Dragon before you visit. We won't spoil it for you. -
πΆ Welcome back to euros!
Unlike Czechia, Austria uses the euro, so if you're travelling from the UK you'll be dealing with a different currency β and if you've just come from Czechia, don't accidentally hand over 500 CZK thinking you've got β¬20. ππ Public transport is excellent
Vienna's U-Bahn, trams and buses make getting around extremely easy. The U-Bahn has five main lines and connects most of the major sights.ποΈ Buy a ticket before you travel
You need a valid ticket for public transport. Tickets must generally be validated before travelling, depending on the type of ticket. Ticket inspections are common, so don't rely on the classic βsurely nobody checksβ strategy.β Do as the Viennese do
Go for a coffee. Then another coffee. Sit down. Take your time. Vienna takes its coffee culture seriously.π₯ Try a proper Viennese breakfast
If you see Kaisersemmel, Kipferl or Vienna breakfast on a menu, give it a go.ποΈ Look up!
Vienna is one of those cities where half the interesting stuff is above eye level. The historic centre, Ringstrasse and imperial buildings are particularly impressive.πΆ Walking is a great option
Central Vienna is very easy to explore on foot, and many of the main sights are close together.βοΈ Coming from the airport?
There are several options into the city, including the S7, Railjet, Vienna Airport Bus and City Airport Train. The S7 and Railjet are generally considerably cheaper than the CAT, so don't assume the most prominently advertised airport train is automatically the best option.