Czech Republic
Central Europe • CZE
Last updated: October 12, 2026
The Czech Republic is a landlocked gem in Central Europe, celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visitors are drawn to the fairytale charm of Prague and the historic beauty of smaller towns, complemented by world-renowned beer culture.
Visa Requirements
The Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free entry for tourism for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for nationals of many countries including the US, Canada, and Australia.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure
- Proof of travel insurance covering medical expenses
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the stay
- Evidence of return or onward travel
Popular Attractions
Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world and offers stunning views over the city.
Charles Bridge is an iconic 14th-century stone bridge adorned with statues that serves as a historic pedestrian gateway to Prague's Old Town.
Cesky Krumlov is a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage town featuring a winding river and a massive castle complex in Southern Bohemia.
Karlovy Vary is a famous spa town known for its thermal springs and elegant neoclassical colonnades.
The Sedlec Ossuary in Kutna Hora is a unique small chapel decorated with the bones of thousands of people, offering a haunting historical experience.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greet people with a polite Dobry den during the day and Dobry vecer in the evening.
Always say thank you when receiving drinks or food, as table manners are held in high regard.
When entering someone's home, it is customary to remove your shoes at the entrance.
Public transport etiquette dictates that you should offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
Wait until everyone is served before you start eating, and say Dobrou chut, which means enjoy your meal.
Tipping at restaurants is common; rounding up the bill or adding 10% is generally appreciated.
Safety Tips
Be vigilant about pickpockets in crowded tourist areas like Old Town Square and on the Charles Bridge.
Only use official taxi services or reputable ride-sharing apps to avoid being overcharged by rogue drivers.
Keep your passport or a photocopy of it with you, as police have the authority to request identification at any time.
Be cautious when exchanging currency; use banks or legitimate exchange offices instead of individuals on the street to avoid scams.
Stay aware of your surroundings at night, especially in dimly lit areas or near main train stations.
Always validate your public transport ticket when you board to avoid heavy fines from ticket inspectors.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination requirements for travelers entering Czech Republic.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before international travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Influenza, Polio)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases spread by ticks and other insects.
Use repellent, wear protective clothing, and check for ticks after outdoor activity.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
General health practice to prevent diarrheal diseases.
Eat and drink safely; consume pasteurized dairy and cooked foods.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Boosters recommended every 10 years; ensure up to date before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To protect against insect-borne diseases like Lyme disease which may be prevalent in certain areas.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
To prevent various infectious diseases common worldwide.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to the risk of transmission.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (e.g. influenza)
Source: CDC
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for all, especially in flu season.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might have exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to prevent Hepatitis A, especially if consuming food or drink that may be unsafe.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety
Source: CDC
Standard hygiene practices to prevent gastrointestinal illness.
Tap water is generally safe, but maintain basic food hygiene standards.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent tick-borne diseases (such as TBE and Lyme disease).
Tick-borne encephalitis is present in certain forested areas.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent gastrointestinal illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink bottled or boiled water.
View sourceTick-borne encephalitis vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers spending time in forested or rural areas during spring, summer, and early autumn.
Ticks are active in forested areas throughout the country.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities like caving or those who may have close contact with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact, medical procedures, or other exposures to bodily fluids.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to the potential risk of insect-borne diseases, use of repellents and protective clothing is advised.
View sourceInfluenza vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for older adults to reduce the risk of flu during travel.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal diseases while traveling.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent tick-borne illnesses and other insect-transmitted infections.
Use repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and conduct tick checks after outdoor activities.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may be exposed to contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for hikers, campers, or those visiting forested areas, especially during spring and summer.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent tick-borne diseases and mosquito bites while hiking or camping.
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing in wooded regions.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice standard hygiene to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Tap water is generally safe in urban areas.
View sourceTick-borne encephalitis vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers participating in outdoor activities in forested or rural areas where ticks are endemic.
Ticks are common in parts of Central Europe and can transmit encephalitis.
View sourceAdditional vaccines as per current recommendations for travelers
Source: CDC
Consult a healthcare provider for updated recommendations based on itinerary and activity level.
View sourceConsider vaccines based on specific activities (e.g., rabies)
Source: CDC
If engaging in activities that may expose to animals, such as hiking or visiting rural areas.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
To protect against severe illness and transmission while traveling.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who will be involved in outdoor activities that may bring them into contact with bats or other mammals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if planning to have sexual contact, receive medical treatment, or share needles.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccines (if eligible)
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended to prevent COVID-19, especially for international travel.
View source