From historic Prague to the picturesque countryside, the Czech Republic is one of the most beautiful and interesting places you can visit, and it should be at the top of your list when considering your next holiday destination. But, just like planning any trip abroad, one of the things you'll need to know before heading to this amazing country is what currency you'll need to take with you.
At Crown Currency Exchange, we believe that your holiday should be as stress-free as possible, and that's why we've created this guide to Czech Republic currency. Here, you'll find information on denominations, some history about the Czech Republic Koruna, and even some tips on how to plan your travel budget and where to go.
You'll need to exchange your Australian Dollars for Czech Republic Koruna when visiting the Czech Republic. Head over to one of Crown Currency Exchange's many locations to buy Czech Koruna, where you'll find competitive rates on AUD to CZK with no commission fees or hidden costs.
Exchanging currency in Australia before travelling to the Czech Republic is a wise choice, as the Australian Dollar (AUD) is considered exotic in Europe, often resulting in less favourable exchange rates and higher fees if you wait until you arrive. By securing Euros before you leave, you’ll get a better rate and avoid the hassle of finding an exchange that deals in AUD. With your travel money ready, you can explore the Czech Republic with confidence, knowing your budget is set and maximised for your adventure.
If you are carrying Kč10,000 or more into or out of the European Union, you must declare it to customs. This rule is in place for all EU member states, including the Czech Republic, and failure to declare such amounts can result in penalties, including fines or even confiscation of the money.
Luckily, it's very easy to declare your money. All you need to do is complete a declaration form at customs when you reach the airport, and you should be good to start your adventure. It is important to note, however, that you will also have to redeclare if you're leaving the Czech Republic with Kč10,000 or more, even if you're travelling to another country and not heading straight home.
Crown Currency Exchange is Australia’s largest and leading foreign exchange provider. With over 20 years of experience in ensuring our customers have the exact currencies needed to get the most from their travel adventures, we offer great rates on foreign currency and exceptional customer service. You can collect your foreign currencies from over 60 stores across Australia and get your travel money on the spot, locking in a fantastic exchange rate. Our stores are located nationwide in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, Tasmania & Perth.
In cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava, ATMs are virtually everywhere - from banks and shopping centres to street corners and metro stations, and most ATMs in the Czech Republic accept international cards, including those from major networks like Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro.
One thing to keep in mind is that while ATMs offer a convenient way to access cash, they may charge a fee for international withdrawals. This fee can vary depending on your home bank and the ATM provider, so it’s wise to check with your bank before travelling or, even better, exchange your money before you leave and carry cash with you.
Tipping in the Czech Republic is customary but not as obligatory as it is in some other countries, and it is seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service rather than a requirement. For example, in restaurants and cafés, it’s standard to leave a tip if you’re satisfied with the service, and the usual practice is to either round up the bill to the nearest 10 or 20 Czech Koruna or to add a tip of around 10% of the total bill.
Budgeting for a trip to the Czech Republic depends on your travel style, preferences, and the type of experiences you seek. From budget travellers who aim to explore the country without breaking the bank to luxury travellers who prefer indulgence and comfort, the Czech Republic offers something for everyone. Below, we’ll break down the daily expenses you can expect, categorised by travel style.
Budget
Budget travellers should budget around €80 EUR per day, which will cover hostels, street food, public transport, and inexpensive activities.
Mid-Range
Someone with a mid-range travel style should create a budget of around €150 EUR per day. This will allow you to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at local restaurants, travel by taxi, and enjoy some higher-end activities.
Luxury
With more options for travel (such as private car rentals) and activities, along with luxury hotels and fine dining, anyone who considers their travel style as "luxury" should budget €320+ EUR per day.
Czech banknotes are really distinct, and each features significant historical figures and architectural landmarks that celebrate the nation's rich cultural heritage. The notes currently in circulation are of denominations 100 Kč, 200 Kč, 500 Kč, 1,000 Kč, 2,000 Kč, and 5,000 Kč.
100 Koruna Note: The 100 Kč note features Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor, and King of Bohemia, with the back showing the Karolinum, a building of Charles University.
200 Koruna Note: The 200 Kč note showcases Jan Amos Comenius, a philosopher and educator, with an illustration of an allegory of education.
500 Koruna Note: The 500 Kč note honours Božena Němcová, a celebrated Czech writer, with the reverse side depicting a symbolic allegory of Slavic literature.
1,000 Koruna Note: The 1,000 Kč note features František Palacký, a historian and politician.
2,000 Koruna Note: The 2,000 Kč note honours Ema Destinnová, a famous Czech opera singer
5,000 Koruna Note: The 5,000 Kč note, displays Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the first President of Czechoslovakia, with the back showing a modern Czech state emblem.
Coins in the Czech Republic are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Kč. These coins vary in size, weight, and colour, with copper-plated steel, brass, and bi-metallic designs, while the imagery on the coins includes Czech national symbols like the lion and significant architectural structures, including the Charles Bridge.
The history of currency in the Czech Republic is a reflection of the region's complex and tumultuous history. The koruna itself was introduced relatively recently, in 1919, following the establishment of Czechoslovakia as an independent state after World War I.
Before the koruna, the region used the Austro-Hungarian krone, which was in circulation throughout the empire, but with the dissolution of Austro-Hungary, the newly formed Czechoslovakia needed its own currency, leading to the introduction of the Czechoslovak koruna.
The Czechoslovak koruna experienced several changes over the years, particularly during periods of political upheaval. After World War II, Czechoslovakia came under Soviet influence, and the currency was subject to a series of reforms, including a significant redenomination in 1953.
Following the peaceful split of Czechoslovakia into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993, both nations introduced their own currencies. The Czech koruna was established, and although initially pegged to a basket of currencies, it has since become a fully floating currency. This transition reflected the country's move towards a market economy and its increasing integration with Western Europe.
The Czech Republic's decision to retain the koruna, even after joining the European Union in 2004, was driven by a desire to maintain economic control and stability. There has been some debate over adopting the euro, but the koruna remains a strong and stable currency, deeply ingrained in the country's national identity.
Czech Republic Koruna
Kč
None
100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000
CZK
Czech National Bank
1 Koruna = 100 haléřů
1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 Kč