What is the currency of Czechia? 

Tucked right in the heart of Central Europe, Czechia (or the Czech Republic, depending on how formal you're feeling) is the kind of place that makes you believe in fairytales again. With its storybook castles, cobbled lanes, gothic spires and beer cheaper than bottled water, it’s no wonder travellers are drawn to this landlocked gem. But before you start packing your walking shoes and dreaming of Prague’s panoramic rooftops, there's one important detail you’ll want sorted first: what is the currency of Czechia? 

In this guide, we’ll cover the currency of Czech Republic, how it came to be, what denominations to expect in your wallet, and some handy tips for spending wisely while you’re there. Whether you’re heading to Prague for its medieval magic or planning a spa escape to Karlovy Vary, read on to make sure your Czech koruna knowledge is as sharp as your itinerary. 

Currency in Czechia 

The official currency in Czechia is the Czech koruna, which you might also see written as CZK or Kč. 

One koruna (meaning "crown" in Czech) is divided into 100 haléřů—though don't be surprised if you never encounter those tiny coins, as they’re no longer in circulation. You'll mostly deal with whole koruna notes and coins. 

It's worth noting that while Czechia is a member of the European Union, it hasn't adopted the euro (more on that in a bit). So if you’re wondering what is the currency in Prague Czech Republic, rest assured—it’s Czech koruna, not euros. 

Czech koruna denominations 

Let’s get down to brass tacks—or rather, brass coins and colourful notes. Here's what you'll likely be handling when you spend money in Czechia: 

Czech koruna banknote denominations 

100 Kč – green, features Charles IV 

200 Kč – orange, with John Amos Comenius 

500 Kč – purple, with Božena Němcová 

1,000 Kč – blue, with František Palacký 

2,000 Kč – pale green, with Emma Destinnová 

5,000 Kč – grey and blue, with Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk (rare, but still legal tender) 

Czech koruna coin denominations 

1 Kč 

2 Kč 

5 Kč 

10 Kč 

20 Kč 

50 Kč 

Each coin features iconic Czech imagery—from lions to historical landmarks—making your change just as scenic as your trip. 

The history of Czechia’s currency 

Like much of Europe, the Czech Republic’s currency has a layered and fascinating history—complete with regime changes, peaceful splits, and strong ties to its European neighbours. 

Czechoslovak koruna 

The Czechoslovak koruna made its debut in 1919, shortly after the formation of Czechoslovakia post-World War I. It remained the official currency for both the Czech and Slovak peoples through most of the 20th century—even as regimes changed from democracy to communism and back again. 

By 1993, after the amicable dissolution of Czechoslovakia (commonly known as the "Velvet Divorce"), each country introduced its own currency. Slovakia eventually adopted the euro in 2009. The Czech Republic chose a different path. 

Introduction of the Czech koruna 

In 1993, the Czech koruna (CZK) was born as the official currency of Czech Republic, replacing the shared Czechoslovak koruna. The new currency helped stabilise the Czech economy and reinforce national identity. 

Despite being part of the European Union since 2004, Czechia has held on to the koruna, citing concerns over economic control, inflation risks, and public opinion. So if you were hoping to pay for your trdelník (a sweet pastry) in euros, think again. 

Currency exchange in Czechia 

Now that you know what is the currency in Prague Czech Republic, let’s talk practicalities. How do you get your hands on it? 

Where to buy Czech koruna 

The easiest and most reliable way to get your Czech koruna? Order it through Travelex of course. 

Home delivery: Order online and get your koruna delivered to your door. 

Click & Collect: Pick up your koruna at a local Travelex store or airport location. 

Travelex Money Card: Prefer plastic? Load your koruna onto the Travelex Money Card for secure, contactless spending across Czechia. 

Not only is it safer than carrying wads of cash, but you’ll also benefit from competitive exchange rates and no commission fees. 

Are euros accepted in Czechia? 

This is where things get a little nuanced. While the euro is not the official currency, it may be accepted in tourist-heavy areas like Prague. Hotels, big restaurants, and souvenir shops might allow euro payments—but often at poor exchange rates. And your change? Almost always given in koruna. 

Bottom line: stick to koruna to get better value and avoid any confusion. After all, you didn’t come all this way to be short-changed at a medieval market. 

What countries use the Czech koruna? 

None. That’s right—the Czech koruna is used exclusively in Czechia. 

While it’s one of the more stable and respected currencies in the region, don’t expect to use it elsewhere. Travelling to neighbouring Austria, Slovakia or Germany? You’ll need euros for those destinations. 

Czechia travel tip: Don't mix up the currencies.

It’s surprisingly easy to assume that because Czechia is in the EU, euros are the default. Even Google sometimes gets this wrong. But what is the currency in Prague Czech Republic? Still koruna! 

Even ATMs and card machines can get a bit sneaky, offering dynamic currency conversion into GBP or EUR at inflated rates. Always choose to be charged in CZK to avoid unnecessary fees. 

Ready to buy some Czech koruna?

You’ve read the guides, had the daydreams, planned the holiday and now you’re ready to buy some Czech korunas.

Buy Czech koruna online and get free home delivery on orders over £500 or choose to click & collect from any of the hundreds of convenient locations around the UK, including most major airports.

Get great rates and pay no commission when you buy online now. 

Travelex Money Card

The Travelex Money Card, powered by Mastercard, is the secure, easy way to spend abroad. You can load up to 22 currencies, including Czech koruna, and it’s not linked to your bank, so your account stays safe while you spend abroad.  

You lock in your exchange rate before you travel, so you don’t have to worry about fluctuations. And it’s accepted at millions of locations around the world, wherever Mastercard prepaid is accepted. Get yours now.