Currency in Prague
 

Several web sites I have looked at indicate the Czech Republic has its own currency. But I have seen many hotel and other prices in Prague quoted in Euros. What's the story?

The Czech Republic has the czech crown as a currency. They will join the Euro currency within the next years, but there is no exact date set yet. Hotels, restaurants, some shops etc. will already accept Euro currency to keep the tourists happy.

Many prices are quoted in Euro, but on the street most people pay with crowns. As an American, you will find it far cheaper to convert dollars to crowns for your trip to Prague. The exchange rate has remained relatively stable (and I assume you know what has happened with $/euro!)

My parents were there recently. ATMs are very very rare in Prague, but currecy exchange places are everywhere in the old town area. You can find dozens of them in a short strip of street.

As with most airports, Prague has ATM's in the arrivals area. I have some crowns left over from my last trip. I should have spent them as most currency exchanges and banks won't accept them.

Figure 1 USD at about 25 Czech Crowns.....

Also, be sure to only change money at a bank or other establishment that is verifiably legit. A common scam in Prague is for someone nicely dressed to approach you in the city center, and offer to change money with you for a very favorable rate. Don't change money with anyone other than a legit establishment and you'll be fine.

Devisen-Kurs (at ATM or so): 32 to 33 Czech Koruna for 1 Euro

Sorten-Kurs (buy/sell): buy 31 Czech Koruna for 1 Euro
Sell 37 Czech Koruna and get 1 Euro