Czech coins (photo: Czechtourism)

The Czech currency is the Czech koruna (international currency code: CZK, local abbreviation: Kč). Current exchange rates are roughly 1 Euro = 25 CZK , and 1 USD = 20 CZK. Larger local stores and most restaurants accept most international credit cards.

There are many banks in Czech Republic, but they are only open from Monday to Friday.You will find "cashpoints" or ATMs (in Czech, "bankomat") on almost every corner in downtown Prague and numerous ATMs in smaller towns.

Opening a bank account in The Czech Republic: For those staying in the Czech Republic for an extended period, you will need the following to open a bank account here: a valid passport, verification of a permanent or long-term address in the country, and a minimum deposit. Some banks, such as Česká Spořitelna, KB and ČSOB, are more internationally oriented than others.

Lost or stolen credit cards should be reported to the European branch of the appropriate credit card company:

• American Express 222 800 222
• Master Card, Eurocard, and Visa 272 771 111