Practical Czechia guide
Read menus with care, tip naturally and handle everyday greetings without awkward surprises.
Each item is written in our own words and links to the official or authoritative source used for checking. Recheck live prices and rules before relying on them.
Sitting down to eat around Old Town Square
Before ordering, check that the menu shows the unit clearly — especially dishes priced per 100 g — and whether bread, couvert or service is charged. Ask for an itemised bill and check it before paying. If a service charge is already included, you do not need to add another tip.
Official source · reviewed 2026-07-29
When paying in a restaurant or pub
For good table service, rounding up or adding about 10% is customary but not compulsory. Tell the server the total you want charged when paying. First check whether service is already included, and never let anyone pressure you into a specific percentage.
Official source · reviewed 2026-07-29
Walking into a shop or restaurant
It's normal to say 'dobrý den' (good day) when entering a small shop, pub or compartment, and 'na shledanou' when leaving; 'děkuji' is thank you and 'prosím' is please/you're welcome. Czechs can seem reserved at first but are helpful when asked politely.
Official source · reviewed 2026-07-29
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