The Czech koruna for beginners: coins, notes and habits

The first time you pay for a coffee in Prague you will probably hand over a note that looks much bigger than the drink deserves. The numbers are different, the faces are unfamiliar and the change comes back as a handful of coins in sizes you cannot yet tell apart. None of it is hard, and a few minutes of orientation make the first week smoother.

What is the koruna?

The koruna (plural koruny or korun, English "crown") is the currency of Czechia. Its international code is CZK and its symbol is Kč, written after the number: 120 Kč. Prices use a comma for decimals, though in practice most everyday prices are whole crowns. One koruna is divided into 100 haléřů (heller), but you will not see the small coins: haléř coins were withdrawn from circulation in 2008, and cash payments are rounded to the nearest whole crown.

The koruna became the currency of the independent Czech Republic in 1993, after Czechoslovakia split and the shared currency was separated. The Czech Republic joined the European Union in 2004 but has not adopted the euro (as of 2026; check the Czech National Bank for the current position). That is why prices are in crowns, even where some tourist businesses accept euros.

Notes and the faces on them

The Czech National Bank (ČNB) issues the banknotes. Each denomination carries a historical figure, which gives you something to talk about with locals.

Charles IV links to Prague's greatest sights; see Charles Bridge for a good place to start. Masaryk and the First Republic come up in our guide to communist Czechoslovakia and the history of Prague. Božena Němcová appears in Czech literature for newcomers.

Coins

Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 crowns. Most people learn to sort them by size and colour within a day or two. Keep a handful: they are what you need for kiosks, some ticket machines, toilets with attendants and tips.

Everyday habits

Break your big notes early. The 1,000 note is normal in a shop. A 2,000 or 5,000 note can cause a sigh, especially at a kiosk or café early in the day. Spend them in supermarkets and larger shops, or ask for smaller notes when you withdraw cash. Our ATM guide has tips on withdrawing sensible amounts.

Expect rounding. In cash, the total is rounded to the nearest crown. Card payments and some apps may show cents in the calculation, but the cash part is whole.

Say numbers aloud. Servers often announce the total in Czech. Knowing the numbers helps; our Czech phrases for visitors lists the basics.

Plurals. One koruna, two to four koruny, five or more korun. You will hear it in shops and on signs. The rule is the same as for many Czech nouns, and it is a small win to get it right.

Tipping. Czechs round up rather than calculate a percentage; see tipping in Prague for how it works.

Cash versus cards

Cards and phones are accepted almost everywhere, and many Czechs pay with their phone for small amounts. Our guides to paying in Prague and to QR payments show the options. Cash still matters for markets, small kiosks, some toilets and a few pubs. Carrying a small stock of coins and 100 or 200 notes is enough.

Exchange, rates and cheating

Exchange offices in tourist areas can be expensive. Our guide to reading an exchange-rate board shows how to spot a bad rate, and the main guide to changing money in Prague covers your rights. The best approach for most visitors is to pay by card and take out modest amounts from a bank ATM. If a machine or terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, say no and choose crowns.

Counterfeits and checking notes

Sensible habits help with any cash. Look at the watermark, the security thread and the feel of the paper; the ČNB publishes guidance on the security features. If you receive a note that looks wrong, do not try to pass it on. Take it to a bank or the police.

What about the euro?

Some tourist businesses quote prices in euros, and the conversion is often poor. Supermarkets, public transport and most local shops use crowns only. Reading a price in crowns takes a day or two of practice. If you are thinking about longer stays and budgets, our guides to the cost of living and to opening a bank account are the logical next steps.

Frequently asked questions

Does Czechia use the euro?

No. The Czech currency is the koruna (CZK). Some tourist businesses accept euros, usually at a poor rate.

What banknotes and coins are in use?

Notes of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 crowns, and coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 crowns.

What is a haléř?

One hundredth of a koruna. Haléř coins were withdrawn in 2008, and cash is rounded to whole crowns.

Can I pay with a 5,000 note?

It is money like any other, but many small shops struggle to give change. Use large notes in supermarkets or break them at a bank.

Where do I find the official rate?

The Czech National Bank publishes daily exchange rates on its website.