The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in central Europe with a population of approximately 10.7 million people. The capital and largest city is Prague, which is known for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

The Czech Republic has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. Throughout its history, the country has been ruled by various powers, including the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Soviet Union. The country gained independence in 1993 following the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia.

The Czech Republic has a mixed economy, with a strong industrial sector, including automobile manufacturing and electronics production. The country is also known for its beer, with several famous brands originating from the region. Agriculture, including dairy and meat production, is also important.

The Czech Republic is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Bohemian Forest, the Krkonoše Mountains, and the Moravian Karst. The country has a well-developed tourism industry, with visitors drawn to its castles, historic towns, and vibrant culture.

The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. The country has a highly developed education system, with high levels of literacy and a strong emphasis on science and technology. Healthcare is provided through a combination of public and private providers, with a focus on preventative care.

Overall, the Czech Republic is a fascinating country with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a vibrant culture. The country's strong economy, developed infrastructure, and high quality of life make it a sought-after destination for both visitors and expats.

National holiday
Czechoslovak Founding Day, 28 October (1918)

Telephone Code
420

Local Emergency Phone
Emergency (urgent help from Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Assistance): 112, 155; Fire: 150; Police: 158

Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations

Climate
Understand

Currency (Code)
Koruny (CZK)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, E

Major Languages
Czech, Slovak

Major Religions
Roman Catholic 10.4%, Protestant 1.1%

Potable Water
Yes

International Driving Permit
Suggested

Road Driving Side
Right

Tourist Destinations
Prague (includes Castle District, Charles Bridge, and Pruhonice Park); Klementinum and Strahov Monastery Libraries; Karlovy Vary; Kutná Hora; Bohemian Paradise; Konopišt? Chateau; Hluboká Castle; Karlštejn Castle; Melnik

Major Sports
ice hockey, soccer, basketball, volleyball

Cultural Practices
When invited into a room, wait to be seated.

Tipping Guidelines
It is acceptable to tip 10-15% at a restaurant if no service charge is included but more commonly, you round up the bill. Tip bellhops $1 (USD) per bag for carrying luggage to your room; leaving a small tip for housekeeping is appreciated. Tipping is not required for taxi drivers.

Souvenirs
Crystal and glassware, garnet jewelry, local artwork; marionettes, puppets, and wooden toys; natural soaps, candles, and lotions; hand painted Easter eggs

Traditional Cuisine
Vepřo-knedlo-zelo — roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut

Geography
Area
total: 78,867 sq km
land: 77,247 sq km
water: 1,620 sq km

Climate
temperate; cool summers; cold, cloudy, humid winters

Natural resources
hard coal, soft coal, kaolin, clay, graphite, timber, arable land

People and Society
Population
10,706,242 (2023 est.)

Ethnic groups
Czech 57.3%, Moravian 3.4%, other 7.7%, unspecified 31.6% (2021 est.)

Languages
Czech (official) 88.4%, Slovak 1.5%, other 2.6%, unspecified 7.2%

note: includes only persons with one mother tongue (2021 est.)

Religions
Roman Catholic 7%, other believers belonging to a church or religious society 6% (includes Evangelical United Brethren Church and Czechoslovak Hussite Church), believers unaffiliated with a religious society 9.1%, none 47.8%, unspecified 30.1% (2021 est.)

Population growth rate
0% (2023 est.)

Government
Government type
parliamentary republic

Capital
name: Prague

Economy
Economic overview
high income, diversified EU economy; advanced services and automotive exporter; mostly intra-EU trader; low unemployment; usually maintains a positive trade balance; large investments in systems innovation and information technologies

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$428.016 billion (2021 est.)

Real GDP per capita
$40,700 (2021 est.)

Agricultural products
wheat, sugar beet, milk, barley, rapeseed, potatoes, maize, pork, triticale, poultry

Industries
motor vehicles, metallurgy, machinery and equipment, glass, armaments

Exports
$204.785 billion (2021 est.)

Exports - partners
Germany 31%, Slovakia 7%, Poland 6%, France 5% (2019)

Exports - commodities
cars and vehicle parts, computers, broadcasting equipment, office machinery/parts, seating (2019)

Imports
$196.243 billion (2021 est.)

Imports - partners
Germany 27%, China 12%, Poland 9%, Slovakia 5% (2019)

Imports - commodities
broadcasting equipment, cars and vehicle parts, office machinery/parts, computers, packaged medicines (2019)