🐾 Traveling to Czechia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Czechia
Czechia is highly welcoming to pets, particularly dogs, which are common companions in parks and public spaces. From Prague's historic streets to Bohemian countryside trails, many hotels, restaurants, and transport options accommodate well-behaved animals, making it a top European pet travel destination.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
EU Pet Passport
Dogs, cats, and ferrets from EU countries require an EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Passport must include rabies vaccination records (at least 21 days before travel) and veterinary health certificate.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 21 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need health certificate from official veterinarian and rabies antibody test.
Additional 3-month waiting period may apply; check with Czech embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide ban, but certain breeds like Pit Bulls may face restrictions in urban areas like Prague.
These dogs often require special permits, muzzles, and leashes in public spaces.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have varying entry rules; consult Czech State Veterinary Administration.
Exotic pets may need CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Czechia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Prague & Brno): Many 3-5 star hotels accept pets for 250-600 CZK/night, providing dog beds, bowls, and access to nearby parks. Chains like Ibis and NH Hotels are consistently pet-friendly.
- Country Cottages & Chalets (Bohemia & Moravia): Rural lodgings often welcome pets free of charge, with direct access to hiking trails. Ideal for dog walks in scenic landscapes.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo options commonly allow pets, especially in countryside areas. Full homes give pets space to move freely.
- Farmstays (Agrotourism): Farms in South Bohemia and Moravia accept pets and feature farm animals. Great for families with children and pets enjoying rural life.
- Campsites & RV Parks: Most Czech campsites are pet-friendly, with dog exercise areas and trails nearby. Popular lakeside spots in Šumava region.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Upscale hotels like Four Seasons Prague offer premium pet services including gourmet treats, grooming, and walking arrangements.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Bohemian Hiking Trails
Czechia's forests and hills offer pet-friendly paths in Šumava National Park and Bohemian Paradise.
Keep dogs leashed near protected areas and follow trail guidelines at park entrances.
Rivers & Lakes
Vltava River and Lipno Reservoir have designated dog areas for swimming and play.
Check local signs for pet zones; many spots allow dogs off-leash in non-swimming areas.
Cities & Parks
Prague's Petřín Hill and Letná Park welcome leashed dogs; outdoor beer gardens often permit pets.
Brno's Lužánky Park is dog-friendly; most outdoor terraces accept well-behaved animals.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Czech café culture includes pets; water bowls are common outside in urban areas.
Many Prague coffee houses allow dogs indoors; always confirm with staff first.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Prague and Český Krumlov typically allow leashed dogs without extra fees.
Historic sites are accessible; skip indoor castles and museums with pets.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Some Czech cable cars, like those in Ještěd, permit dogs in carriers or muzzled for 100-200 CZK.
Verify with operators; peak season bookings may be needed for pets.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (České dráhy - ČD): Small dogs travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets at half adult fare and must be muzzled or carried. Allowed in most classes except restaurants.
- Buses & Trams (Urban): Prague and Brno public transport permit small pets free in carriers; larger dogs 40 CZK with muzzle/leash. Avoid rush hours.
- Taxis: Confirm with driver before pet entry; most accept with notice. Bolt and Uber offer pet-friendly options in major cities.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Europcar allow pets with prior notice and cleaning fee (500-1500 CZK). Opt for larger vehicles for comfort on rural drives.
- Flights to Czechia: Review airline policies; Czech Airlines and Lufthansa permit cabin pets under 8kg. Early booking essential; compare on Aviasales for pet-accommodating flights.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Lufthansa, KLM, and Ryanair accept small pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 1000-2500 CZK each way. Larger pets in hold with vet certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Prague (Veterinární klinika Vinohrady) and Brno offer urgent care.
EHIC/travel insurance may cover pets; consultations cost 800-3000 CZK.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like FamiPet and ZooRoyal stock food, meds, and accessories nationwide.
Pharmacies provide basic pet drugs; carry prescriptions for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban areas have grooming and daycare for 500-1200 CZK per session or day.
Reserve in advance during tourist peaks; hotels often suggest local providers.
Pet-Sitting Services
Platforms like Dogsy and local services handle sitting for day trips or nights.
Hotel concierges can recommend reliable pet-sitters in tourist hubs.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and nature reserves. Rural trails may permit off-leash if controlled and away from livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Certain breeds or large dogs need muzzles on public transport in Prague and other cities. Always have one handy.
- Waste Disposal: Bags and bins are plentiful; fines for not cleaning up range 1000-5000 CZK. Carry extras on outings.
- Beach & Water Rules: Vltava and reservoir beaches have pet sections; some restrict dogs during summer peaks (9am-7pm). Keep distance from bathers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating welcomes pets; inquire for indoors. Pets should stay calm and on the ground.
- National Parks: Leash required in areas like Krkonoše during breeding seasons (March-June). Stick to paths to protect flora and fauna.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Czechia
Czechia for Families
Czechia delights families with safe cities, interactive sites, fairy-tale castles, and outdoor fun. From Prague's bridges to Moravian vineyards, children thrive amid history and nature. Facilities include stroller access, family restrooms, and kid menus throughout.
Top Family Attractions
Prague Castle & Gardens
World's largest ancient castle with guards, towers, and expansive gardens for kids to explore.
Tickets 250-350 CZK adults, 125 CZK kids; family packages available for guided tours.
Zoo Praha
Top-rated zoo with Indonesian jungle exhibit, polar bears, and playgrounds in a forested setting.
Entry 290 CZK adults, 220 CZK kids; full-day adventure with animal feedings and shows.
Český Krumlov Castle
Renaissance castle with bear moat, theater tours, and riverside views captivating for children.
Tickets 300 CZK adults, 150 CZK kids; combine with rafting for family excitement.
Techmania (Pilsen)
Hands-on science center with experiments, planetarium, and interactive tech displays.
Ideal for rainy days; 250 CZK adults, 180 CZK kids with English guides available.
Train Museum (Lužec nad Vltavou)
Collection of historic trains, model railways, and simulator rides for rail enthusiasts young and old.
Tickets 200 CZK adults, 100 CZK kids; near Prague for easy day trip access.
Aquapalace Praha
Europe's largest waterpark with slides, pools, and spa for family aquatic adventures.
Day passes 600 CZK adults, 400 CZK kids; year-round fun with themed zones.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Czechia on Viator. From castle tours to river cruises, secure skip-the-line tickets and suitable experiences with easy cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Prague & Brno): Properties like Holiday Inn offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for 2500-4500 CZK/night. Includes cribs, kids' corners, and breakfast buffets.
- Resort Hotels (Karlovy Vary): Spa resorts with family programs, pools, and childcare. Places like Hotel Thermal focus on family wellness and entertainment.
- Farm Holidays (Pensiony): Rural guesthouses in Bohemia provide animal encounters and outdoor space for 1200-2500 CZK/night with meals.
Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units with kitchens suit families needing flexibility and space for meals.- Youth Hostels: Budget family rooms in hostels like those in Prague for 1500-2200 CZK/night. Clean facilities with shared kitchens.
- Castle Hotels: Stay in historic sites like Chateau Mcely for enchanted family stays with gardens and activities.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Prague with Kids
Charles Bridge puppet shows, Petrin Tower mirror maze, Vltava boat rides, and toy museums.
Tram rides and gelato stops add whimsy to exploring the fairy-tale city.
South Bohemia with Kids
Český Krumlov rafting, Hluboká Castle gardens, adventure parks, and medieval festivals.
Storybook villages and easy riverside walks engage young imaginations.
Moravia with Kids
Brno DinoPark, Macocha Abyss cave tours, puppet theaters, and vineyard tractor rides.
Mikulov Castle playgrounds and fossil hunts thrill dinosaur-loving children.
Šumava Region
Lipno Lake beaches, forest trails, wildlife parks, and summer toboggan runs.
Boat rentals and picnic spots create relaxed family nature days.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 6 free; 6-15 at 50% off with adult. ČD family areas accommodate strollers on long routes.
- City Transport: Prague family day tickets (2 adults + kids) 110 CZK. Trams and metros feature low floors and elevators.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (100-250 CZK/day); book ahead for under 12s or 150cm. Family vans ideal for groups.
- Stroller-Friendly: Prague's old town has ramps and lifts; most sites offer stroller storage and accessible paths.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants provide dětské menu with nuggets, pasta for 100-200 CZK. High chairs and crayons standard.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Pivnice (beer halls) have play corners; Prague's markets offer varied kid options.
- Self-Catering: Tesco and Albert supermarkets carry baby items and organics. Fresh markets for healthy family meals.
- Snacks & Treats: Trdelník pastries and hot chocolate keep kids happy; bakeries abound with sweet temptations.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, zoos, and stations with tables and private nursing spaces.
- Pharmacies (Lékárna): Sell formula, nappies, and meds; English-speaking staff assist families.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels book sitters for 400-600 CZK/hour; apps like Chytrá Mačka connect locally.
- Medical Care: Pediatric services in cities; hospitals handle emergencies. EHIC valid for EU families.
♿ Accessibility in Czechia
Accessible Travel
Czechia advances accessibility with updated transport, ramps at historic sites, and inclusive tourism. Prague and Brno provide guides for barrier-free planning and support services.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: ČD offers wheelchair spaces, ramps, and assistance; reserve 24 hours prior for boarding help.
- City Transport: Prague trams and metro have low-entry vehicles and elevators; audio aids for sight-impaired.
- Taxis: Wheelchair taxis via apps in cities; standard cabs fit folding chairs with notice.
- Airports: Prague Václav Havel Airport features full access, assistance, and priority for disabled passengers.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Castles: Prague Castle and National Museum have lifts, ramps, and audio guides for wheelchairs.
- Historic Sites: Charles Bridge accessible via ramps; Český Krumlov offers partial adaptations despite cobbles.
- Nature & Parks: Petřín Hill funicular aids access; many parks feature smooth paths and viewpoints.
- Accommodations: Hotels list accessible features on Booking.com; seek wide doors and adapted bathrooms.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) for festivals and outdoors; winter for Christmas markets and ice skating.
Spring (April-May) and fall (Sept-Oct) bring mild weather, colors, and fewer tourists.
Budget Tips
Prague Card saves on attractions and transport; family discounts common at sites.
Apartment stays and park picnics cut costs while suiting varied diets.
Language
Czech official; English prevalent in tourism spots and among youth.
Basic greetings help; locals are friendly to families and international visitors.
Packing Essentials
Layered clothes for variable weather, sturdy shoes for cobblestones, and waterproofs.
Pets: pack familiar food, leash, muzzle, bags, and health papers.
Useful Apps
ČD app for trains, Google Maps, and local pet apps like PesDoktor.
PID Lída for Prague transport; translation apps bridge language gaps.
Health & Safety
Czechia safe overall; tap water safe. Pharmacies offer advice.
Emergency 112; EHIC for EU health coverage including pets where applicable.