Basic Czech Phrases and Pronunciation Guide

Learning a few Czech phrases can make a big difference during your Prague visit, or anywhere in the Czech Republic. Of course, that sounds easy in theory - then you hear the language - and quitting before you start becomes super easy.

And, I should know, because I've been trying to wrap my brain around the Czech language for years.

I'm still learning, and yes, it's been painful at times -- but also fun!

This guide focuses on practical Czech phrases for visitors. It's a quick overview of how to pronounce vowels and consonants - and a collection of daily words and phrases that may come in handy.

Give Czech a try. It won't hurt, too much.

Want to take these Czech phrases with you?  Download the PDF

Don't locals speak English?

Yes, many people speak English in Prague, especially younger generations. English is widely-spoken in tourist areas, and you'll find menus and some signs outside of businesses will include English - but this is mainly in the tourist areas of central Prague.

Also, many people understand English but aren't confident in their  language skills, so don't assume everyone is fluent or on-the-ready.

This is especially true in smaller shops, local restaurants, or places beyond the city center. So, knowing just a few Czech words can break the ice and lead to warmer, more helpful interactions.

Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in saying “Dobrý den” or trying to read a menu and ordering in Czech. You'll probably get a good smile in return.

Czech Pronunciation Guide

Czech pronunciation is logical and phonetic—once you know how a letter sounds, it’s usually consistent.

While the full language has some tricky aspects, most Czech travel phrases are simple enough for beginners.

Vowels

Each vowel has a short and long form. The long version is drawn out, usually written with an accent (e.g., á, é, í). The length can change the meaning of a word, so it's worth noting.

Consonants

Many consonants are similar to their English counterparts but there are a few "fun" exceptions.

Must-Know Czech Phrases for Travelers

In this guide, you'll find tables organized by situation: greetings, polite expressions, directions, dining, and emergencies.

These are Czech phrases that you’re most likely to use and hear in everyday travel situations.

Some examples:

• Dobrý den – Hello / Good day (formal, polite – use this all the time!)
• Na shledanou – Goodbye
• Prosím – Please / You're welcome
• Děkuji – Thank you
• Mluvíte anglicky? – Do you speak English?

Use these phrases when entering shops, buying tickets, checking into your hotel, or asking for help. They're short, memorable, and extremely helpful.

Greetings

Please and Thank you

Language

Social Phrases

Directions

Getting Around

At the Restaurant

At the Bank

Health

Practice Makes Progress

You don’t need perfect pronunciation!

Czechs are understanding and appreciate any effort you make. Try repeating the phrases aloud, listen to native pronunciation online, and use them in real life. The more you practice, the more natural they’ll feel.

Start with:

• Greetings (Hello, Goodbye)
• Politeness (Please, Thank you, Excuse me)
• Essentials (Yes, No, I don’t understand, Help!)
• Travel terms (Train, ticket, hotel, restroom, how much?)

Have Questions or Suggestions?

We hope these words and Czech phrases are helpful. If you have a suggestion to add to the list we would love to hear it.

Or, if you have a particular concern or question regarding Czech language or pronunciation, please feel free to contact me.

Again, here's the link to download the phrases when you're ready.

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