Visiting the Czech Republic can be an exciting cultural experience, and having a few essential Czech phrases at your disposal can greatly enhance your travels. Whether it’s ordering food, asking for directions, or just being polite, here are some key phrases that will help you navigate your way through this beautiful country.
Dobrý den
Translation: Good day
Use this polite greeting when entering shops, greeting people, or any time during the day until twilight.
Dobrý den, měl bych jedno pivo, prosím. (Good day, I would like one beer, please.)
Ahoj / Čau
Translation: Hi / Bye (informal)
These are informal greetings used with friends or young people.
Ahoj, jak se máš? (Hi, how are you?)
Prosím
Translation: Please / Here you go
Use this word to politely ask for something or when handing something to another person.
Jedno kafe, prosím. (One coffee, please.)
Děkuji (or informally Díky)
Translation: Thank you
Expressing gratitude is just as important in the Czech Republic as anywhere else.
Děkuji za vaši pomoc. (Thank you for your help.)
Mluvíte anglicky?
Translation: Do you speak English?
This question can be a lifesaver if you find yourself in need of assistance and you don’t speak Czech fluently.
Promiňte, mluvíte anglicky? (Excuse me, do you speak English?)
Kde je toaleta?
Translation: Where is the bathroom?
An essential question for anyone traveling to unfamiliar places.
Promiňte, kde je toaleta? (Excuse me, where is the bathroom?)
Kolik to stojí?
Translation: How much does it cost?
Before making a purchase, you might want to inquire about the price.
Kolik to stojí za tyhle suvenýry? (How much does it cost for these souvenirs?)
Chtěl bych…
Translation: I would like…
When ordering food or when you’re shopping, this phrase will come in handy.
Chtěl bych dva lístky do divadla, prosím. (I would like two tickets to the theater, please.)
S Prominutím / Promiňte
Translation: Excuse me
Whether you’re getting someone’s attention or apologizing for a minor inconvenience, this phrase is crucial.
S Prominutím, můžete mi říct, kde je nádraží? (Excuse me, can you tell me where the train station is?)
Nerozumím
Translation: I don’t understand
If you’re struggling to understand, don’t hesitate to communicate that to others.
Nerozumím, můžete to prosím zopakovat? (I don’t understand, could you please repeat that?)
Na shledanou
Translation: Goodbye
Use this phrase when parting ways, especially with someone you don’t expect to see again soon.
Bylo to krásné, na shledanou. (It was lovely, goodbye.)
Jsem alergický na…
Translation: I’m allergic to…
If you have any allergies, it’s essential to know how to communicate them effectively.
Jsem alergický na ořechy. (I’m allergic to nuts.)
Prosím o účet
Translation: Can I have the bill, please
A phrase you’ll need after dining at a restaurant.
Dobrá večeře, prosím o účet. (Great dinner, can I have the bill please?)
Pomoc!
Translation: Help!
In case of an emergency, it’s vital to know how to call for help.
Pomoc, ztratil jsem tašku. (Help, I’ve lost my bag.)
With these essential Czech phrases in your linguistic toolkit, you’ll be able to navigate your travels with greater ease and confidence. Remember to practice the pronunciation, as Czech can be quite challenging for non-native speakers. Most importantly, enjoy your trip and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Czech culture, language, and the extraordinary charm of the Czech Republic. Dobrý den and happy travels!
