Czech Republic - Culture

It is considered polite to say ‘dobrý den’ (good day) when you meet a stranger, including the person behind the counter in a shop or a pub. You should also say 'na shledanou’ (goodbye) when you leave. The Czech manner can feel a little brusque sometimes, but often a smile and a joke will lighten up most interactions. When greeting a new person, shake hands, and maintain eye contact.

If you are invited to someone's house, it is polite to take a small gift - a bunch of flowers will do. Remember to remove your shoes when you enter. When attending a classical music concert, an opera performance or even the cinema, most Czechs will dress formally - you can usually spot the tourists by their casual clothes.

There is a smoking ban in public places, in railway stations, on public transport and in restaurants and pubs.