Scam in Czech RepublicChanging money
Poor exchange rates when paying in euros in Czech Republic
How it works
A business accepts euros but converts the price at a poor rate. Change may be returned in Czech koruna. This can make a convenient payment much more expensive.
Warning signs
- The euro price is shown without a clear conversion rate.
- You are unsure which currency you will receive as change.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the price in Kč.
- Check the conversion before paying in euros.
- Confirm the currency and amount of your change.
If it happens to you
Check the receipt and change immediately. Ask the business to explain or correct any difference from the terms you accepted.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or confront a group.
- If you are threatened or injured, call 112. For police, call 158; for a medical emergency, call 155.
- Block stolen cards through your bank or card issuer. Secure affected accounts.
- Save receipts, booking records and screenshots. Write down the time, place and vehicle or business details.
- Report the incident to police and ask for a report reference. For a bad currency exchange, return with the receipt within 3 hours to request a refund.
- Contact your insurer, rental company or embassy as relevant. Ask your card issuer about disputed payments.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Prague2022Do people in Prague accept the Euro or is it a no go?Contributors warn that shops accepting euro cash may apply poor conversion rates and recommend paying in crowns.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Prague2025Restaurant Check – Avoiding Tourist Traps?A frequent visitor reports seeing restaurants accept euros from tourists at unfavourable exchange rates.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the poor exchange rates when paying in euros scam in Czech Republic?
A business accepts euros but converts the price at a poor rate. Change may be returned in Czech koruna. This can make a convenient payment much more expensive.
How can I spot it early?
The euro price is shown without a clear conversion rate. You are unsure which currency you will receive as change.
How do I avoid poor exchange rates when paying in euros in Czech Republic?
Ask for the price in Kč. Check the conversion before paying in euros. Confirm the currency and amount of your change.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check the receipt and change immediately. Ask the business to explain or correct any difference from the terms you accepted.
Where in Czech Republic does this happen?
Stores and accommodation providers that accept or quote prices in euros.
How common is this scam in Czech Republic?
Common. The Czech Republic is generally safe, but scams and pickpocketing are common in busy tourist areas, especially in high season. Watch for taxi overcharging, misleading exchange rates, worthless foreign money and theft in crowds. Most detailed warnings concern Prague, with pickpocket warnings also covering parts of Brno.
Are there similar scams in Czech Republic?
Yes: misleading currency exchange offers, street exchange with worthless foreign notes.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 158 for police assistance or 112 in an emergency. For a theft or fraud report, provide the location, time, receipts and any vehicle or business details. City police (městská policie): if a Prague exchange office refuses a refund requested within 3 hours, politely ask a nearby city police officer to accompany you and help. Czech National Bank: file a complaint if an exchange office refuses the refund. Keep your receipt and a record of the refusal. Taxi company: report the disputed fare with the receipt, licence plate, taxi licence number and driver's name, if available. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to block missing cards, report unauthorised transactions and ask about payment disputes. Airport security staff: report missing items immediately at the screening area. Give the screening lane, time and item description. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and keep the police report, receipts and evidence of your loss. Your embassy or consulate: contact it through official channels if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in Czech Republic?
General emergency: 112, Police: 158, Medical emergency: 155, Fire brigade: 150.
Reviewed by @snuck