This section provides essential practical information for conference participants, including transport, connectivity, and general travel tips to ensure a smooth and comfortable stay in Prague.
Practical Information
Public transport system and ticketing
Mobile connectivity and internet access
Currency and payment recommendations
General tips for navigating Prague
Cell Phones and Mobile ConnectionThere are 3 main providers of mobile connection in the Czech Republic (T-Mobile, O2, Vodafone). The Czech Republic is covered by 4G signal and there is no problem with mobile and internet connection. It is common that most cafés, restaurants, and other places have Wi-Fi. Attendees are kindly requested to turn off or switch their cell phones to silent mode in the meeting rooms where scientific sessions are held.
City TransportTravelling by Prague city transport is only possible with a valid ticket. Passengers have to obtain their tickets before boarding the vehicle or entering the Metro system. The ticket is valid only if stamped in the validation device. Find more info under Travel Information.
CurrencyThe Czech crown (CZK) is the official currency of the Czech Republic. Upon arrival, please do not change currency at the airport! There is approximately 20% loss on the conversion rate if not booked ahead. You can find the official exchange rates on the website of the Czech National Bank at www.cnb.cz. There is plenty of exchange offices around the city, and money can also be changed at banks or some hotels. We advise you to always double check with the staff when completing the transaction.
Withdrawing money from an ATM: Some ATMs offer the option to 'pay using home currency'. Ignore this and opt to 'pay in local currency'. The transaction will then be converted at a good international rate authorised by your own bank. If you select 'home currency', the ATM converts the Czech crowns at its own rate, which is usually a poor rate; this is called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC).
Do not use EURONET ATMs. All the bank ATMs in CZ are reliable.
ElectricityThe Czech Republic uses a 230V/50 Hz system. Sockets are the standard European type (two-prong round pin plugs with a hole for a male grounding pin are standard). To use electric appliances from your country you may need a special voltage converter with an adapter plug. More information here.
Important Telephone Numbers112 – General Emergency (the standard European number) – they speak English150 – Fire Department155 – Ambulance156 – Prague Municipal Police158 – State Police
InsuranceThe organisers can accept no liability for personal injuries or loss or damage to property belonging to the workshop participants, either during or as a result of the event. Participants are advised to take out proper travel and health insurance before departing from their home country.
No SmokingIn the Czech Republic it is not allowed to smoke in bars, cafés, restaurants and other public interiors as well as at public transport stops and stations. Smoking in the ICOM PRAGUE 2022 conference area is also not allowed.
Time ZoneThe Czech Republic is on Central European Time - Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) plus 1 hour. From April to October there is daylight saving time, i.e. GMT +2 hours.