Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Brno

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# Quick answer
Brno, the Czech Republic's vibrant second city, is a compact university and cultural hub—easy to explore on foot with strong public transit, good food, and a lively café and beer scene. Plan for variable weather, know basic Czech courtesies, and bring a card (but also small cash) for smaller purchases.

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## Visa & entry requirements
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: travel with ID card; no visa required.
- US/Canada/Australia/NZ and many other countries: visa-free for short stays (Schengen Area rules) up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Travel document must be valid for the duration of stay.
- Non-visa-exempt travelers: obtain a Schengen visa before arrival.
- Always check latest rules (COVID or temporary restrictions may apply) on your government and the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs websites before travel.

## Best time to visit
- Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) for mild weather, fewer crowds, and outdoor festivals.
- July–August: warmest but busiest and pricier; occasional heatwaves.
- November–March: colder, shorter days; good for lower prices and Christmas markets (Dec).

## Safety tips
- Brno is generally safe: usual precautions apply (watch for pickpockets in crowded areas, especially transit hubs and festivals).
- Stay aware at night in quiet areas; stick to well-lit streets and central neighborhoods.
- Emergency numbers: 112 (European emergency number) and 158 (police in Czechia).

## Local customs & etiquette
- Greet with a handshake in formal situations; use first names only when invited.
- Czechs value politeness and modesty; avoid loud or overly familiar behavior in public.
- Basic Czech phrases are appreciated: "Dobrý den" (Good day), "Prosím" (Please/You’re welcome), "Děkuji" (Thank you).
- Tipping: 5–10% in restaurants is common if service isn’t included; round up taxi fares.

## Currency & payments
- Currency: Czech koruna (CZK). Euros are not widely accepted outside tourist hubs.
- Cards: Visa/Ma

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Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Brno

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