Moving to a new country comes with exciting challenges—one of the first being figuring out where and how to do your grocery shopping. If you’re an expat in the Czech Republic, you might be wondering what to expect when you step into local supermarkets or markets.
What products will you find? Are prices friendly to your budget? How do Czech shopping habits differ from what you’re used to? This guide will answer all those questions and more, helping you shop smart, save money, and enjoy the local flavors.
Keep reading to discover insider tips that will make grocery shopping in the Czech Republic easy and even enjoyable for you.
Where To Shop
The Czech Republic offers several supermarket chains popular with expats. Stores like Kaufland, Billa, and Albert provide a wide range of products. These supermarkets are easy to find in cities and towns. They sell fresh produce, dairy, meat, and household items at reasonable prices.
Local markets are great for fresh fruits, vegetables, and local specialties. Markets appear on specific days and locations, offering seasonal and often organic products. Prices can be lower than supermarkets, and shopping here supports local farmers.
Specialty stores sell items like international foods, organic products, or gluten-free goods. Look for small shops or organic food stores in bigger cities. They help find products not usually in supermarkets or markets.
Shopping Hours
Most grocery stores in the Czech Republic open around 7 or 8 AM on weekdays. They usually close between 7 and 9 PM. Smaller shops may have shorter hours. Weekdays are the busiest times for shopping, so expect more people during these hours.
On weekends, stores often open later, around 8 or 9 AM, and close earlier, usually by 6 or 7 PM. Some smaller shops or markets may only open on Saturday mornings and stay closed on Sundays. Sundays are generally quiet with limited shopping options.
Stores close on public holidays like Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s Day. Some shops may open for a few hours on the day before a holiday. It is best to check local notices to avoid surprises during holiday closures.
Popular Czech Foods
Common staples in Czech kitchens include potatoes, bread, and dumplings. Meat like pork, beef, and poultry is popular. Sauerkraut and cabbage often accompany meals. Soups made from vegetables or meat broth are common starters.
Breakfast items usually consist of fresh bread rolls called rohlík or houska. These are spread with butter, cheese, or jam. Cold cuts like ham and salami are also enjoyed. People often drink coffee, tea, or yogurt alongside breakfast. Sweet pastries such as koláče and doughnuts (koblihy) are common treats. Some eat eggs prepared simply, known as hemenex, or muesli for a healthy start.
Snacks and pastries are very popular. Trdelník is a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and nuts. Koblihy are Czech doughnuts filled with jam. Cheese, pickled vegetables, and sausages make good quick snacks. Many enjoy fruit and nuts as light bites during the day.
Payment Methods
Cash is still widely accepted in Czech grocery stores. Many small shops prefer cash for quick payments. Carry some cash for markets or small vendors.
Card payments are very common in supermarkets and large stores. Most accept Visa and MasterCard. Contactless payment is popular and fast. Some small shops may not accept cards.
Mobile apps for payment are growing. Apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay work in many places. You can also use banking apps with QR codes. This method is safe and very convenient.
Saving Money Tips
Discount cards are common in Czech supermarkets. They offer small price cuts on many goods. These cards are easy to get and free. Just ask at the store counter.
Promotional deals appear weekly. Stores sell items like fruits, dairy, and snacks cheaper. Watch flyers or store apps for these sales. Buying sale items saves a lot over time.
Buying in bulk is smart for non-perishable goods. Large packs of rice, pasta, or canned food cost less per piece. It reduces trips to the store and saves money.
Language Tips
Learning a few key grocery terms helps a lot. Words like “chléb” mean bread, and “mléko” means milk. These simple words make shopping easier.
When asking for help, use polite phrases like “Prosím, můžete mi pomoci?” which means “Please, can you help me?” Most store workers understand basic English.
Understanding label reading is important. Look for “složení” to check ingredients. Dates are shown as “minimální trvanlivost do”, meaning expiration date. This helps pick fresh products.
Cultural Etiquette
In Czech stores, customers usually wait their turn quietly. Speaking softly is appreciated. Being polite with staff and other shoppers helps. A simple “hello” or “thank you” goes a long way. Avoid rushing or pushing in line.
Czechs often bring their own bags for shopping. Recycling and sorting waste is very common. Many stores ask customers to separate plastics, paper, and glass. Using reusable bags shows respect for local environmental habits.
| Aspect | What to Do | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Shopping Behavior | Wait quietly in line, be patient | Do not push or rush |
| Politeness Norms | Greet staff, say thank you | Avoid loud talking or complaining |
| Environmental Practices | Bring reusable bags, sort waste | Don’t throw trash carelessly |
Dealing With Packaging
Recycling rules in the Czech Republic are strict and well-organized. Different bins exist for paper, plastic, glass, and bio waste. Always separate your trash properly to avoid fines. Look for clear labels on packaging to know where to put items.
It is common to bring your own bags to the store. Many shops charge for plastic bags, encouraging shoppers to carry reusable ones. This small habit helps reduce waste and saves money.
Avoiding plastic waste means choosing products with less packaging or those wrapped in paper. Buying loose fruits and vegetables instead of pre-packaged ones cuts down on plastic use. Some stores also offer refill stations for liquids like detergent or shampoo.
Tips For Fresh Produce
Seasonal choices ensure the freshest and tastiest produce. Spring brings fresh strawberries and asparagus. Summer offers cherries, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Autumn is perfect for apples, pumpkins, and grapes. Winter has root vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Buying what is in season means better flavor and lower prices.
Market freshness is key. Local farmers’ markets usually have the freshest fruits and vegetables. Choose items that look bright and firm without bruises. Smell the produce; fresh fruits and herbs have a strong, natural scent. Avoid items that feel soft or have mold spots.
Storage advice helps keep produce fresh longer. Store leafy greens in the fridge wrapped in paper towels. Keep tomatoes at room temperature for best taste. Potatoes and onions last longer in a cool, dark place. Use fruits like bananas and avocados quickly as they ripen fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Czech Republic Friendly To Americans?
The Czech Republic welcomes Americans warmly with easy visa access and friendly locals. It offers a safe, vibrant environment for visitors and expats.
What To Beware Of In Prague?
Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist spots in Prague. Avoid unlicensed taxis and be cautious at ATMs. Nightclubs may have high consumption charges. Stay clear of aggressive street sellers and sex workers. Always keep an eye on your belongings and personal safety.
Is The Czech Republic Good For Expats?
The Czech Republic offers expats affordable living, quality healthcare, rich culture, safety, and a central European location for easy travel.
Conclusion
Grocery shopping in the Czech Republic can be simple and enjoyable for expats. Local markets and big stores offer fresh and affordable choices. Knowing common food items and store types helps you shop with ease. Trying Czech products adds to your cultural experience.
With a little practice, you will find your routine quickly. Shopping becomes part of your new life abroad. Embrace the process and enjoy discovering new flavors every week.
Hello, I am Jan, a travel writer based in the Czech Republic. I specialize in discovering and writing about my homeland—medieval towns, mountain hikes, the local pub scene, and off-the-tourist-radar destinations.
I also write about life as an expat in Czechia—just what it is like to live here, and not just visit. That means the little victories, the cultural surprises, and the daily realities of establishing life in this side of the world. If you’re considering visiting or making the move, I hope to give you an authentic, realistic sense of what life in Czechia is all about.