How to Call Czech Republic
Complete guide to dialing Czech Republic (country code +420)
Planning to connect with someone in Prague or elsewhere in the country? Learning how to call Czech Republic is simpler than you might think. Whether you're reaching out to family, friends, or business contacts, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Czech Republic successfully. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions from various countries, help you avoid common mistakes that could prevent your call from going through, and share essential Czech phone etiquette to ensure smooth conversations. You'll also discover useful phone numbers for emergencies, customer service, and important services. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently making international calls to the Czech Republic without any hassle or confusion.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Czech Republic from abroad, you need three components: your country's exit code, Czech Republic's country code (+420), and the local phone number. The complete format is: Exit Code + 420 + Local Number.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA:
Dial 011 (US exit code) + 420 + local number
Example: To call Prague landline 234 567 890, dial 011-420-234-567-890
From UK:
Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 420 + local number
Example: To call mobile 601 234 567, dial 00-420-601-234-567
From Other Countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code, though some differ (Australia uses 0011, Japan uses 010). Check your country's international access code.
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Czech phone numbers don't have leading zeros to drop. Unlike many European countries, Czech numbers are written and dialed exactly as shown domestically. A Prague landline displayed as 234 567 890 remains 234 567 890 when dialing internationally.
Specific Examples for Different Number Types
Example 1 - Prague Landline (234 567 890):
- From USA: 011-420-234-567-890
- From UK: 00-420-234-567-890
Example 2 - Czech Mobile (601 234 567):
Czech mobiles typically start with 6 or 7.
- From USA: 011-420-601-234-567
- From UK: 00-420-601-234-567
Example 3 - Brno Landline (541 123 456):
- From USA: 011-420-541-123-456
- From Australia: 0011-420-541-123-456
Quick Dialing Steps
- Dial your country's international exit code
- Dial 420 (Czech Republic country code)
- Dial the complete local number without modifications
- Press call
For mobile users, you can typically replace the exit code by pressing and holding "0" to generate the "+" symbol, then dial +420 followed by the local number.
The Easy Way with ZippCall
Don't want to memorize exit codes, country codes, and dialing formats? With ZippCall, you don't have to.
Simply select "Czech Republic" from the country list, enter the local phone number exactly as you see it, and ZippCall automatically handles all the international dialing codes for you. No confusion, no mistakes—just easy calling.
Join 7,766 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Czech Republic, avoid these common mistakes:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero - Czech phone numbers often appear as 0XXX XXX XXX domestically, but when dialing internationally, you must remove the zero. From abroad, dial +420 XXX XXX XXX, not +420 0XXX XXX XXX. The leading zero is only for domestic calls.
Using the wrong exit code - Many people incorrectly assume all countries use "00" to dial internationally. While most European countries do, the US and Canada use "011". Know your country's exit code or simply use the "+" symbol, which works from any mobile phone worldwide.
Confusing the country code with an area code - Unlike many countries, Czech Republic (+420) doesn't use area codes anymore. The country code is followed directly by the 9-digit local number. Don't add extra digits thinking you need a city code.
Adding unnecessary spaces - While spaces help readability, entering them when dialing can cause errors on some phone systems. The correct format is +420XXXXXXXXX as one continuous string.
Not checking mobile vs. landline prefixes - Czech mobile numbers typically start with 6 or 7, while landlines start with 2 or 3. Calling rates may differ significantly.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in the Czech Republic, understanding local customs helps create positive interactions. Czechs tend to be formal in initial communications, especially in business contexts.
Greetings and Formality
Always begin with a polite greeting. For business calls, use formal titles and surnames unless invited otherwise. Say "Dobrý den" (Good day) followed by your full name. Personal calls among friends allow casual greetings like "Ahoj" (Hi).
Business vs Personal Norms
Business calls should be direct and purposeful. Czechs appreciate efficiency and getting to the point without excessive small talk. Personal calls can be more relaxed, though Czechs generally prefer brevity over lengthy conversations.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:00-13:00) or after 20:00 in the evening. Business calls should occur during standard working hours (9:00-17:00). Weekend calls are reserved for close friends and family only.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, concise voicemail messages is expected. State your name, reason for calling, and contact information. Many Czechs prefer text messages over voicemails for non-urgent matters.
Cultural Considerations
Czechs value privacy and directness. Don't take offense at their straightforward communication style—it reflects honesty rather than rudeness. Always ask if it's a convenient time to talk, showing respect for their schedule. Mobile phones are prevalent, but loud conversations in public spaces are considered impolite.
Ready to call Czech Republic?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Czech Republic from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,766 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
In Czech Republic, the following emergency numbers are available 24/7:
- 112 – Universal European emergency number (police, ambulance, fire) with English-speaking operators
- 150 – Fire Department (Hasiči)
- 155 – Emergency Medical Services/Ambulance (Zdravotnická záchranná služba)
- 158 – Police (Policie)
All emergency numbers are free to call from both landlines and mobile phones, including phones without SIM cards or credit. The universal 112 number connects you to operators who typically speak English and other major languages, making it ideal for international visitors. Local emergency numbers (150, 155, 158) may have Czech-speaking operators, though English assistance is increasingly available. For non-urgent police matters, you can also contact the Municipal Police at 156. All services operate around the clock throughout the year.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 1180: Directory inquiries for domestic numbers
- 1181: International directory inquiries
International Services
- 1181: International operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Support
- Prague City Tourism Hotline: +420 221 714 714 (information about attractions, events, and services)
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy for passport issues, legal problems, or emergencies. Major embassies are located in Prague; find specific numbers through your government's website before traveling.
Other Helpful Numbers
- 1188: Train schedule information (Czech Railways)
- 840 11 11 22: Czech Post customer service
- Non-emergency medical advice: Contact your hotel or local pharmacy
- Prague Public Transport: +420 296 191 817
Keep these numbers saved in your phone for convenient access during your stay in the Czech Republic.
Tips for Calling Czech Republic
When calling the Czech Republic (UTC+1, UTC+2 during daylight saving time), timing is crucial for successful connections. For international callers, aim to reach contacts between 9 AM and 5 PM Czech time, standard business hours Monday through Friday.
From the US East Coast, this translates to 3 AM-11 AM; West Coast callers should dial between midnight and 8 AM. Consider calling during your early morning hours for optimal business contact.
Scheduling Tips:
- Always arrange business calls in advance via email
- Avoid August, when many Czechs take extended vacations
- Skip calling around major holidays: Christmas (Dec 24-26), Easter Monday, and Czech Independence Day (Oct 28)
- Fridays after 2 PM often see reduced office presence
Peak vs Off-Peak:
Mornings (9-11 AM Czech time) typically see better responsiveness than post-lunch hours.
Communication Advice:
- Speak clearly and slightly slower than usual
- Have key points written down beforehand
- Confirm understanding with follow-up emails
- Many professionals speak English, but learning basic Czech greetings ("Dobrý den") shows respect
- Use video calls when possible to enhance clarity
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Czech Republic is +420. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Czech Republic from anywhere in the world.
To call Czech Republic from your cell phone, dial + (or 011 from the US), then 420 (country code), followed by the 9-digit local number. For example: +420 XXX XXX XXX.
Czech Republic phone numbers don't typically start with a leading zero in their standard format. Simply dial +420 followed by the 9-digit local number without adding or removing any digits.
The cheapest way to call Czech Republic is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Czech Republic.
In Czech Republic, dial 112 for general emergencies (EU standard). You can also dial 150 for fire brigade, 155 for ambulance, and 158 for police. These numbers are toll-free and available 24/7.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Czech Republic directly from your web browser. Simply log in to ZippCall, enter the Czech number, and start calling—no downloads or special equipment needed.
Start Calling Czech Republic Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Czech Republic with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,766users who have made11,988minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Czech Republic