Key Takeaways
- The Czech Republic is a crypto-friendly hub with businesses accepting Bitcoin and other digital currencies.
- Sectors such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, and e-commerce support crypto payments.
- Crypto prepaid cards, wallets, and Bitcoin ATMs make spending digital assets easier.
- Stablecoins like USDT help mitigate price volatility when making transactions.
- Security concerns, lack of consumer protection, and volatility remain challenges for crypto adoption.
An Overview of Crypto Spending in Czech
Cryptocurrency usage in the Czech Republic has expanded beyond speculation into practical transactions. What started as a hobby for tech fans is now a normal way to pay for things. Thanks to tech-friendly laws and a population open to new ideas, crypto is accepted in shops, pharmacies, cafes, and more.
The widespread adoption of user-friendly payment systems like QR code-based solutions and crypto debit cards has also pushed this trend. Prague, especially, is a hotspot for crypto users, with places like Paralelní Polis offering coffee and art in exchange for Bitcoin. The city has pioneered real-world crypto use—locals can buy groceries, watch movies, and even pay rent with digital currencies.
“Prague had the highest population of any city in Czechia and also had the highest number of companies with a cryptocurrency ATM or in-store payment method in 2021.”
As cryptocurrencies continue to penetrate everyday life, the Czech Republic stands at the forefront of this financial revolution. This showcases how digital currencies can coexist with traditional payment methods and reshapes the way people spend, save, and transact.
Best Places to Spend Crypto in Czech Republic
| S/N | Best places to spend crypto in Czech | Category |
| 1. | Pilulka | Health |
| 2. | Paralelní Polis | Food and Drinks |
| 3. | Alza | Shopping |
| 4. | Yalla Bar | Drinks |
| 5. | Srdcovka Ústí | Food and Drinks |
| 6. | Driveczech | Service |
Pilulka
Pilulka is a leading online pharmacy in the Czech Republic, offering a wide range of health products, including medications, cosmetics, and nutritional supplements. The company operates over 130 physical pharmacies nationwide and provides express delivery services, ensuring quick access to health essentials. Customers can also utilize the Pilulka mobile app for convenient shopping and exclusive discounts.
Pilulka supports cryptocurrency payments, allowing customers to pay with Bitcoin or Litecoin.
Paralelní Polis
Paralelní Polis, located in Prague’s Holešovice district, is a unique space that combines art, social sciences, and modern technology.
Within Paralelní Polis is Bitcoin Coffee, a café that exclusively accepted cryptocurrencies upon its inception.
Currently, Bitcoin Coffee operates as a self-service bar primarily for members and guests of the Second Culture Club. Payments can be made by card or via the BTCPay server.
Paralelní Polis also houses the Institute of Cryptoanarchy, the Paper Hub co-working space, and a 3D workshop, making it a hub for innovation and independent culture in Prague.
Alza
Alza is a leading e-commerce retailer in the Czech Republic, specializing in electronics, computers, and toys. Established in 1994, it has grown to become the largest online store in the country.
The company operates over 40 physical stores and more than 1,000 AlzaBoxes—self-service pickup points—across the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other European countries.
Alza began accepting Bitcoin as a payment method in 2017. You can pay with Bitcoin, Lightning network (a faster and cheaper form of Bitcoin payments), and even other altcoins.
Yalla Bar
Yalla Bar is a cocktail bar located in Kyjov, Czech Republic. The bar offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails crafted with homemade syrups.
The menu changes seasonally to incorporate fresh ingredients. In addition to cocktails, Yalla Bar also serves coffee, nachos, and Israeli hummus.
In addition to traditional payments, cash, and cards, you can also pay for a drink via the Bitcoin Lightning network.
Srdcovka Ústí
Srdcovka Ústí is a restaurant in Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic, known for its well-maintained draft beer and diverse international cuisine.
The menu features dishes prepared on a charcoal grill, authentic pizzas, and traditional Czech meals. The establishment has received the “Hvězda sládků” award for exemplary care and quality of draft beer in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
The restaurant accepts Bitcoin payments for its meals and drinks.
Driveczech
Driveczech is a chauffeur service based in Prague, Czech Republic, offering English-speaking local drivers for various transportation needs. Their services include airport transfers, one-way transfers, business travel, elite security services, and customized trips. They provide a range of vehicle options to suit different preferences and group sizes.
The service accepts Bitcoin for payment in addition to card and cash payments.
Popular Tools Used for Spending Crypto in Czech
Source: Freepik
Crypto Prepaid Cards
Crypto prepaid cards like UPay enable you to convert cryptocurrencies into a spendable form, similar to traditional debit cards. You load Bitcoin or Litecoin onto the card and use it for payments at retailers in the Czech Republic that accept standard credit card networks like Visa or MasterCard. These cards are useful for spending crypto in places that don’t directly accept digital currencies. They also provide an easy way to manage crypto for daily use in Czech cities without needing a separate wallet for transactions.
Crypto Wallets
Crypto wallets are digital tools that hold cryptocurrencies and allow users in the Czech Republic to store and manage their digital assets. Some wallets are “hot wallets” (connected to the internet), while others are “cold wallets” (offline storage), which are more secure but less convenient for daily transactions. In the Czech Republic, businesses accepting crypto payments often provide a payment address (QR code or text) to facilitate transactions directly from a crypto wallet.
Bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs allow users to buy or sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies using cash or credit cards. As of December 2024, the Czech Republic had nearly 91 cryptocurrency ATMs, with over half located in Prague.
“The country was estimated to have nearly 96 cryptocurrency withdrawal machines that allow users to connect to a Bitcoin wallet or exchange.”
These ATMs make it easier for crypto users in the Czech Republic to access funds quickly without using an exchange account.
Tips for Spending Crypto in Czech
Source: Freepik
Use Crypto Directories
Directories like BTCmap help users in the Czech Republic locate businesses that accept cryptocurrencies. These tools allow crypto holders to find cafes, restaurants, and even hotels that welcome digital payments. However, since crypto acceptance policies vary across businesses in the Czech Republic, it is best to confirm with the merchant before making a transaction.
Use Stablecoins for Volatility
The volatility of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum can be a challenge when spending crypto in the Czech Republic. A sudden price drop could affect purchasing power. Stablecoins like USDT (Tether) or USDC, which are pegged to the US dollar, offer a more predictable value for transactions. Using stablecoins in the Czech Republic ensures smoother transactions without the risk of value fluctuations.
Confirm Merchant Policy
Not all businesses in the Czech Republic accept crypto in the same way. Some may only accept Bitcoin, while others might support multiple cryptocurrencies like Litecoin or Ethereum. For example, a café in Prague might use a QR code to accept Bitcoin, while an online retailer might accept both Bitcoin and stablecoins. Always check the payment policy of the merchant before proceeding with a crypto transaction in the Czech Republic.
Challenges of Spending Crypto in Czech
Source: Freepik
Volatility
Crypto volatility makes spending unpredictable in the Czech Republic. The value of a purchase could change within seconds as cryptocurrency prices fluctuate. This risk makes it less practical for daily purchases, especially for larger expenses such as electronics, travel, or luxury goods.
Lack of Consumer Protection
Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, which is a concern for users in the Czech Republic. If you mistakenly send funds to the wrong address, there is no option to request a refund or chargeback, unlike traditional banking systems. This lack of consumer protection makes some Czech consumers hesitant to use crypto for everyday transactions.
Security Concerns
Crypto users in the Czech Republic are aware of the risks associated with online transactions. The security of crypto wallets remains a significant concern as hacking incidents increase.
According to data from Chainalysis Inc.,
“The value of funds stolen from crypto platforms in 2024 was up 21% to an estimated US$2.2 billion. The number of individual hacking incidents also rose by 7.4%.”
If you store your crypto in an online wallet (hot wallet), it is more vulnerable to attacks than offline storage options (cold wallet). As a result, Czech users need to be cautious and use secure platforms and storage methods to protect their digital assets.
Conclusion
Cryptocurrency is becoming a more common payment method in the Czech Republic, with businesses across multiple sectors accepting Bitcoin and other digital assets. From pharmacies and restaurants to online retailers and service providers, options for crypto spending continue to expand.
User-friendly payment solutions like crypto prepaid cards, wallets, and Bitcoin ATMs make transactions smoother. Also, stablecoins provide a way to manage price volatility, making crypto a more practical choice for daily purchases.
Despite these advantages, challenges remain. Crypto’s price swings can impact purchasing power, security risks pose threats to users’ funds, and the lack of consumer protection means transactions are final with no recourse for refunds.
To spend crypto in the Czech Republic effectively, it’s important to use directories to find businesses that accept digital payments. You should also confirm merchant policies before making transactions, and prioritize security by using trusted wallets and storage methods.
FAQ
Can I use cryptocurrency to pay for goods and services in the Czech Republic?
Yes, many businesses in the Czech Republic accept cryptocurrency, including pharmacies, restaurants, bars, online retailers, and service providers.
What cryptocurrencies are commonly accepted in the Czech Republic?
Bitcoin is the most widely accepted cryptocurrency, but some businesses also accept Litecoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins like USDT.
How can I find businesses that accept crypto payments?
You can use crypto directories like BTCmap to locate merchants that accept cryptocurrency payments in the Czech Republic.
Are there crypto ATMs in the Czech Republic?
Yes, there are Bitcoin ATMs in major cities like Prague. These ATMs allow users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies using cash or credit cards.
What tools can I use to spend crypto in the Czech Republic?
You can use crypto prepaid cards (like UPay), crypto wallets, and Bitcoin ATMs to make transactions.
