Local cellular communication in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has the most expensive mobile phone in Europe.
Czech operators

In total, there are 4 operators in the country:

O2
Vodafone
T Mobile
Ufon
All but the last one are major international organizations. The cost of their services is about the same. The only difference is the cost of calls to subscribers of these companies. So for a Russian tourist there is no fundamental difference.

Ufon is the first Czech provider. Buying a SIM card is quite problematic, since you also need to purchase a special device and so on. In general, this option is not suitable for foreign citizens.

In the Czech Republic, the cost of cellular communication does not depend on a specific region.

Types of SIM cards

There are 2 types of SIM cards: “prepaid” and cards with a subscription fee.

The second option involves issuing a starter package for you personally. To do this, you must present identification documents and sign an agreement.

I strongly recommend not to use this type of SIM cards. Yes, you get the opportunity to spend money from a negative account, as well as some additional features. But you simply do not need them if you come for a short time.

Moreover, without proper knowledge of the language (or simply by mistake), you can spend a large amount, which you then have to pay back.

Simple cards do not oblige you to anything. You can buy them in any supermarket. Distribution centers are always present in large shopping centers. They are also available at airports. I recommend that you go there so that the staff can help you.

Which SIM card to buy in the Czech Republic?

From my own experience, I can say that it is best to buy a Vodafone SIM card. It will not cost more than 400 rubles. When buying, tell the operator that you want the “Card for a Desk” tariff. This is the most advantageous for communication with Russia.

Card activation

To activate a SIM card, it must be replenished with a certain amount of money. Usually, it is about 50 crowns (150-200 rubles).

Refill

You can deposit money into your account almost anywhere. Cardboard vouchers are sold in stores. After purchasing them, you must erase the protective coating and enter the opened code.

A more convenient way is the so-called “i-boxes” – these are multifunctional terminals. You need to select your operator (do this you can also without knowing the language), enter your phone number and deposit the amount.

The numbers of all Czech SIM cards start with 6 or 7. It is better not to call the rest, as they may be paid.

And remember that the Czech Republic is a Slavic country, and the language has significant similarities with other Slavic languages. Therefore, even without knowledge of Czech, you can contact the local population in Russian. I had several cases when, with the help of broken English, Russian and non-verbal ways of communication, I was able to solve rather complex problems.

Lack of local maps

The only and most significant disadvantage of local cards is that if you cross the border of the country, roaming is turned on. That is, if you find yourself outside the country with a Czech SIM card, the cost of communication will increase significantly.

To move around Europe, you need a single SIM card.