The Czech Republic is situated in Central Europe, bordering Germany to the west, Austria to the south, Slovakia to the east, and Poland to the northeast. Its capital lies in the centre of the Bohemian Basin, approximately at the same latitude as Frankfurt or Paris. Its location, of course, is a decisive factor when calculating the time standard.

Current Time in Prague

What Time Zone Is Prague In?

Prague operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1 during standard time. Like most European countries, the Czech Republic observes daylight saving time, switching to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2.

• ‍Standard Time: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1‍
• Daylight Saving Time: Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC+2

Daylight Saving Time in Prague

DST (“Letní čas” in Czech) is a system of time measurement and indication adaptation, during which the standard time (based on the given appropriate time zone) is not applicable, because the time is forwarded by 1 hour. The aim of Daylight Saving Time is to save energy otherwise needed for lighting after dark. In the Czech Republic, DST was introduced in 1979.

The time modification is executed during the last weekend in which both days belong to March. In October, the clocks are reset back to Central European time. The DST system is used in most European countries, and according to the EU rules, the switch happens simultaneously at 1 a.m. UTC, on last Sunday of March or October. The resetting of clocks brings a lot of controversy, and many people even actively fight against it, arguing that the DST is unnatural and unhealthy.

Daylight saving time (DST) in Prague begins and ends on the same dates as in most of Europe:

• ‍Starts: Last Sunday in March (March 30, 2025) – clocks move forward one hour at 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM.‍
• Ends: Last Sunday in October (October 26, 2025) – clocks move back one hour at 3:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
  

During DST, Prague is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

Time Difference Examples

Conclusion

Whether you’re arriving for a holiday, business trip, or extended stay, knowing that Prague operates on Central European Time (CET, UTC+1) and switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2) during daylight saving is crucial for planning your itinerary.

By keeping these details in mind, you can confidently schedule your flights, tours, and calls, ensuring you never miss an event or appointment during your time in Prague.

5 Honest Tips for Managing Time in Prague

1. ‍Check Daylight Saving Dates: Be aware of the clock changes in March and October to avoid confusion.‍
2. Use Your Smartphone: Let your phone update automatically to local time for accuracy.‍
3. Double-Check Transport Schedules: Always confirm train, bus, and flight times, especially around daylight saving transitions.‍
4. Plan International Calls Carefully: Remember the time difference when contacting friends or family abroad.‍
5. Visit the Astronomical Clock: Don’t miss the hourly show at Prague’s iconic clock for a memorable local experience.