Price Czech: The cost of a date night in Prague

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and for many, it’s a chance to celebrate love with a special someone. According to Mastercard Love Index studies, the occasion has gained popularity faster in the Czech Republic than globally in the past 10 to 15 years.

As romantic as the occasion is, it also comes with a price tag. Around 40 percent of Czechs celebrate the holiday, with men spending just over CZK 1,000 on gifts, and women around CZK 900.

So, how much should you budget for a memorable Valentine's Day in Czechia? From dining out to flowers and chocolates, here’s an overview of how much this love-filled day will cost, and how it compares to other countries.

In Czechia, dining out for Valentine’s Day remains a more affordable option than in many Western European countries. In Prague, for example, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around CZK 1,100. Prices outside the capital may be a little lower, but the difference isn’t overly significant.

Drinks are another essential part of any evening out. Expect to pay about CZK 150 to CZK 190 for a cocktail at a mid-range bar in Prague, and a glass of white wine will typically cost CZK 120 to CZK 160. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly drink, beer is the way to go, with prices ranging from CZK 60 to CZK 70 in the capital.

If you’re aiming for something more luxurious, however, a fine dining experience in Prague can quickly push the cost of your dinner for two to over CZK 2,000, depending on the restaurant. Many upscale venues also offer special Valentine’s Day menus, which can add to the cost, but enhance the experience.

If you’re planning to see a movie for your Valentine’s Day date, don’t expect it to be cheap. Cinema tickets in Prague’s major chains, like Cinema City, cost around CZK 285, while tickets at CineStar are a bit more affordable at CZK 235. Refreshments can also add up, with a “duet menu” (popcorn and two drinks) costing over CZK 300.

No Valentine’s celebration is complete without gifts, and flowers and chocolates are the go-to options. But as Feb. 14 approaches, prices tend to rise—especially for roses. A single rose can cost around CZK 150, and a bouquet of roses typically starts at CZK 1,015. If you’re open to other flowers, a bouquet of alstroemerias and freesias will cost around CZK 800.

Chocolates are also experiencing price hikes this year, largely due to the rising cost of cocoa. For example, a 200g pack of Lindt Lindor chocolates will set you back CZK 209, while Ferrero Rocher chocolates are priced at CZK 220 for a 200g box.

Thankfully, Czechia offers a variety of options for romantic spa experiences at affordable prices. For example, Sauna Central in Prague offers 90 minutes of basic entry for just under CZK 400, while a more luxurious experience at Carlo IV Wellness & Spa costs CZK 500 per person for a two-hour visit (when booked with a treatment).

If you’re looking for something a little different, a beer spa can be a fun and unique way to celebrate. A one-hour session for two people, which includes beer, costs CZK 3,300.

If you're not keen on braving the crowds at restaurants and cinemas, staying in for Valentine’s Day can be a great way to save money. You could order a pizza (around CZK 250), stream a movie from KVIFF or Edison for about CZK 50, and pick up a decent bottle of wine from Lidl for as little as CZK 120. 

Even with a few candles and flowers, you could still enjoy a relaxed, intimate evening for as little as CZK 500—far less than dining out at a restaurant or going to the cinema.

Compared to nearby countries, Czechia fares relatively well in overall prices for Valentine’s Day. Couples in Berlin will need to pay CZK 1,694 for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, according to Numbeo. The Polish capital of Warsaw is also pricier than Prague, at CZK 1,211.

Prague is also cheaper than Vienna for a cinema visit. A ticket to a new-release movie in the Austrian capital costs over CZK 300. Budapest in Hungary, however, is cheaper, costing around CZK 180 at cinema chains on average.