Does anyone know whether Hungarian and Czech crowns can be used in Hungary and the Czech Republic respectively, or whether we need to exchange them for local currency? Many thanks ?

unless it's a street stall or paying by cash for a taxi ride, everywhere else takes credit cards. we came across a taxi driver who refused to take credit cards.

Czech Republic generally accepts the Euro, and most shops directly accept Euros, which is still more cost-effective than exchanging. However, it is still better to exchange some crowns, as there are a few places that only accept crowns.

Hungary must be changed to Forint, otherwise the locals will rip you off and refuse to give change. Also, don't exchange money at the exchange points in Hungarian train stations, they are all very shady, and the ATMs nearby are not from banks. You can use a credit card to buy transportation tickets, and then ask at the hotel where you can exchange money at a proper bank with fair exchange rates. I found an ATM in a bank with a green sign that could exchange RMB, and because my debit card doesn't charge fees for overseas withdrawals, I got a better exchange rate for Forint than the rate I found at domestic banks. The service at the bank counter was very slow, so it's better to find an ATM. Also, some local popular restaurants in Hungary don't accept credit cards, so make sure to ask in advance.