The Czech Republic brings together impressive natural landscapes, a complex history, and arguably the best beer in the world to create a country that's finally being properly recognized by international travelers as a top European destination. Prague, the capital, is a Gothic fairy tale guaranteed to enamor the wandering explorer. Highlights include Charles Bridge (Karluv Most), Prague Old Town Square (Staromestske Namesti), and the Castle District (Hradcany), best seen on a beer-bike or Segway tour, or from above during a hot-air balloon ride. In the evening, a cruise on Vltava River, a Mozart recital, or a beer tasting in the Bohemia neighborhood reveal a different side to the city. Outside of Prague lie the medieval towns of Kutná Hora—home to the must-see Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with the bones of thousands of people—and Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site just waiting to be explored on a day trip from the capital city. Former capital Brno and the spa town Karlovy Vary, with its famous thermal baths, will appeal to history buffs and relaxation seekers alike. For beer lovers, brewery tours in Pilsen are a top draw; while for outdoor adventurers, the Saxon Switzerland National Park is rife with hiking, climbing, and cycling opportunities. Plus, the Czech Republic's prime location in central Europe—embraced by countries such as Slovakia, Poland, Germany, and Austria—make it an ideal launchpad for exploring the rest of the continent.
As a landlocked Central European country, the Czech Republic experiences warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer is a pleasant time to visit to explore the outdoors, but it’s especially busy in popular tourist spots like Prague, which hosts visitors from all over Europe and beyond. Winter is a quieter time for tourism and many attractions will be closed, especially outside Prague, but the snowy landscape is attractive.
The Czech Republic is a relatively small country, and getting around by train and bus is quite easy, if you’re not driving. Trains and buses link the major towns and cities and also cross into neighboring countries. The capital city of Prague is convenient to get around in; its extensive network of trams and buses and its small metro make it a breeze for non-Czech speakers to navigate.
Many travelers limit their exploration of the Czech Republic to Prague, but there’s much more to see and do in the country. The Bohemian Switzerland National Park is a must for outdoor enthusiasts, beer-drinkers will enjoy Pilsen, and lovers of grand old architecture shouldn’t miss Cesky Krumlov, Kutna Hora, or Karlovy Vary. As the Czech Republic is quite small, it’s easy to see a lot in a relatively short time.
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The Czech Republic is known for its fairytale medieval castles and cities; soaring mountains, vast forests, and glittering lakes; and free-flowing beer and hearty cuisine. Its rich culture and deep history are also notable.
...MoreWith around eight million annual visitors, Prague is the most visited place in the Czech Republic. The capital city is easily accessible from other European cities by both air and rail and is home to top attractions, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town.
...MoreOne week is enough time to get a good taste of the Czech Republic. Plan to spend two or three days in Prague, plus a day or two each in Cesky Krumlov, Kutna Hora, and Brno or Pilsen. If you have a few more days to spare, add on a national park.
...MoreYes, most Czech people that you will encounter in cities and other touristy areas speak English very well. If you are heading to smaller, less-visited places, however, you may find English is not as widely spoken. Wherever you are headed, it’s always worth making the effort to learn a few Czech words and phrases.
...MoreYes, compared to many major European countries, the Czech Republic is a cheap place to visit. While costs have risen over the years, in line with the country’s popularity, you can still get by on a relatively low budget. Help keep costs down by choosing restaurants and shops outside of the main tourist centers.
...MoreYes, the Czech Republic is an extraordinarily beautiful country. From the well-preserved medieval streets of Prague and romantic towns of Bohemia to the forested mountains of Sumava National Park, the Czech Republic is rich in both natural and man-made beauty.
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