14 Reasons to Visit Czech Republic Right Now

The Czech Republic seamlessly blends a rich history and bohemian culture with natural beauty and impressive architecture. The reasons to visit the Czech Republic are truly countless.

From the iconic Prague Castle and the medieval charm of Český Krumlov to the magical allure of Christmas markets and the world-renowned Czech beer, a journey to the Czech Republic promises something for everyone to discover.

In this article, we’ll explore these 14 reasons to visit the Czech Republic to start planning your Eastern European journey.

14 Top Reasons to Visit the Czech Republic

1. The Heritage of Prague

Prague, the top attraction in the Czech Republic, gained the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its great architectural legacy.

Things to Do

• Explore the city, admiring Gothic and Baroque styles evident in numerous buildings and monuments.

Famous Landmarks:

• Charles Bridge

• Prague Castle

• Old Town Square

• Prague Astronomical Clock

2. The Charm of Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fairytale town, located in a bend of the Vltava river, with red roofs and a magnificent castle complex.

Key Highlights

• Visit the Český Krumlov Castle, one of the historic sites in the Czech Republic dating back to the 13th century.

• Stroll through its cobblestone streets sandwiched by quaint colorful houses and explore the alleys of the Old Town.

Bars and Cafes

• In the evening, explore its many bars and cafes such as the Zapa Bar, Apotheka Cafe Bar, Gotika Restaurace, and Konvice Restaurace.

3. The Thermal Springs of Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a popular spa town in the Czech Republic, renowned for its healing thermal springs and architecture.

Key Highlights

• Explore the five colonnades beneath which the mineral springs flow, sample the local mineral water, or relax in one of the city’s spas.

• Strolling through this romantic getaway in the Czech Republic also allows you to try the local Becherovka liqueur.

Famous Spas

• Spa Hotel Thermal

• Alžbětiny Lázně

• SPA BEERLAND – The First Beer Spa Carlsbad

• Luxury Spa Hotel Olympic Palace

4. The Mining History and Bones of Kutná Hora

Kutná Hora is a historic silver mining town, an hour’s drive from Prague.

Monuments to Visit

• Explore the Czech Museum of Silver to learn about the town’s medieval mining history.

• Visit the Italian Court that housed the royal mint.

• Visit the town’s Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel adorned with thousands of human bones.

• Explore St. Barbara’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

5. The Pilsner of Pilsen

Pilsen is famed for its brewing heritage!

Places of Historical Significance

• Visit the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, the birthplace of the Pilsner beer, to sample a pint of this pale lager.

• Beyond the beer, you can explore the historic city center with the Great Synagogue and the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew.

• Beneath the streets, you can access the Pilsen Historical Underground, a labyrinth of 13th-century passageways and cellars, one of the hidden gems in the Czech Republic.

6. Natural Wonders of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Sharing a border with Germany’s Saxon Switzerland National Park, Bohemian Switzerland National Park boasts dramatic sandstone formations and towering cliffs of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

Opening Hours

• Winter (November – March):

  • Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

• Summer (April – October):

  • Daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (with extended hours until 7:00 PM on weekends).

Chief Attractions

1. Pravčická Brána (Pravčická Gate):

   • The largest natural sandstone arch in Europe

2. Edmund’s Gorge and Wild Gorge:

   • Scenic gorges featuring boat rides through stunning landscapes.

3. Bastei Bridge:

   • A famous rock formation with a picturesque bridge that connects several lookout points, providing panoramic views of the Elbe River valley.

4. Tisa Rocks Labyrinth:

   • A unique area with intricate rock formations ideal for exploration and photography.

5. Hřensko Village:

   • The gateway to the park, offering access to various trails and boat rides along the Kamenice River.

7. The Wilderness of Šumava National Park

You can explore the vast wilderness of Šumava National Park, a haven for wildlife and nature in the Czech Republic.

Opening Hours

• Visitor Centers:

  • Srní Visitor Center:

    • January – October: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

    • November: Closed

    • December: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM, closed from December 23-27 and January 1

      .

  • Poledník Information Centre:

    • May: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (weekends only)

    • June to August: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM

    • September to October: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (weekends only)

      .

• General Park Access:

  • The park is open year-round for hiking and exploration

Chief Attractions

1. Poledník Lookout Tower:

   • Offers panoramic views of the Bohemian Forest and surrounding landscapes. It has a historical significance as a former military building

2. Černé Jezero (Black Lake):

   • The largest glacial lake in the Czech Republic, ideal for hiking and nature photography.

3. Soumarské Rašeliniště Peat Bog:

   • A unique ecological area with guided tours available for visitors interested in the local flora and fauna

4. Březník Information Centre:

   • Provides educational exhibits about the park’s natural environment and offers trails leading to scenic viewpoints

5. Hiking Trails:

   • Numerous marked trails for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing, including routes around Modrava and Kvilda, which are popular starting points for outdoor activities

8. Sandstone Cliffs and Castles of Bohemian Paradise

To witness the scenic beauty of the Czech Republic, head to Bohemian Paradise or Český ráj. Millions of years of erosion have sculpted the region’s dramatic landscape.

Visitor Centers and Opening Hours

1. Visitor Center in Turnov

   • Location: Turnov, near the main attractions of Bohemian Paradise.

   • Opening Hours:

     • April to October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

     • November to March: Closed or limited hours.

2. Hrubá Skála Castle Visitor Center

   • Location: Hrubá Skála, within the castle grounds.

   • Opening Hours:

     • April to October: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

     • November to March: Limited hours; check locally.

3. Prachov Rocks Visitor Center

   • Location: Near the entrance to Prachovské skály.

   • Opening Hours:

     • April to October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

     • November to March: Closed or limited hours.

4. Valdštejn Castle Visitor Center

   • Location: Near the Valdštejn Castle ruins.

   • Opening Hours:

     • April to October: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

     • November to March: Limited hours; check locally.

5. Sobotka Visitor Center

   • Location: Sobotka, a town close to several hiking trails.

   • Opening Hours:

     • April to October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

     • November to March: Closed or limited hours.

9. Caves and Wines of Moravia

Venture beyond the bustling cities and discover the charm of Moravia.

Key Highlights

• The Moravian Karst, a labyrinthine cave system with limestone formations and underground lakes, offers the perfect opportunity for spelunking, one of the best adventure activities in the Czech Republic.

• For a more relaxed pace, explore the vineyards of the Moravian wine trails and sample local wines at wine cellars.

10. Rich History and Culture of the Czech Republic

Delve into the history and cultural highlights of the Czech Republic, a land shaped by centuries of events.

Key Highlights

• Visit landmarks like Prague Castle and Museum of Communism to explore Czech history, spanning from the medieval era to Czechoslovakia’s communist regime.

• Attend a traditional Czech folk music performance.

• Experience the atmosphere of a local market, where you can sample regional specialties and find unique crafts.

11. Architecture Marvels of the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic boasts an impressive architectural landscape.

Architectural Styles: Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Modernist

Key Monuments

1. Prague Castle

   • Style: A blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque.

   • Description: This historic castle complex, dating back to the 9th century, is the largest ancient castle in the world and serves as the official office of the President of the Czech Republic. It features various architectural styles due to its long history and numerous renovations.

2. St. Vitus Cathedral

   • Style: Gothic.

   • Description: Located within Prague Castle, this cathedral took over 600 years to complete and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and impressive spires. It serves as a prominent symbol of Prague’s skyline.

3. Dancing House (Tančící dům)

   • Style: Deconstructivism / Modern.

   • Description: Designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić, this building resembles a pair of dancers and stands out for its unique, curvy shape. Completed in 1996, it symbolizes modern architecture in Prague.

4. Villa Müller

   • Style: Modernist (Raumplan).

   • Description: Designed by architect Adolf Loos in 1930, this villa features a plain exterior but an intricately designed interior that exemplifies Loos’s concept of Raumplan, emphasizing interconnected spaces.

12. Hearty Czech Cuisine

Taking a bite of the local food and cuisine in the Czech Republic is a flavorful experience.

Key Recommendations

• Indulge in traditional dishes like Svíčková, a tender beef sirloin in a creamy sauce, often served with dumplings.

• Savor the rich flavors of Guláš (Czech goulash), a hearty stew of beef and onions.

• For a sweet treat, don’t miss the Trdelník, a spit cake sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, often encountered in the streets of Prague.

13. World-class Czech Beer

The Czech Republic boasts a world-class beer culture. There are several legacy breweries crafting some of the world’s finest beer.

1. Pilsner (Světlý ležák)

• Originating from the city of Pilsen, this pale lager is characterized by its golden color, high foaminess, and crisp, refreshing taste. It typically has an alcohol content of around 4.4% to 5.2% ABV. Pilsner Urquell is the most famous representative of this style.

2. Czech Premium Pale Lager

• A richer version of the standard pale lager, this beer features a bready malt profile and a balanced bitterness, with an ABV ranging from 4.1% to 5.2%. It is fuller-bodied compared to typical German Pilsners.

3. Czech Amber Lager (Polotmavé pivo)

• This style has a slightly darker hue and is brewed with caramel malts, giving it a sweeter taste profile. The alcohol content usually falls between 4.0% and 5.0% ABV.

4. Dark Lager (Tmavý ležák)

• Comprising about 5% of Czech beer production, dark lagers are made with caramel or dark malts, resulting in a sweeter flavor with chocolate and coffee notes. They typically have an ABV around 4.0% to 5.0%.

Recommended Bars:U Zlatého Tygra, Hemingway Bar, Black Angel’s Bar, L’Fleur, Dva Kohouti

14. Czech Christmas Markets and Other Festivals

Festivals and events in the Czech Republic create a vibrant atmosphere in the country throughout the year.

Key Highlights

• Soak in the festive cheer of Prague’s Christmas markets filled with stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional treats, and mulled wine.

• The Masopust Czech Carnival, marking the end of winter, features colorful masks, costumes, and street dancing.

• The Czech Beer Festival in May offers a chance to sample local brews and experience the country’s beer culture.

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FAQs

Why is the Czech Republic a must-visit destination?

The Czech Republic offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore charming cities, admire stunning architecture, and indulge in hearty Czech cuisine.

What is the best time to visit the Czech Republic?

The best time to visit the Czech Republic depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities, but also larger crowds. Autumn (September-October) is the time to see vibrant foliage, while winter ushers the Christmas Markets.

What are some important travel tips for the Czech Republic?

Buying a Prague Visitor Pass will grant you access to many attractions and enable you to use public transport free of charge. Learning a few basic Czech phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.

What is the most beautiful thing about the Czech Republic?

Prague’s enchanting Old Town, Bohemian Switzerland National Park’s dramatic landscapes, and Český Krumlov’s fairytale charm are just a few contenders.

What are some luxury experiences in the Czech Republic?

Hot air balloon rides, top-class spas and saunas, and luxurious chateau stays are some of the luxury experiences you can try in the Czech Republic.

What is the Czech Republic best known for?

The country is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class beer, and affordable transportation options, although these are just a few of the many reasons to visit the Czech Republic.

What can I shop for in the Czech Republic?

Shopping and souvenirs in the Czech Republic offer a delightful experience. Bohemian crystal, garnet jewelry, wooden puppets, and Matryoshka dolls fill up the local markets. Don’t forget to pick up Pilsner beer and herbal liqueurs like Becherovka and Absinthe.