Planning to visit Czech Republic? You want to spend some time in this beautiful country and go beyond Prague? There are many beautiful places to visit in Czech Republic! Historical towns, natural spaces, impressive architecture, medieval bridges and of course castles… You cannot be bored when traveling in Czech Republic! I’m gonna list the places to visit and things to do in Czech Republic, then I’ll share Czech Republic travel tips.
Table of Contents
Things to do in Czech Republic
Prague
I couldn’t start this list without mentioning Prague. People who go to Czech Republic usually just stay in Prague, and it’s understandable. There are numerous cathedrals there, castles, a medieval architecture but also an active nightlife and cool activities like enjoying a beer spa. Let’s not forget all the famous places: the Charles bridge, the astronomical clock, the Church of our Lady before Tyn… I wrote a detailed article if you’re going to visit Prague.
Cesky Krumlov
If there’s one town you have to see besides Prague, it’s Cesky Krumlov. Located in South Bohemia, it’s a medieval town created in the late 13th century. It remained unspoilt by conflict and war. Therefore it’s a charming town with its cobbled streets, the Vlatva river and of course its castle. Get on top to enjoy a wonderful view of Cesky Krumlov!
Karlovy Vary
The famous hot spring town in Czech Republic! There are numerous spas and wellness centers in here. Indeed, for centuries people thought Karlovy Vary hot springs had restorative properties. This is where kings and tsars used to relax. You can also get there to admire the colorful buildings and the architecture, which is a mix between baroque and renaissance. FYI, from the end of June to mid-July, there’s the Karlovy Vary international film festival. Don’t miss it if you’re a culture lover!
Kutna Hora
You have to go there if you love history. Kutna Hora is called “the city of silver” because of all the silver mining in the past in the area. During the 12th century, Kutna Hora was under German control, and numerous Gothic buildings built at the time are still here today. But you have to visit Kutna Hora to see the Sedlec ossuary a chapel decorated with the bones of more than 40,000 people. Also, don’t miss St. Barbara’s Church, a wonderful Gothic church.
Olomouc
Olomouc is located in Moravia. The city is known for its six Baroque fountains scattered across the city and the Holy Trinity column, erected in 1740 after a plague epidemic. There’s also the wonderful Saint Wenceslas cathedral and an astronomical clock like in Prague! There’s a nice constrast between the old buildings and the student atmosphere of Olomouc. A must see!
Brno
Brno is the second largest city in Czech Republic, however few people visit this city. But there are interesting things to see and do. The city center is dominated by the cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. The old town and its cobbled streets are also charming. Finally you’ll find numerous wine cellars, restaurants, breweries and bars. Since it’s a city with numerous students, Brno is always lively. The atmosphere is really good during the holiday season with the Christmas markets.
Telc
Telc is a small town that has about 5,500 inhabitants only, but you have to see it especially if you like the Renaissance architecture. You can go visit the castle of the town, have a walk in the city center or admire Holy Ghost church. Telc is a colorful and nice town. You can visit the whole town by foot.
Pilsen
Pilsen is located west of the Czech Republic, and is mostly known for its beer, the Pilsner. But there’s more than beer in Pilsen. Take some time to visit the St Bartholemew’s Cathedral, the town halla and the Great synagogue, the second largest in Europe. You can also visit the underground tunnels of Pilsen. Finally go to the Pilsner Urquell brewery, located in a medieval brewing house.
Liberec
Liberec is located in the north of the country and has an interesting mix of Slavic, Germanic and Austrian cultures. That was the largest manufacturing city in the 18th century. Admire the city hall, then go visit the museums like the science museum or IQPARK. Finally, don’t miss the Jested tower. It was originally just a TV transmitter but now there’s also a restaurant and a hotel there.
The Karlstejn castle
If we don’t count the Prague castle, the Karlstejn castle is probably the most popular castle in the country. Located 30km (20 miles) away from Prague, this castle was built in 1348 and the residency of empereor Charles IV. In the castle, the king used to store jewels, crowns, treasures, etc. We can now visit this castle and see the Treasury, admire the view from the top of the castle or even explore its prison.
Bohemian Switzerland National Park
We call it Bohemian Switzerland but we’re talking about Czech Republic! Named due to its resemblance to Swiss landscapes, you cannot miss this park if you love to hike. The park is mostly famous for its sandstone rocks, its waterfalls but above all because there’s the biggest sandstone rock arch in Europe there. Head to Pravcicka Brana in the park to see it!
Krkonose National Park
Mostly popular in the winter, you can still go to Krkonose National Park all year round. This is where you’ll find the Snezka (the snow mountain), which is the highest mountain of the country (1602 meters/5260ft.). This park is popular among nature lovers. There are many fauna species and beautiful landscapes (alpine meadows, tundra…). It’s a popular park for winter sport (ski, snowboard…).
Ostrava
Ostrava is the third largest city in Czech Republic. For a long time Ostrava was making money thanks to coal mining, and we quickly understand it when visiting the city. Don’t miss Dolni Vitkovice, a huge industrial complex. But also the city hall and the mining museum. I wrote a detailed article if you want to visit Ostrava.
Ceske Budejovice
Ceske Budejovice is the largest city in South Bohemia. Few people go there, however it’s a beautiful city. You cannot miss its main square which features Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings. Head to the top of the black tower to admire the city. Of course you have to visit a brewery. Ceske Budejovice produces a beer famous all over the world, the Budweiser Budvar.
These were the places to visit in Czech Republic! Now here are a few Czech Republic travel tips!
Budget
- Accommodation is not that expensive in Czech Republic. Hostels range from 200 to 300CZK per night ($9 to $13) for a dorm room. In a budget you’ll pay about 1000CZK per night ($45). For a mid-range or luxury hotel, you’ll pay at least 2500CZK per night ($115). Click here to book your accommodation.
- Again, food is not very expensive. A Czech dish costs about 200CZK ($9). Same for an Asian dish like Thai or Indian food. For a 3-course meal in a nice restaurant, you’ll pay about 800CZK ($36). A beer costs about 50CZK ($2).
- Regarding transportation, a bus/subway/tram ticket costs about 25CZK ($1). An intercity bus tide costs between 200 and 300CZK ($9 to $13). The same train tides are a bit more expensive because trains are faster. To rent a car, prices start at 450CZK ($20) per day.
- Regarding activities, the prices vary a lot. There are free museums, for others you have to pay… Let’s say activities cost between 200 and 400CZK ($9 to $18).
Basically, if you’re traveling on a budget, you can get by with 30 euros per day. Otherwise you’ll spend about 80+ euros per day.
How to get around in Czech Republic
In big cities, there’s public transportation: bus, subway, tram. There are domestic flights, for instance from Prague to Brno. Otherwise you can take an intercity bus, it’s not expensive. I use Flixbus. Let’s not forget the train. You can also rent a car. Finally you can try hitchhiking but it’s prohibited on major highways.
Best time to visit Czech Republic
Summers are warm (25°C/77°F) but winters are rather cold (0°C/32°F). Unless you want to go there to ski, I’d say the best time to visit Czech Republic is between May and September. However it’s the most popular season and prices will be higher. In spring and autumn, it’s about 15°C/59°F.
Visa policy of Czech Republic
If you’re an European citizen or coming from a Western country, you don’t need a visa to get to Czech Republic. You can find all the details here.
Safety in Czech Republic
Czech Republic is not a dangerous country. Crimes and thefts are not common. Still, watch out for scams targeting tourists. In some areas there are pickpockets especially in Prague, close to the tourist attractions. You have to keep an eye open. I wrote a detailed article about common travel scams.
Also watch out for fake taxi drivers, or those who don’t turn on the taxi meter. Generally speaking, always trust your instinct. And don’t forget to get travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. Click here to get one.
Packing list for Czech Republic
I’m not gonna list all the things to pack for Czech Republic. I don’t know how long you’re gonna stay there, where you’re going in Czech Republic, what you’re going to do and when you’ll visit. You just need to know that any time of the year, even in summer, you can have windy days and the temperatures drop. Take all the necessary clothes, toiletries, and also:
- Band-Aids
- earplugs
- hand sanitizer
- combination locks
- a money belt
- a security cable lock
- a travel plug adapter
- a stainless steel water bottle
- a lifestraw (a water bottle with a purifier)
- a menstrual cup (for the ladies)
Here’s a full list of travel accessories, which can be useful!
What to eat in Czech Republic
The Czech food is influenced by the neighboring countries like Germany, Hungary and Poland. You’re gonna eat a lot of stew, potatoes and meat. Try the goulash. It’s a stew with beef, chicken or pork and bread dumplings. There’s also the vepro-knedlo-zelo which is heavy on the meat and potato. It’s a dish made up of roast pork, bread dumplings and stewed cabbage. Generally speaking, Czech dishes are quite heavy.
That’s it! You have all the information need to travel to Czech Republic! Everything will go smoothly thanks to this guide!
- Traveling soon? My travel resources page can help you out!
- Want a tailor-made trip to Czech Republic? Get a free quote here!
- Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it. Here’s why use a VPN when traveling.
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