Top Places to Visit in the Czech Republic: From Prague to Český Krumlov

Tucked in the heart of Central Europe, the Czech Republic is a land of medieval towns, baroque palaces, dense forests, and some of the best beer in the world. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Prague, relaxing in a 19th-century spa town, or hiking through Bohemian Switzerland, this country delivers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
 

With a compact size and excellent transport connections, the Czech Republic is an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic European charm—minus the massive crowds.

This in-depth guide covers everything from top attractions and cultural experiences to hidden gems and practical travel tips.

🏰 Prague: The City of a Hundred Spires

The Czech capital, Prague, is often hailed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s a city where Gothic churches, art nouveau facades, and cobbled lanes blend harmoniously with a vibrant café and nightlife scene.

Must-See Sights in Prague:

Prague Castle: The world’s largest ancient castle complex.

Charles Bridge: Iconic 14th-century bridge lined with statues.

Old Town Square: Home to the Astronomical Clock and colorful baroque buildings.

Jewish Quarter (Josefov): Rich in Jewish history and architecture.

Petřín Hill: Offers great views and a mini Eiffel Tower replica.

Cultural Experiences:

Attend a classical concert in a historic church.

Cruise the Vltava River at sunset.

Try Czech beer in a traditional pub or beer garden.

🏙️ Beyond Prague: Top Cities and Towns to Explore

While Prague is the main attraction, the Czech Republic’s charm truly shines in its smaller cities and historic towns.

1. Český Krumlov

A UNESCO-listed town straight out of a fairytale, known for:

Its winding medieval streets

The second-largest castle in the country

River rafting along the Vltava

Art galleries and artisan shops

2. Kutná Hora

Famous for:

Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) decorated with thousands of human bones

Gothic St. Barbara’s Cathedral

Medieval silver mining history

3. Karlovy Vary

A historic spa town with:

Thermal springs and colonnades

Grand 19th-century architecture

The famous Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

Becherovka liqueur tastings

4. Brno

The second-largest city and capital of Moravia:

Špilberk Castle and underground labyrinths

A lively student atmosphere

UNESCO-listed Villa Tugendhat

Craft beer and wine scenes

5. Olomouc

A hidden gem full of:

Beautiful baroque squares

UNESCO Holy Trinity Column

A relaxed, less-touristy vibe

🌄 Nature and Outdoor Adventures

Though compact, the Czech Republic offers diverse natural landscapes for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers.

Top Outdoor Destinations:

Bohemian Switzerland National Park
Known for sandstone cliffs, arches like Pravčická brána, and forest trails.

Krkonoše Mountains
Home to Sněžka, the country’s highest peak—great for hiking and skiing.

South Bohemia’s Lakes and Forests
Explore the Šumava National Park and scenic lakes near Lipno.

Moravian Karst
Visit dramatic caves like Punkva Caves and the Macocha Abyss.

Podyjí National Park
An off-the-beaten-path park with vineyards, castle ruins, and river views.

🍺 Czech Cuisine and Beer Culture

The Czech Republic is a paradise for foodies and beer lovers alike. Hearty dishes pair perfectly with world-renowned pilsners.

Must-Try Dishes:

Svíčková: Beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with dumplings.

Guláš: Czech-style goulash, often served with bread dumplings.

Vepřo knedlo zelo: Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut.

Trdelník: Sweet pastry often sold in tourist areas.

Fried cheese (Smažený sýr): A Czech comfort food classic.

Beer Experiences:

Visit the Pilsner Urquell Brewery in Plzeň.

Sample beers at Staropramen or Budweiser Budvar breweries.

Explore microbreweries in Prague and Brno.

Join a beer spa, where you bathe in hops and barley-infused tubs!

🛍️ What to Buy in the Czech Republic

Bring a piece of Czech culture home with these local products:

Bohemian crystal and glassware

Garnet jewelry from Czech mines

Marionettes and wooden toys

Beer cosmetics and spa products

Czech porcelain and hand-painted ceramics

🏨 Where to Stay in the Czech Republic

From historic hotels in castles to boutique city stays and countryside pensions, the Czech Republic offers a wide range of accommodations.

Types of Lodging:

Boutique hotels in Prague and Český Krumlov

Spa hotels in Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně

Wine lodges in South Moravia

Rustic pensions in countryside and national parks

Hostels and apartments in cities for budget travelers

🚆 Getting Around

Traveling in the Czech Republic is efficient and affordable.

Train: Czech Railways (ČD) operates a reliable and scenic train network.

Bus: Flixbus and RegioJet offer budget-friendly intercity travel.

Car Rental: Best for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Public Transport: Trams, buses, and metros in Prague and Brno are easy to use.

Tip:

Consider a travel pass or use the PID Lítačka app for Prague’s public transport.

🧭 Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1–3: Prague

Day 4: Kutná Hora (day trip)

Day 5–6: Český Krumlov

Day 7: Return via Pilsen or Karlovy Vary

2. 10-Day Culture & Nature Combo

Days 1–3: Prague

Day 4: Kutná Hora

Day 5–6: South Bohemia (České Budějovice, Krumlov)

Day 7–8: Moravian Karst & Brno

Day 9–10: Wine-tasting in Mikulov or Podyjí National Park

3. Spa & Wellness Itinerary

Karlovy Vary

Mariánské Lázně

Františkovy Lázně

Jáchymov (radon spa treatments)

📅 Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June): Ideal weather, fewer crowds, blooming landscapes.

Summer (July–August): Peak season, good for festivals and hiking.

Autumn (September–October): Beautiful foliage and wine harvests.

Winter (December–February): Christmas markets and skiing in the mountains.

🎉 Cultural Festivals and Events

Prague Spring Festival (May–June): Classical music concerts across the capital.

Karlovy Vary Film Festival (July): Major international film event.

Czech Beer Festival (May): Held in Prague, featuring breweries from all over.

Masopust: Traditional Czech Carnival with parades and costumes.

Vintage Wine Festivals (September): Especially in South Moravia.

🧳 Travel Tips and Essentials

Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK)

Language: Czech (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

Power plugs: Type E, 230V

Safety: One of the safest countries in Europe

Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants

Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces

💎 Hidden Gems of the Czech Republic

Telč: A Renaissance jewel with UNESCO-listed pastel townhouses.

Litomyšl: Birthplace of composer Smetana and home to a castle.

Kroměříž: Beautiful baroque gardens and palace.

Třebíč: A UNESCO-listed Jewish quarter and basilica.

Boží Dar: Quaint ski resort in the Ore Mountains.

🌟 Why Visit the Czech Republic?

The Czech Republic combines centuries of history, stunning architecture, welcoming hospitality, and natural beauty. It’s a destination that allows you to wander through Gothic cathedrals one moment and sip world-class beer in a sunlit square the next.

Whether you're into castles, classical music, thermal spas, or hiking trails, you'll find your own version of magic in this Central European gem. Affordable, accessible, and endlessly charming—this is a country you’ll want to return to again and again.