Czech Republic Travel Guide

A detailed travel guide for those planning to visit Czech Republic, including a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Czech Republic

Czech Republic, located in Central Europe, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It boasts great architectural masterpieces, rich culture and history, stunning landscapes, and amazing outdoor adventures. With its warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, Czech Republic is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in Czech Republic

Whether you’re looking to learn about history, indulge in nature, or experience the vibrant nightlife, Czech Republic has something for everyone. Here is a list of places to visit in Czech Republic:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Charles Bridge and Old Town Square in Prague
  • Prague Castle, home of the Czech president
  • Josefov, Jewish Quarter in Prague
  • Terezín Memorial
  • St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague
  • Brno Circuit, home to the Czech Grand Prix

Natural Attractions of Czech Republic: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Krkonoše National Park
  • Bohemian Paradise
  • Moravian Karst
  • Adršpach-Teplice Rocks
  • Šumava National Park
  • Příbram Mining Region

Hiking/Biking Routes of Czech Republic

For outdoor enthusiasts, Czech Republic offers a plethora of hiking and biking routes that traverse through beautiful landscapes and breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • The Elbe Trail
  • The Greenways
  • The Giant Mountains
  • The Bohemian Forest

Best Things to Do in Czech Republic: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours that you can indulge in during your stay in Czech Republic. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Soak in a hot spring bath in Karlovy Vary
  • Tour the Pilsner Urquell Brewery
  • Attend a traditional Czech spa session
  • Check out the Prague Beer Museum
  • Visit the Lipno Treetop Walkway

Week-Long Itinerary for Czech Republic

Here is a week-long itinerary for Czech Republic:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Prague and explore Old Town Square and Charles Bridge
2 Explore Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Jewish Quarter
3 Take a day trip to Terezín Memorial
4 Hike in the Bohemian Paradise
5 Take a bike tour of Pilsner Urquell Brewery and Spa
6 Visit the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks from Hradec Králové
7 Depart from Prague

Food and Drink Scene of Czech Republic

Czech cuisine is delectable and hearty, with meat being a prominent ingredient. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Goulash
  • Pork schnitzel
  • Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut
  • Trdelník, a Czech pastry
  • Svíčková, braised beef with cream sauce

Local Beverages

  • Pilsner Urquell beer
  • Staropramen beer
  • Becherovka, a digestive bitter
  • Fernet Stock, a herb-based liqueur
  • Slivovice, a fruit brandy

Where to Stay in Czech Republic: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Czech Republic offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some options:

  • Luxury hotels: Augustine Prague, Four Seasons Hotel Prague, Mamaison Hotel Riverside Prague
  • Budget hotels: The Charles Square Center, Hotel Majestic Plaza Prague, Hotel U koule
  • Hostels: Hostel Dakura, Hostel Orange, Hostel Elf
  • Guesthouses: Pension U Lilie, U Tri Pstrosu, Aureus Clavis

What to Buy in Czech Republic: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Czech Republic boasts of an amazing handmade product culture. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Bohemian glass products
  • Marionettes
  • Garnets
  • Wooden toys
  • Beaded jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Czech Republic

Czech culture is rich and steeped in history, with deep traditions and customs. Here are some local customs:

  • Greetings:
    • When entering a room, it is customary to greet everyone present.
    • Handshaking is the most common form of greeting.
  • Timekeeping:
    • Czechs place great importance on punctuality.
  • Tipping:
    • A 10% to 15% tip is customary in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Czech Republic

The best time to visit Czech Republic is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Czech Republic

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your stay in Czech Republic:

Do:

  • Look out for signs that say “Zahrada” or “Garden” for beer gardens.
  • Try to learn a few basic Czech words and phrases.
  • Observe local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t tip the bartender in Czech Republic, as it’s considered impolite.
  • Don’t underestimate the amount of time you need to walk between places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Czech Republic

Czech Republic is a relatively safe country to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in tourist areas.
  • Avoid dark or isolated areas late at night.
  • Do not leave personal belongings unattended in public places.

Health in Czech Republic

Czech Republic has a good healthcare system, and emergency medical facilities are easily accessible. European Union citizens can use Estonia’s public healthcare system with the European Health Insurance Card.

Getting to Czech Republic: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Czech Republic

  • Václav Havel Airport Prague
  • Brno-Tuřany Airport
  • Karlovy Vary Airport

Bus Stations Near Czech Republic

  • Florenc Bus Station, Prague
  • Brno Main Bus Station
  • ÚAN Zličín, Prague

Other Options

  • Train: Czech Republic is well-connected to other European cities through trains.
  • Car: rent a car to explore the country at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Czech Republic

Here are some transportation options to get around in Czech Republic:

  • Public transportation: Municipal transport offers ticket valid throughout the city and connecting the city with nearby towns and villages.
  • Taxi: Taxis can be hailed on the streets or pre-booked.
  • Car rental: car rental services are available at the airport and throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Czech Republic: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit from Czech Republic:

  • Vienna, Austria
  • Berlin, Germany
  • Krakow, Poland
  • Budapest, Hungary

Conclusion

Czech Republic is a must-visit destination for everyone who wants to experience the amazing blend of architecture, nature, food, and culture. With great transportation options and budget-friendly accommodations, Czech Republic is ideal for travelers. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll get the most out of your trip to Czech Republic and create memories of a lifetime.

Karlovy Vary Karlovy Vary Litomyšl monastery gardens Litomyšl monastery gardens Trosky Castle Trosky Castle Znojmo Rotunda Znojmo Rotunda The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul in Brno The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul in Brno Olomouc Square Olomouc Square Fast train from Vienna to Prague operated by the Czech Railways (CD) Fast train from Vienna to Prague operated by the Czech Railways (CD) Public city bus in Prague Public city bus in Prague Speed limits in Czech Republic Speed limits in Czech Republic Inside a Supercity fast train Inside a Supercity fast train Ticket machine at Prague Holesovice railway station Ticket machine at Prague Holesovice railway station Hiking signs Hiking signs Main Square of Telč Main Square of Telč Pilgrimage Church of Saint John of Nepomuk in Zelená Hora Pilgrimage Church of Saint John of Nepomuk in Zelená Hora Loket Castle Loket Castle Valtice Chateau Valtice Chateau Bohemian Switzerland National Park Bohemian Switzerland National Park Czech koruna banknotes Czech koruna banknotes Polévka s játrovými knedlíčky, soup with liver dumplings Polévka s játrovými knedlíčky, soup with liver dumplings Bramborové knedlíky Bramborové knedlíky Kulajda Kulajda Cross section of Buchta with Cross section of Buchta with "tvaroh" filling visible More than half a millennium old, U Fleku is one of the most iconic beer halls of Prague More than half a millennium old, U Fleku is one of the most iconic beer halls of Prague Yellow taxis outside a yellow building in Prague Yellow taxis outside a yellow building in Prague Tick Tick


    Central Bohemia
    East Bohemia
    Highlands
    North Bohemia
    North Moravia and Silesia
    South Bohemia
    South Moravia
    West Bohemia