Blessed with fairytale cities, charming medieval towns, ancient castles and picturesque countryside; it’s easy to see why the Czech Republic has become a popular destination with tourists since it was formed in 1993. If you can tear yourself away from Prague, you’ll discover a treasure trove of delights that are begging to be explored.
Just an hour out of Prague and in the midst of Central Bohemia you’ll find the quaint town of Kutná Hora. Making for an easy day trip, you can explore the imposing gothic Cathedral of Saint Barbara; visit Wallachian Court – the former, and the country’s only, royal mint; and marvel at the mysterious Sedlec Ossuary in the basement of the chapel of the Cemetery Church of All Saints. Here you’ll be captivated by the unusual beauty of the lower chapel that is decorated entirely using human bones and skulls, including a massive chandelier and cross. Venture further into the countryside and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking countryside in the Posázaví Region. The banks of the River Sázava are lined with castle-topped mountains, dense forests and charming little cottage settlements.
Prepare to be seduced by the romantic city of Český Krumlov. Split in two by the River Vltava, this town looks impossibly perfect with its cobblestoned maze-like alleys, grand floral gardens and Renaissance fronted buildings dominated by the medieval castle looming protectively over the city. Relax and be pampered in the spa town of Mariánské Lázně, with its collection of 100 mineral springs, spectacularly surrounded by luscious green mountains. Spend a few days exploring the hidden gem that is Olomouc - a smaller version of Prague but with a fraction of the tourists; watch the astronomical clock on the town hall strike noon, admire the monumental Holy Trinity Column, wander around the old town and explore its many carved-stone fountains and Baroque churches. Soak up the atmosphere and culture of this vibrant yet laidback university town.
For the more adventurous, the Czech Republic offers many picturesque locations and activities to get the adrenalin pumping. Try skydiving over breathtaking countryside; explore caverns and gorges in the east of the country; enjoy some of the 400km worth of scenic hiking and biking trails stretching between Austria and the Czech Republic.
