Europe
Czech Republic Travel Guide
Fairytale towns, architectural treasures and the best beer in Europe
Travel Guide to Czech Republic
Buried in the heart of Central Europe, Czech Republic (also known as Czechia) is a land of cultural riches, architectural treasures and natural beauty. Outside of Prague, the Czech Republic is an underappreciated gem, offering much outside its beautiful but crowded capital.
Remarkably, this fascinating country has stayed off the tourist radar, which gives you the chance to be richly rewarded if you decide to travel to Czech Republic and wander off the beaten path. Expect to be delighted by pretty spa towns, castle ruins, historic breweries and unique festivals you won’t find elsewhere.
For the curious traveler, Czech Republic presents a unique opportunity to visit popular tourist attractions one day and discover little known marvels the next – and without the high price tag.
Prague
The Czech Republic is synonymous with its fairytale capital (and one of Europe’s best preserved cities), Prague. Nicknamed “the handsomest city of Europe”, it’s easy to see why this magical metropolis has enchanted famous poets, writers, and musicians alike since the 18th century. Few cities can match Prague’s Old World charm and eclectic blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque era romance. Filled with art, history, mouth-watering beer, wild nightlife and an emerging foodie scene, no other place in Europe has become popular so quickly.
For many, it’s hard to break from the alluring spell of Prague with few tourists ever making it outside the city. However, curious explorers willing to venture beyond the city’s limits will find themselves richly rewarded with immersive cultural experiences – and for cheap.
Choose to travel like a local and you will witness both picturesque second-tier cities as well as quiet towns that exist oblivious to the endless crowds of tourists pouring into Prague. It’s off the beaten path in these less touristy areas where you will find the vibrant Czech spirit, and at its heart, the people’s simple joy of life.
Castle Country
Located in the heart of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, Czechia has seen a long history of epic battles and triumphant dynasties on its land. As a result of this turbulent history, a legacy of picturesque castles and aristocratic villas remain, but this time for all people to enjoy. Everywhere you look there seems to be a chateau neatly erected into the peaceful countryside or a fortress perched strategically high upon a hill.
With over 2,000 castles dotted around the country, let your imagination run wild as you explore medieval towns, rugged woods and hilltop fortresses. The beauty of the Czech countryside will make you feel as if you’re walking through the secret garden you once fantasised about as a child.
Folklore & Festivals
Although a rapidly developing member of the European Union, Czech Republic is a country steeped in rich tradition. A country influenced by a mix of both pagan and Christian customs, these are preserved by folklore groups which celebrate their traditions during regional competitions, folklore events and other festivals throughout the country. Each region has its own distinct traditions, offering a fascinating insight for the traveler looking to delve a little deeper into the culture.
Cultural displays are the most apparent in the districts of Moravia and South Bohemia, where a flourishing folk culture is on full display during the summer festival season. During this time, local communities break out into traditional celebrations allowing onlookers to enjoy the beauty of folk songs, dances and costumes. You’ll even find one of the oldest and largest folk festivals in Europe at the Strážnice International Folklore Festival, where people come from all over the world to Strážnice on the last weekend in June to enjoy the world of folk.
Beer Heaven
The Czech Republic has a bona fide beer obsession with two major claims to fame. Responsible for inventing the world-renowned Pilsner Urquell lager in 1842, and having the highest global per capita beer consumption, it’s clear that the Czechs love their beer. Excitingly, in recent years the world-renowned brands have been matched or even outshone by regional micro-brews that are catering to renewed interest in traditional brewing techniques.
Whilst you’ll find Pilsner Urquell on tap in every pub around the country, expect to now see a wider variety of ales and other micro-brews available for your good health.
Official Language: Czech
Population: 10.6 million
Capital: Prague
Currency: Crown (CZK)
Begin planning your adventure today. Which topic do you want to learn more about?
Bill
4 Jul 2019There’s a lot of good info here. To be honest, I have never thought about traveling to the Czech republic before. This post changed that for me. I need to get there.
Ray
28 Jul 2019Thanks Bill.
Ntensibe Edgar Michael
5 Jul 2019Damn….Pilsner was invented in 1842??? And in the Czech Republic? This is motivation enough for me to visit this country!
Ray
28 Jul 2019Haha, I love that!
Terri Steffes
5 Jul 2019I know I would love it here. I am adding it to my bucket list. My list keeps getting longer and longer.
Ray
28 Jul 2019I know the feeling. You must come visit!
Terri Beavers
5 Jul 2019OH my goodness, I didn’t realize there was so much to see and do there. I love checking out the festivals in the area when I travel so it’s good to know there is a summer festival.
Ray
28 Jul 2019Yep. Check out https://travelmvmt.com/travel-guides/czech-republic/festivals-and-events for a complete breakdown of festivals and events in the country. Full of awesome things to experience!
Erin Knight
5 Jul 2019I have no idea Czech Repulic has over 2,000 castles. It seems so magic to me. I definitely need to visit some of them!
Anna
5 Jul 2019I´ve only been in Prague so far! But I would love to explore more of the Czech Republic, especially medieval towns and castles!
Quin Cl
5 Jul 2019That’s really a useful guide for tourists. I’ve been thinking of going to Czech Republic for a year since it is not that far from where I live now and I have already heard many times how scenic Czech Republic and Prague is.
Ray
26 Jul 2019Super scenic. Even a short drive outside of Prague will present you with some tranquil European countryside. Highly recommend.
Sara | mshealthesteem.com
6 Jul 2019The book Daughter of Smoke and Bone made me want to visit Prague! And now you have me wanting to explore even further. Thank you! I especially love the folklore and festivals. It would be an amazing thing to see and experience ♡
Ray
26 Jul 2019Hey Sara, I just googled that book – looks interesting! I’m stoked the guide is helping to inspire you to visit.
Jessica Hughes
6 Jul 2019Wow sounds like the perfect destination! I would love to visit there sometime!
Ray
26 Jul 2019Czechia is heating up on the tourist radar, that is for sure. I recommend visiting in the next 3-4 years if possible!
Emman Damian
6 Jul 2019I didn’t know that Czech Republic is a Castle Country. I hope I can visit Prague. It’s home of my favorite tennis player – Petra Kvitova!
Ray
26 Jul 2019Not many people do. Outside of Brno, Czech Republic is often overlooked. This only makes it a more amazing place to visit, though!