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Czech Republic

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It’s hard to believe that Czechia was once a little known Communist state in the Eastern Bloc. Since the Velvet Revolution, the country has become one of the top European travel destinations, and its historic capital city, idyllic countryside, and vibrant art scene continue to attract new visitors every year.

It’s hard to believe that Czechia was once a little known Communist state in the Eastern Bloc. Since the Velvet Revolution, the country has become one of the top European travel destinations, and its historic capital city, idyllic countryside, and vibrant art scene continue to attract new visitors every year. From its fine beers to its rich folklore, there's so much to discover in Czechia no matter what your interests are. This year, head into the heart of Eastern Europe and see for yourself what makes Czechia such a fascinating and unforgettable country.
<h2>1. Prague</h2>
Your Czech adventure needs to start in Prague, the stunning capital city. Head straight to the main sights, including Prague Castle, the 14th-century Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square. Next, learn about the country's history of Communism and the Velvet Revolution in the Museum of Communism, and check out the National Gallery for Czech art and literature. A tour through the Jewish Quarter is also a great way to see more of the city while learning about Czechia’s dark past. Don’t forget to stop for a world-famous Czech coffee or beer while sightseeing!

[caption id="attachment_27019" align="alignnone" width="2085"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27019" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-969031838.jpg" alt="aerial view of old town square in Prague" width="2085" height="1437" /> Eloi_Omella / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Take a hike</h2>
Once you’ve seen Prague’s city center, spend some time exploring the nature that surrounds it. Two parks that make for great day trips from Prague are Divoká Šárka and the Nature Park Klánovice-Čihadla. Hop on a tram and head to Divoká Šárka for cycling, hiking, or rock climbing. For even more of an adventure, visit the much larger Nature Park Klánovice-Čihadla and see Czechia's natural beauty without venturing far from Prague.

[caption id="attachment_27020" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27020" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-817412142.jpg" alt="Divorka Sarka nature reserve Prague" width="2121" height="1414" /> Albertem / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Český Krumlov</h2>
If you’ve always wanted to feel like you’re in a fairytale, then a visit to Český Krumlov is a must. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s as idyllic as it gets. Easily one of Europe’s most beautiful towns, Český Krumlov is the perfect place to experience life the way it used to be. The main event is the Český Krumlov Castle that sits watching over the town. Built in 1240, the castle is a breathtaking example of both Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Take a tour of the castle and spend the rest of the afternoon strolling through the expansive grounds.

[caption id="attachment_27022" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27022" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-642680210.jpg" alt="Cesky Krumlov in Winter" width="2121" height="1414" /> benstevens / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Have a Czech spa experience</h2>
Karlovy Vary is one of the oldest spa towns in Czechia, and it’s been known as a place of healing and restoration since the 1300s. Popular with Europe’s elites, anyone looking to experience a traditional Czech spa should visit the town. Pick up a specially made ceramic cup and spend the day sipping the restorative water from the 13 main mineral springs.

[caption id="attachment_27023" align="alignnone" width="2127"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27023" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-1092587576.jpg" alt="Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad) is a spa city situated in western Bohemia, Czech Republic" width="2127" height="1409" /> alxpin / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. See the glassware of Karlovy Vary</h2>
Apart from its spas and mineral springs, Karlovy Vary is also famous for some of the best glassware in Europe. The town has been the European center for glassmaking since the 1800s, and it continues to thrive to this day. Check out the Moser Visitor Center to learn more about the history of Czech glassmaking, watch glassblowers work, and see some of the finest examples of glassware and glass artistry on the continent.

[caption id="attachment_27024" align="alignnone" width="2683"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27024" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-508902804.jpg" alt="Colorful round glass paper weights displayed for sale with a sidewalk vendor in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic" width="2683" height="1784" /> KenWiedemann / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Kutná Hora</h2>
An old silver mining town and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kutná Hora is a stunning example of what towns used to become with enough wealth. Many of the buildings date back to the 1300s and they all showcase beautiful examples of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. One landmark you can’t miss is St. Barbara’s Cathedral. The cathedral was built in 1338, and it features frescos, bas relief carvings, and sculptures depicting various religious stories.

[caption id="attachment_27025" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27025" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-922562778.jpg" alt="Beautiful summer view on St. Barbara's Church in Kutna Hora, Czech Republic " width="2121" height="1414" /> Milan Chudoba / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Sedlec Ossuary</h2>
Although located in Kutná Hora, the Sedlec Ossuary deserves its own mention. When the church was renovated in the 1800s, the designers decided to get creative with the massive amounts of bones in the crypt. Today, it's known as the Sedlec Ossuary, or simply the Bone Church. Visit the ossuary to see garlands of skulls and bone chandeliers decorating every inch. This morbid curiosity is every photographer's dream, so make sure your camera is charged.

[caption id="attachment_27026" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27026" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-1029231462.jpg" alt="Kostnice Church in Kutna Hora with Ossuary interior decoration from human bones and skulls, Czech republic" width="2121" height="1414" /> rustamank / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Bohemian Paradise</h2>
Located in northeast Czechia, the Bohemian Paradise is a protected nature reserve and the first of its kind in the country. The main attractions are the sandstone rock formations scattered throughout the region. If you like rock climbing, you have your choice of places to climb. For everyone else, pick a trail and hike through Czechia's lush forests. When you need a break from the great outdoors, check out the area's quaint villages and market towns.

[caption id="attachment_27027" align="alignnone" width="2034"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27027" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-1066533766.jpg" alt="National Park Adrspach-Teplice Rocktown, Czech Republic" width="2034" height="1473" /> ewg3D / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Konopiště Chateau</h2>
Most famous for being the final residence of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand, Konopiště Chateau is one of Czechia’s most beautiful palaces. Head 30 miles outside of Prague to the small town of Benešovsee. Sign up for an English tour to see the palace and its fantastic collection of ancient weapons, and don't miss the bullet that killed the Archduke! After your tour, head to the gardens where you can see ornate statues and carriage houses.

[caption id="attachment_27028" align="alignnone" width="2032"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27028" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-136259467.jpg" alt="Konopiste Castle in Czech Republic " width="2032" height="1476" /> j-wildman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Bohemian Switzerland</h2>
Another stunning outdoor destination is Bohemian Switzerland, also called Czech Switzerland. Located in northwest Czechia, the national park is known for its valleys, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. Hike through the park to see some of the highest mountains in Czechia and the largest sandstone arch in all of Europe. Make sure your phone’s charged for this trip as there’s basically an endless amount of picture-perfect scenery to capture.

[caption id="attachment_27030" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-27030" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-902206440.jpg" alt="Pravcice Gate in Bohemian Switzerland region in Czech Republic" width="2119" height="1415" /> fotokon / Getty Images[/caption]

Discover the Magic of Czechia

If you’re looking to travel to a place that could very well be a fairytale kingdom, there’s no better option than Prague. Prague is an astoundingly historical city with most of its heritage preserved rather than overtaken by modernism.

If you’re looking to travel to a place that could very well be a fairytale kingdom, there’s no better option than Prague. Prague is an astoundingly historical city with most of its heritage preserved rather than overtaken by modernism. Easily rivaling some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, there is more to the gem of the Czech Republic than meets the eye. With its winding, medieval streets and exceptional architecture, you’d be a fool not to be touched as soon as you set foot there.
<h2>1. Drink some of Prague’s delicious beer</h2>
Belgium might be a mainstay for delicious, European beer, but Prague is right up there with it. Ask any Czech, and they'll tell you that their beer is the best in the world. Order a pint, and you'll be in full agreement with them in one or two sips. There are breweries and bars all over the city, with some of the best being hidden away for you to find. If you're a beer drinker, you'll never be the same. If not, you might as well try one anyway. After all, it's as they say: When in Rome. Or, well, Prague.

[caption id="attachment_1020188" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/675388870-1024x683.jpg" alt="prague rooftops" width="1024" height="683" /> borchee / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Go people watching in the stunning Letna Park</h2>
You'll also find some great beer gardens in Letna Park. This park is a wonderful reprieve for when you’re craving a little bit of solitude. Located on the steep embankment of Letna Hill, the park also offers its visitors one of the most stunning views over the city. Many of the photographs taken of the Prague skyline are actually taken from Letna Park, so don't forget to bring your camera.

[caption id="attachment_1020189" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/976617990-1024x746.jpg" alt="powder tower prague sunrise" width="1024" height="746" /> Eloi_Omella / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Marvel as the astronomical clock meets the hour</h2>
Prague's mechanical astronomical clock dates back as far as the Charles Bridge and has been the pride of the city ever since. It's also been the center of many folk tales, one of the most prominent being that of its curse. According to legend, if the clock stops, bad times lie ahead for the city. Legends aside, the Old Town clock can be found on the south-facing side of the town hall, and seeing its hourly spectacle is a must.

[caption id="attachment_1020190" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/489951578-1024x683.jpg" alt="astronomical cock prague town square" width="1024" height="683" /> borchee / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Take in the historical pavement of the Town Square</h2>
Believe it or not, Prague's main square has remained largely untouched since the 10th Century. While much has changed in the world at large, this pocket of Czech history is as incredible now as it always has been. The Old Town Square is a tourist hotspot, but it's with such a good reason that you might not even notice. As well as this being where you'll find the astronomical clock, you'll also discover dozens of restaurants, street performers, and artists.

[caption id="attachment_1020192" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/965384836-1024x725.jpg" alt="town square prague" width="1024" height="725" /> Eloi_Omella / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Walk the length of the Charles Bridge at sunrise</h2>
Waking up early is hard to do on vacation, but doing so just once can allow for the most memorable of moments. The Prague skyline is unlike any other, and this 14th-century bridge is one of the most recognizable parts of the city. Although a stroll across the Charles Bridge will never go to waste, no matter the time of day, to see it as the sun comes up is a wholly unique experience. Through the haze of dawn, the silhouettes of its stunning statues will both haunt and inspire you.

[caption id="attachment_1020202" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1020202" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/GettyImages-164860368-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Charles Bridge in Prague at Sunrise" width="1024" height="683" /> zodebala / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Enjoy a picnic behind Prague Castle</h2>
Known in English as "Stag Moat," Jeleni Prikop provides another option for less-crowded strolls. What was once the location of Prague Castle's moat, this gorgeous slice of nature appears to stretch on forever. This hidden gem is beautiful at any time of year, but taking a picnic there just after the height of summer is a necessity.

[caption id="attachment_1020195" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1097799464-1024x687.jpg" alt="summer evening in prague" width="1024" height="687" /> Givaga / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Take a riverboat tour along the Devil’s Stream</h2>
An offshoot from the Vltava River, this narrow channel runs through some of Prague's tightest streets. On it, you'll get to see some of the city's best sights. There is nothing more relaxing than an underrated piece of a city as steeped in history as Prague, and we'd put money on a lot of tourists not knowing that this little stream is even there. Additionally, if you've got a good eye, you might also see the Grand Priory Mill and its resident water goblin statue.

[caption id="attachment_1020204" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1020204" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/GettyImages-998038814-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Kampa Island with Certovka River in Old Prague, Czech Republic" width="1024" height="683" /> DaLiu / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Explore the world-famous St. Vitus Cathedral</h2>
Prague has no shortage of churches, but the neo-Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral is the pinnacle of the city's architectural glory. Located beside Prague Castle, St. Vitus is the most important holy temple in the city. Its spires tower above the city and might even be exactly what you picture when you close your eyes and think of Prague. The Cathedral and its castle are found on the top of a hill overlooking the Vltava River and surrounding hamlet, which is an incredible sight. If you're feeling daring, you can also climb to the top of the tower.

[caption id="attachment_1020197" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/925164716-1024x683.jpg" alt="st vitus cathedral prague" width="1024" height="683" /> bbsferrari / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Visit the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn</h2>
Another impressive sample of Prague's architecture is the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. If St. Vitus is the main feature of Prague Castle then this church is the main feature of the Old Town. Its recognizable Gothic towers can be seen from almost everywhere in Prague and never fails to make for an exceptional photo. Although its entrance can be found in the middle of a shopping arcade, it's well worth heading inside, too. Why not check out one of the classical concerts that are held there during the summer?

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/505091588-1024x683.jpg" alt="tyn church prague city" width="1024" height="683" /> KavalenkavaVolha / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Stroll around the backstreets of Mala Strana</h2>
On the opposite side to the river to the Old Town, you'll find the backstreets of Mala Strana. These streets were built much later than those on the other side of the river, but are no less inspiring to explore. Amongst these streets, you'll also find a baroque-style square which has small, independent shops and plenty of traditional Czech fare to fill your tummy. Perhaps the best part of it, which appears to be something every attraction in Prague has to offer, is the view.

[caption id="attachment_1020199" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/157643832-1024x683.jpg" alt="old street mala strana prague" width="1024" height="683" /> benedek / Getty Images[/caption]

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