Prague
While most visitors to the Czech Republic are familiar with Prague, the country has a diversity of places that are worth extending your trip for. Many Czech cities and towns offer historic and cultural treasures that rival those of the capital, and the countryside in Bohemia and Moravia is beautiful. To help you get some ideas of where to travel besides Prague, below is a list of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic.
Prague
The capital of the Czech Republic needs no introduction. Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and its stunning castle and historic squares draw visitors from all over the world. Prague’s great architecture, lively pub scene, and iconic bridges make it one of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic, and a must on any trip.
Olomouc
Often called “Prague in miniature”, Olomouc has a pretty old town and lots of historic charm. Less crowded than Prague, Olomouc is popular with visitors that want the same experience without the tourist throngs. The highlights include the 18th century Holy Trinity Column, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and St. Wenceslas Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic church.
Brno
The second largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno is often overlooked in favor of other places in the country. But it’s worth a trip for its cultural heritage, including Spilberk Castle—a 13th century fortress that is now a museum—and the beautiful Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Lovers of modern architecture will also enjoy visiting Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Villa Tugendhat (also called Tugendhat House). Built in the 1920s, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cesky Raj
For those that want to escape the urban bustle and get out into the countryside, Cesky Raj (which means “Czech Paradise”) is just the place. With lots of hiking and cycling trails, and an abundance of beautiful natural scenery, Cesky Raj is a great place to get into nature. The area is also well known for its sandstone rocks, historic castles, and garnet stones. If you travel to the Czech Republic in the winter months, Cesky Raj is a good place to ski, too.
Cesky Krumlov
With a castle almost as famous as the one in Prague, Cesky Krumlov is certainly one of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic. Located in Southern Bohemia, its fairytale ambiance and colorful buildings make visitors feel as if they’ve entered another world. The town itself is a UNESCO protected site, and rivals the castle in terms of its beauty.
Karlovy Vary
A historic spa town, Karlovy Vary has long been on the list of places for visiting royalty and European aristocracy to visit. As a result, the town’s historic architecture features highlights from many European and international styles, and its colonnaded walkway with spa water is known throughout the region for its healing properties. Karlovy Vary is also famous for its spa wafers—delicious sweet treats—as well as Becherovka, an internationally known herbal liqueur.