Czech Republic Sightseeing

Bohemia is a region consisting of beautiful and unusual wilderness, vineyards, spa resorts, small villages and eclectic cities. The region is divided into north, south, east, west and central Bohemia, each one with a unique environment. 

Central Bohemia is the surrounding garden region of Prague. With many sights within an hour’s drive from Prague, its no wonder the attractions of Central Bohemia draw crowds on the weekends of hard-working city-dwellers. Opulent chateaux, ancient fortresses and charming villages sprinkle the landscape of rolling hills, lovely parks and hiking trails. This is Prague’s glittering garden.

East Bohemia is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. The region boasts the country’s highest mountain range, the Krkonose. For skiers, hikers, climbers, and photographers, the Krkonose promises endless beauty and activities for nearly every hobby. The East Bohemian towns are just as picturesque and interesting. From Renaissance squares to Art Nouveau facades, there seems to be an old church for every valley and tower for every peak throughout this fascinating region. 

North Bohemia is both beauty and beast. Its quieter areas feature some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes and historic towns with fine museums, while other areas remain the industrial hub of the country. Mines, factories and their chimneys are rarely far from view.

South Bohemia is a land of lakes, forests and fields, peppered with quaint villages with baroque motifs. Here is where the magnificent Sumava Forest lies along with sparkling rivers, deserted hills and some of the most esteemed beer halls in Europe. The less-visited communities of South Bohemia offer the most colourful insights into the Czech culture.

West Bohemia is a region of soothing spas and sunflower fields, of peaceful forests and magnificent mountains. If you crave a change of pace from Prague, come to West Bohemia. The town of Plzen is famed for its Pilsner Urquell brewery. So after a day spent soaking in the spa, hiking the Sumava Mountains and touring castles, you can always enjoy the local brew at a quaint pub.

North and South Moravia is a wealth of history and culture. The university town of Olomouc in North Moravia is the region’s highlight. It reveals what Prague would look like without the crowds. The wilderness of the Jeseniky Mountains remains relatively unexplored, while the village of Stramberk offers some of the country’s best examples of traditional wooden architecture.

South Moravia has a potent identity and thriving folk culture. Summertime rings in a smorgasbord of joyous festivals, not to be missed if you are in town. Venture beyond the towns and you will find magnificent wilderness, the incredible caves of Moravian Karst and picture-perfect chateaux. South Moravia offers the best of both worlds – lively towns and tranquil nature.

Picturesquely situated on the banks of the Vltava River, the fairy tale city of Prague has always played an important part in European history. It is famous for magnificent architecture, as well as its cultural scene of elegance. Since the fall of Communism, Prague has rapidly regained its cafe culture and is again very much the ‘Paris of the East’. The city’s historical centre is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Be sure to explore the sprawling complex of Prague Castle - a treasure trove of palaces, cathedrals and ancient courtyards. Views over the Vltava River, spanned by many bridges old and new, is always rewarding; the most famous bridge being the medieval Charles Bridge. This stone pedestrian bridge is a wonderful place to stroll and take in the sights and culture.

The Lesser Town (Mala Strana) beneath Prague Castle is a quarter of winding, narrow streets with palaces from the 17th and 18th centuries and small artisan houses. The Old Town (Stare Mesto) across the Charles Bridge includes important attractions such as the Old Town Hall (Staromestska radnice) with its huge clock of astronomy, the Gothic Tyn Church behind the square and the Jewish Town with six synagogues and old cemetery. The area around Vaclavske namesti (Wenceslas Square) is the primary shopping area

Just outside Prague are the castles of Karlstejn, Krivoklat and Konopiste. Near Karlstejn is the Bohemian Karst, a region of limestone caves, of which Konepruské Jeskyne is open to the public. The historic silver mining town of Kutna Hora with the impressive Saint Barbara Gothic cathedral is another UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site. North of Prague, at the convergence of the Vltava and the Labe rivers, is the wine making region of Melník, with its imposing Zamek Castle.

Check out the Astronomical Clock (Prague)
The medieval clock by itself is gorgeous, but on the hour it puts on a show with moving characters and chiming bells. The hourly celebration is even more impressive when you realize the mechanism is more than 500 years old. The clock is in the town hall, which has a rich and turbulent history on its own, dating back to the 12th century. 

Explore Prague Castle
Founded in the 9th century, Prague Castle is a huge complex, encompassing a Gothic cathedral, palaces, courtyards, gardens and museums. If you’re visiting in summer, be sure to tour the castle in the evening – it is truly an unforgettable experience. 

Visit the Jewish Quarter (Prague)
An easy walk from Charles Bridge, in a small area of the Old Town, lies the historical Jewish Quarter, or Josefov. After enjoying the beautiful architecture of Prague, visit this area for a history lesson. Named after the sympathetic Austrian Emperor Josef II, Josefov contains half-underground synagogues and crowded cemeteries. The quarter was devastated in World War II and the whole area is a sobering site. At one point there were over 90,000 Jews living in the cramped quarters, seeking refuge from the Nazis.

Spend an Afternoon on Kampa Island
Kampa is a little island on the Vltava River, near Charles Bridge. This charming place attracts all kinds of people and is one of the best places to spend a lazy summer day. The spacious lawn and cafes offer a perfect spot for relaxing and people-watching.

Marvel at the Mucha Museum
A legend in his own lifetime, Alfons Mucha precipitated his rise to world fame in 1894 with his enchanting paintings of Sarah Bernhardt and other elegant ladies. Whether you are a Mucha fan or never heard of him, this museum offers a lovely way to spend a quiet afternoon surrounded by a master’s work. Located at Kaunicky palac Panska, 7, Prague.

Visit the Old Town Square
The oldest and most important square in historic Prague from the 11th century, it was originally a marketplace for the various trade routes of Central Europe. Today it is an enchanting array of Baroque buildings, cathedrals, winding alleyways, the popular clock of astronomy and layers of history.

Walk Across Charles Bridge
A medieval stone bridge, here you can take in a busker's tune or simply enjoy splendid views of the castle above and river below. At statue 16 there is a plaque where you can place a hand and make a wish.