Formerly part of the Austrian Empire in the 19th century and Czechoslovakia in the 20th century, the Czech Republic is a country filled with beautiful historic cities and rich Bohemian culture. So why not visit the Czech Republic today?
1. Prague – The Golden City
Prague is one of the main reasons to visit the Czech Republic itself. In addition to being its capital, it is also known as the Golden City and the City of Hundred Spiers, and is among the most popular cities in Europe and the most romantic cities in the world. Here you will find notable works of medieval architecture and Art Noveau, such as Prague Castle, the largest castle in the world, and the uniquely structured Dancing House, along with impressive city squares such as the Old Town Square with its Clock Astronomical. You can also simply stroll under the glow of the gas lanterns in the old town or ride a horse-drawn carriage through its cobbled streets.
2. Medieval architecture
Apart from Prague, you will find magnificent works of medieval architecture in other cities, especially those that have been included in the list of World Heritage Sites. The town of Trebic, for example, is well known for its Basilica of St. Procopius, while the St. Wenceslas Cathedral in Olomouc is a historical landmark. Kutna Hora, Holsavice, and Telc are equally picturesque with sprawling houses dating back to the 13th century, while Cesky Krumlov, Kromeriz, and Litomysl are well known for their charming castles.
The most popular castle in the Czech Republic, however, is Karlstejn Castle, with its Chapel of the Holy Cross, where the crown jewels and relics of the crucifixion once stood. And don’t forget to visit the romantic castles of Lednice, Hluboka nad Vltavou and Sychrov.
3. Spa towns
Karlovy Vary or Carlsbad, in western Bohemia, is another popular city in the Czech Republic, famous for its pastel-colored buildings amid green hills and especially for its hot springs. In fact, people, even famous personalities, come from all over the world to enjoy this picturesque wellness destination. Other spa towns in the region include Marianske Lazne, with a hundred mineral springs, and Frantiskovy Lazne, home to the country’s largest spa corporation and the world’s first peat-pulp bath.
4. Beer
The Czech Republic has the highest per capita beer consumption in the world, which is not surprising as there are many breweries and excellent types of beer throughout the country. The most popular breweries can be found in the Bohemian region, in particular Pilsener in Plzen, the largest brewery in the country, and in the town of Ceske Budejovice, also known as Budweis, which was once the royal brewery of the emperor. from the Holy Roman Empire and is now famous for its Budweiser Budvar.
Other popular Czech drinks include Slivovitz or plum brandy and unique herbal alcoholic beverages such as Fernet Stock, made with 14 herbs, and the more popular Becherovka, a special Karlovy Vary drink flavored with more than 30 secret herbs, said to helps digestion. Be sure to try them when you visit the Czech Republic.
5. Puppets
For a truly unique experience, watch a puppet show when visiting the Czech Republic. There are several puppet theaters in the country, especially in Prague, which also hosts the largest puppet festival, as well as puppet museums, such as those of Chrudim and Cesky Krumlov, that give you a taste of this dying art. You can even bring home your own well-made puppet or marionette from one of the specialty shops in Prague and across the country.