If you’re looking for an amazing place to visit in Eastern Europe, consider the Czech Republic (aka Czechia). The Czech Republic is a stunning country with plenty of interesting places to visit, sights to see, and delicious foods to try! This country is packed with historical sites, beautiful cities, and plenty of activities to keep you busy no matter what time of year.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet village to explore or want to see some of the biggest cities in Europe, the Czech Republic has something for everyone. From the bustling Czech capital city of Prague to the small town of Český Krumlov, there’s plenty to see and do in this Central European country.
So if you’re planning a trip to this wonderful country, be sure to add these 15 best places to visit to your Czech Republic itinerary!
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Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and culture of Prague on this 6-hour city walking tour. Led by a professional guide, you’ll explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the city including Charles Bridge, Lesser Town, the Jewish Quarter, Old Town and Prague Castle. You’ll also enjoy a traditional Czech lunch and a 1-hour boat cruise on the Vltava River. This small group tour is the perfect way to get an insider’s view of Prague.
This small-group tour takes you south of Prague to the border of the Czech Republic and Germany, right into the heart of some of Central Europe’s most beautiful landscapes. You’ll sail down the river on a gondola-style boat, walk along the Elbe River, and marvel at the views offered by The Bastei rock formation. This is a perfect opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a day surrounded by the natural beauty of Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
Prague is a foodie paradise, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a foodie tour with a local guide. You’ll save time by heading straight to the places offering the most delicious food and drink, and you’ll get to experience the sights and sounds of the city as you travel on foot and by subway to find these hidden gems. You’ll enjoy plenty of samples throughout the tour (enough to fill you up for the day!), and you’ll also learn about Czech culture and cuisine along the way. Best of all, the food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and coffee are all included in the price of the tour.
TLDR
Best & Fun Things to do in the Czech Republic
1. Charles Bridge
Address: Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia
One of the most iconic Czech Republic attractions, Karlův most (or the Charles Bridge) is a must-visit when it comes to places to visit in Prague. The construction of this gorgeous bridge began in 1357 under the reign of King Charles IV and took 45 years to complete before being opened in 1402!
Charles Bridge is a pedestrian-only medieval stone arch bridge that spans over 1,600 ft in length across the Vltava River, linking Old Town Prague with Lesser Town Prague. The intricate, beautiful architecture of the bridge is an intriguing sight to see in itself, and there are plenty of additions to the bridge to see along the way. Statues line both sides of the bridge and there are plenty of spots along the bridge where you can enjoy wonderful views of Prague Castle, the Vltava River, and the cityscape.
Charles Bridge is a huge tourist attraction due to its rich history and sheer beauty, so it can get quite crowded. The best time to visit is either early in the morning or late at night when there are fewer people around. If you can, I recommend visiting the bridge in winter when it is covered in a blanket of snow – it’s truly magical!
After strolling down the famous bridge, take some time to discover the rest of Lesser Town Prague. This historic neighborhood is situated on the hill below Prague Castle and is filled with charming cobblestone streets, baroque fountains, quaint cafes, beautiful parks, and much more. It’s the perfect place to join a food tour and try traditional foods like trdelnik (a pastry made of rolled dough that is grilled and coated in sugar) or klobasa (a type of Bohemian sausage).
Prague is also a great city to make your home base while traveling in the Czech Republic, as there are many day trips you can take from Prague. Popular places to visit near Prague include Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora, Karlštejn Castle, and Třebíč. Hotels like The Julius Prague offer travelers the perfect mix of luxury and comfort in between sightseeing!
2. Ceský Krumlov Castle
Address: Zámek 59, 381 01 Český Krumlov, Czechia
Located in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, Český Krumlov Castle is a must-visit for any castle lover! This abandoned medieval castle dates back to the 13th Century and is one of the largest in the country, with over 40 buildings and 200 rooms.
Cesky Krumlov Castle is set on a hill above the picturesque town of Cesky Krumlov and offers wonderful views of the town and the surrounding countryside. It’s equipped with a Bear Moat (yes, you read that correctly), making it one of the most unique castles in Europe! Český Krumlov Castle is listed as a national heritage site and is the second-most visited castle in the Czech Republic, right after Prague Castle.
Visitors can explore the castle grounds and buildings, including the castle gardens, museum, and the Český Krumlov Baroque Theatre of 1767, one of the best preserved Baroque theaters in the world. There are also many events held at the castle throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, and festivals.
The castle is open to visitors all year round, but I’d recommend visiting in summer when the weather is nicer and there are more activities taking place on the castle grounds. There is a lot to see and do at Ceský Krumlov Castle, so allow plenty of time to explore everything!
Ceský Krumlov is not far from the medieval city of Prague, and you could easily take a day trip to Ceský Krumlov to explore for the day. The easiest way is with a guided tour from Prague – this way, you don’t have to worry about arranging transportation and you’ll get to hear all about the castle’s history from a knowledgeable guide.
See Related: The Most Amazing Natural Arches in the World
3. Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
Address: Petrov 9, 602 00 Brno 2, Czechia
The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is a Roman Catholic cathedral located on Petrov Hill in the city of Brno, Czech Republic. The cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the country and is the seat of the Archbishop of Moravia.
The cathedral was built in the 13th Century and is a fine example of Gothic architecture. The outside of the cathedral sports a traditional Gothic design, while the inside is quite ornate with beautiful Baroque frescoes and sculptures.
The cathedral also has a crypt that holds the remains of some of Moravia’s most important religious figures. The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is home to many beautiful works of art, including a stunning stained glass window designed by Czech artist Alphonse Mucha.
The cathedral is definitely worth a visit when in Brno, especially if you’re interested in architecture or art. The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is open to the public all year round and admission is free.
If you’re visiting during Mass, you may not be able to enter the cathedral, but you can still admire the exterior from the outside. Note that the cathedral is located on a hill, so there are a lot of stairs to get to the entrance!
See Related: Most Famous Historical Landmarks in Czechia
4. Brno Ossuary
Address: Jakubské nám., 658 78 Brno-střed, Czechia
What’s cooler than an underground ossuary full of thousands of bones rediscovered after hundreds of years? Not much, in my opinion! The Brno Ossuary is located beneath the Church of St. James in the city of Brno, Czech Republic. It is estimated that the ossuary contains the remains of over 50,000 people, making it the second-largest ossuary in Europe, after the Catacombs of Paris.
It is said that the ossuary originated in the 13th Century when the church graveyard capacity became too much for the quick-growing city but wasn’t discovered until 2001 when workers were carrying out repairs on the church. Once the ossuary was revealed, it quickly became a popular tourist attraction in Brno. Visitors to the ossuary can see the bones arranged in various creative ways, such as a chandelier made of bones, pyramids, and coat-of-arms.
If you’re interested in visiting an unusual attraction that is sure to give you goosebumps, add the Brno Ossuary to your list – it’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in the Czech Republic! The ossuary is open every day except for Mondays and admission is just a few dollars. Keep in mind that the ossuary is located underground, so there are a lot of stairs (over 200!) to get to it.
See Related: Best Hotels in Prague, Czech Republic
5. Prague Astronomical Clock
Address: Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Another popular tourist attraction in Prague is the Astronomical Clock (or Prague Orloj), located in Old Town Square. The clock was first installed in 1410 and is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world, and the oldest clock in the world that is still working.
The clock is quite complex and has several different moving parts that represent the positions of the sun, moon, and stars. It also has an hourly show where the 12 apostles move past a small window at the top of the clock.
The Astronomical Clock is definitely worth seeing when in Prague, even if you’re not particularly interested in astronomy! The clock is located in a very central location and is easy to get to. There is no admission fee to see the clock, so be sure to take a look next time you’re in Old Town Square.
There is no shortage of things to do near the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square either! You can find plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping at the many stores in the area. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Prague, you can also visit the Old Town Hall, which is located right next to the clock.
This part of town is a convenient place to start a day of sightseeing around Prague. I recommend taking a walking tour of the city or a boat cruise on the Vltava River to see all the sights that Prague has to offer!
6. Moravian Karst Caverns
Address: Moravský kras, Czechia
For a unique Czechia attraction, head to the Moravian Karst region to see the spectacular caves and rock formations. The Moravian Karst is a limestone region that covers an area of over 500 square kilometers. It is home to over 1,100 caves and sinkholes, making it one of the largest karst regions in Europe.
The most popular cave to visit in the Moravian Karst is the Macocha Abyss, a sinkhole that is 138 meters deep. You can take an elevator down into the abyss or hike down if you’re feeling adventurous. Once at the bottom, there is a small lake that you can row across in a boat. The views from the top of the Macocha Abyss are also breathtaking and not to be missed!
Other popular caves in the Moravian Karst region include the Punkva Caves, which can be explored by boat, and the Balcarka Cave, which has an underground lake. The Moravian Karst is a great place to visit if you’re interested in nature and hiking and is just a short drive from Prague.
See Related: Best Museums in Prague, Czechia
7. Bohemian Switzerland National Park
Address: Národní park České Švýcarsko, Czechia
If you visit anywhere in the Czech Republic, Bohemian Switzerland National Park should be high on your list! The park, (aka Bohemian National Park, Bohemian Switzerland, or Czech Switzerland) is located in the northwestern region of the country and covers an area of over 700 square kilometers.
It is home to a variety of landscapes, including forests, rivers, lakes, and cliffs. This picturesque park is a great place to go hiking, camping, and kayaking and is one of the most beautiful places in the Czech Republic.
There are plenty of things to do in Bohemian National Park, such as hiking, biking, canoeing, and rock climbing. There are several different trails that you can hike, ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular trail is the Pravčická Gate, which is a natural sandstone arch that is 52 feet high and 26 meters wide.
The trail to the Pravčická Gate is about 3 kilometers long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. If you’re interested in history, you can also visit the Trosky Castle, a ruined castle that dates back to the 14th Century. Trosky Castle is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Bohemian National Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some time in nature. It’s easy to spend a few days exploring all that the park has to offer. And, if you’re looking for a unique place to stay, you can even camp in the park!
There are several campsites located throughout the park to make for a truly memorable experience. The best time to visit Bohemian National Park is from May to September when the weather is warm and there are more activities available, but it’s beautiful any time of year!
8. Hluboká Castle
Address: Zámek 142, 373 41 Hluboká nad Vltavou, Czechia
This historic castle is one of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic. Hluboká Castle was built in the 13th Century and is located in the charming town of Hluboká nad Vltavou. The castle has undergone several renovations over the years, most notably in the 19th Century when it was rebuilt in the Gothic Revival style. The Hluboká Castle is located in South Bohemia and is about a 2-hour drive from Prague.
The castle is open to the public and can be explored on a self-guided tour. There are over 140 rooms and chambers to see, including the Great Hall, the Chapel, and the Hunting Room. The castle also features 11 towers, and a castle kitchen preserved with original 19th Century kitchen equipment.
The castle grounds are also lovely to wander around, and you can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the property. Hluboká Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting the Czech Republic!
See Related: Best Castles in Czech Republic to Visit
9. Šumava National Park
Address: Národní park Šumava, Czechia
Nature lovers looking for places to go in the Czech Republic will want to check out Šumava National Park. Šumava National Park is the largest national park in the Czech Republic and one of the largest in all of Europe!
The park covers an area of over 263 square miles in southwestern Bohemia, along the border with Germany and Austria. It’s home to a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, rivers, and lakes. There are also several caves that can be explored.
Šumava National Park is a great place to go hiking, camping, and fishing. There are several different trails that you can hike, ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular trail is the Český Krumlov Castle Loop, which is about 1.2 miles long and takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Šumava National Park is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some time in nature. It’s easy to spend a few days exploring all that the park has to offer.
And, if you’re looking for a unique place to stay, you can even camp in the park! There are several campsites located throughout the park to make for a truly memorable experience. Šumava National Park is a must-see when visiting the Czech Republic!
10. Pruhonice Park and Castle
Address: 252 43 Průhonice, Czechia
If you’re interested in seeing one of the most beautiful places in the Czech Republic, you’ll want to visit Pruhonice Park and Castle. This park is located just outside of Prague and is a great place to spend a day if you’re looking to escape the city.
The castle dates back to the 13th Century, but the park was not created until the 19th Century. The park was designed in the English landscape style and covers over 200 acres. Pruhonice Castle and its surrounding Pruhonice Park are recognized as both a National Cultural Monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pruhonice Park is home to a variety of different plant species, including over 1,600 trees and shrubs. The park also has several greenhouses, which are open to the public. The castle is open for tours, and you can explore the grounds on your own or with a guided tour. The inside of the castle features a library, a church, a conservatory, and a ballroom, which are all open to the public.
Pruhonice Park and Castle is the perfect place to go for a day trip from Prague. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the park and the castle. And, if you’re looking to stay nearby the Castle, there are several hotels and Airbnbs located in Pruhonice. I recommend the Hotel Tulipan Pruhonice, it’s a quaint little hotel located right next to the park, and breakfast is included in the price of your stay.
See Related: Days in Prague Itinerary
11. Kutna Hora
Address: Čáslavská 274, 284 01 Kutná Hora, Czechia
Another one of the best cities to visit in the Czech Republic is Kutna Hora. Kutna Hora is located about an hour outside of Prague, in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. It’s a relatively small town with only about 20,000 inhabitants – and it’s a great place to visit for a day trip!
The city is best known for its Bone Chapel, which is decorated with the bones of over 40,000 people. The Bone Chapel is definitely one of the most unique places to see in the Czech Republic!
In addition to the Bone Chapel, Kutna Hora is also home to the Sedlec Ossuary, which is a church that is decorated with human bones. The Sedlec Ossuary is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kutna Hora. Other notable places to see in Kutna Hora include the Cathedral of St. Barbara, the Church of St. James, and the silver mines.
Kutna Hora is a great place to visit if you’re interested in history and architecture. The city is full of beautiful churches and historical buildings to see, so you can easily keep yourself busy for a day or two here. I recommend visiting Kutna Hora if you’re looking to get out of Prague for a day and explore another part of the Czech Republic.
If you’re staying in Prague and just want to visit the village for the day, consider taking a guided half-day tour of Kutna Hora from Prague. That way, you can learn about the history of Kutna Hora and see all of the best sights without having to worry about transportation or getting lost!
12. Baroque Farms of Holašovice
Address: 373 84 Jankov, Czechia
Holašovice is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a Central European village from the turn of the 19th Century. In this small village in South Bohemia, you’ll find several baroque-style farmhouses that date back to the 18th Century. The houses are decorated with traditional blue and white patterns, and they are truly beautiful to see.
Holašovice is one of the best-preserved cultural landmarks in the Czech Republic – and, to no surprise, another one of the Czech Republic’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s definitely worth a visit!
The village is located in the Český Krumlov district, about 3 hours south of Prague. If you’re staying in Prague and want to visit Holašovice, I recommend taking a day trip. There are many different tour companies that offer day trips to Holašovice from Prague, which makes it easy to get there and back in a day. Or, for more flexibility, consider renting a car for the day and driving down to Holašovice on your own.
When you visit Holašovice, be sure to walk around the village and explore the baroque-style farmhouses. You can also visit the Regional Museum, which is located in one of the historic houses. The museum features exhibits on the history and culture of the village, as well as traditional clothing and furniture. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Holašovice, I recommend taking a guided tour of the village.
See Related: Is Prague Safe? Things to Know for Travelers
13. Karlovy Vary
One of the best Czech Republic cities to visit is Karlovy Vary, which is located in western Bohemia. This spa town is a popular tourist destination – and it’s easy to see why! Karlovy Vary is home to several different thermal springs, which are said to have healing properties.
In addition to the thermal springs, Karlovy Vary is also known for its gorgeous architecture and lush gardens. Karlovy Vary is only about an hour and a half from Prague, so you can easily visit for a day trip.
Some of the best places to visit in Karlovy Vary include the Hot Spring, the Mattoni Colonnade, and the Mill Colonnade. The Hot Spring is a must-see – it’s the largest and most famous thermal spring in Karlovy Vary.
The Mattoni Colonnade is a beautiful glass structure that was built in the 19th Century, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the scenery. The Mill Colonnade is another one of Karlovy Vary’s thermal springs, and it’s located in a picturesque setting next to a river.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Karlovy Vary, I recommend visiting the Regional Museum. The museum has exhibits on the history of the city, as well as the thermal springs. You can also take a guided tour of Karlovy Vary, which is a great way to see all of the major sights in the city.
When you visit Karlovy Vary, be sure to try some of the local dishes. The city is known for its beef goulash, which is a hearty stew made with beef, onions, and paprika. Karlovy Vary is also known for its spicy sausage, which is a must-try!
14. Špindlerův Mlýn Ski Resort
Address: Špindlerův Mlýn 281, 543 51 Špindlerův Mlýn, Czechia
When it comes to holiday destinations in the Czech Republic, Špindlerův Mlýn is a great choice for winter sports enthusiasts. This ski resort is located in the Krkonoše Mountains, and it’s one of the most popular places to go cross-country skiing in the Czech Republic.
Špindlerův Mlýn has a variety of different ski slopes, so there’s something for everyone. And, if you’re not a fan of skiing, don’t worry, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Špindlerův Mlýn, such as snowboarding, ice skating, and sledding.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can also go hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, you can take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Špindlerův Mlýn. No matter when you visit Špindlerův Mlýn, there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
If you’re visiting Špindlerův Mlýn in the winter, I recommend booking a hotel in the town center. There are several different hotels and apartments to choose from, so you’ll be able to find something that fits your budget.
And, if you’re looking for a more luxurious option, there are also a few 5-star hotels in Špindlerův Mlýn. For a moment of relaxation, I recommend booking a stay at the Hotel Bedriska Wellness Resort and Spa. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes. For an authentic Czech experience, I recommend staying at the Hotel Praha – the rooms are modern and comfortable, while the hotel grounds and outside keep their Bohemia charm.
Note: If you’re planning on visiting Špindlerův Mlýn, I recommend booking your trip in advance. The ski resort is very popular, so accommodations fill up quickly – especially during peak season.
If you’re visiting Špindlerův Mlýn in the summer, I recommend staying at one of the camping grounds. There are many different camping grounds to choose from, and they’re all located in scenic areas. You can also find a number of different vacation homes and cabins in Špindlerův Mlýn, so you’ll be able to find something that fits your budget.
When it comes to food, Špindlerův Mlýn has a lot to offer. There are many restaurants and cafes in the city center, as well as a few bars. And, if you’re looking for something specific, you can always ask the staff at your hotel – they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.
Some of the local dishes that you should try while you’re in Špindlerův Mlýn include svíčková na smetaně (beef sirloin in cream sauce – love this stuff), kyselo (sauerkraut soup), and bramboráky (potato pancakes – probably my favorite). And, of course, you can’t go to the Czech Republic without trying some of the local beer. There are several different breweries in Špindlerův Mlýn, so you’ll be able to find something to your taste.
See Related: Best Things to Do in Prague with Kids
15. Aqualand Moravia
Address: 691 22 Pasohlávky, Czechia
For a unique thing to do in the Czech Republic, head to Aqualand Moravia – one of the largest waterparks in Central Europe! Aqualand Moravia is located in Pasohlávky, and it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day.
The waterpark has a variety of different attractions, including slides, pools, and a lazy river. And, if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the children’s play area. In addition to the waterpark, Aqualand Moravia also has a spa, so you can relax and unwind after a day of swimming.
If you’re visiting Aqualand Moravia with kids, I recommend booking a cabana. The cabanas are located in the children’s play area, and they come with a television, a fridge, and a safe. And, if you want to make your cabana reservation in advance, you can do so on the Aqualand Moravia website.
Aqualand Moravia even has its own on-site hotel, the Hotel Aqualand Inn, so you can stay close to the action. Aqualand Moravia is open year-round, so you can visit no matter when you’re traveling to the Czech Republic.
Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day or you want to find a unique thing to do in the Czech Republic, Aqualand Moravia is the perfect place for you!
Getting around the Czech Republic
When it comes to getting around the Czech Republic, there are a few different options. The most popular way to get around is by car. Because things are so spread out in the Czech Republic, having a car is the best way to see everything. If you’re renting a car, I recommend using RentalCars.com and booking online in advance to ensure the best rate.
If you’re not comfortable driving in a foreign country, you can also take the bus. The Czech Republic has an extensive bus network, and you can find schedules and tickets on the Czech Republic website. And, if you’re visiting Prague, I definitely recommend using public transportation – it’s cheap and it’s easy to get around. Just be sure to buy a ticket before you get on the bus or the metro!
Another option for getting around the Czech Republic is by train. The Czech Republic has an extensive rail network, so you can easily get from one city to another. If you’re traveling to a smaller town or village, you may need to take a taxi. Taxis in the Czech Republic are relatively affordable, and you can find taxis at most major airports and train stations.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Czechia?
Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa to enter the Czech Republic for tourist or business purposes. However, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months. If you’re planning to stay in the Czech Republic for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa.
What is the best time to visit Czechia?
The best time to visit the Czech Republic depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re interested in winter sports, the best time to visit is from December to March. If you want to enjoy the outdoors, the best time to visit is from April to October. And, if you want to experience the Christmas markets, the best time to visit is from November to December.
What should I pack for a trip to Czechia?
What you pack for a trip to the Czech Republic depends on the time of year you’re visiting. If you’re visiting in the winter, be sure to pack warm clothes, like a coat, hat, and gloves. If you’re visiting in the summer, pack light clothing and sunscreen. And, no matter when you’re visiting, be sure to pack comfortable shoes!
What are the best things to do in the Czech Republic?
There are so many great things to do in the Czech Republic! Some of the best things to do include visiting Aqualand Moravia, taking a hike in Bohemian Switzerland National Park, exploring Český Krumlov Castle, and visiting Prague Castle.
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