The Czech Republic exists as a landlocked country in Central Europe: with Poland to the North, Germany to the West, Austria to the South, and Slovakia to the East. In 2016 the country adopted the name ‘Czechia’, a shortened, more informal version of the former Czech Republic. So now, the country goes by both. The Czech Republic is predominantly known for its capital city of Prague. Prague is both the capital and the largest city in the country, with a population of 1.6 million people! The city is incredibly culturally significant with its historical centre existing as a UNESCO heritage site, with visitors from all over the world travelling to bask in its rich history and architectural beauty. The Czech Republic is plentiful in castles, chateaus, and mansions. There is just so much fine architecture to admire! The country is jam-packed with many multicultural communities, making its people notoriously some of the world’s most interesting. With the impressive castles and other structures, festivities, landmarks, and of course the wonderful opportunities for beer consumption, the Czech Republic is a majorly popular tourist destination receiving an influx of international visitors every year. So, if you’re wanting to experience this magnificent country, read on! This author has whittled down nine of the most wonderful things you can do and the most amazing locations you can visit in the Czech Republic.
Prague Castle
Starting in the capital! Prague! Remember those castles I mentioned? Well, Prague Castle is one of the most notorious and most beautiful. In fact, Prague Castle is the largest in all of Europe with over seven hundred rooms, and the largest castle complex in the entire world! Prague Castle was built in the ninth century and nowadays exists as the official office of the President of the Czech Republic. Formerly, Prague Castle was the seat of power for the kings of Bohemia, the Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. So, the importance of this awe-inspiring castle cannot be understated. Prague Castle is an architectural wonder and its beauty is something that must be seen to be appreciated. Why not take a guided tour? Prague Castle guided tours are available in Czech, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Russian. Tour through a multitude of the most wonderful rooms in Prague Castle and feel yourself step back in time. Feel like royalty for a day in one of the most magnificent castles not only in Europe but in the world.
Location: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
The Charles Bridge
Connecting Old Prague to Lesser Prague, the Charles Bridge is a monumental landmark known for its architectural beauty and popularity amongst creatives. The bridge is a medieval stone arch crossing the Vltava River and has become an iconic image of the Czech Republic’s capital city. It is the oldest bridge in Prague and the second oldest in the Czech Republic. The Charles Bridge is full to the brim with musicians, painters, vendors, and tourists. Especially during the summertime. Why not take a leisurely stroll across this wonderful monument, admiring the creatives that roam there and taking in the beautiful landscapes of Prague. Or, if you’re not wanting to walk across the Charles Bridge, perhaps admire it from afar? The bridge creates a beautiful landscape and can be admired from many different angles.
Location: Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia
The Prague Astronomical Clock
Another wonderful monument standing proudly in the Czech Republic’s capital city. The Prague Astronomical Clock was established in 1410, attaching itself to the Prague Town Hall. It is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest clock that is still in operation. The clock shows the positions of the sun, moon, earth, and zodiac constellations. Not only can this wonderful structure be admired from afar, oh no! How would you fancy getting up close and personal? Admission to Prague Town Hall and a Prague Town Hall tour ticket grant visitors admission to the tower’s observation deck, allowing an exclusive look at the inner workings of the famous Prague Astronomical Clock. Tour guides will explain the inner workings of this magnificent mechanism, whilst you explore the many areas of the wonderful building in which you stand. That is, visitors will be granted access to the many town hall, halls, and underground areas. There is so much to see and discover, so it is definitely worth getting a closer look.
Location: Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
The Diana Lookout Tower
Built in 1914, the Diana Lookout Tower stands proudly in the Czech Republic’s Karlovy Vary. Existing as a tetragonal brick observation tower, this wonderful tourist attraction offers fantastic city and distant mountain views upon climbing. The Diana Lookout Tower is located in the forest, surrounded by greenery. Complete with a one-hundred-year-old restaurant, forest terrace, butterfly house, and mini zoo, the observation tower is not the only attraction to enjoy when visiting this area. Why not have a spot to eat at the old restaurant whilst watching the wild animals in the mini zoo just outside your window? Or, prance around the butterfly house after experiencing the breathtaking views of the city of Karlovy Vary.
Location: Vrch přátelství 360 01, 360 01 Karlovy Vary, Czechia
The Pilsner Urquell Brewery
Located in Plzeň, the Pilsner Urquell Brewery is known for being the location that brewed the very first pilsner type lager in the entire world. Because of this, the Pilsner Urquell Brewery attracts visitors from all over! For all you beer fans and history lovers, the Pilsner Urquell Brewery offers fantastic guided tours. The tours are available in a multitude of languages and are inclusive for everyone! As long as you are of the legal drinking age of course. Explore the world-famous brewery, learn about the history of the fascinating building, and discover just how this delicious beer is brewed to perfection. Discover the heart of the brewery and get a closer look at the powerful ingredients that help make up one of the most famous beers in all of the world. Oh, and rest assured, there will be plenty of samples along your way!
Location: U Prazdroje 64/7, 301 00 Plzeň 3, Czechia
The Lennon Wall
One of the Czech Republic’s most famous attractions! Standing proudly in the country’s wonderful city centre of Prague is the John Lennon Wall, or, Lennon Wall; a mural dedicated to the former musician John Lennon. Prior to the 1980s, this wall was typical, ordinary, and mundane. But since, the wall has become a creative outlet! Covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti, Beatles lyrics, and designs dedicated to local and global causes. The Lennon Wall is located in a secluded, small square just across from the French embassy, and is very popular amongst locals and international visitors. So, make sure to arrive early to avoid the queues! Why not snap a quick Instagram photo, or tour through the many love poems, quotes, and pieces of art across the wall? This location is incredibly inspiring so make sure to pop it on your Czech Republic trip itinerary.
Location: Velkopřevorské nám., 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia
The Dancing House
An architectural wonder! The Dancing House, located in Prague, is one of the most famous buildings in the world. Known for its unique deconstructivist appearance making the building look as if it is dancing, the Dancing House is a truly iconic structure. It was designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić, the building has stood in Prague since 1996. The Dancing House needs to be seen to be appreciated! Stand in awe at the exterior of this fascinating structure, or visit the top floor of the building wherein you can admire the Czech Republic’s Capital from this unique viewing platform. The Dancing House is one of the most photogenic spots in Prague so make sure to stop by!
Location: Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město, Czechia
The Cesky Krumlov Castle
Located in Cesky Krumlov, in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, lies the magnificent Cesky Krumlov Castle. This castle is a truly majestic, architectural gem: a sight to behold! Founded by a Czech noble family in 1240, Cesky Krumlov Castle nowadays holds a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List and therefore attracts visitors
from all over the world. The castle overlooks the town of Cesky Krumlov, so a climb to the viewing platform boasts breathtaking views that you just won’t have access to anywhere else! Why not book on one of the many guided castle tours? Here, you will have access to not only the castle and viewing platform but also the castle museum wherein you can immerse yourself in the history of this incredible site.
Location: Latrán 3, Latrán, 381 01 Český Krumlov, Czechia
Old Town Square
Old Town Square is a historic square sitting comfortably at the heart of the Czech Republic’s capital city. The square is one of the most visited spots in the entire city and is very often crowded, so avoid early to avoid busy crowds! Old Town Square is incredibly beautiful and truly feels like you are taking a step back in time. In fact, the square is oftentimes considered one of the most beautiful squares in the entire world! There is so much to see and do. Have a look at the Old Town Hall, St.Nicholas Church, or the above-described Astronomical Clock. Visit at Easter to tour around the Prague markets, or better yet during the Christmas period! Make sure to research the best things to do in the square itself prior to your trip so you don’t miss out on anything!
Location: Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
