Czech Republic Travel Guide

Its Architecture is Beautifully Intact

No country has burst more colourfully onto the world’s stage since the collapse of the Iron Curtain than the Czech Republic.

It’s one of the youngest countries in the world – born as the result of the Velvet Divorce with the Slovak Republic in 1993, which in turn flowed from the Velvet Revolution and freedom from the USSR in 1989.

The star of the republic’s show is its capital Prague, the resplendent, glorious jewel in its  the Second World War and then hidden behind the Iron Curtain, its architecture is beautifully intact. The Golden City, with its sprawling castle, gargoyle-festooned cathedral and historic Charles Bridge, deserves all its top billing but the Czech Republic has much more waiting in the wings.

There is no better place to start than Prague but don’t forget that along with its awesome sights it is also home to cosy pubs and street cafes – perfect places to watch the world go by and taste some of the best beers in the world.

Beyond Prague lies a fairytale land of castles, forests and picturesque towns such as ČCeský Krumlov, embraced by a meander of the Vltava River, and the medieval city of Kutná Hora in the heart of Bohemia.

Czech cuisine will keep you energised with its rich meat dishes, its dumplings (savoury and sweet) and, of course, famous Czech beer to wash it down with. Visit at Christmas time and be enticed with the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. The great news is that the Czech Republic is also sprinkled with spa towns – the perfect way perhaps to soak away a few too many dumplings!

Prague Highlights
Prague Castle - the largest medieval castle in the world & the jewel of the Czech capital. The castle also contains an exhibition of Czech history and a collection of Bohemian art.

Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock - in the heart of the Old Town surrounded by charming baroque, Gothic and rococo architecture, the Old Town Square is a great place to hang around, have lunch at one of its many cafes, browse at the market stalls or just wait for the Astronomical Clock to do its thing!

The Jewish Quarter - the oldest Jewish settlement in Europe, consists of beautiful historic buildings comprising six synagogues. Discover the tragic part of Jewish history at the Jewish Museum.

Charles Bridge - dating back to 1357 this statue bedecked bridge is one of the most popular tourist spots in Prague, vibrant by day or night, scattered with vendors and entertainers. It offers some magnificent views especially early in the morning and around sunset.

David Cerny - hunt out the sculptures by David Cerny around the city, they are quite controversial but quirky and pretty cool. Like the babies climbing up the side of the TV tower or the upside down King Wenceslas.

Municipal House - this art nouveau building is lovely and houses the biggest concert hall in town.

Day trips - if time allows then a day trip to Ceský Krumlov, Kutná Hora or Karlovy Vary is well worth it.