Czech Republic

Updated 2016

Getting off the beaten track in the Czech Republic is still easy but you have to avoid Prague in order to do that. Although, with a bit of research, you can find things to do away from the well beaten path even in popular places.

  • Instead of visiting the famous Prague Castle, make plans to visit the ruins of Vysehrad Castle.
  • Visit a vineyard. Or a brewery.
  • Cycle on the Moravian Wine Trails.
  • Go hiking in the forest.
  • See the flora and fauna in Šumava National Park.

>>read more about Getting off the beaten path in the Czech Republic

Why you should add the Czech Republic to your RTW travel list

Of course, visiting the Czech Republic won’t be complete without seeing some of the major sights that make the country famous. Here are some ideas on what to do if you’ve never been there or plan on staying for a while.

  • Be amazed by Prague Castle, the biggest ancient castle in the world.
  • The country is dotted with superb castles , such as Vranov and Karlštejn.
  • Walk on Charles Bridge in Prague at sunset. Take photos.
  • Spend some time in the Old Town of Prague.
  • Visit a Christmas Market.
  • Get married or spend your honeymoon here.
  • The food might be a bit weird sometimes, but it’s worth it to challenge your senses. “Head cheese” anyone?
  • See the country’s prettiest town: Český Krumlov.
  • Enjoy a spa retreat at Karlovy Vary.
  • Plan a skiing vacation this winter.
  • Shop in Prague.

Read: Indie Travel in the Czech Republic for $45 a Day.

Why you shouldn’t add the Czech Republic to your RTW travel list

  • The Czech Republic is still a cheap option compared to Western Europe but the high season in Prague is not exactly a cheap choice. Make plans to visit the city during the shoulder season.
  • Getting off the beaten path is amazing in the Czech Republic, but you need some knowledge of the local language.

Overview

There was a time when the Czech Republic was a cheap place that was off the beaten down Europe backpacker path. That time no longer exists in Prague but if you are willing to venture to other parts of the country you can still find it.

Head to Brno, the Czech Republic’s second largest city for a taste of what everyday urban life is like outside the capital. Be sure that you get the story of the four idiots from a local and explore the history behind the alligator and the wagon wheel, hanging beneath an arch just off of the main square. Climb all the way to the top of the clock tower for a stunning view of the city. Stop in Cerna Hora, a town made famous by it’s brewery and have a meal beside the giant copper kettle that used to be used to boil the mash.

Visit the Punkva Caves and the Masocha Abyss, the deepest abyss in the country and two of the Czech’s natural wonders. Take the boat tour through the caves and experience the underground adventure to the fullest. Be sure to take the gondola up to the top of the abyss where you can look down into the hole where you’ve previously stood and looked up. Take a picture, and maybe a picnic.

The Czech Republic is a nation oozing with history and charm. Old world castles share space with modern life. Eastern European socialism mixes with western European sophistication. The beer flows freely and is among the best in the world. Even with the crowds and the mass of foreigners in Prague writing their first books, the city is a must-see for anyone heading to Central Europe.

What to do

Of course Prague is the star attraction here. It’s stunningly beautiful, especially the Old City and the giant castle overlooking it. But the newer quarters also offer some delights, with interesting architecture and abundant shopping.

The city of Pilsen is the largest in the province of West Bohemia, and it’s one of many smaller historic towns that are worth a day or two. The famous Pilsner Urquell is brewed here, which is still cheap all over the country.

Read: Czech Drinking Etiquette, a 12 Step Program.

Getting there

You can book a flight into Ruzyne International Airport (code: PRG), which is just a bit outside Prague. When coming from abroad you might consider flying into Vienna (code: VIE) or Munich (code: MUC), which often have lower fares, but not always. Trains are cheap in the Czech Republic, so you can fly into any other nearby city and arrive on rails without spending too much more.

Read: Czech Republic Travel Facts.

Where to stay

There are many hotels in the Czech Republic, and outside of Prague they can be quite inexpensive. In Prague you might also consider one of the many hostels in order to save a bit on your trip.