Best Things to Do in Czech Republic

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If you can imagine, a country whose cities are straight out of a romantic fairytale, gardens that would make any gardener’s dream come true, castles fit for the finest royal gatherings, and landscapes that are worthy of any postcard, that is the Czech Republic. 

This small, but culturally-rich country, is bursting at the seams with amazing and beautiful attractions. The entire country, from the bustling streets of Prague to the quiet trails of Bohemian Switzerland, is a wanderlust dream.

The most visited attractions of the Czech Republic reflect its long history in Europe and the cultures that have made a home in this central European country. 

Below is a list of our Top 10 Czech Republic Attractions you can’t miss when visiting this unique country. 

1. Prague Castle 

Prague Castle is one of the most popular attractions in the country’s most visited city. While all of Prague is a top attraction, along with almost every building, Prague Castle in particular, makes our list for its sheer size and importance in learning about the history of the Czech Republic. Prague Castle was built around 880 and is said to be the largest “coherent castle complex” in the world. 

The castle is a testament to the royal history of the Czech Republic and is made up of multiple palaces and ecclesiastical buildings. It’s also known for its interesting art history. The complex features architectural styles from the Renaissance to Gothic to Romanesque. 

2. Cesky Krumlov

Step into the Czech Republic’s fairytale and medieval atmosphere by visiting Cesky Krumlov. The city is located in South Bohemia and is known for its red-tiled roofs, castle views, riverside cafes, and preserved medieval features. Like Prague, Cesky Krumlov includes a sprawling castle complex that makes up much of heart of the city. Cesky Krumlov is also the starting point for a day trip to the home of Budweiser beer, Ceske Budejovice. 

If you are visiting during the summer, make sure to check out the city’s International Musical Festival which has been taking place in Cesky Krumlov since 1992 or take a step back in time when the city celebrates its medieval history with a three-day Renaissance festival. 

3. Karlovy Vary 

Like many other central European countries, the Czech Republic is known for its spa towns. The most famous of which is Karlovy Vary. Located near the German border, this river city is famous for its 13 major springs and multiple smaller ones. The city has long been used as a resort town by Europeans dating back to the 1300s and has seen the likes of Peter the Great and Beethoven. 

In addition to the relaxing spas, the city is also an architectural masterpiece. Bright yellows, vibrant pinks, and deep reds spot this medieval city along with the delicate and ornate features of Art Noveau and Neoclassical styles. The best time to visit is the summer to partake in the city’s many festivals. 

4. Bohemian Switzerland

No, there is not a part of Switzerland in the Czech Republic. This may be slightly confusing, but Bohemian Switzerland is actually a region in the northern part of the country near the German and Swiss borders.

It takes its name because the landscape is similar to Switzerland and is where you can find some of the most stunning views of the Czech landscape. Crisscrossing this region are large rock formations, forest paths, canyons, and valleys. It’s also home to one of the largest naturally-formed arches in the world -- Pravcicka Brana. 

5. Prague’s Libraries 

Libraries aren’t just a place to study or read, but can also be a major tourist attraction as well. Prague is home to three of Europe’s oldest and charming libraries -- the National Library of Czech Republic, the Philosophical Library, and the Theological Library. The National Library is the largest and is in the Clementinum area of Prague and is famous for its heavy Baroque architecture. 

The other two libraries are located in the Strahov Monastery. The Philosophical is built in a Classical way and is renowned for its frescoes, while the Theological is known for its extensive stucco work. 

6. “The Bone Church” 

The Bone Church in Sedlec is a monument to those that died during the 14th and 16th centuries. The Czech Republic features many of these bone monuments to those that have passed around the country. The Bone Church, specifically, is a collection of the remains of 30,000 to 40,000 individuals that died during the plague and have been arranged in a variety of pieces, such as chandeliers, bells, and a coat of arms. 

It may seem creepy to some, but the macabre artwork was a way to let the massive amount of individuals that wanted to be buried on holy land be able to when there was a lack of space. You can easily visit this site by taking a short train ride from Prague. 

7. Karlstejn Castle 

One of the most visited attractions in the Czech Republic, the Karlstejn Castle was the representative seat for the Holy Roman Emperor and Bohemian King Charles IV. It was originally built to protect the crown jewels, along with other treasures, and is one of the best examples of Czech architecture and government history. 

You can tour the castle and see the historic relics in the Treasury, climb the Marion Tower for views of Bohemia, and check out the creepy dungeons below. Karlstejn Castle is an easy train ride from Prague. 

8. Charles Bridge

Some of the most amazing bridges in the world can tell the history of a destination. The Charles Bridge in Prague is one of those special landmarks. The Charles Bridge is the oldest in the city with construction beginning in 1357. It was named in honor of Emperor Charles IV. The bridge’s most famous features are numerous statues along the expanse of the emperor and saints, including the Czech Republic’s main saint John of Nepomuk. 

The bridge is a favorite amongst travelers for photos of the bridge and the city itself because of its location and structure. We recommend visiting the bridge during dawn or dusk to avoid crowds and to capture the colors of Prague. 

9. Lednice Valtice Cultural Landscape 

It’s time to leave the fairytale cities of the Czech Republic and head into the dreamy country air of the Lednice Valtice Cultural Landscape. The landscape is located in the Lednice Valtice Valley in the Moravia region of the country. This UNESCO site is centered around two estates of the Liechtenstein family that lived in the area during the 13th and 14th centuries. The estates were connected in later years by scenic pathways and trails. 

In the cultural landscape, visitors can visit forest palaces, bike ride, take a carriage ride, go on a boat ride, and take in the Baroque and Romantic architecture that is intertwined into the landscape around it. 

10. Hluboka Chateau

Considered to be the most beautiful chateau in the Czech Republic, the Hluboka Chateau in South Bohemia is the ideal location for romantics. The white, Neo-classical castle was originally built in medieval times and came under the power of the Schwarzenberg family in 1661. The castle is known for its Baroque style that was influenced by one of the Schwarzenberg family member’s numerous visits to England. 

When visiting you can take in the portraits of the Schwarzenberg family, stained glass windows, and massive grounds. The castle offers six different guided tours, depending on what part of the castle you wish to see.