Travel Guide to Czech Republic

Czech Republic offers an extraordinary concentration of beauty, history, and culture in a compact, affordable package. From Prague's Gothic spires and Baroque palaces to Cesky Krumlov's fairytale medieval streets, from world-renowned beer culture to dramatic castle complexes, from spa towns to hiking trails, Czech Republic delivers remarkable experiences at prices significantly lower than Western European neighbors.

Most trips revolve around several key themes: historic Prague, medieval towns and castles, beer culture, spa towns, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences.

Prague is one of Europe's most beautiful cities, miraculously preserved through wars and political upheaval. The compact historic center is a masterpiece of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture.

• Old Town (Staré Město):
• Old Town Square** – Historic heart with the Gothic Tyn Church, Baroque St. Nicholas Church, and crowds gathering every hour for the Astronomical Clock show.
• Astronomical Clock** – Medieval marvel on Old Town Hall (orloj) dating to 1410, showing astronomical dial, calendar, and animated apostle figures.
• Jewish Quarter (Josefov)** – Historic synagogues, old Jewish cemetery, and powerful Jewish Museum documenting centuries of Jewish life.

• Charles Bridge (Karlův Most):

• Prague Castle (Pražský hrad):
• St. Vitus Cathedral** – Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass by Mucha.
• Old Royal Palace** – with the Vladislav Hall.
• Golden Lane** – tiny colorful houses where castle guards once lived.
• Castle gardens** – offering panoramic city views.

• Lesser Town (Malá Strana):

• Other Prague Highlights:
• Wenceslas Square** – modern boulevard, shopping, and site of historic protests.
• Petřín Hill** – green space with observation tower (mini Eiffel Tower), mirror maze, and funicular.
• Dancing House** – Frank Gehry's modern deconstructivist building on the riverfront.
• Vyšehrad** – historic fortress with cemetery, churches, and peaceful park overlooking the river.

• First-timer tip:** A classic Prague itinerary is 3-4 days exploring the city, with day trips to Kutna Hora, Karlštejn Castle, or Cesky Krumlov. Arrive early at major sites to beat crowds and tourist groups.

Czech Republic has over 2,000 castles and chateaux, from medieval fortresses to Baroque palaces.

• Cesky Krumlov:

• Kutna Hora:
• Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church)** – Small chapel decorated with 40,000+ human bones arranged in chandeliers, coats of arms, and pyramids. Macabre but fascinating.
• St. Barbara's Cathedral** – Stunning Gothic cathedral with intricate vaulting and mining-themed frescoes.
• Italian Court** – Former royal mint where silver coins were produced.

• Major Castles:
• Karlštejn Castle** – Imposing Gothic fortress 30 km from Prague, built by Charles IV to house crown jewels and holy relics. Book guided tours in advance.
• Hluboká Castle** – Romantic neo-Gothic white castle resembling Windsor Castle, near Ceske Budejovice.
• Konopiště Castle** – Former residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, filled with his hunting trophies and armor collection.
• Lednice-Valtice** – UNESCO-listed landscape with two chateaux and 200 sq km of parks, ponds, and follies in South Moravia.

• Charming Towns:
• Telč** – UNESCO town with stunning Renaissance square surrounded by pastel houses with arcades.
• Třeboň** – Historic town surrounded by fishponds, famous for carp breeding.
• Mikulov** – Picturesque wine town in South Moravia with castle and Jewish heritage.

Czech Republic has the world's highest beer consumption per capita and invented pilsner beer. Beer (pivo) is cheaper than water, integral to culture, and brewed to exceptionally high standards.

• Beer Pilgrimage Sites:
• Pilsner Urquell Brewery, Plzeň** – Birthplace of pilsner beer in 1842. Tours include underground cellars and fresh unfiltered beer.
• Budvar Brewery, České Budějovice** – Original Budweiser (not related to American version), with excellent tours.
• U Fleků, Prague** – Prague's oldest brewery (since 1499), serving only dark lager brewed on-site.

• Prague Beer Culture:
• Traditional pubs** – U Medvídků, U Zlatého Tygra (Havel's favorite), Lokál (modern chain with traditional beer).
• Beer gardens** – Letná Beer Garden (best views), Riegrovy Sady (local hangout).
• Modern craft scene** – Dva Kohouti, Beer Geek Bar, BeerGeek Bottle Shop.

• Beer Spa Towns:

• Beer Etiquette:
• When toasting, say "Na zdraví!" (nah ZDRAH-vee) and make eye contact.
• Standard serving is 0.5L; smaller 0.3L available.
• Froth (pěna) indicates freshness – good Czech beer should have 2-4 cm of foam.
• Don't tip by leaving money – round up when paying.

Czech Republic's spa tradition dates to medieval times, with thermal springs attracting royalty, writers, and celebrities.

• Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad):

• Mariánské Lázně (Marienbad):

• Františkovy Lázně:

Modern spa hotels offer treatments from traditional drinking cures and baths to modern wellness therapies.

• Music and Arts:
• Classical music** – Prague Spring Festival (May-June), concerts in historic churches and palaces.
• Black Light Theatre** – uniquely Czech art form using UV light and fluorescent costumes.
• Marionettes** – traditional Czech puppet theater, especially Mozart operas.
• Mucha Museum** – Art Nouveau master Alfons Mucha's works in Prague.

• Czech Cuisine:
• Svíčková** – beef sirloin in creamy vegetable sauce with cranberries and dumplings.
• Vepřo-knedlo-zelo** – roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut (national dish).
• Guláš** – rich beef goulash with dumplings (knedlíky).
• Trdelník** – sweet spiral pastry (actually Slovak but found everywhere in Prague).
• Bramboráky** – potato pancakes, often with sauerkraut or sour cream.
• Smažený sýr** – fried cheese, surprisingly delicious.
• Palačinky** – thin crepes with various fillings.

• Christmas Markets:

• Bohemian Switzerland (České Švýcarsko):

• Krkonoše (Giant Mountains):

• Šumava National Park:

• Moravian Karst (Moravský kras):

• Vltava River – Rafting and kayaking through Cesky Krumlov and Prague.
• Labe (Elbe) River – Cycling along scenic river paths in Bohemian Switzerland.
• South Bohemian ponds – Historic fishponds around Třeboň for swimming and relaxation.
• Dyje River – Canoeing through Podyjí National Park along Austrian border.

Spring brings mild weather, blooming gardens, and Easter traditions.

• Easter markets with painted eggs and traditional crafts
• Gardens and parks burst into bloom at Prague Castle, Lednice, and spa towns
• Fewer tourists than summer, pleasant temperatures
• Prague Spring International Music Festival (May-June)

Warm weather perfect for outdoor activities, though peak tourist season with crowds and higher prices.

• Long sunny days (15+ hours of daylight in June)
• Outdoor festivals and concerts throughout the country
• River rafting and swimming in ponds and lakes
• Beer gardens at peak atmosphere
• Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July)
• Street festivals and cultural events in Prague

Excellent shoulder season with beautiful foliage, wine harvest, and comfortable temperatures.

• Colorful fall foliage in forests and parks
• Wine harvest festivals in Moravia
• Fewer crowds at major attractions
• Grape harvest (burčák) – slightly fermented grape juice sold seasonally
• St. Martin's Day (November 11) – traditional goose dinners and wine celebrations

Cold winters with magical Christmas markets and potential snow.

• Christmas markets in Prague, Brno, and other cities (late November-December)
• Winter sports in Krkonoše mountains
• Cozy beer halls and mulled wine
• Lowest accommodation prices (outside Christmas market season)
• Prague beautifully atmospheric with snow and lights
• New Year's Eve fireworks over Charles Bridge

• Hiking – Trails throughout Krkonoše, Bohemian Switzerland, Šumava, and Czech Paradise (Český ráj).
• Cycling – Extensive network of marked routes along rivers (Labe, Vltava) and through countryside.
• Rock Climbing – Bohemian Paradise and Bohemian Switzerland offer sandstone climbing.
• Rafting and Kayaking – Vltava River through Cesky Krumlov, Berounka, and Sázava rivers.
• Skiing and Snowboarding – Krkonoše mountains (Špindlerův Mlýn, Pec pod Sněžkou) and Jeseníky.
• Caving – Guided tours through Moravian Karst caves.
• Via Ferrata – Protected climbing routes in Bohemian Switzerland.

Czech Republic offers exceptional value for accommodation, especially outside Prague.

• Hostel dorm beds: €10–22 per night.
• Private rooms in hostels: €28–50 per night.
• Budget hotels and pensions: €30–55 per night for double rooms.
• Airbnb private rooms: €20–40 per night.

• 3-star hotels: €50–90 per night for double rooms.
• Boutique hotels in Prague: €70–120 per night.
• Airbnb entire apartments: €40–80 per night.
• Historic hotels in smaller towns: €55–95 per night with breakfast.

• 4-star hotels: €100–180 per night.
• 5-star hotels in Prague: €150–350+ per night; suites €250–600+.
• Luxury spa hotels: €120–280 per night in Karlovy Vary.
• Castle hotels: €140–300 per night for historic properties.

• Peak seasons: Summer (June-August) and Christmas markets (late November-December), expect 30-50% higher prices in Prague.
• Shoulder seasons: April-May and September-October offer excellent value with pleasant weather.
• Off-season: January-March (excluding Christmas) see lowest prices and availability.

Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the following can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism:

• United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand
• Most European Union countries
• Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many others

Visa-free entry does not permit paid employment.

Travelers from countries not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a Schengen visa in advance:

• Valid passport (6+ months remaining recommended)
• Completed application form and photos
• Travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage
• Proof of accommodation and return flights
• Financial means (bank statements)
• Processing: 10-15 business days

• Employee Card – For work permits combining visa and work authorization.
• Student Visa – For university or language school enrollment.
• Business Visa – For entrepreneurship or freelancing.
• Family Reunification – For joining family members residing in Czech Republic.

On arrival expect to:

• Present passport and visa (if required) to immigration.
• May be asked about purpose, length of stay, and accommodation.
• Collect baggage and proceed through customs.
• EU citizens use separate lanes with minimal checks.

Declare cash over €10,000. Certain foods, medications, and goods have restrictions.

Czech Republic has a comprehensive healthcare system combining public insurance and private care. The system provides good quality care with modern facilities, though waiting times can be long for non-urgent procedures.

However, tourists are not covered by Czech public insurance and must pay full costs upfront or through private insurance.

• Payment expected at time of service – cash or credit cards accepted.
• Public hospitals serve everyone but can have language barriers; private clinics cater to foreigners.
• English-speaking staff available in Prague and major tourist areas; less common elsewhere.
• Costs significantly lower than United States but higher than some Eastern European neighbors.
• Pharmacies (lékárna) widely available; some medications require prescriptions.

• Routine Care:
• General practitioner visit: €40–90
• Specialist consultation: €60–150
• Prescription medications: €8–40 depending on medication

• Emergency Care:
• Emergency room visit: €120–400 for initial assessment
• Overnight hospital stay: €350–900 per day
• Intensive care unit (ICU): €1,200–3,000 per day
• Emergency surgery: €3,000–12,000+

• Specialized Procedures:
• MRI scan: €250–500
• CT scan: €200–450
• Appendectomy: €2,000–5,500
• Fracture treatment with surgery: €1,500–6,000

• Dental Care:
• Routine cleaning: €35–70
• Filling: €40–120
• Root canal: €150–400
• Crown: €250–700

• Note:** Czech Republic is increasingly popular for dental tourism due to high quality and lower costs than Western Europe or North America.

In serious cases, medical evacuation may be necessary:

• Air ambulance to US East Coast: $165,000–290,000
• Air ambulance to US West Coast: $190,000–340,000
• Commercial flight with medical escort: $15,000–45,000
• Ground ambulance within Czech Republic: €300–1,200

Prague and major tourist areas have hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff:

• Prague:
• Canadian Medical Care (private clinic specializing in expats)
• Na Homolce Hospital (Prague 5, good English services)
• Motol University Hospital (largest in Prague)
• Prague Emergency Medical Services (+420 155)

• Emergency number: 112** (ambulance, fire, police - all emergencies)
• Medical emergencies: 155

Other cities have reduced English availability – having translation apps or hotel assistance helps.

Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, and required for Schengen visa applicants with minimum €30,000 medical coverage.

• Medical Coverage
• Minimum €30,000 (about $33,000) required for Schengen visa.
• Recommended $50,000–100,000 for comprehensive coverage.
• Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency treatment.
• Confirm pre-existing condition coverage.

• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Minimum $100,000; recommended $250,000–500,000.
• Covers evacuation to nearest suitable facility or home country.
• Includes repatriation of remains.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption
• Protects non-refundable costs (flights, hotels, tours).
• Covers cancellation for illness, injury, family emergencies.
• Consider "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) for maximum flexibility.

• Personal Property & Theft
• Pickpocketing extremely common in Prague tourist areas.
• Upgrade coverage to €2,000–3,000 for electronics and valuables.
• Requires police report filed within 24 hours of theft.

• Adventure Sports Coverage
• Standard policies may exclude hiking, rock climbing, skiing, water sports.
• Declare activities when purchasing policy.
• Winter sports riders necessary for Krkonoše skiing.

• Theft: Pickpocketing at Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague public transport, tourist restaurants.
• Scams: Taxi overcharges, restaurant bill padding, currency exchange ripoffs.
• Medical: Minor accidents, food poisoning, hiking injuries, winter sports accidents.
• Trip interruption: Train/bus delays (less common than Western Europe), weather disruptions.

When comparing policies, focus on: - Medical and evacuation limits (meet Schengen minimum €30,000). - Pre-existing condition coverage. - Adventure sports inclusion if hiking, skiing, or water activities planned. - Deductibles and co-pays. - 24/7 assistance with English-language support. - Reputation for handling claims. - Theft coverage particularly important for Prague visits.

For city-focused cultural trips, standard comprehensive coverage works well. For outdoor activities, ensure specific coverage for hiking, skiing, or water sports.

Czech Republic combines stunning beauty, rich history, vibrant beer culture, and exceptional value in one compact, accessible country. From Prague's Gothic masterpieces and Baroque palaces to Cesky Krumlov's fairytale streets, from world-class pilsner breweries to dramatic castles perched on hillsides, from elegant spa towns to hiking trails through sandstone formations, Czech Republic delivers extraordinary experiences at prices significantly lower than Western European neighbors.

With safe cities, efficient public transport, increasingly good English proficiency (especially in Prague), and a compact size allowing easy exploration, Czech Republic welcomes travelers seeking authentic Central European culture without Western European prices. Whether you're walking across Charles Bridge at sunrise, sampling fresh pilsner at a centuries-old brewery, exploring medieval castles, or soaking in thermal springs at a spa town, Czech Republic offers memorable experiences steeped in history and tradition.

The country's position at the heart of Europe makes it easily combined with neighboring Austria, Germany, Poland, or Slovakia. With proper planning around seasons (avoiding peak summer crowds in Prague), accommodation booking, visa requirements, healthcare costs, and comprehensive travel insurance (especially for theft protection in Prague), you'll be well-prepared to explore everything this remarkable country offers.