Everyone can enjoy a holiday in the Czech Republic. Once known by its ancient name of the Kingdom of Bohemia, the Czech Republic offers a wonderful mix of romance, history, and culture. There are unspoilt natural landscapes, fascinating monuments, and a modern, entertaining nightlife. Whatever the season, visitors can look forward to a memorable holiday break with plenty of outdoor activities.
Bohemia, the largest region within the Czech Republic, lies in the west of the country. It is noted for its well-preserved Mediaeval architecture, particularly in Prague, the country's capital. The area has more than its fair share of fairytale castles, charming town squares and welcoming pavement cafes. The mineral-rich springs of nearby spa towns such as Marienbad have been offering comfortable relaxation for more than 200 years.
The Czech Republic is famous for the beauty of its natural landscapes. From the Krkonose National Park north of Prague, to the White Carpathian Mountains in the south-east, there are countless hiking trails threading through riverside valleys and vast tracts of ancient forests. During the winter, the Czech Republic is one of the best and most affordable European destinations for skiing and snowboarding.
The arts flourish in the Czech Republic. The Prague Spring International Music Festival is held annually and often features classical works by local nineteenth-century composer, Antonin Dvorak. The city's many vibrant nightclubs and the Metronome Festival showcase contemporary live music. High-quality restaurants and bistros offer varied menus often accompanied by Pilsner, a locally brewed lager.
U Staré pošty 247/6, 147 00 Praha 4-Braník, Czechia
Thámova 117, 186 00 Karlín, Czechia
Koulova 1501/15, 160 45 Praha 6, Czechia
Prague attracts scores of tourists with its picturesque beauty and rich history spanning over a millennium. Dating back to 870 AD, this historic city has survived overthrows, invasions, fires and floods over the years and still came above everything with resilience. Today, its churches, hilltop castles and statue-lined bridges paint a picture of an urban fairy tale that charms even the most jaded traveller.
City’s top attractions include, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and Prague Jewish Museum. It is one of the best-preserved centres in Europe with narrow alleys of the Old Town leading to spectacular squares and historical buildings just waiting to be explored. Anywhere you look, you’ll find fine examples of baroque, renaissance and gothic architecture. In fact, the city has been nicknamed the "city of a thousand spires" because of majestic views of beautiful domed churches and soaring old towers.
Currency:You’ll be spending Czech Koruna or Crown.
Language:Czech!
Local Time:One hour ahead of BST, two hours ahead of GMT.
Flight time from the UK:Approximately one hour, fifty minutes.
Tourist Information:Visit the official Czech Republic tourist information site for lots of helpful information regarding upcoming events, where to go, what to do, and how to get around.
Health/Travel Restrictions:To travel to the Czech Republic, British citizens need a valid passport. A visa is not required. For up to date travel advice and health recommendations visit the government’s travel advice for the Czech Republic.
A: May and September have good weather while being less busy, but January is best for skiing.
A: It's relatively inexpensive.
A: Jested is a favourite day trip from Prague. Moninec and Spinleruv Myln are also popular.
Prague Castle dates back to 870. It's now the President's residence and home of the Bohemian Crown Jewels. It regularly hosts music, puppetry and Shakespeare festivals. The Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Hall was crafted in 1410. It's still in perfect working order, and decorated with the Apostles and zodiac signs. The Church of Our Lady before Tyn is one of Prague's 500 churches. The foundations are eleventh century, but the distinctive Gothic twin towers were added 300 years later.
City tours are an entertaining way to discover more of Prague's landmarks and legends. Visitors can choose walking and cycling tours, or enjoy a leisurely wander through the city in a horse-drawn carriage. Cruises along the Vltava River usually pause at Kampa Island which features a museum and gardens devoted to modern art.
There are many outdoor pursuits to enjoy in the Czech Republic. Michelsky Les is a 3 square kilometre city forest that's just a few minutes from Wenceslas Square. It's ideal for family walks, cycling and bird watching. The Prokopske Udoli nature reserve to the south-west has rugged hiking trails that follow a deep gorge and valley, while providing amazing views of Prague.
The summers are generally warm and dry. The temperature in July, the hottest month, often reaches 24°C (75°F). June is frequently the wettest month with at least nine days of rain. Winter lasts between December and February. January is usually the coldest month with temperatures averaging 0°C (32°F). Prague often has light snow showers throughout winter.
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