25 Best Places to Visit in the Czech Republic

When most people think of the Czech Republic, they automatically think of Prague. While it’s definitely a gem of a city, this country has so much more to offer. Go beyond Prague, get off the popular tourist path, and head to some of the most beautiful and interesting destinations you’ll ever experience. Your endless Google search of where to go in the Czech Republic ends right now. Here are the best places to visit in the Czech Republic.

1. Kutna Hora

The “City of Silver” is a day trip from Prague you won’t want to miss. The UNESCO World Heritage site remains one of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic for any history buff. Experience architectural jewels at their finest as the houses and churches you’ll walk by ooze with historical significance. No trip to Kutná Hora is complete without experiencing the creepy, yet crowning gem of the city, Bone Church. Bone Church (aka Sedlec Ossuary) is an intriguing Roman Catholic chapel decorated with the bones of more than 40,000 people! If you’ve been wondering where to go in the Czech Republic for a truly unique and interesting experience, look no further than Kutná Hora and the Bone Church.

2. Cesky Krumlov

Head to the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic to experience the medieval masterpiece that is Český Krumlov. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a renowned 13th-century castle that boasts Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements. At the top of the belltower you can take in stunning views of the Vltava River and the Old Town. Cobblestone streets wind through the city as you soak in the beauty of this picturesque town. Nature lovers continually put Český Krumlov at the top of their list of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic as you can enjoy hiking and biking in the woods or rafting on the Vltava River. This medieval city is the perfect way to experience the Czech Republic beyond Prague.

3. Holasovice

The debate of the best towns in the Czech Republic always includes Holašovice. You’ll definitely want to see the rustic beauty for yourself as the village has been well preserved. The South Bohemian folk Baroque buildings dating back to the 18th century and 23 farmsteads situated on a wonderful baroque farm surrounding the lovely village green is a charming site to see. While, the fish pond and the chapel of St. John of Nepomuk highlight the village green, it also makes for great photo ops. You’re sure to fall in love with this quaint and well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage Site, Holašovice.

4. Trebic

The town of Třebíč is an ideal destination whether you want to relax, discover historical sites or be active and explore unspoiled nature. Housing many well-known sites, Třebíč is best known for its Jewish Quarter and the Basilica of St. Procopius, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With tremendous historic and cultural significance, the Jewish Quarter is one of the largest in Europe, and reminds us of how Christian and Jewish societies coexisted well, until the Holocaust. Beside being a town of UNESCO monuments, Třebíč also happens to be one of the cleanest ecologically areas in the Czech Republic with breathtaking beautifully scenic landscape surrounding the town. Nature lovers will simply love this town. With direct buses to and from Prague there are no excuse not to visit the delightful town of Třebíč.

5. Telc

If you love Italian Renaissance architecture, then Telč is one of the best places to go in the Czech Republic for you. You’ll probably want to begin your visit by walking into the fairy tale that is Telč’s 17th-century chateau. After you’ve enjoyed the beauty of the chateau, there are plenty of other things to do to fill your itinerary. Wander into the town square where you’ll be surrounded by brightly-colored Baroque and Renaissance houses, or head to one of the many crystal-clear fish ponds in the area. Telč is a sleepy town, and you can easily explore all of its wonderful sights on foot. Named an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, the chateau and gorgeous town square attract tourists from all over the world, it’s about time you join them.

6. Zdar nad Sazavou

For those who love to be active, Žďár nad Sázavou tops the list of the best cities to visit in the Czech Republic. You can come in the summer and enjoy cycling and bathing, while in the winter Žďár nad Sázavou doubles as a cross country skiing resort. Along with being a great place to stay active, it’s also home to one of Jan Blažej Santini’s best architectural works, the pilgrimage church dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk. As a major rail link between Prague and Brno, you’ll have no trouble getting to and around the active city of Žďár nad Sázavou.

7. Litomysl

Known as the birthplace of composer Bedřich Smetana, Litomyšl is an East Bohemian town with a lot to offer. Some of the main attractions include a castle, a wine vault, and a stunning main square. The immaculately preserved Litomyšl castle houses one of the only five  preserved Baroque theatrettes in the world and is also the birthplace and childhood residence of Bedřich Smetana. Among the prettiest main squares you’ll find, Litomyšl’s 500 meter long main square is lined with colorful arcarde-fronted houses dating back to the Renaissance period. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss. As for the wine connoisseurs, head to the wine vault for some delicious and free mulled wine. Delicious local wines will be the cherry on top of your visit to Litomyšl.

8. Olomouc

Olomouc is an underappreciated city that will be a pleasant surprise during your time in the Czech Republic. Located on the Morava River, Olomouc is well-known for its six Baroque fountains and the 18th-century Holy Trinity Column. Those who love sightseeing will experience true bliss in Olomouc, as it has countless things to do and see. This university city always has something going on, so you’ll never be bored. For the adventurous foodies, make sure to try Olomouc’s local speciality, tvarůžky. Tvarůžky is created from unset sour curd cheese and is renowned for its distinctive tangy taste and aroma. From palaces and churches, to the theatre and tours of the city, there’s no wonder why Olomouc is one of the best places to see in the Czech Republic.

9. Kromeriz

Kroměříž is synonomous with exotic plants, colorful flowers, and exqusite fountains, but those are only some of the beautiful things you’ll see when you explore Kroměříž. The town’s main attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kroměříž Castle. Kroměříž Castle is a great example of a well preserved European Baroque palace with impressive gardens, including the famous Pleasure Garden which is considered one of Europe’s finest gardens. Interestingly enough, this castle was a filming location for Amadeus and Immortal Beloved – Are you planning to add more links or this just remained here by accident?. After you’ve explored Kroměříž, take time to relax and smell the roses in one of its many parks. As you take in the fresh air and gorgeous surroundings, you’ll be confident that Kroměříž is one of the best towns in the Czech Republic.

10. Lednice-Valtice

Also known as the “Garden of Europe”, Lednice-Valtice is an artificial landscape that perfectly combines an English romantic countryside with Baroque architecture and the neo-Gothic style of the castles of Lednice and Valtice. In addition to the castles, there are also several pavilions that function as chateaus or hunting lodges. Its park is absolutely magnificent. It’s full of romantic buildings, fish ponds, and rare tree species. Lednice-Valtice has a special character about it, and words just can’t do it justice. If you’re looking for gorgeous things to see in the Czech Republic, start planning your trip to Lednice-Valtice.

11. Pilsen

Though popular for being the birthplace of Pilsner lager, there’s so much more to the Plzeň than just beer. Some of Plzeň’s major sites include the Great Synagogue, the second largest and third in the whole world synagogue in Europe, and the highest tower in the Czech Republic, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral. Also a great destination for children, the little ones will love the Puppet Museum, the Techmania Science Center, and the Plzeň Zoo. However, if you’re a beer lover, and need to know what to see in the Czech Republic, then the Brewery Museum and the Pilsner Urquell Brewery is calling your name. When you add to all of the great sights mentioned above,  a charming town square and historic underground tunnels, there’s really no reason you shouldn’t add Plzeň to your Czech Republic itinerary.

12. Brno

If you’re looking for authentic Czech ambiance without all the tourists, then Brno should definitely be on your list of the top places to visit in the Czech Republic. Though once portrayed as a boring and dull place, Brno is now a lively place of innovation and creativity thanks to the younger crowd and university students. There is no shortage of delicious eateries, wine cellars, microbreweries, and pubs. Anyone who loves sightseeing will be in paradise as you can choose from palaces, churches, town squares, and so much more. Brno is also the ideal base from which to explore the rest of the South Moravian Region as throughout the South Moravian Region you can enjoy hiking and biking trails, and spend some time in wine country. Before you leave, don’t forget that no trip to Brno is complete without a picture with the hanging crocodile, aka the Brno dragon.

13. Karlovy Vary

One of the best things to do in the Czech Republic is relax in a spa, and there’s no better place to do that then Karlovy Vary. Part of the famed West Bohemian Spa Triangle, Karlovy Vary is Czech Republic’s most renowned spa town. In the lush valley of Karlovy Vary, water abounds as it is home to the warm-water Teplá River, 13 main hot springs, and 300 smaller springs. After enjoying the spa, marvel at the wonderful colonnades and Art Nouveau and Baroque buildings surrounding the area. With aquatherapy, drinkable mineral-rich water, and much more, you’re sure to leave Karlovy Vary refreshed and rejuvenated.

14. Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Hikers! Grab a pen and add Bohemian Switzerland National Park to your list of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic. Only two hours from Prague, not only is the park known for its valleys and sandstone rock formations, but also for its waterfalls. One of the best things to do is hike and climb your way through the lovely pine forest to Pravčická brána, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch. Even if hiking isn’t your thing, the beauty of Bohemian Switzerland National Park will take your breath away, while the multiple viewpoints make for perfect photo opps. Though many people prefer to book a professional guide to hike Bohemian Switzerland National Park, you can definitely tackle the trails on your own. The scenery of Bohemian Switzerland National Park is straight out of a story book, and you don’t want to be one of the many who miss this unspoiled natural gem.

15. Terezin

This former military fortress is probably best known for being a prison that  later became a Jewish ghetto and the Czech Republic’s largest concentration camp. Deceived into believing Adolf Hitler had built a city to relieve Jews of the stresses of the war, nearly 200,000 people were led 40 miles north of Prague to the concentration camp. While in Terezín, you can tour the concentration camp as well as the monument dedicated to Holocaust victims. While it may not have the glitz and glam of other destinations in the Czech Republic, Terezín offers you a rich and humbling historic experience you won’t soon forget.

16. Krkonose National Park

Krkonoše National Park is home to the Czech Republic’s highest mountain, Sněžka (Snow Mountain) at 1602 meters. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the park year around to explore nature and do winter sports. With many fauna species dating back to the last glacial era, Krkonoše National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The landscape and its tundra create ideal terrain and conditions for skiing, snowboarding, snowkiting, and more. Even though it’s particularly popular in the winter, the Czech Republic’s oldest national park is worth visiting any time of year.

17. Karlstejn Castle

Perched above the Berounka River, Karlštejn Castle is one of the most well-known and most visited castles in the Czech Republic. Designed by Czech king Charles IV to store holy relics, royal treasures, and crown jewels, the castle is truly magnificent. The most stunning part is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is decorated with gold and gemstones dating back more than 500 years. To complement the beauty of the castle, the grounds are surrounded by lush vineyards and forests. Just seeing pictures of Karlštejn Castle will show you why it’s one of the top places to visit in the Czech Republic, but you really have to go see it for yourself to experience its true beauty.

18. Moravian Karst

More than 1,100 caverns and gorges make up Central Europe’s most important karst area. Along with touring the caves, many visitors enjoy the hiking and biking paths. The absolute must-see sights are the Punkva Caves. Not only can you take a tour, but you can also take a cruise through the underground River Punkva. During the cruise you’ll be able to see Moravian Karst’s main attraction, the Macocha Abyss. The result of a ceiling collapse in an underground cave chamber, at 138 meters deep, the Macocha Abyss is the largest gorge in Central Europe. Moravian Karst is a natural wonder that’s guaranteed to impress any visitor.

19. Podyji National Park

The Czech Republic’s smallest national park packs a big punch. Boasting a lovely landscape and home to 77 species of plants, the warm climate makes it a wonderful place to see. As you hike, bike, or ride a horse through the park, rare butterflies, green lizards, and black storks are only a few of the animals you may see along your journey. The Thaya River winds through the park and adds an irresistible charm to your time in Podyjí National Park. It’s also highlighted by the Czech Republic’s most famous vineyard, Šobes Vineyard. Visited by guests like Queen Elizabeth II for their exquisite wines, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to indulge in tasting world class wine while basking in the beauty of Podyjí National Park.

20. Liberec

Once the largest manufacturing city in the Kingdom of Bohemia, Liberec is now an exciting city that deserves to be explored. Start your visit in the main square where you’ll see the impressive towers of Liberec’s City Hall. The local museums are also a big hit, with the spectacular North Bohemian Museum and the interactive iQPARK being some of the most popular. If you’ve come to relax, then Centrum Babylon is the place for you. An entertainment and wellness complex for guests of all ages, Centrum Babylon has everything from massages to laser tag. If you’re looking to add more excitement to your itinerary, add a day trip to the Jizera Mountains or the nearby popular ski resorts. This often overlooked city of Liberec is truly a great getaway for the whole family!

21. Ostrava

Ostrava is one of the Czech Republic’s best hidden gems. Admire colorful and charming buildings as you stroll down Masaryk Square, get the best view of the city at Czech Republic’s tallest town hall, or experience miniature models of famous landmarks around the world at Miniuni Miniature Park. For the adventurous travelers, explore underground coal mines and museums or go rafting down the Ostrava river. If you want to party all night, make your way to Stodolní Street, after all it is the street that never sleeps! In Ostrava, you’ll experience not just all the great sights but also authentic Czech hospitality and great local cuisine. With all that is has to offer, Ostrava won’t be a hidden gem for much longer.

22. Ceske Budejovice

Home to the Budweiser Budvar Brewery, no trip to České Budějovice is complete without a brewery tour. For those who aren’t big drinkers, South Bohemia’s capital city is full of architectural beauty. It’s home to one of Europe’s largest main squares which boasts stately Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings. The square also has one of the best places to get a lovely view of the city, the Black Tower. In addition to all that České Budějovice has to offer, there are many hiking and biking trails as well as historic villages and towns nearby. The next time you’re thinking about heading to Prague, escape the tourists and make your way to České Budějovice.

23. Bohemian Paradise

This UNESCO geopark is sure to inspire. Bohemian Paradise is a perfect combination of unique rock formations, impressive castles, magnificent villages, and deep pine forests. There are countless sights to see, including many chateaus and ruins. Super popular for climbing, Hruboskalsko is one of the most popular rock cities there, and is well known for its rock formations. Whether you want to relax and take photos or be active, Bohemian Paradise is not to be missed.

24. Mikulov

Mikulov is a quiet town nestled in the heart of a wine region just a few kilometers from the Austrian border. Though famous for it long history of exquisite wine production, this small vineyard paradise has more to offer than just wine. Active travelers such as cyclist can enjoy over 1200 km of cycling paths while swimmers can dive into the many natural pools and lakes. For history buffs or those just looking to explore Mikulov, you’ll be happy to know Mikulov has numerous educational tourist paths  which will lead you through Mikulov’s natural beauties, vineyards, and interesting monuments such as the former Liechtenstein and later Diestrichstein chateau which dominates the Mikulov skyline, the Jewish quarters, or the Turodl Caves. Whether you’re a wine lover, active traveler, history buff or just looking for an eco-friendly destination you won’t regret a visiting in the enchanting nature of Mikulov!

25. Prague

Okay, I know you were wondering why you haven’t seen Prague on our list of best places to visit in the Czech Republic, well here it is. There’s no question that Prague is the Czech Republic’s crown jewel as millions flock here to experience the beauty and romance the city breathes. Packed with culture, history and entertainment, it’s hard to run out of things to do in Prague. Cathedrals, towers, bridges and beautiful architectural buildings decorate the city, while traditional Czech taverns and historic pubs set the scene for a great night.

Now that you know the best places to visit in the Czech Republic, you can experience the true beauty and history of the whole country, and not just Prague!