Ready for your dream Czech Republic vacation? From the bridges of Prague to the castles of Český Krumlov, the spas of Karlovy Vary to the cathedrals of Brno, this guide outlines the ultimate Czech itinerary.
These easy-to-use itineraries help you czech off the best things to do in the Czech Republic. Gothic towers, beer culture, UNESCO towns, castle tours, and storybook scenery.
Want to make your Czech Republic trip even more special? Learn basic Czech before you go
- Prague: A fairytale city of spires, cobblestones, and castle views—where Gothic meets Bohemian in every backstreet.
- Český Krumlov: Straight out of a storybook—this UNESCO-listed town charms with its castle, river bends, and medieval flair.
- Karlovy Vary: Spa-town elegance with hot springs, colonnades, and that classic Wes Anderson-style pastel charm.
- Kutná Hora: Gothic drama meets eerie beauty—home to the bone-decorated Sedlec Ossuary and St. Barbara’s Cathedral.
- Brno: The Czech Republic’s second city serves up hip cafés, underground labyrinths, and buzzing student energy.
- Olomouc: A baroque gem with fountains, quiet charm, and a Holy Trinity Column that rivals anything in Prague.
- Plzeň (Pilsen): The birthplace of Pilsner beer—come for brewery tours, beer museums, and hearty Czech pub culture.
- Telč: A tiny Renaissance jewel with a perfectly preserved square, pastel townhouses, and fairytale reflections in every direction.
- Mariánské Lázně: Elegant and peaceful—this Belle Époque spa town is all fountains, promenades, and forested serenity.
- Třebíč: A historical crossroads of Jewish and Christian cultures, with UNESCO-listed synagogues and basilicas side by side.
- Litomyšl: A charming cultural town with a grand Renaissance château, classical concerts, and artistic flair.
- Znojmo: A South Moravian treasure with medieval streets, wine cellars, and dramatic views over the Dyje River.
- Kroměříž: A hidden baroque masterpiece—think lavish archbishop’s palace, flower gardens, and quiet grandeur.
💡 Czech Republic Tips
- Cash is king: While card payments are becoming more common, many smaller restaurants and shops still prefer cash (Czech koruna).
- Public transport is excellent: Trams, buses, and metros are punctual and cheap — especially in Prague. Always validate your ticket!
- Beer is cheaper than water: Literally. And Czech beer is world-renowned, so take full advantage.
- Tipping is expected: Round up or leave about 10% at restaurants. Always tip in cash, even if you pay by card.
- Avoid exchanging money on the street: Use official exchange offices or withdraw from ATMs at banks to avoid scams.
- Try to speak a few Czech words: Locals appreciate any attempt, even a simple “Děkuji” (thank you).
- Respect quiet hours: Noise after 10 p.m. in residential areas is frowned upon and sometimes illegal.
- Smoking is banned indoors: Smoking in restaurants and pubs has been banned since 2017 — a big shift for the country.
- Jaywalking can result in fines: Wait for green lights, especially in cities like Prague.
- Use local SIMs or eSIMs: Czech mobile data is affordable and widely available if you’re staying for more than a few days.
- Don’t just visit Prague: Explore Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora, Karlovy Vary, and the stunning Moravian countryside.
🇨🇿 Czech Republic Menu
- Svíčková na smetaně (Bohemia): Marinated sirloin beef in a creamy root vegetable sauce, served with bread dumplings and cranberry sauce.
- Vepřo knedlo zelo (Nationwide): Roast pork with sauerkraut and soft bread dumplings — the national dish.
- Guláš (Nationwide): A hearty beef stew, often served with dumplings or bread. Czech-style goulash is milder than the Hungarian version.
- Řízek (Nationwide): A Czech-style schnitzel, usually made of pork or chicken, breaded and fried to golden perfection.
- Bramboráky (Nationwide): Crispy potato pancakes seasoned with garlic and marjoram, often served as a snack or side.
- Knedlíky (Nationwide): Steamed or boiled bread dumplings, a staple side dish with nearly every Czech meal.
- Smažený sýr (Nationwide): Deep-fried cheese (usually Edam or Hermelín), served with tartar sauce and fries or salad.
- Utopenci (Bohemia): Pickled sausages soaked in vinegar, onions, and spices — a classic beer snack.
- Koláče (Moravia): Sweet pastries filled with poppy seed, jam, or quark cheese — often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
- Česnečka (Nationwide): Garlic soup typically made with potatoes, croutons, and sometimes topped with cheese or ham — a go-to comfort food.
- Pečená kachna (Bohemia): Roasted duck served with red cabbage and dumplings — a festive and beloved dish.
- Hermelín (Nationwide): Czech camembert-style cheese, served pickled in oil and spices or grilled as a vegetarian main.
- Czech Beer (Nationwide): Pilsner was born here (in Plzeň), and the country leads the world in beer consumption — try Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, and local microbrews.
📅 Czech Republic Calendar
- Bohemian Carnevale (February, Prague): Masked parades and baroque balls in the capital
- Easter Markets (March–April, Nationwide): Hand-painted eggs, braided whips, and Czech sweets
- Flora Olomouc Flower Festival (April & August, Olomouc): Czechia’s biggest horticultural show with themed exhibitions and floral art
- Czech Beer Festival (May, Prague): Tents, music, and dozens of local brews
- Ještěd SkyRace (May, Liberec): Mountain running event offering stunning views and a fun atmosphere
- Prague Spring International Music Festival (May–June, Prague): World-class classical performances in historic venues
- United Islands Festival (June, Prague): Free outdoor music on city islands
- Olomouc Baroque Festival (June, Olomouc): Concerts, open-air performances, and guided walks celebrating Baroque heritage
- Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July, Karlovy Vary): Eastern Europe’s most prestigious red carpet event
- Slavnosti Piva (Beer Fest) (July, České Budějovice & Plzeň): Music, folk costumes, and endless pints
- Colours of Ostrava (July, Ostrava): Multi-genre music in a steel factory-turned-festival park
- International Folklore Festival (August, Strážnice): Dancers, musicians, and traditions from across Europe
- Brno Day (August, Brno): Historical reenactments and fireworks celebrating the city’s resilience
- Harvest Wine Festivals (September, Mikulov & Znojmo): Grape parades, tastings, music
- Liberec Film Festival for Children & Youth (September, Liberec): A creative festival with screenings and workshops for families
- Signal Light Festival (October, Prague): Dramatic light installations transform city buildings at night
- Christmas Markets (Late November–December, Prague, Brno & Český Krumlov): Mulled wine, handmade ornaments, and cozy winter magic