Formerly part of the Austrian Empire in the 19th century and Czechoslovakia in the 20th century, the Czech Republic is a country overflowing with beautiful historic cities and rich Bohemian culture. So why not visit Czech Republic today?
1. Prague - The Golden City
Prague is one of the top reasons to visit Czech Republic in itself. Aside from being its capital city, it is also known as the Golden City and the City of a Hundred Spires, and is numbered among the most popular cities in Europe and the most romantic cities in the world. Here, you will find remarkable works of both medieval and Art Noveau architecture, like Prague Castle, the largest castle in the world, and the uniquely structured Dancing House, along with impressive city squares like the Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock. You can also simply take a stroll under the glow of gas street lamps in the historic quarter or ride a horse-drawn carriage down its cobblestone streets.
2. Medieval Architecture
Aside from Prague, you will find magnificent works of medieval architecture in other cities, particularly those that have been included in the list of World Heritage Sites. The city of Trebic, for example, is well known for its Basilica of St. Procope, while the St. Wenceslaus Cathedral in Olomouc is a historic landmark. Kutna Hora, Holsavice and Telc are equally picturesque with sprawling houses dating back to the 13th century while Cesky Krumlov, Kromeriz and Litomysl are well known for their enchanting castles.
The most popular castle in Czech Republic, though, is the Karlstejn Castle, with its Chapel of the Holy Rood, where the crown jewels and relics of the crucifixion were once housed. And don't forget to visit the romantic chateaux of Lednice, Hluboka nad Vltavou and Sychrov.
3. Spa Towns
Karlovy Vary or Carlsbad in western Bohemia is another popular city in Czech Republic, famous for its pastel-colored buildings set amid rolling green hills and especially for its hot springs. In fact, people, even famous personalities, come from all over the world to enjoy this picturesque wellness destination. Other spa towns in the region include Marianske Lazne, with a hundred mineral springs, and Frantiskovy Lazne, home to the largest spa corporation in the country and the first peat pulp bath in the world.
4. Beer
Czech Republic has the highest consumption of beer per capita in the world, which comes as no surprise since there are many breweries and excellent types of beer throughout the country. The most popular breweries can be found in the Bohemian region, particularly the Pilsener in Plzen - the largest brewery in the country - and in the city of Ceske Budejovice, also known as Budweis, which was once the royal brewery of the Holy Roman Emperor and is now famous for its Budweiser Budvar.
Other popular Czech beverages include Slivovitz or plum brandy and unique herbal alcoholic beverages like Fernet Stock, made with 14 herbs and the more popular Becherovka, a special drink from Karlovy Vary flavored with over 30 secret herbs, which is said to aid digestion. Make sure you try them out when you visit Czech Republic.
5. Puppetry
For a truly unique experience, watch a puppet show when you visit Czech Republic. There are various puppet theatres in the country, especially in Prague, which also hosts the largest puppet festival, as well as puppet museums, like those in Chrudim and Cesky Krumlov, which give you insights into this dying art. You can even bring home your own well-made puppet or marionette from one of the specialty shops in Prague and all over the country.
