Travel

Experience the ancient heartland of Bohemia, a country that boasts an incredible cultural heritage and spectacular historical architecture.

The Czech Republic’s pristine architectural monuments, amazing cultural heritage (from Kafka to Mahler), and evocative atmosphere make it an unbelievably fruitful vacation destination. The old territory of Bohemia, which reflects centuries of dramatic intermingling between Western and Eastern Europe, includes the awe-inspiring capital of Prague, scenically sited on the Vltava River and one of the most ravishing cities anywhere on the planet. Prague’s strikingly preserved landmarks, including the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and the Prague Castle, are among Europe’s most popular attractions and the focus of an expansive UNESCO World Heritage Site. Outside Prague, the Czech Republic delivers plenty of other dazzling sights, such as the remarkably untouched medieval town center of Cesky Krumlov. Among the country's attractions for the culinary explorer is the famous Czech beer, especially the globally influential domestic style of pilsner.

Culture

The Czech Republic's many cultural attractions pack a real punch. Where to begin? Let's start with music. Boasting a rich tradition of folk music, the Czech Republic is the original home of polka! The Czechs have also long loved classical music, which absolutely thrives in their cultural capital city. Prague consistently hosts excellent classical music concerts and festivals, and it's been that way for long time; Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Haydn, Dvorak and many other composers have graced the country's concert halls and opera houses. The Czechs have a long legacy of puppetry, and there are several good marionette theaters in their very romantic capital. Therefore, while vacationing in Prague, consider attending the opera, ballet, symphony or a puppet show! (Tickets are often considerably more affordable than in other European capitals.)

Another (relaxing) aspect of Czech culture centers on its many thermal springs. Back in its heyday (the 1800s), the creme de la creme of Europe (royalty, nobility, artists, etc.) traveled to the fashionable spa towns of Western Bohemia to take the mineral-rich waters in the hopes of curing their various ailments. The Czechs have maintained their spa traditions, so it's fun to visit some of the country's iconic spa towns like Karlovy Vary, Marianske Lazne and Frantiskovy Lazne, which are all located near the country's western border with Germany.

In terms of cultural sightseeing attractions, the Czech Republic has 12 UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Sites. The country's storybook, well-preserved architecture is legendary being home to some of the finest Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture in Central Europe. Visiting the Czech Republic's historic castles and towns is an absolute must; good options to consider include the historic centers of Cesky Krumlov, Kutna Hora, Telc and Olomouc.

Back in Prague, one of Europe's most beautiful cities; enjoy the capital's many cultural attractions! In this fairytale-like city, consider visiting the Mucha Museum Prague, which is dedicated to Czech Republic's renowned Art Nouveau artist: Alfons (Alphonse) Mucha. Literary fans may want to pay a visit to the Franz Kafka Museum.