Czechia is a country of picturesque towns, historic architecture, and world-renowned beer. While the country's capital, Prague, is often the first stop for visitors, there are many other cities worth exploring. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, there's something for everyone in the Czechia. Let’s take a closer look at four of the country's top city break destinations: Prague, Brno, Olomouc, and Karlovy Vary.
Prague: A City of History and Beauty
Prague is the crown jewel of Czechia, famous for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and rich history. The city is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Czechia, and there's no shortage of things to see and do here. Visitors can explore the city's many attractions, including the historic Charles Bridge, the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, and the famous Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square. Prague is also known for its great food, with traditional Czech dishes like goulash, roast pork, and dumplings served in cosy pubs and restaurants around the city.
But Prague is more than just a tourist destination. It's a city that has played a significant role in European history, and visitors can experience that history by visiting places like the former Jewish Quarter, which dates back to the 10th century, and the Prague Castle, which has been the seat of power in the Czech lands for over a millennium. The city is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with world-class museums and galleries showcasing everything from contemporary art to ancient artifacts.
Brno: A Modern City with a Rich Cultural Heritage
Brno is the second-largest city in Czechia and a hidden gem for visitors just 2.5 hours from Prague by train. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a beautiful castle and a stunning cathedral, as well as modern attractions like the Moravian Gallery, one of the country's top art museums. Brno is also home to a thriving food and wine scene, with local specialties like Moravian wine and traditional dishes like roasted goose with red cabbage and dumplings.
Brno is a city that is continually evolving, and visitors can experience that evolution by exploring places like the VIDA! science center, a cutting-edge facility that encourages visitors to engage with science and technology in new and exciting ways. The city is also a hub of innovation, with many tech startups and coworking spaces that cater to entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Brno is a city that is continually evolving, and visitors can experience that evolution by exploring places like the VIDA! science center, a cutting-edge facility that encourages visitors to engage with science and technology in new and exciting ways. The city is also a hub of innovation, with many tech startups and coworking spaces that cater to entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Olomouc: A Quaint City with a Vibrant Student Scene
Olomouc is a charming city located in the eastern part of Czechia, 2 hours by train from Prague. The city is known for its stunning architecture, including the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Olomouc Castle. Olomouc is also home to a vibrant student scene, with a large university and plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Visitors to Olomouc can experience the city's rich history by visiting attractions like the Archdiocesan Museum, which houses a collection of art and artifacts dating back to the 13th century, or by taking a stroll through the city's historic center, which is home to some of the best-preserved Baroque architecture in the country. The city is also a great destination for foodies, with traditional Czech dishes like svickova, a beef dish served with dumplings and cranberry sauce, and tvaruzky, a pungent cheese that is a local specialty.
Karlovy Vary: A Spa Town Steeped in History and Luxury
Karlovy Vary, also known as Karlsbad, is a picturesque spa town located in western Bohemia, 2.5 hours outside Prague. The town is famous for its thermal springs, which have been used for healing purposes for centuries. Visitors can experience the healing waters by taking a dip in one of the many hot springs or by indulging in one of the town's many luxury spas.
But Karlovy Vary is more than just a spa town. The city is home to stunning architecture, including the iconic Mill Colonnade and the Baroque Church of St. Mary Magdalene. The town also hosts the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, which attracts celebrities and film buffs from around the world. Visitors can take a stroll along the town's charming streets, stopping in at cafes and restaurants to try local specialties like Becherovka, a herbal liqueur that is a local favorite.
Explore the Best of Czechia
Czechia is a country full of surprises, with something for everyone to enjoy. From the historic streets of Prague to the modern innovation of Brno, from the quaint charm of Olomouc to the luxury spas of Karlovy Vary, the country offers a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Czechia is a city break destination that should be at the top of your list. So pack your bags, and come discover the best of what this beautiful country has to offer.