Czechia

Czechia is a treasure trove of historical architecture, romantic towns, and stunning natural landscapes. Prague, the capital, is famous for its enchanting Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock, and the iconic Charles Bridge. Prague Castle offers panoramic views and centuries of Bohemian history. Beyond the capital, Český Krumlov delights visitors with its fairy-tale castle, winding cobblestone streets, and riverside charm. Kutná Hora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the hauntingly beautiful Sedlec Ossuary, adorned with human bones. Nature lovers are drawn to Bohemian Switzerland National Park, known for its sandstone formations and picturesque hiking trails, while Karlovy Vary beckons with its hot springs and colorful spa town architecture.

Czech cuisine is hearty and comforting, built on meats, potatoes, and dumplings. A classic must-try is "Svíčková," a creamy marinated beef dish served with bread dumplings and cranberry sauce. "Vepřo knedlo zelo," or roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, is another national favorite. You’ll also find plenty of schnitzels and sausages, like "klobása," grilled and served with mustard and rye bread at markets. For dessert, try "koláče" pastries filled with poppy seeds or fruit jam, and wash everything down with one of Czechia's world-famous pilsner beers—many of which are brewed in historic towns like Pilsen or České Budějovice.

Getting around Czechia is straightforward, especially in and around major cities. Prague boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation network, including metro, trams, and buses, all integrated under one ticketing system. For intercity travel, trains are comfortable, reliable, and scenic; the Czech Railways (České dráhy) offers frequent connections to most major towns. Buses are also a good option for rural or smaller towns. While renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the countryside, be aware of parking restrictions in city centers. Ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber are available in Prague, and cycling is increasingly popular in tourist-friendly areas.

Czechia remains an affordable European destination, especially outside of Prague. Stay in family-run guesthouses (pensions) or hostels, which often include breakfast and local charm. Avoid dining directly in tourist hubs and instead seek out traditional Czech pubs (hospoda) for budget-friendly meals. Museums and castles often offer discounted or free admission on certain days, so check local listings. Walking is a fantastic way to explore historic towns without spending money, and public transport day passes can offer great value. Bring a reusable water bottle—tap water is safe and free in most accommodations.

Czechia is one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the overall environment is welcoming. The main thing to watch out for is petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Prague’s Old Town or on public transport—keep your belongings secure. Emergency services are reliable, and the country has a modern healthcare system. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country. For outdoor activities like hiking, always check local conditions and follow marked trails.

Czech culture values modesty, punctuality, and quiet respect in public spaces. When greeting, a firm handshake and eye contact are customary. It’s polite to greet shopkeepers or restaurant staff with a simple “Dobrý den” (Good day). Locals may seem reserved at first but are warm and hospitable once you get to know them. Tipping around 10% in restaurants is appreciated but not always expected. Dress modestly when visiting churches or traditional villages. Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.

Czechia suits cultural explorers, romantic couples, and history buffs who appreciate medieval towns, classical music, and beautiful architecture. It’s also great for beer lovers, budget travelers, and digital nomads who enjoy a high quality of life without the high price tag of Western Europe. While not a beach destination, it makes up for it with castles, forests, and timeless European charm.

For low-budget travelers, the Czech Inn in Prague offers stylish hostel lodging with clean dorms, social spaces, and budget-friendly prices. Another great option is Hostel Downtown, located near major attractions and offering group activities. For mid-range travelers, Hotel Golden Star offers stunning views of Prague Castle, historic charm, and comfortable rooms at reasonable rates. Alternatively, Hotel U Medvidku features a historic brewery on-site and a cozy ambiance in the Old Town. For luxury seekers, the Four Seasons Hotel Prague offers exceptional service, riverside views, and close proximity to Charles Bridge. The Aria Hotel, a music-themed luxury hotel with a rooftop terrace and private gardens, is another top-tier experience in the city’s historic Mala Strana district.

Many travelers forget that Czechia does not use the euro and are caught off-guard by poor exchange rates. Others rely too much on taxis—public transport is far more efficient and affordable. It's also common to underestimate how much walking is involved in visiting castles and old towns; wear good shoes. Finally, don’t just stick to Prague—some of the most charming experiences await in towns like Telč, Třeboň, or the wine region of Moravia.

Download the PID Lítačka app for Prague’s public transport schedules and tickets. Mapy.cz is a fantastic local map app with great offline navigation for hiking and biking trails. For translation and quick phrases, Google Translate is useful, but SayHi also offers good spoken language support. Use Booking.com or Seznam.cz (a local search engine) to find accommodations and services beyond what international platforms offer.

Start in Prague with a 3-day deep dive into its neighborhoods, castles, and museums. Then spend a day or two in Český Krumlov for medieval magic and riverside relaxation. Add a detour to Karlovy Vary or Kutná Hora. If time allows, head to Brno and the Moravian wine country for a less touristy but culturally rich experience. Mix walking tours, museum visits, and time for beer tastings or spa breaks.

Czechia consumes the most beer per capita in the world, and the first pilsner was brewed in Pilsen in 1842. The country boasts over 2,000 castles—more per square mile than any other country in Europe. The Charles University in Prague, founded in 1348, is one of the oldest universities in Central Europe. Prague’s Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is the third-oldest in the world and still operational. The Bohemian glass and garnet jewelry industries are globally renowned for their craftsmanship.