What are some places worth visiting in the Czech Republic, besides Prague?

While Prague’s undisputed position as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe makes it indubitably a must-see, there are tons of other rewarding places to visit off the beaten path in the Czech Republic.

One of the few benefits to Western Europe selling Czechoslovakia down the river in 1938 is that the archetecture and infrastructure of the country was relatively untouched by the War, despite the enormous human toll it took.

1. First and foremost, check out the beautiful town of Český_Krumlov. Originally settled in the twelfth century and subject to a fifteenth century gold rush, entering the Old Town is like stepping back in time. There is such a concentration of medieval architecture as I have never seen anywhere else. Step along the cobble-stoned wynds and winding alleys, visit the churches and many restaurant. It is romantic as hell and utterly beautiful — and while it is popular it is nowhere near as crowded as Prague. Here’s a couple of pictures….When I went there, there were bears in the moat around the castle! I stayed in a hotel from the 17th century and dined in a restaurant that has been serving food —mostly roast meat dripping with fat— for almost half a millenium.

2. Another popular destination is Karlštejn Castle, the seat of the medieval king Karel IV(Charles IV), the Holy Roman Emperor. They have (fascinating) tours in English and a small souvenir market on the long road up the hill to the castle.

3. A little south, closer to Cesky Krumlov, is the gorgeous 18th century chateau of Hluboká_nad_Vltavou. I mean, this is the kind of place you think of when you dream of living in a castle. It is just jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Especially if you are a fan of antlers. 

1. It’s within spitting distance of the aforementioned Cesky Krumlov.

4. Most people get a kick out of Kutná_Hora a charming old town with a medieval silver mine, open to tours, a cathedral and the famous Sedlec Ossuary - Wikipedia…made completely of human bones.

5. In Moravia, I recommend a day or two at Olomouc. A thriving university town with a ton of great bars and restaurants, and the usual unspoilt architecture, it boasts a ton of great cathedrals and towers. Furthermore southern Moravia, around Brno is studded with vinyards and wine cellars for travellers to visit.

above, olomouc

6. There are simply too many places for the outdoor-minded holidayer to list here. The whole country is criss crossed with beautiful countryside, especially wooded highland areas ideal for hikers and mountain cyclists. One of my personal favorite places is the Bohemian Switzerland area. I could have spent a week in this area. Instead I spent only a couple of days. Ach jo.

All of these places are pretty much a day trip from Prague.

In fact, the whole country is pretty much a day trip from Prague. There are many other examples of beautiful nature and gorgeous vintage architecture EVERYWHERE here. Too many to really list…and I am sure there are things I don’t even know about.

And of course each town and village is going to have it’s own folk festivals, featuring local folklore music and folk dancing and food. Here are some local lads and lasses getting down at the annual international folk-dance festival in my town in Eastern Moravia…