Czech Republic Escapes
The Czech Republic, in Central Europe, is a country that’s known for its ornate castles, native beers and long history. Prague, the capital, is home to grand 9th century Prague Castle, a preserved medieval old town and statue-lined Charles Bridge. Cesky Krumlov, a small town in the South Bohemia region, is notable for its wealth of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, many of which house restaurants and shops.
Wonderful castles and chateaux, world famous spas, un-spoilt countryside, historical cities and legendary cuisine – what will you choose? In this small country at the heart of Europe, you will always have a copious wealth of natural and cultural treasures within reach! Nowhere is too far for you to be able to set out for. Discover the historical heritage of the Czech Republic: the most interesting castles and chateaux, UNESCO monuments and also the fascinating atmosphere of ancient cities. Welcome to a place that can justifiably be referred to as a melting pot of European civilizations. Although devoid of the benefits of proximity to the sea, the Czech Republic, located in the heart of Central Europe, prides itself on magnificent scenery and an immense cultural heritage, an asset that fully offsets this apparent drawback.
The concentration of so many tourist destinations in such a small area is unique event in the European context. The country is enclosed by belt of extensive mountain ranges and the majority of its frontiers run along this natural boundary. Although in terms of size (less than 79 thousand square kilometers) and number of inhabitants (10.2 million), the Czech Republic ranks among the medium size to small European countries (it is somewhat smaller than Austria and somewhat larger than Belgium and its population practically equals that of Hungary), its territory is a diverse mosaic of regions.
That is why it is worth taking the effort to travel to individual regions in order to get to know their distinctive features. Moreover, it will not take much time as you can travel from one end of the Czech Republic to the other in a few hours. Many foreigners have chosen this country as their temporary or even permanent homes, which bears witness to the fact that the Czech Republic is a pleasant country to live in. In the 1990s, Prague was even compared to the Paris of the 1930s. Not only the forces of nature have shaped and molded the picturesque Czech landscape; human beings have also set, like little beads, numerous historical towns thousands of small villages and the glistening expanses of fish ponds into the countryside.
To climb the summits of Czech mountains is a relatively easy task – the highest of them – the Snka, reaches just to a height of 1602 meter above the sea level – and you will be rewarded by breathtaking views as you will be able to see a large part of the country as though from a bird’s eye view. The place with the lowest altitude can be found in Hensko on a site where the River Labe (Elbe) leaves the Czech Republic and enters Germany. A host of rivers, including the Labe, the “national” River Vlatva (Moldau), which forms the axis of Bohemia, the Morava, the axis of Moravia, and many others, are suitable for boat cruises and water tourism. The Czech Republic takes good care of its visitors – there is a wide range of accommodation facilities, restaurants and a well-function in transportation network. A wealth of historical towns, castles and chateaux are prepared to open their gates wide to visitors; alternately, those tired of the hustle and bustle of civilization can relax amidst beautiful scenery.
PRAGUE
Prague Castle has been an important symbol of the Czech state for more than a thousand years. It was founded in the 9th century and became the seat of Czech rulers and later presidents. The castle, one of the largest complexes in the world, is made up of historical palaces, offices, church and fortification buildings, gardens and picturesque spots. It covers an area of 45 hectares. The panoramic view of Prague Castle is one of the most spectacular in the world.
THE CHARLES BRIDGE
The Charles Bridge over the river Vltava is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Prague. Its construction started in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, and finished in the beginning of the 15th century. It is the oldest bridge in the city and it spans the river with 16 pillars. It is lined with statues and lamps and this scenery together with the Gothic bridge towers on both ends makes the Charles Bridge a breathtaking historical monument. There is no better place in Prague for a walk in the evening.
OLD TOWN
Old Town Square is a historic square in the Old Town quarter of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. It is located between Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge. The Old Town Square dates from the 12th century and started life as the central marketplace for Prague. Over the centuries buildings of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic styles were erected around the market, each bringing with them stories of wealthy merchants and political intrigue.
CESKY KRUMLOV
Sometimes translated as Czech Crumlaw, is a small city in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic where Český Krumlov Castle is located. The State Castle of Český Krumlov, with its architectural standard, cultural tradition, and expanse, ranks among the most important historic sights in the central European region. Building development from the 14th to 19th centuries is well-preserved in the original groundplan layout, material structure, interior installation and architectural detail. A worthy assessment of the area by both domestic and foreign experts resulted in the acquisition of historic monument preservation status. In 1963, the town was declared a Municipal Preserve, in 1989 the castle became a National Monument, and in 1992 the entire complex was included onto the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Monuments.
KARLSTEJN CASTLE
Karlstejn Castle is a large Gothic castle founded 1348 by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor-elect and King of Bohemia. The same year when the king founded Prague’s New Town and Charles University. The castle was built to hold the royal treasures and coronation jewels of the Roman Empire, and served as the king’s retreat. As Karlštejn stands on a hill surrounded by other hills, so it cannot be seen until you get very close. This clever strategy has paid off. Since it is impossible to see the castle from afar and Karlštějn was never conquered in the past.
PILSEN
Prague Castle has been an important symbol of the Czech state for more than a thousand years. It was founded in the 9th century and became the seat of Czech rulers and later presidents. The castle, one of the largest complexes in the world, is made up of historical palaces, offices, church and fortification buildings, gardens and picturesque spots. It covers an area of 45 hectares. The panoramic view of Prague Castle is one of the most spectacular in the world.
- Spiritual Czech Republic – Visit churches and cathedrals, monastery complexes, pilgrimage churches, chapels and peaceful places of contemplation.
- Historical towns – you will feel like you are in a fairy tale. Narrow winding lanes, picturesque squares, town walls and church towers – this is the romance of the old market towns. Set out on a trip to cities full of romantic atmosphere and pulsing with life!
- Castles and chateaux, the greatest Czech treasures – Proud royal castles and lovely chateaux, charming gardens, ancient treasures, legends and mysteries. Impregnable fortresses, defiant forts, fairytale chateaux and whimsical summer palaces in expansive landscaped parks – these are places where the past comes to life. Tours are livened up by guides in historical costume, period music and dance, swordsmen and falconers. You will sometimes even come across a ghost! One of the most popular castles in the Czech Republic is Karlštejn Castle, where the Czech crown jewels are displayed.
- Intangible heritage, traditions, aromas and flavours – Joy from discovering the best the Czech Republic has to offer is supported by the magic of traditions, the renowned taste of the local cuisine and also by a selection of great wines or beers.
- Museums and galleries – Where education and learning about culture, science, technology, tradition and history are bundled bonus of fun! Lovers of classic exposition and admirers of the modern museum concept can choose for themselves. You will learn about the secrets of the past, the mysteries of the future, and the essence of the present.
- Architecture Lover – Come get to know mysterious Gothic structures, Renaissance palaces or Baroque chapels. In the Czech Republic you will find traces of the development of Central European architecture more than 1000 years old. You can start at the Romance rotunda on the memorial hilltop of Říp, then continue through billowing Baroque palaces, and finish off your trip at the pearl of modern living – the functionalist villa of Tugendhat.
- Culture and Entertainment – Whether coming alone or with your kids, the Czech Republic provides perfect enjoyment. We choose the best for you and we will give you tips on where to go when you want to see a theatre performance or explore the depths of the Universe. We know that it is not easy to keep children busy when touring a chateau, so we will show you where your offspring will definitely have fun.
- Natural heritage – A wonderful rest in the open air, beautiful scenery, and the charming corners of national parks – all that can be had from trips in the Czech countryside. Explore caves and rock cities, climb to the tops of mountains and observation points.
- Medical Spas – The magic of ancient traditions, quality tried and tested over the years and top quality medical care for the body and mind – this is the Czech spa industry. Czech spa towns do not invite visitors for rest and relaxation alone. Guests above all receive high quality medical care here. Modern medical facilities offer exclusive relaxation thanks to a combination of modern techniques and traditional, tried and tested wisdom.