Places to Visit During Vacation in the Czech Republic

Průhonice Park, which is also home to Průhonice Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located only 15 kilometers south of Prague.

With a total area of 250 hectares, the expansive property includes formal gardens, wooded areas, streams, ponds, and 25 kilometers of walking paths.

Among its 1,600 species of plants is a collection of more than 100 types of rhododendrons, with 8,000 specimens total.

The Greater Castle, with sections dating back to the 12th century, forms a semicircle that faces the lake and gardens. Its courtyard features frescoes, statues, and a replica of the fountain found in Old Market Square in Prague.

One of the most beautiful corners of the Czech Republic is Eastern Bohemia, home to the spectacular Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj).

This area of outstanding natural beauty is famous for its many massive rock formations that protrude from the ground like spikes and pillars, formed by tens of thousands of years of erosion by the elements.

Now a UNESCO Geopark, the region draws hikers and sightseers from across Europe for its stunning sandstone hills, natural bridges, and tall basalt columns, and outcroppings, all accessible by a network of trails and scenic drives. The region also has many old castles, including Kost Castle and Trotsky Castle.

Start your adventure in the town of Turnov, home to the Bohemian Paradise Visitor Center, where you can find a great deal of tourist information and maps of the region.

Three of Europe’s loveliest and oldest libraries can be found in Prague. The largest, the National Library of the Czech Republic, is in the magnificent Clementinum (Klementinum), which sits in the center of historic Prague next to the Charles Bridge.

This sprawling complex of historic Baroque buildings is one of the largest in Europe, home to several points of interest. Library Hall is best known for its frescoed ceiling, and the Astronomical Tower resides here as well, from which tourists can enjoy lovely views.

The 12th-century Strahov Monastery (Strahovsky kláster) contains two magnificent libraries, including the Philosophical Library, with its exquisite furnishings and ceiling paintings, and the Baroque Theological Library, which features excellent frescoes and stucco work.

Dominating the old town after which it’s named, Český Krumlov Castle is remarkably well preserved given its age, dating from the 13th century.

Much of what stands today in this UNESCO World Heritage Site stems from the 17th century, including the Rosenberg Ballroom and the Renaissance Hall, the Royal Apartments, and the Chapel of St. George.

Also worth seeing is the castle’s old Baroque theater, built in 1682, which is still used for special performances. Other highlights include historic collections of paintings and tapestries, along with fine décor and period furniture.

The Český Krumlov Castle complex comprises 40 buildings, including fine old palaces, castle courts, and gardens. Tourists could easily spend several days wandering the grounds, although those who want to see the highlights may enjoy one of the English language-guided available tours.

Prague’s Old Town Square was the city’s first market, situated at the intersection of trade routes, and still has buildings dating back to the 10th century.

In addition to many medieval houses, the square is home to significant historic landmarks, including Old Town City Hall, which holds the Astronomical Clock, as well as St. Nicholas Church.

This square has been the site of many defining moments in Czech history, unfortunately, many of these being public executions and political protests.

A statue of Protestant reformer Jan Hus stands in the center, and this is a popular sightseeing area that hosts Prague’s traditional Christmas markets each December.