Although the present-day Czech Republic has only been around for 25 years, it’s thriving culture has left its imprint on modern day Europe. Besides having a rich, tumultuous history that dates back to the 9th-century, Czech Republic also has equally impressive landscapes, iconic monuments, and lively cities that make it one of the best destinations to explore in Europe.

Unfortunately, many tourists just stop by the city of Prague during their visit to the Czech Republic. While Prague is a buzzing city worth exploring, Czech Republic is overflowing with many other sights, attractions, and cities that should be added to your itinerary. We’re here to tell you about some of the coolest destinations that you won’t want to miss when venturing through this Central European country. Don’t worry, Prague is on the list as well!

We know you’ll have an amazing time trekking through the jagged peaks of the national parks or exploring the gothic castles that were once home to historic royalty. With an endless number of places to visit, you’ll never want to leave the majestically diverse Czech Republic!

Staying Safe in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is regarded as a very safe country for tourists to visit. However, you should always keep your personal belongings and items in a safe place, as petty theft can occur just like in most major cities around the world. Although the city of Prague has the highest rate of pickpocketing compared to other cities, you should always use your best judgment when walking through other crowded cities or towns.

One of the biggest threats in the Czech Republic is car theft. If you plan on renting a vehicle, make sure you lock the car and only park in official parking lots with surveillance cameras. Also, don’t leave any items out on the seats. That only entices thieves to break in!

But while Czech Republic is very safe as a whole, no matter where you travel you absolutely NEED to have travel insurance.

Travel insurance is the best way to keep you and your belongings are safe and secure while you are traveling abroad. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote :)

#1 – Krkonoše National Park

• UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Site
• Highest mountain peaks in the whole country

Nestled atop Czech Republic’s highest mountain range is Krkonoše National Park, a park with several vastly diverse ecosystems. Spend your afternoon hiking the grassy mountain slopes, picnicking in the flower-filled meadows, or gazing at the flowing waterfalls. The view from the top of the summit has some of the most dramatic views of not only the Czech Republic but also neighboring Poland.

• Sněžka is the tallest point of the Krkonoše mountains in the national park. Although it peaks at 1,600-meters high, the ascent to the top is fairly easy and relaxing. Since it crosses country borders, you can hike up one side in the Czech Republic and hike down the other side in Poland!
• Mumlava Waterfall may only cascade down 8-meters, but the flowing waters and jagged rock backdrop make for a picture perfect spot in Krkonoše National Park.
• A cable car ride to the top of Sněžka holds some of the most rewarding views without the pain and hassle of hiking to the top! Catch the car from Pec pod Sněžkou and soar to the summit for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding park.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Krkonoše National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Krkonoše National Park → Horský Hotel Friesovy Boudy

#2 – Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape

A very cool pace in the Czech Republic to go for a day

• Castles, pavilions, and gardens galore
• The height of the Liechtenstein reign

If you’ve ever wanted to step foot into a classic fairytale, then venture over to Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, one of Czech Republics most majestic and romantic areas. Spreading over 300 square kilometers, the sprawling complex is comprised of grandiose chateaus, charming villages, and blooming gardens. With beauty around every corner, it’s easy to see how the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape became a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Lednice Castle is a stunning Neo-Gothic style castle and the biggest attraction in the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape. Visitors can explore the grand halls and baroque rooms that used to house princes and princesses! There’s even an on-site puppet museum for kids.
• Palm House is a tropical conservatory with some of the rarest plants in the world! Step inside the crystal greenhouse and see over 250 species of plants, including the 400-year old cycad.
• Janohrad or John’s Castle was once the meeting point for the royal lords who went hunting. After the hunt, they would return to Janohrad and cook the meat over the eight ornate fireplaces, before having dinner in the cabin-like dining room.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape

• The BEST Hotel in Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape → Ubytování U Janča

Check this out – The 21 BEST Hostels in Prague, Czech Republic.

#3 – Český Krumlov Castle

• 40 different buildings and palaces
• Covering 7-hectares

Located in the historic town of Český Krumlov, the aspiring 13th-century castle is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Český Krumlov Castle

is one of the most important buildings in the Czech Republic’s history, as well as being one of the biggest tourist attractions in the country. Situated on the banks of the Vltava River, the Český Krumlov Castle is a must-visit while in the Czech Republic.

• Český Krumlov Baroque Theater is located on the premise and is one of the best preserved baroque buildings in the whole country. Inside, you’ll find the orchestra pit, colorful wall facades, and even Viennese curtains as they’ve remained after all these years.
• The Little Castle is the oldest section of the entire complex. Decorated in a Renaissance style, the castle and tower loom over the entire city and flowing Vltava River.
• The Red Gate is your first stop when visiting the Český Krumlov Castle and the entrance to the first courtyard. The arched brick walls and the bright red iron gates and roof make for a grand entrance.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Český Krumlov Castle

• The COOLEST Hostel in Český Krumlov Castle → Hostel Postel
• The BEST Hotel in Český Krumlov Castle → Pension Athanor

#4 – Bohemian Switzerland

A beautiful outdoor place to visit in the Czech Republic

• Unique rock and sandstone formations
• Popular hiking and rock climbing area

The north Czech Republic is home to the picturesque protected park of Bohemian Switzerland or České Švýcarsko National Park. Resembling parts of Switzerland, Czech Republic’s Bohemian Switzerland is filled with natural sandstone, giant rock formations, and crystal clear lakes. It’s the perfect place for hiking, photographer, or just soaking in the natural beauty of the outdoors.

• The Pravčická brána is a wondrous sandstone arch, the largest of it’s kind in all of Europe. Stretching almost 30-meters long, this striking monument is the iconic symbol of Bohemian Switzerland and a must-see for photographers.
• Mariina skála is an observation viewpoint 430-meters high. It’s considered one of the best viewpoints in the entire national park, with sweeping views of the rolling hills and dense forests as far as the eye can see! There is also a small, wooden hut that sits atop the summit if you need a quiet place to relax.
• Adršpach-Teplice Rocks are bizarre sandstone rock formations that pultrude out of the ground. You’ll find adventurous climbers and rock jumpers crawling over these unusual landscapes.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Bohemian Switzerland

• The BEST Hotel in Bohemian Switzerland → Bohemian Switzerland COTTAGE – apartments

#5 – Karlštejn Castle

• The private residence of Charles IV
• Over 130 original Master Theodoric paintings

Just 30-meters north of Prague sits Karlštejn Castle, a grand gothic building that originally housed some of the country’s most desired treasures. Everything from jeweled crowns to holy relics were kept under tight security here in Karlštejn Castle. Built by the King of Bohemia in the 14th-century, the castle was refurbished 500 years later to take on a more gothic style. Now, visitors can tour the insides of the castle complex to see the replicas of the famous treasures that were housed here.

• Chapel of the Holy Cross is the building that was used for safekeeping the royal treasures during the 14th-century. Before reaching the jewels, you would need to break through an astounding 8-meter thick wall with 4 doors and 19 padlocks!
• The Well Tower extends 70-meters below the ground floor. It was once used to bring in fresh water from the local stream and is connected to the castle by an underground network of tunnels.
• The Imperial Palace is a stunning five-story building that sits at the center of the castle. It’s home to the Marion Tower and the giant 60-meter tall Grand Tower.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Karlštejn Castle

• The BEST Hotel in Karlštejn Castle → Hotel Karlštejn

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#6 – Staré Město, Prague

One of the most amazing places in the Czech Republic

• The ancient city center of Prague
• Busy nightlife and restaurant district

No trip to Prague would be complete without visiting the historic city center of Staré Město. Besides walking through the cobblestone alleys or strolling along the Vltava River, you can visit some of the city’s top attractions right here in Staré Město. Don’t be fooled by its gothic history! Staré Město is now a bustling neighborhood scattered with lively bars, gastronomic restaurants, and cozy cafes to keep visitors well fed and entertained.

• Old Town Square is the center of Staré Město. Surrounding the square on all sides are Gothic buildings, ancient churches, and historic museums. Don’t miss the Jan Hus Memorial, a monument that symbolizes the country’s rebirth after the Thirty Year’s War.
• Church of Our Lady before Týn is the iconic Czech monument that looks over the entire Old Town. Built in the 14th-century, the gothic style church is marked by its 80-meter high spires and towers.
• Prague Orloj is an ancient astronomical clock that dates back to the medieval period. It’s mounted to the side of the city hall building in the center of the Old Town Square.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Staré Město, Prague

• The COOLEST Hostel in Staré Město, Prague → Clown and Bard
• The BEST Hotel in Staré Město, Prague → Grand Majestic Plaza

#7 – Malá Strana, Prague

• Nicknamed “the Lesser Town”
• Several churches and beautifully preserved Baroque buildings

Across Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge is Malá Strana, a historic neighborhood that is equally as impressive as the city’s popular Staré Město district. It’s most notably home to the looming Prague Castle, but it’s also brimming with riverside restaurants and cafes. Once you cross the river, you’ll make your way through winding streets and around Baroque buildings that sit at the foot of the castle. Don’t forget your walking shoes, because the hills and streets can be steep!

• Wallenstein Palace was once the residence of the royal Duke of Mecklenburg. With over 20 buildings and six gardens, the grand palace now serves as the house for the Senate of the Czech Republic.
• The Petřín Lookout Tower may look like a mini Eiffel Tower, but it’s actually an observation deck with stunning panoramic views! Climb to the top (or take the elevator) 64-meters up to see Prague from a completely new angle.
• St. Nicholas Church is a Baroque 18th-century church that replaced an existing 13th-century church at the same location. Step inside to see Jan Lukas Kracker’s colorful frescos and marble sculptures by František Ignác Platzer.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Malá Strana, Prague

• The COOLEST Hostel in Malá Strana, Prague → Charles Bridge Economic Hostel
• The BEST Hotel in Malá Strana, Prague → Old Crooked Beams

MUST READ – Heading to Prague next? Check out our post about top party hostels in Prague.

#8 – Punkva Caves

• Most dramatic underground cave system in all of Central Europe
• A one-hour drive from Brno

The intricate tunnels of the Punkva Caves remain a popular attraction not just for adventure seekers, but also for divers and rock climbers. Although they were only discovered in the last 100 years, the Punkva Caves is filled with rocky stalagmites and stalactites just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re venturing through the cave system on foot, or floating through the waters by boat, you’ll love admiring the dark, depths of the Punkva Caves!

• Strážce is the largest stalactite in the entire Punkva Cave. Extending down 4-meters from the top of the cave, Strážce resembles an icicle made completely out of stone.
• Macocha Abyss is a gaping 138-meter deep sinkhole in the middle of the cave. The Punkva River flows through the sinkhole and is a popular spot for divers looking to explore the dark waters of the cave.
• Masaryk Cave is best explored by boat tour and is considered one of the grandest caves in the entire area.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Punkva Caves

• The BEST Hotel in Punkva Caves → Ubytování u Macochy

#9 – Brno

A great place to see in the Czech Republic if you love architecture

• The second largest city in the Czech Republic
• Overflowing with monuments and historic sites

One of the Czech Republic’s bustling cultural sights is right in Brno. With dozens of historic sites and eight national monuments, it’s easy to see how Brno attracts visitors from all over the world. From castles to cathedrals and plazas to palaces, you’ll have no shortage of attractions to see in the city. It’s also a vibrant university town, where young students of all nationalities gather to eat at one of Brno’s many restaurants and cafes.

• Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is located right in the center of the historic city. You can’t miss this gigantic structure with its 84-meter high gothic spires that shoot straight into the sky.
• Brno Ossuary is an underground catacomb that rivals the catacombs in Paris! Buried under the St. James Church and containing over 50 thousand human remains, Brno Ossuary is the second largest underground catacombs in the world.
• Villa Tugendhat is a modern complex that was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. This grand villa is a beautiful example of German modernism, and cost an upwards of $8 million to complete.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Brno

• The COOLEST Hostel in Brno → Hostel Mitte
• The BEST Hotel in Brno → Grand Hotel Brno

MUST READ – Heading to Prague next? Check out our post about some of the most fun day trips from Prague!

#10 – Kutná Hora

• Beautiful architecture in the city center
• Originally a medieval mining town

Located right in the middle of Central Bohemia is the quaint town of Kutná Hora. Although the town was founded in 1142, the discovery of silver in the mountains grew Kutná Hora into the economic city it is today. A visit to Kutná Hora will reward you with some of the most gorgeous architectural sites in the whole country, including chapels, cathedrals, and governmental buildings.

• Sedlec Abbey is the first Cistercian monastery and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has undergone several facelifts over its lifespan since it was built in the Romanesque style, remodeled in a Gothic style and then rebuilt once more in a Baroque style.
• Sedlec Ossuary houses the remains of almost 70,000 bodies inside the Sedlec Abbey. The bones have been ornately rearranged to decorate the walls and ceilings of the inside chapel. The bones even form a grand chandelier that hangs from the top!
• The Plague Column is a towering monument that stands in the middle of Kutná Hora. It was designed by František Baugut and is dedicated the thousands of lives that were lost during a plague in the town.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kutná Hora

• The BEST Hotel in Kutná Hora → Penzion U Brány

#11 – Plzeň

Easily one of the most fun places to check out in the Czech Republic

• Home of the Pilsner beer
• Originated in the 10th-century

If you’re a beer aficionado, then you absolutely cannot miss a visit to Plzeň. This town is the birthplace of Pilsner beer! With dozens of breweries and manufacturing plants, you can spend an entire weekend in Plzeň exploring the history of this ice, cold beverage. Of course, there are also plenty of other Czech monuments to visit if you find that you’re exhausted from all the beer!

• Cathedral of St. Bartholomew is the city’s largest gothic cathedral located in the main city square. Although it was built in 1295 AD, it didn’t become a designated cathedral until 1993 until a Pilsner bishop was present.
• The Great Synagogue is a stunning gothic synagogue with two 65-meter high granite buttresses. It’s the second largest synagogue in all of Europe and is a unique piece of architectural art.
• Plzeňský Prazdroj is home to the famous Pilsner Urquell beer. Opening in the mid-1800s, this brewery produces over a dozen types of beer and is the largest exporter of beer abroad.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Plzeň

• The COOLEST Hostel in Plzeň → Pension City
• The BEST Hotel in Plzeň → Hotel Victoria

#12 – Podyjí National Park

A beautiful and scenic place to check out in the Czech Republic

• Covering 62 square kilometers
• Smallest of Czech Republic’s four national parks

Bordering Austria and the Czech Republic, the Podyjí National Park is a rich forested area of the Dyje River Valley. Flowing through the Podyjí National Park is the Dyje River, which allows over 70 species of plants to flourish in their natural habitat. Besides admiring the scenery, you can also explore 76-kilometers of hiking, cycling, or horseback riding trails!

• Šobes is a world renown vineyard that calls Podyjí National Park it’s home. With over 12 hectares of growing grapes, you’ll see vineyards as far as the eye can see! You can also find delicious gherkin farms surrounding the nearby vineyards.
• Nový Hrádek is the remains of an ancient castle located right in the middle of the park. Besides going on a tour of the ruins, you can also climb the tower to view the park from high above the trees.
• Hiking through the park’s six different trails is a great way to explore the surrounding areas. Ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours, you’ll find a hike to suit all types of skill levels.

Traveling on a budget? Have you seen our cheap hostel recommendations for Prague?

#13 – Hruboskalsko

• Over 400 bizarre rock towers
• Rock climber’s paradise

Some of the most unusual landscapes in all of the Czech Republic can be found at Hruboskalsko. Once you step foot in the Český ráj region, you’ll see hundreds of steep, pointy sandstone towers that litter the skyline. Although some of the rock formations have eroded, some still stand an impressive 55-meters high. The Hruboskalsko rocks are one of the most unusual sites that you absolutely cannot miss when visiting the Czech Republic’s Bohemia!

• Climbing is a very popular activity. Many of the rocks are close by and almost touching, which means you can climb from one rock to another on a fixed rope! It’s one of the most unique climbing locations in the entire world!
• Hlavatice Lookout Rock has one of the best views of Hruboskalsko. After spiraling up the steel staircase, you’ll arrive at the lookout tower where you can see the southern sides of the rock formations.
• Mouse Hole Trail takes you between the rocks, with their steep cliffs looming over you as you make your way to Adam’s Bed. It’s a short, easy walk, but the views of the rock are incredibly impressive!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Hruboskalsko

• The BEST Hotel in Hruboskalsko → Roubenka Doubravice

#14 – Karlovy Vary

A great place to visit in the Czech Republic for couples!

• Spa resort town
• Over 300 hot springs for relaxing and drinking

Karlovy Vary may just be one of the most colorful villages in all of Czech Republic! You’ll see buildings in pastel pinks, golden yellows, and mint green lining the banks of the Ohre and Teplá rivers. Besides the vibrant architecture, Karlovy Vary is also a relaxing spa town with several thermal baths and whirlpools where you can unwind after a long day. There are over 300 natural springs in the city, so you’ll have no problem finding one without bumping shoulders with the other tourists.

• The Jan Becher Museum is dedicated to the production of the famous liquor that was started in Karlovy Vary – Becherovka! Becherovka was invented by the pharmacist Jan Becher, whom the museum is named after.
• Mill Colonnade is a stunning columned building where you can find over a dozen warm hot springs. This neo-renaissance structure is an iconic symbol that can be seen from everywhere in Karlovy Vary.
• The Pramen Vřídlo geyser can be found in the Hot Spring Colonnade by the riverbank. When the geyser spouts, it shoots hot water 12-meters into the air.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Karlovy Vary

• The COOLEST Hostel in Karlovy Vary → Hotel Kavalerie
• The BEST Hotel in Karlovy Vary → Romania

#15 – Telč

• Colorful gothic and renaissance architecture
• 14th-century castles and churches

When traveling through the Czech Republic, don’t miss a visit to the southern town of Telč. Historically, the town was a water port for travelers going between Bohemia, Moravia, and Austria. However, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of colorful cookie cutter homes lining the main square. If you’re looking for a picture perfect charming town, then Telč

is definitely something to add to your travel itinerary!

• Telč Town Square is the epicenter of the village, and one of the most charming places to see during your visit. Covering the short street of Náměstí Zachariáše z Hradce, you’ll find pastel colored Baroque homes and buildings.
• Telč château is a large castle built in the style of the Italian Renaissance era. Built in the 14th-century, you’ll find English-style courtyards, grand wedding halls, and arched arcades.
• St James’s Church Tower is a gothic building that proudly stands 60-meters high in the middle of the town. The church was built as a replacement to another church that was destroyed in a 14th-century fire. Climbing to the top of the tower provides clear views of the entire village of Telč.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Telč

• The BEST Hotel in Telč → Apartmán Nostalgie

#16 – Moravian Tuscany

A must visit place in the Czech Republic!

• Czech Republic’s famous wine region
• Many small villages and towns in the area

No, you’re not in Italy! But the rolling, green hills and lush vineyards of the southern Moravian region will make you feel as if you’ve transported right to Tuscany. Rightfully nicknamed “the Morovian Tuscany”, the region is a popular area for making Czech wine. Besides spending your day wine tasting and basking in the sun, you’ll find several charming villages and towns dotted throughout the fields. Most tourists are unaware of this picturesque region, so make sure not to miss it when visiting the Czech Republic!

• Velke Bilovice is a small town that’s most known for producing the largest variety of Czech wines! With over 730 hectares of vineyards, you’ll find over 650 wine cellars, tasting rooms, and villas in the surrounding area.
• Valtice is another trendy winery located underneath the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape. Built in the 15th-century, you’ll enjoy sipping the different variety of wines in this underground wine cellar!
• Želetice is a very tiny town in the middle of Morovian Tuscany. With just over 200 residents, the town boats beautiful views of the rolling green hills and crawling vines.

#17 – Olomouc

A nice non-touristy place to visit in the Czech Republic

• Multiple churches and cathedrals
• Varying architecture styles throughout the city

Situated on the banks of the Morava River is the unspoiled town of Olomouc. It might be the sixth-largest city in the whole country, but it remains virtually untouched by mass tourism over the years. However, you’ll still find a plethora of monuments and attractions to visit. It’s also a very active city, with a home city baseball, football, ice hockey, volleyball, and rugby team!

• The Holy Trinity Column is the most prominent landmark in all of Olomouc. This grand baroque column is the largest in all of the Czech Republic and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its sheer size and artistic decoration.
• The Saint Wenceslas Cathedral is a gothic cathedral with Romanesque and Baroque influences. It’s marked by three towering spires, with the largest spire standing 100-meters high.
• The Mausoleum of Yugoslav Soldiers is one of the several museums that can be found in Olomouc. It’s dedicated to the thousands of soldiers that lost their lives in Olomouc during World War I.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Olomouc

• The BEST Hotel in Olomouc → Hotel Alley

#18 – Praděd

• Year round activities on the mountain
• The highest peak of the Jeseníky Mountains

Praděd may only be the 5th highest mountain in the country, but it’s a natural wonder with some of the most gorgeous landscapes. The snow-capped summit of Praděd is almost 2,000-meters high and boasts dramatic, picturesque views from the observation tower at the top. Although it’s a popular destination in the summer, hiking Praděd in the winter shows the mountain covered in a bright white sheet of snow. You can also ski down its slopes for a more face paced adventure!

• The Broadcast Tower at the top of the mountain is more than just a television and radio signal. It’s also a small hotel and restaurant with an observation deck for viewing.
• Skiing down Praděd during the winter is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. It’s also home to the highest altitude ski resort in the entire country! Besides Praděd, you’ll have several other peaks of the Jeseníky Mountains to soar down.
• Karlova Studanka is a hiking trail with moderate difficulty. You’ll make your way down the side of the mountain and past the Bila Opava River where you’ll spot several cascading waterfalls.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Praděd

• The BEST Hotel in Praděd → Hotel Valdes

#19 – Mariánské Lázně

• Over 100 mineral springs
• Lush gardens and relaxed atmosphere

If you are looking for a bit of peace and relaxation, head to the spa town of Mariánské Lázně. It remains one of the most tranquil towns in the Karlovy Vary Region, with multiple thermal baths, flowering gardens, and bubbling hot springs. During its height, Mariánské Lázně attracted world-famous rulers, composers, and artists who came to unwind in the spas. If you want to feel like a VIP, then definitely don’t miss out on a weekend trip to Mariánské Lázně!

• Křížový pramen is a spring that sits under a pavilion with over 70 marble columns. Although the water is known to have healing properties, you’ll still want to drink it in moderation. It’s also said to have a strong laxative effect if too much is ingested!
• The Singing Fountain comes alive several times throughout the day with a musical water show. Watch the streams of water dance to the beat of playful humming and songs.
• Park Boheminium Mariánské Lázně is a museum and park with mini replicas and models of local Czech monuments. Kids of all ages will enjoy wandering through the outdoor park and looking at the 70 or so mini scaled buildings.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Mariánské Lázně

• The COOLEST Hostel in Mariánské Lázně → Apartment Foster
• The BEST Hotel in Mariánské Lázně → Gourmet Hotel Villa Patriot

P.S – Luckily, we’ve compiled this guide of the best places to stay in Prague to help you plan your trip!

#20 – Šumava National Park

An awesome place to visit in the Czech Republic for half a day!

• Dark forests and clear lakes
• Several abandoned villages to explore

The protected biosphere of the Šumava National Park is home to some of the most diverse terrains out of any European park. Nicknamed “the Green Roof of Europe”, the dense Bavarian Forest is starkly contrasted to the glistening glacier lakes. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle of city life, then Šumava National Park is a harmonious place where you can absorb yourself in nature. You won’t find many villages or towns in the park, which means you can have it all to yourself!

• Boubín Hill is the highest point in Šumava National Park at 1362-meters. You can climb to the top (or take a tour bus) to visit the observation deck that overlooks the rich forest below.
• Laka Lake may be the smallest out of the park’s eight glacier lakes, but expansive ecosystem and rich soil mean its home to a variety of lush and vibrant plants. 
• Zhůří used to be a small village with over 600 residents before it was abandoned in the mid-1950s. You can now wander the desolate homes and even a destroyed chapel that was once the center of Šumava life.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Šumava National Park

• The BEST Hotel in Šumava National Park → Chalupa Kahabka

#21 – Loket

A great place in the Czech Republic to sightsee

• Over 3,000 residents
• A medieval town with beautiful natural surroundings

You might recognize the quiet town of Loket from the movie, James Bond Casino Royale! Despite starring in a major motion picture, Loket remains an untouched city in the middle of the Czech Republic. It’s managed to avoid major industrialism and construction like many other cities, making it the perfect escape for a few days. Loket is also surrounding on three sides by the Ohře River, which means you can enjoy a variety of water sports in the summer.

• Loket Castle is a Gothic, stone castle that sits high atop the hills overlooking the city. Besides housing a wedding chapel and grand hall, the castle also has an eerie chamber of torture that’s sure to make your hair rise!
• The Svatoš Rocks are uniquely shaped rock formations that attract rock climbers and hikers all year round. Legend has it that these granite statues symbolize the cursed wedding of Jan Svatoš.
• The Schwarzer Turm was once a defense tower used to guard the city and royal lords. The top offers panoramic views of Loket, as well as a small museum.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Loket

• The BEST Hotel in Loket → Apartments No.59 Loket

#22 – Ceske Budejovice

• Famous Czech beer town
• The largest city in South Bohemia

The Czech Republic may be known for producing some of the best beer in the world, and the breweries in Ceske Budejovice are no exception! Ceske Budejovice is home to Budweiser beer, but don’t confuse it for the popular American lager, as both companies have been at a legal brand battle for ages. If you’re more interested in architecture, you can explore the many 19th century Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings that are scattered throughout the city.

• The Black Tower is one of the top attractions in Ceske Budejovice. If you dare, climb the 225 steps to the top for sweeping 360-degree views of the entire city.
• Samson’s Fountain sits in the middle of the main square and was originally built as a water source for the residents of the town. It’s now a flowing fountain with several marvelous statues that light up at night when the sun goes down.
• The Dominican Monastery was once a Gothic building that housed the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary during the 14th century. However, it’s since been transformed into an art school for young children.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Ceske Budejovice

• The COOLEST Hostel in Ceske Budejovice → Cuba Bar and Hostel
• The BEST Hotel in Ceske Budejovice → Hotel Budweis

#23 – Liberec

• A mix of city life and nature
• One of the largest botanical gardens

Although it’s the third largest city in the Czech Republic, Liberec is often overlooked by tourists for the more populous cities of Prague and Plzeň. However, Liberec is a thriving city rich in history and culture and also surrounded by mountains, lakes, and rivers. With plenty of museums, parks, and architectural buildings to visit, you could easily spend a long weekend wandering through the charming city of Liberec!

• Town Hall is a striking Neo-Renaissance building that houses the Municipal Authority. Built in the late 1800s, the Town Hall’s towers stand 65-meters tall, and the front facade of the building represents a bronze tank.
• Ještěd Tower may look like a modern spaceship, but its actually a television tower, hotel, and restaurant! From the top, you can see straight into Liberec as well as into Germany and Poland.
• The Botanical Garden in Liberec is one of the largest gardens in the whole country. Covering over 3,000 square meters inside nine different glass houses, the botanical garden is the perfect place for a late summer afternoon stroll.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Liberec

• The BEST Hotel in Liberec → Apartmány Terasy Café

#24 – Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau

• Second most visited castle in Bohemia
• The setting of several Hollywood movies

If you’re looking for one of the most picturesque monuments in the Czech Republic, then look no further than the Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau. This stunning castle was built in the late 13th-century and styled after England’s Windsor Castle. Visiting Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau will make you feel as if you’ve stepped foot inside a fairytale story with its private gardens, large-scaled towers, and grand lookout towers.

• Flemish Tapestries can be found throughout the chateau, a unique addition that is rare in Bohemian architecture. Each of the 57 tapestries includes colorful illustrations, proverbs, and designs that also incorporated Buddhist traditions.
• The library houses over 12,000 leather bound books. There’s also a giant, wooden fireplace, stained glass windows, and 16th-century carved table in the center.
• South Bohemia Gallery of Mikuláš Aleš is an art museum that is housed in an old riding school. You’ll find pieces of art from both Flemish and Dutch artists of the 17th and 18th-centuries.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau

• The BEST Hotel in Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau → Apartment Adéla

#25 – Rožnov pod Radhoštěm

Cool place to see in the Czech Republic with friends!

• Preserved town and village
• Don’t miss the bizarre beer spa!

Rožnov pod Radhoštěm may be off the beaten path, but it’s a hidden gem amongst the popular tourist attractions in the Czech Republic. A scenic five-hour drive from Prague drops you off in this quaint town, situated at the base of the Radhošť mountain on the banks of the Bečva River. Many of the buildings and homes are still remaining from the 19th-century, where you can see what rural Czech life is really like.

• Wallachian Open Air Museum is the most popular attraction in the city. Walk through the outdoor museum to see the preserved buildings of the Little Wooden Town, the Wallachian Village, and the Water Mill Valley.
• The Beer Spa is a unique treat if you’re looking for a bit of relaxation! Whether you’re soaking in a tub full of beer, or drinking the unlimited beer on tap, you’re guaranteed to have a boozy time at this unusual spa retreat.
• Jurkovicova rozhledna is a wooden house and tower that sits in front of the Radhošť mountain. On a clear day, climb to the top of the lookout tower for astounding views of the mountains and city.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm

• The BEST Hotel in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm → Chalupa Radegast

There you have it – the best destinations to visit in the Czech Republic! With some of the most elaborate castles and sprawling national parks, you’re going to be completely occupied during your visit to this stunning country. Don’t forget to venture outside your comfort zone and explore outside Prague for some unforgettable sites!

The Czech heritage and culture run deep, and you’ll be a natural Bohemian in no time! Whether your drinking your share of local beers, dining on local cuisine, or simply walking through the cobblestone streets of the charming towns, we know you’re going to have a wonderful time in the Czech Republic.

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Clair Ricketts

Clair is a travel addict and a staff writer for One Weird Globe! A Nomad since birth, Clair has lived all over the world, calling home wherever she is in the moment. Having traveled half the world, Clair is working on a memoir about her experiences in hopes to inspire others to travel and experience this amazing planet!

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