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Czech Republic
Czech Republic is celebrated for its historic charm and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can explore Prague’s stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Bohemian and Moravian regions, and experience the country’s rich history and traditions.
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Summary
Overview
Months
04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September, 10. October, 12. December, 01. January
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Nature, Party, Sightseeing, Skiing, Mountains, Hiking
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Czech koruna
Languages
Czech
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit the Czech Republic is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
- Spring (April to June): Offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor attractions in cities like Prague and Český Krumlov.
- Autumn (September to October): Provides pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying cultural events with fewer crowds.
- Summer (July to August) is peak tourist season with warmer weather and longer daylight hours, but it also means higher prices and more crowded attractions.
- Winter (November to March) can be cold and snowy, which is perfect for winter sports and experiencing festive holiday markets but less ideal for general sightseeing.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $15-40/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (street food, local restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (sightseeing, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, trams).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-200/day)
Accommodation: $40-90/night (mid-range hotels, Airbnbs).
Food: $20-40/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $20-50/day (sightseeing tours, cultural sites).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (shopping, tips).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter & Spring)
Budget Vacation ($30-60/day)
Accommodation: $10-30/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (local food, cafes).
Activities: $5-10/day (museums, parks).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local trams, buses).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($60-120/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels, Airbnbs).
Food: $15-25/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (cultural tours, sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-15/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $15+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $10+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Prague
- The capital city, known for its stunning architecture, historic Old Town, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle. It is a major cultural and tourist hub.
2. Brno
- The second-largest city, known for its vibrant student population, modernist architecture, including the Villa Tugendhat, and a lively cultural scene.
3. Český Krumlov
- A picturesque town in southern Bohemia, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming old town, and the beautiful Český Krumlov Castle.
4. Ostrava
- An industrial city known for its rich cultural history, including the Lower Vítkovice area, and a lively nightlife scene.
5. Plzeň
- Known as the birthplace of Pilsner beer, Plzeň is famous for its breweries, historic town center, and Gothic St. Bartholomew's Cathedral.
Prague
Islands
The Czech Republic is a landlocked country, so it doesn't have any natural islands like coastal nations do.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Bohemian Switzerland National Park
- A stunning landscape of sandstone rock formations, deep forests, and picturesque valleys. The Pravčická Gate, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch, is a highlight.
2. Krkonoše National Park
- The highest mountain range in the Czech Republic, offering beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, and winter sports opportunities, including a climb to the peak of Sněžka, the country’s highest point.
3. Moravian Karst
- A protected nature reserve known for its dramatic limestone gorges, caves, and the famous Macocha Abyss, a deep sinkhole surrounded by lush forests.
4. Český ráj (Bohemian Paradise)
- A UNESCO Geopark with a landscape of towering sandstone formations, dense forests, and historic castles, perfect for hiking and rock climbing.
5. Šumava National Park
- A large natural reserve featuring dense forests, peat bogs, and glacial lakes, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
6. Lipno Lake
- The largest reservoir in the Czech Republic, surrounded by forests and mountains, ideal for water sports, swimming, and cycling along the scenic trails.
Urban Attractions
1. Prague Castle
- A historic castle complex overlooking the city, featuring Gothic architecture, the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, and beautiful gardens. It’s the largest ancient castle in the world.
2. Charles Bridge
- A historic stone bridge adorned with statues, connecting Prague’s Old Town with the Lesser Quarter. It offers beautiful views of the Vltava River and the city’s skyline.
3. Old Town Square
- The heart of Prague’s historic center, surrounded by colorful Baroque buildings, the iconic Astronomical Clock, and the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn.
4. Cesky Krumlov
- A UNESCO World Heritage site, this picturesque town is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding streets, and the grand Cesky Krumlov Castle overlooking the Vltava River.
5. Kutná Hora and the Sedlec Ossuary
- Known for the impressive Gothic St. Barbara’s Church and the eerie Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with human bones, Kutná Hora is a fascinating day trip from Prague.
5. Karlštejn Castle
- A Gothic castle built by Emperor Charles IV, set in a picturesque landscape near Prague, known for its impressive architecture and the richly decorated Chapel of the Holy Cross.
How to get around
1. Trains
- The Czech Republic has an extensive and efficient rail network operated by České dráhy (Czech Railways) and other regional companies. Trains connect major cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava, as well as smaller towns and tourist destinations. The high-speed trains and regional services are comfortable and well-connected.
2. Public Transit
- In cities like Prague, Brno, and Plzeň, public transit systems include trams, buses, and metro lines. Prague’s DPP (Public Transit Company) offers a comprehensive network covering the city and surrounding areas. Tickets are generally valid for all modes of transit within a specified time period.
3. Buses
- Buses are widely used for both local and intercity travel. In cities, buses complement tram and metro services. For longer journeys, companies like FlixBus and RegioJet offer intercity and international routes.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are available in cities and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber operate in major cities, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
6. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a good option for exploring the countryside, national parks, and less accessible areas. Roads are well-maintained, and driving is on the right side. Car rentals are available at airports and major cities.
7. Cycling
- Many cities and towns have bike rental services and dedicated cycling paths. Prague, Brno, and other cities are becoming increasingly bike-friendly, and cycling is a pleasant way to explore urban and rural areas.
8. Ferries
- On some rivers and lakes, like the Vltava River in Prague or Lake Lipno, there are boat tours and ferries available for scenic trips and transportation.
9. Cable Cars
- In areas with hills or mountains, such as the Petřín Hill in Prague or the Krkonoš Mountains, cable cars and funiculars provide access to viewpoints and hiking trails.
For city travel, public transit and cycling are convenient, while trains, buses, and car rentals are ideal for exploring broader regions and nearby destinations.
What to eat
1. Svíčková
- A creamy vegetable sauce served with marinated beef and bread dumplings, often garnished with whipped cream and cranberries.
2. Trdelník
- A sweet pastry made from rolled dough, grilled and coated in sugar, often filled with ice cream or other toppings.
3. Guláš
- A hearty beef stew seasoned with paprika, served with bread or dumplings, popular as a comfort food.
4. Knedlíky
- Traditional Czech dumplings made from bread or potatoes, often served as a side dish with meats and sauces.
5. Koláče
- Sweet pastries filled with fruits, poppy seeds, or cheese, enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Svíčková
Photo By Patrick-Emil Zörner (Paddy) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Praha_2005-09-25_sv%C3%AD%C4%8Dkov%C3%A1_na_smetan%C4%9B-00.jpg
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €150.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: March and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers do not need a visa to enter the Czech Republic for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and most EU countries.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Czech visa at a Czech embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as short-stay visas (type C) for tourism, business, or family visits.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few days to a few weeks, so it's advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and E (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 10% being standard for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Vodafone and T-Mobile. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In the Czech Republic, people drive on the right side of the road.