The
Czech Republic is full of surprising stories, medieval heritage and
rich cultural traditions that most travellers overlook. These
insights reveal a deeper and more intriguing side to the country
before you explore it yourself.
The Czech Republic drinks more beer per capita than any other country in the world.
Prague’s historic astronomical clock, dating back to 1410, is the oldest operating one of its kind.
There are over 2,000 castles and châteaux — one of the highest densities in Europe.
The country has natural “beer spas” where people bathe in warm, herbal-infused brewing ingredients.
Czechs enjoy mushroom picking so much that it's considered a national pastime.
The modern word “robot” originated in Prague from Karel Čapek’s 1920 play R.U.R.
Soft contact lenses were invented by Czech chemist Otto Wichterle.
Škoda is one of the oldest car manufacturers still operating today.
Semtex, an explosive used for industrial purposes, was developed in the country.
When drinking beer, it’s customary to make eye contact during a toast.
Tipping around 10% is common but not mandatory.
Removing shoes when entering a home is typical in Czech households.
Czechs value personal space and tend to be reserved until they get to know someone.
Franz Kafka, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, was born in Prague.
Antonín Dvořák is celebrated worldwide for his classical compositions.
Miloš Forman directed globally acclaimed films, including Amadeus.
Martina Navratilova is one of the greatest tennis players in history.
Prague is often called “The City of a Hundred Spires.”
Český Krumlov is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns.
Bohemian Switzerland National Park features dramatic sandstone formations.
Moravia is known for wine production and picturesque villages.
Czechs enjoy a high quality of life with strong emphasis on leisure and wellness.
Cafés and beer gardens are integral to social culture.
Traditional cuisine includes hearty dishes like goulash, dumplings and roast meats.
Folk traditions remain strong in rural regions.
Puppetry and marionette theatre are important cultural traditions.
Easter and Christmas celebrations feature unique customs and hand-decorated crafts.
Czech beer culture is a UNESCO-recognised intangible heritage.
Classical music is deeply rooted in national identity.
The region was once the Kingdom of Bohemia, a major power in Central Europe.
The Velvet Revolution of 1989 peacefully ended communist rule.
Prague Castle is one of the largest ancient castle complexes in the world.
The Charles Bridge dates back to the 14th century.
Kutná Hora’s Sedlec Ossuary is decorated with bones from over 40,000 people.
Karlštejn Castle was built to safeguard royal treasures.
The Moravian Karst features vast caves and underground rivers.
Telč is known for its colourful Renaissance architecture.
Prague’s clock is the world’s oldest working astronomical clock.
The word “robot” was created in Prague.
More than 2,000 castles across the country.
The Velvet Revolution was peaceful.
Beer consumption is the world’s highest.
Czech beer culture is UNESCO-recognised.
Contact lenses were invented here.
Charles Bridge dates to the 1300s.
Prague Castle is one of the largest in the world.
Czech cuisine includes hearty dumplings.
Moravia is known for wine.
Mushroom foraging is a national hobby.