Best Things To Do In The Czech Republic 

Discover the best things to do in the Czech Republic - from fairy-tale castles and spa towns to hidden vineyards and hiking trails. Explore the heart of Central Europe through culture, cuisine, and unforgettable scenery. 

Top Bucket List Experiences, Must-Do Things & Unmissable Attractions.

Prague Castle & Charles Bridge 
A skyline of spires, towers, and cobblestones unfolds as you cross the Charles Bridge toward Prague Castle - the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Its Gothic grandeur, timeless courtyards, and stained glass at St. Vitus Cathedral create a true fairy-tale experience. As dawn mist lifts over the Vltava River, the city glows golden.

  • Insider Tip: Visit early morning before tour buses arrive for the best photos.
    Timing / Best Time: Spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Český Krumlov Old Town 
This UNESCO-listed medieval town charms with its red rooftops curling around the Vltava River. Wander through winding lanes lined with pastel facades, baroque courtyards, and riverside cafés. Overlooking it all, the Český Krumlov Castle tower paints a romantic panorama - like stepping into a storybook.

  • Best Way: Explore on foot and climb the castle tower for the best view.
    Good to Know: Many shops close early, so plan daytime exploring.

Kutná Hora & Sedlec Ossuary 
Famed for its haunting “Bone Church,” Sedlec Ossuary displays art crafted from thousands of human bones - a symbol of life, death, and faith. Nearby, the Gothic splendor of St. Barbara’s Church and silver-mining heritage make Kutná Hora an unmissable cultural stop.

  • Insider Tip: Join a guided tour to learn about its eerie yet fascinating history.
    Timing / Best Time: Year-round, though quieter in late autumn.

Karlovy Vary Spa Town 
Steaming thermal springs, ornate colonnades, and colorful Belle Époque buildings define Karlovy Vary. Since the 14th century, visitors have come to “take the waters,” sipping mineral-rich springs while strolling elegant promenades. It’s where history and healing meet in timeless style.

  • Best Way: Stay overnight and enjoy the spa culture like a local.
    Good to Know: Try the local herbal liqueur “Becherovka” - a regional classic.

Bohemian Switzerland National Park 
A dreamscape of sandstone cliffs, emerald forests, and natural arches, this park feels otherworldly. The Pravčická Gate - Europe’s largest natural rock arch - forms a stunning centrepiece, surrounded by scenic trails and river gorges that seem painted by nature itself.

  • Insider Tip: Hike early morning to see mist curling through the valley.
    Timing / Best Time: Late spring to early autumn for ideal hiking weather.

Telč Historic Town Square 
Telč’s Renaissance square glows with pastel façades, arcades, and artistic flourishes that make it one of the most photogenic towns in Central Europe. A fairy-tale UNESCO gem, its cobblestone heart feels like an open-air gallery of centuries-old craftsmanship.

  • Best Way: Visit midweek when it’s quieter and enjoy a coffee in the main square.
    Good to Know: Combine with a road trip through South Moravia’s wine country.

Moravian Karst Caves 
Venture underground into limestone caverns, dramatic gorges, and shimmering stalactites. The highlight - the Macocha Abyss - plunges more than 130 metres deep, with ethereal light illuminating its turquoise lake. This geological wonder delivers adventure with awe.

  • Insider Tip: Book tickets ahead, as guided cave tours fill quickly.
    Timing / Best Time: May to September for smooth access and clear weather.

Unique Experiences

Traditional Czech Beer Tasting in Pilsen 
In the birthplace of Pilsner, explore ancient breweries and sample golden lagers poured straight from oak barrels. The crisp, unfiltered taste paired with hearty Czech fare captures a proud brewing legacy.

  • How to Do It: Join a guided tour at Pilsner Urquell or smaller craft breweries for authentic tastings.

Glassmaking Workshop in Bohemia 
Watch artisans breathe life into glowing glass, then try shaping your own delicate piece. Bohemia’s centuries-old glassmaking traditions combine art, fire, and patience into one mesmerizing experience.

  • Good to Know: Workshops are available near Karlovy Vary and Nový Bor; wear closed shoes for safety.

Moravian Wine Trails by Bike 
Pedal through sun-dappled vineyards, ancient cellars, and charming villages in South Moravia. Each stop reveals family-run wineries offering Rieslings and local blends amid rolling countryside views.

  • Timing: Late summer to early autumn when harvest season fills the air with festivity

Czech Folklore Evening in Prague 
Lively folk music, traditional dances, and regional dishes make for an unforgettable night. It’s a chance to see age-old culture alive in vibrant costumes and song.

  • How to Do It: Book through local venues or cultural restaurants; dinner shows often include unlimited Czech beer.

Easter Markets & Painted Eggs Tradition 
Across towns and villages, wooden stalls overflow with hand-painted eggs, folk crafts, and sweet pastries. The energy is festive yet warm, celebrating spring renewal with charm.

  • Good to Know: Markets run from late March to early April; bring cash for handmade souvenirs.

Hidden Gems / Off-The-Beaten Path

Olomouc 
A lesser-known baroque beauty, Olomouc rivals Prague in elegance but not in crowds. Its UNESCO Holy Trinity Column and café-lined squares pulse with student energy and old-world grace.

  • Getting There: Two hours by train from Prague.
    Timing: Year-round; spring brings lively festivals and blooming parks.

Loket Castle 
Perched on a rocky bend of the Ohře River, this medieval fortress feels lifted from a fantasy novel. Surrounded by forest, Loket offers history, legends, and sweeping views.

  • Good to Know: Often used as a film location (including Casino Royale).
    Timing: Best in autumn when foliage ignites the landscape.

Třebíč Jewish Quarter & Basilica 
A rare site where Christian and Jewish heritage coexist side by side. The cobbled streets, old synagogue, and St. Procopius Basilica form a moving testament to coexistence and resilience.

  • Getting There: Easily reached from Brno by train or bus.
    Good to Know: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep, uneven lanes.

Adršpach-Teplice Rocks 
An awe-inspiring maze of towering sandstone formations - like a natural cathedral. Wander past narrow corridors, hidden lakes, and sky-high cliffs that feel untouched by time.

  • Timing: Summer for hiking and photography; winter for snow-dusted serenity.

Litomyšl Castle 
This Renaissance masterpiece blends arcaded courtyards and sgraffito art in stunning harmony. A UNESCO jewel with a soul steeped in music and art.

  • Good to Know: Birthplace of composer Bedřich Smetana; open-air concerts often fill the courtyard.

Mikulov & Pálava Hills 
A hilltop town surrounded by vineyards and castle ruins, Mikulov offers sunset views and a relaxed wine-country rhythm.

  • Getting There: Easy bus or car trip from Brno.
    Timing: September for grape harvests and wine festivals.

Unusual / Quirky Experiences

The Lennon Wall, Prague 
A spontaneous symbol of peace, freedom, and art since the 1980s, this ever-changing mural near Charles Bridge is a living canvas of global expression.

  • Why Go: It reflects Prague’s creative spirit and youth culture.
    Good to Know: Bring a marker - adding your message is welcomed.

The Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague 
Dive into Prague’s mystical past through exhibits on elixirs, secret codes, and Rudolf II’s eccentric court.

  • Why Go: A fun mix of myth, history, and interactive storytelling in a gothic setting.

The Sedlec Bone Church’s Artful Skulls 
Beyond the macabre lies profound artistry - chandeliers, coats of arms, and sculptures made entirely of bones.

  • Good to Know: Respectful silence is appreciated; photography permitted without flash.

Brno’s Astronomical Clock 
This black granite timepiece confuses and delights in equal measure - its unusual design releases a marble at 11 a.m. daily.

  • Why Go: A quirky blend of art, history, and Czech humor in the heart of Brno.

Suggested Activities by Region / City

Prague

Explore the Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock - every hour brings magic to life.
Insider Tip: Arrive before 9 a.m. for photos without the crowds.

Cruise the Vltava River for skyline views at sunset.
Best Way: Book an evening dinner cruise for atmospheric lighting.

Climb Petřín Hill for panoramic city views.
Good to Know: There’s a funicular if you’d rather skip the hike.

South Moravia 

Tour Mikulov’s vineyards and cellar lanes.
Insider Tip: Local winemakers often offer tastings unadvertised - just ask politely.

Cycle through Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape.
Best Way: Rent bikes in Břeclav; routes are well-marked.

Visit the charming town of Znojmo.
Good to Know: Try the region’s dry white wines and explore the medieval underground passages.

Bohemian Switzerland & North Bohemia

Hike to Pravčická Gate and watch the sunrise from the cliffs.
Insider Tip: Early morning light makes for incredible photos.

Take a boat through the Kamenice Gorge.
Best Way: Local boatmen operate scenic rides between April and October.

Explore Děčín Castle overlooking the Elbe.
Good to Know: The terrace café offers excellent river views.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Do’s / Recommended Activities:

• Hike the Bohemian Paradise trails past sandstone towers and forest lakes.
Tip: Visit early morning or off-season for peaceful paths.

• Go skiing or snowboarding in the Krkonoše Mountains.
Good to Know: Špindlerův Mlýn offers excellent slopes and rentals.

• Try white-water rafting on the Vltava River near Český Krumlov.
Tip: Summer brings the best flow and rental options.

• Cycle the Greenways Trail linking Prague and Vienna.
Good to Know: Allow several days and book stays at cyclist-friendly guesthouses.

Cultural & Food Experiences

Do’s / Recommended Experiences:

• Join a Czech cooking class and learn to make svíčková or dumplings.
Tip: Prague and Brno offer hands-on workshops in local homes.

• Attend a classical concert in a Baroque church or palace.
Good to Know: Tickets often available same-day at venue kiosks.

• Visit traditional Christmas markets for mulled wine and trdelník pastries.
Tip: Best in December; Prague, Brno, and Olomouc have the most atmospheric settings.

• Explore Moravian folk festivals featuring embroidered costumes and lively dances.
Good to Know: Late summer brings the most vibrant celebrations.