Czech Republic Holidays

Say hello to the Czech Republic - AKA, the land of castles, beer and fairytale towns.

Destination highlights

Home to the iconic Prague Castle - because, yes your Insta feed needs a castle
A hop-head's paradise with some of the best beer in the world. Cheers!
Gorg streets that look like something from a Disney movie. Minus the singing animals, unfortunately.
Partial to a hot spring - meaning an outdoor dip, not scorchin' temps in March

What are the best sights to see in the Czech Republic?

Get ready to fill your camera roll, because Prague's attractions are like a 'best of' album for European landmarks.

Prague Castle - not just a castle, but a castle complex SO grand, it could have its own postcode. Well - it does, actually.
Charles Bridge - less of a bridge, more of a cobblestone runway for artists, musicians, and ALL the 14th-century vibes.
Český Krumlov - a town so aesthetic, you’ll think you’ve stepped into a painting. Winding streets, a riverside castle, and proper charm overload.
Kutná Hora and the Sedlec Ossuary - it's a church decorated with bones, so if you like the spooky vibes, this is your spot. It's also weirdly pretty?
Karlovy Vary - because sipping water from a hot spring in a fancy spa town is a bucket-list kinda thing.

What are the top hotels in the Czech Republic?

Ready for a royal rest in the Czech Republic? Check out these dreamy digs for a city break you won't forget:

Grand Hotel International - swanky rooms, private gardens and a rooftop bar with killer views. What more could you want?!
Ibis Praha Wenceslas Square - right near Wenceslas Square (naturally), with modern rooms and the most delish daily brekkie.
Hotel Elite Prague - 'elite' in the name? We love the confidence. Expect a cracking location close to all the touristy bits and bobs, comfy rooms and a super-suave lobby bar.
Grandior Hotel Prague - within walking distance of all the major hotspots, decked out with its own bar and bistro - and they serve up breakfast omelettes with all the trimmings. Bosh.
Grand Majestic Plaza Hotel - just a 10-min stroll from the centre with cosy suites, an on-site restaurant and a modern cocktail bar
987 Design Prague hotel - decked out with swanky rooms, an indoor pool (pack your cozzie) and a restaurant and bar for all your cocktail-slurping, buffet-browsing needs
Comfort Hotel Prague City East - this place has its own game room (with foosball and table tennis), bright and quirky rooms, and a rooftop terrace that hosts barbecues in summer.

Popular Czech Republic hotels

Weather in Czech Republic

The Czech Republic's climate can be a bit of a rollercoaster through the seasons. In winter, it looks like Elsa from Frozen's been doing the rounds, with things warming up just a smidge in springtime. Come summer, you can pack lighter for temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (perfect for the ride-or-die hand luggage-only peeps), before things cool down for autumn again to a cool and crisp 5-10°C - still pleasant for exploring if you layer up.

FAQs

The official currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech Koruna, otherwise known as the Czech Crown. It's giving regal.

The official language spoken in the Czech Republic is - unsurprisingly - Czech!

It takes around 2 hours to fly to the Czech Republic from the UK. That's enough time to watch Barbie, or two thirds of Oppenheimer. Choose wisely.

The local time in the Czech Republic is just one hour ahead of the UK/Ireland - no pesky jet lag here!

Live a real-life fantasy at The Magical Cavern on Petřín Hill

Is it a house? Is it a cave? Is it a real-life painting? It's kind of all three! This place is a fantasy land conjured up by artist Reon Argondian, fittingly called Argondia. It already sounds like something from a movie. He's turned this house into a fantastical display, with paintings and sculptures covering the walls, floor and even the ceilings! There's something to see everywhere you turn here, so keep your eyes peeled.

Pull an all-nighter in a wine barrel

We said what we said. Vinarstvi Pod Hradem are lodges in the region of Klentnice, but this isn't your regular glamping ground. This vineyard decided to go the extra mile by offering not just your regular wine-tour experience, but two huge wine barrel 'pods' to spend the nigt in - each decked out with a double bed, heating, power and a complimentary bottle of vino. Obvs.

Each to their bone

Sedlec Ossuary is a Roman Catholic chapel which doesn't look much from the outside, but it's known as the Church of Bones, so we'll give you one guess as to what's inside. The grisly story dates back to 1298 when a monk returned from Jerusalem with what he claimed to be 'holy soil'. After hearing this, everyone wanted to be buried here - including people from around the globe - and, so, when the town started it's expansion, room had to be made. Enter: a woodcarver who was called to organise the bones. The result is actually more breathtaking than disturbing, with all kinds of floor-to-ceiling sculptures - the highlight being a whopper of a chandelier made entirely of bones.

Treat yourself to a pamper at THE spa town

If self care's your middle name, Karlovy Vary is the town for you. It's literally known as a spa town thanks to its bubbling hot springs, top spas and whimsical vibes. There are 12 hot springs dotted around the town if you like an earthy dip, plus a spa for every occasion - including a beer spa where you can literally bathe in all the best ingredients from the local tipple. Ding ding ding, we have a winner.

Park yourself at Šumava National Park

This is one of the largest national parks in the country (no biggie), with tone of hiking spots and outdoor activities like cycling, fishing and even horseback riding. It's also home to lakes, a ton of trees (obviously), as well as a bunch of endangered plant and animal species.

What events can I go to in the Czech Republic?
The Czech Republic's annual events calendar is jam-packed with all the culture-filled, carnival-themed, beer-fuelled fun you could want. Here's a sneak peek of what to expect throughout the year:
- Czech Beer Festival (May) - beer-lovers, this is your paradise. It's like Oktoberfest's younger, cooler sibling with over 150 varieties of the golden brew. Na zdraví to that!
- Prague Spring International Music Festival (May/June) - classical music buffs, rejoice! It's like the Oscars for symphonies and sonatas. Get ready for some serious culture, with a side of sophistication.
- Prague Fringe Festival (May/June) - offbeat and quirky, this festival is like the wacky cousin of Edinburgh's festival we all know and love. Expect the unexpected - with theatre, comedy skits and more.
- Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July) - lights, camera, action! It's the Cannes of the Czech Republic - minus the beach, but with an extra dose of charm.
- Pardubice Gingerbread Festival (September) - celebrating the nation’s love for gingerbread, this festival is the sweetest thing since...well, gingerbread. It’s Hansel and Gretel’s dream come true.
- Signal Festival (October) - Prague turns into a futuristic wonderland with light art and installations. It's like a rave for your eyes, minus the thumping headache the next day.
- Velvet Revolution Anniversary (November) - commemorating the end of Communist rule, this is less of a party and more of a massive, country-wide sigh of relief. History buffs, this one's for you.
- Christmas Markets (December) - get lost in a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, mulled wine, and enough festive spirit to make Santa jealous. It's like stepping into a Hallmark movie, but less cringey.
Where's the best nightlife in the Czech Republic?
Alright, night owls and party animals, let's plunge into the Czech Republic’s nightlife - where the beer flows a river and the dance floor beckons you with beats you can't resist. Ready to see how the Czechs party? Let's go!
- Cross Club - picture a futuristic, industrial playground where every corner's a piece of art. It's like a labyrinth of bars, dancefloors and terraces with beats that keep your feet moving 'til the early hours. Perfect for if you like your night out to be as eclectic as your playlist!
- Roxy - this legendary spot is like the godfather of Prague's club scene. Pulsating lights, chart-topping hits and a crowd that’s always up for a good time. If you’re looking to dance your socks off, this is the place.
- Lucerna Music Bar - fancy a trip down memory lane? Lucerna's 80s and 90s nights are an epic blast from the past with a killer soundtrack. It’s cheesy, it’s nostalgic, and it's buckets of fun.
- Chapeau Rouge - three floors, each with its own vibe, from live bands to underground DJs. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with music and cocktails.
- Jazz Dock - add a little class to your night with some smooth jazz by the riverside. It's where you go to impress a date...or to feel like you’re in a suave spy movie.
- Harley’s Bar - the bad boy of Prague’s bar scene. Think rock ‘n’ roll, strong drinks, and a no-nonsense vibe. If your motto is 'go hard or go home,' you'll fit right in here.
- Friends Club - a welcoming spot for the LGBTQ+ crowd and anyone who loves good music, fun shows and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s where everyone instantly becomes your bestie.
- Blues Sklep - get down and bluesy in this cosy, cave-like spot. It’s intimate, it's got soul, and it's perfect for a laidback night with a side of live blues.
- Coyote Ugly - yes, it's exactly what you think – dancing on the bar, fiery shots, and a wild, wild night. It's not just a bar...it’s an experience.
What's the food like in the Czech Republic?
Get ready to loosen your belt a notch (or three!), because the Czech Republic's food scene is all about hearty indulgence and big, BIG flavours. Here's a taste of what's cooking:
- Knedlíky - these pillowy dumplings are the sidekick to loads of Czech dishes. Bread or potato-based, they're perfect for soaking up all that saucy goodness.
- Guláš - think chunks of meat (usually beef), onions, and a lusciously thick sauce, often served with knedlíky. It's like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Svíčková – marinated beef served with a creamy veg sauce, cranberries, and whipped cream. Yes, whipped cream. And yes, it works.
- Smazeny Sýr – imagine a slice of cheese, breaded and fried to crispy golden perfection. It’s like a mozzarella stick went to finishing school in Prague.
- Trdelník – this rolled dough, grilled and topped with a sugar and walnut mix, is a street food superstar. It's like a churro's fancier cousin.
- Palačinky – these thin crepes can be rolled with jam, fruit, or cream. It's breakfast, dessert, and everything in between.
- Česnečka – loaded with garlic, potatoes and usually some meat. It's simple, but packs a punch - perfect for those chilly nights (or pesky vampires).
- Vepřo Knedlo Zelo – roast pork, sauerkraut and knedlíky. This dish is like the Czech Republic on a plate – traditional, unpretentious, and downright delish.
- Chlebíčky – these open sandwiches come with a variety of toppings, perfect for when you just want a nibble... or ten.

Places to visit

Dolní Morava
Dolní Morava is like a reverse catfish; it's even BETTER in person. Trust. Tucked in the middle of the Czech mountains, this place is a jackpot for nature-lovers, thrill-seekers, and anyone who fancies breathing air so fresh it tickles your lungs. Fancy a stroll? Hit the Sky Walk, where you can walk above the trees and feel like a bird (minus all the flapping). Or, if you're more of an adrenaline junkie, the mountain coaster is your ticket to screams and laughs. And when winter rolls around, this place transforms into a snow-dusted paradise - perfect for leaving your mark on the slopes, or just sipping hot choc like you're in a Christmas movie. So, pack your bags and set your out-of-office reply to "Gone to Dolní Morava, might never come back!
Ceský Ráj
Oh, Ceský Ráj! Or as we like to call it, 'Nature's Theme Park'. Why visit? Well, it's like stepping into a fantasy novel, minus the dragons (although, we can't promise you won't find any hidden in the rock formations). This place is a smorgasbord of sandstone cliffs, eerie rock towers, and green valleys that look like they’ve been Photoshopped by Mother Nature herself. Fancy a bit of a scramble? The rock labyrinths here are like a natural jungle gym. And for the Instagrammers, the viewpoints are SO gorg, even your phone will gasp. Hiking, castle-hunting, or just picnicking in the prettiest of settings – Ceský Ráj is the ultimate outdoor playground for adventurers and chill-seekers alike. So, lace up your boots and get ready to update your profile pic with some seriously envy-inducing backdrops!
Prague Old Town
Visiting the Old Town in Prague is like stepping into a time machine and popping out in a medieval fairy tale - but with way better beer. You'll find yourself wandering through winding alleys, stumbling upon hidden courtyards, and feeling like you're in a 24/7 live history lesson (minus the boring bits). Don't forget to gawk at the Astronomical Clock – it's like the OG of public time-telling, with a side of hourly mechanical showmanship. And the vibes? Oh, the vibes are a mix of old-world charm and lively modern buzz, perfect for those who love their history served with a side of lively café culture. Whether you're a selfie-snapping tourist, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates a good trdelník (those sweet, doughy spirals of happiness) - Prague Old Town is the place to be. Go on, get lost in the magic – it's practically mandatory!