Traveling in the Czech Republic

Traveling in the Czech Republic: A Complete Guide

The Czech Republic is a fascinating destination in the heart of Central Europe, rich in history, fairytale castles, cities of art, and stunning natural landscapes. Despite its relatively small size, it offers a wide variety of attractions, from cultural capitals to picturesque villages, spas, and natural parks.

Traveling by car: road rules

If you choose to travel to the Czech Republic by car:

European driving license valid.
Speed limits:
- 50 km/h in residential areas
- 90 km/h outside the city
- 130 km/h on the motorway
Alcohol: zero tolerance (0.0 g/l).
Lights: mandatory at all times, even during the day.
Motorway vignette: Mandatory for motorway use (available in electronic format, purchased online or at service stations).
Seat belts: Mandatory for everyone.
Mobile phones: Prohibited without a hands-free kit.

Practical information

Documents: identity card valid for travel abroad or passport.
Language: Czech, but English is widespread in tourist cities.
Currency: Czech koruna (CZK). It is advisable to exchange currency or use ATMs; the euro is not always accepted.
Transport:
- Efficient and economical trains and buses.
- In Prague it is better to use the metro, trams and buses with integrated tickets.
Cost of living: Generally lower than in UK, especially outside Prague.
Safety: Safe country, just watch out for pickpockets in tourist areas.

Main destinations not to be missed

Prague, the city of a hundred spires

Prague is the beating heart of the country and aof Europe’s most beautiful capitals.

Prague Castle: the largest medieval castle complex in the world, with St. Vitus Cathedral.
Charles Bridge: a Gothic bridge adorned with statues, very evocative at sunrise or sunset.
Old Town (Staré Město): with the Astronomical Clock and the Town Hall Square.
Jewish Quarter (Josefov): synagogues and the evocative Jewish cemetery.
Mala Strana: romantic neighborhood with baroque buildings and cobbled streets.

Český Krumlov

A fairytale village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a spectacular castle, panoramic towers, and a well-preserved medieval center. Perfect for a couple of days trip.

Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně

Very famous spa towns, frequented for centuries by aristocrats and artists. Today, they combine elegant 19th-century architecture with modern wellness centers.

Kutná Hora

Once a rival of Prague thanks to its silver mines. Must see:

St. Barbara Cathedral, Gothic masterpiece.
Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with the bones of approximately 40,000 people.

Brno

The country’s second city, modern and lively, famous for:

Villa Tugendhat, an icon of modern architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An alternative nightlife and cultural experience to Prague.

Nature and castles

Karlštejn Castle, medieval symbol near Prague.
Hluboká Castle, in neo-Gothic style, similar to Windsor.
Bohemian Switzerland National Park, with canyons, rock formations, and the Pravčická Brána Bridge, a spectacular natural stone arch.

When to go

The Czech Republic has a continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. warm.

Spring (April-June): pleasant climate, flowers in bloom, and fewer tourists.
Summer (July-August): temperatures between 20 and 30°C, events and holidaysl, but high season.
Autumn (September-October): Colorful nature, mild climate, ideal for traveling.
Winter (December-February): Cold and snow, magical atmosphere during the Christmas markets.

The best months: May, June and September.

Typical cuisine

Czech cuisine is hearty and tasty:

Gulasch (local version a little different from the Hungarian one).
Svíčková: Beef with creamy sauce and knedlíky (bread dumplings).
Trdelník: Grilled rolled sweet pastry.
Czech beer: One of the most popular in the world, affordable and of excellent quality.

Conclusion

The Czech Republic is a complete destination: ideal for a city break in Prague, a tour of historic cities and castles, or a leisurely journey through nature and spas. With affordable prices, excellent transportation, and great safety, it is suitable for both independent travelers and families.

Traveling in the Czech Republic