10 Best Places to Visit in the Czech Republic from the UK

The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, is a landlocked country situated in the heart of Europe. “Landlocked” means that it does not touch the sea and is surrounded by other countries on all sides. Due to its central location, it is often described as being at the heart of Europe.

The capital city is Prague, famous for its red rooftops, old bridges, and Gothic towers. This city has been an important cultural and political hub for centuries. Other regions of the country include Bohemia in the west and Moravia in the east. Each area has its own traditions, food, and attractions.

Best Time to Visit the Czech Republic

The weather in the Czech Republic experiences significant changes throughout the year. Summers are usually warm, winters are frigid with snow, and the months in between have milder conditions. Deciding when to go really depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.

• Spring (March to May): The weather is mild, flowers are blooming, and the tourist crowds are smaller than in peak summer. Cities like Prague look fresh and lively.
• Summer (June to August): Days are warm and long, making it perfect for outdoor sightseeing. However, because it’s peak season, expect higher hotel prices and a large influx of tourists in popular areas.
• Autumn (September to November): The weather is still pleasant, the autumn colours are stunning, and the crowds thin out.
• Winter (December to February): Cold and snowy. Although many attractions outside Prague may be closed, this season has its own charm.

10 Best Places to Visit in the Czech Republic from the UK

Here’s our favourite list!

1. Prague

Prague, the capital city, is usually the first stop for travellers flying in from the UK. It is famous for its fairytale look: spires, towers, and cobblestone streets everywhere you turn. Prague Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city and is one of the largest ancient castles in the world.

What makes Prague special is not just its monuments but the atmosphere. Cafés and pubs are full of life, and the city strikes a balance between old-world charm and a modern cultural scene. A beer here often costs less than water in a restaurant.

Must-See Spots in Prague:

• Prague Castle: A historic complex with churches and palaces.
• Charles Bridge: An iconic medieval bridge with city views.
• Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock: Cultural and historic hub.
• Jewish Quarter: Important synagogues and museums.
• Wenceslas Square: Main shopping and cultural area.

2. Český Krumlov

South of Prague lies Český Krumlov, and its main attraction is the Český Krumlov Castle. The city is small enough to explore on foot, with narrow streets, wooden bridges, and the peaceful Vltava River winding through.

Many visitors only spend a day here, but staying overnight allows you to see the town after the day-trippers leave. At night, the streets are quiet, and the lights make the castle glow beautifully. This place is one of the most photographed towns in the country and deserves its reputation. You’ll also find art galleries, small museums, and cosy restaurants where you can try Czech food.

3. Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic. It is known for its hot springs, which people have believed for centuries to have healing effects. Visitors can walk through the colonnades, elegant covered walkways where mineral water flows from fountains.

The town is also famous for the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the world. The city’s architecture is stunning too: pastel-colored buildings line the hillsides, and the river runs right through the middle. For relaxation, luxury hotels often offer spa treatments that utilise local mineral waters.

4. Kutná Hora

Kutná Hora was once a wealthy medieval town because of its silver mines, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most famous site here is the Sedlec Ossuary, also called the Bone Church. This small chapel is decorated with the bones of around 40,000 people, arranged into chandeliers, coats of arms, and other designs. It sounds eerie, but it’s also fascinating and attracts many visitors.

5. Brno

Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic and has an entirely different vibe from Prague. It is younger, less touristy, and full of students, as it is home to several prominent universities. The city boasts a vibrant café and bar culture, with hidden gems like Super Panda Circus, a cocktail bar renowned for its creative drinks and storytelling approach.

The main attractions include Špilberk Castle, which once served as a prison, and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, whose towers dominate the skyline. Brno is also known for its quirky features, such as the Brno Astronomical Clock in the main square, which is shaped like a bullet and often confuses many visitors.

6. Moravian Wine Region

When people think of wine in Europe, they often think of France or Italy, but Moravia in southern Czechia has a long tradition of winemaking. The region is filled with rolling hills, vineyards, and small wine cellars called “sklepy.” Visitors can taste fresh white wines, sparkling varieties, and unique blends that are rarely exported.

Some of the best-known wineries include Sonberk Winery, famous for its stunning views and modern design, as well as small, family-run cellars where the owners themselves pour your glass. Visiting during the harvest season in autumn is particularly rewarding, as many towns host wine festivals featuring tastings, music, and traditional cuisine.

7. Hluboká Castle

Hluboká Castle looks like something from a Disney movie. It is white, with towers and gardens, and is often regarded as the most romantic castle in the Czech Republic. Built in a style inspired by England’s Windsor Castle, it has lavish interiors filled with wood carvings, tapestries, and grand halls. Outside, the gardens are open to the public, making for a peaceful walk.

Visiting Hluboká is like stepping into a different world, especially if you enjoy architecture and history. It is located near České Budějovice, the city that gave the world Budweiser beer. Combining a visit to the castle with the town nearby makes for a complete and enjoyable trip.

8. Olomouc

Olomouc is a city often overlooked by international tourists, which is surprising given that it boasts one of the largest main squares in Central Europe. The centrepiece is the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO monument considered one of the best examples of Baroque art in Europe. Fountains, churches, and cafés surround the square.

Because Olomouc is a university town, it has a youthful energy. The streets are lively, but the crowds are nowhere near as heavy as Prague’s. The city also has several museums, an impressive town hall with an astronomical clock, and a relaxed pace of life.

9. Bohemian Paradise

Bohemian Paradise is a natural reserve featuring unusual rock formations, lush forests, and well-maintained hiking trails. The highlight here is the Prachov Rocks, tall sandstone towers that create a maze-like landscape.

This area is also dotted with small castles and ruins, allowing you to combine nature with history. It is only about 90 minutes from Prague by car.

10. Karlštejn Castle

Just a short drive or train ride from Prague, Karlštejn Castle is one of the most visited castles in the Czech Republic. The walk up to the castle takes you through shops and small restaurants, and the view from the top is impressive. The castle itself boasts richly decorated interiors, featuring paintings and Gothic designs that evoke a sense of medieval luxury. Because it is so close to Prague, it makes for an easy half-day or full-day trip.

Getting Around Czechia

The country has a strong network of trains, buses, and trams. If you land in Prague and want to visit other towns, you can rely on train services run by Czech Railways and private companies. The trains are modern, comfortable, and have Wi-Fi. Buses are also frequent, and in some cases, faster than trains.

You can buy tickets at yellow machines in stations, in newsagents called “Trafika,” or by using the Lítačka mobile app. One important tip to remember is that tickets must be validated before travel. This means you must stamp your ticket in the small machines at tram or metro entrances.

For longer trips into the countryside, renting a car can be helpful, especially if you want to visit smaller towns or natural parks that are not directly connected by train. Roads are in good condition, but please note that you will need to purchase a vignette (a small toll sticker) if you plan to use the highways.

Tips for UK Travellers Travelling to the Czech Republic

Many people who visit the Czech Republic only see Prague, but that’s a mistake. Spa towns, castles, wine regions, and hiking trails are all waiting.

Money and Currency Basics

One common issue is payment. The currency here is the Czech Koruna, written as CZK or Kč. While a few shops in central Prague accept euros, the exchange rate is unfavourable, and you’ll end up overpaying. Always choose to pay in local money.

Card payments are widely accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, carrying some cash is still helpful for small cafés, market stalls, and purchasing public transport tickets.

Avoiding Tourist Traps with Payments

You may also face something called Dynamic Currency Conversion when paying by card. A machine may ask if you’d like to pay in your home currency, like British pounds, instead of Czech Koruna. Always pick CZK. Your bank will give you a fairer rate than the machine.

Eating and Drinking Like a Local

Czech food is filling and hearty, often featuring meat, dumplings, and stews. Popular dishes include roast pork with cabbage and dumplings, beef with creamy sauce, and fried cheese. Soups are typical starters, and goulash is a must-try. Beyond the food, beer is the star. 

Learning a Few Words of Czech

Although English is widely spoken in Prague and tourist areas, learning a few basic Czech words shows respect and makes interactions warmer. For example, “Dobrý den” means “Good day,” and “Ahoj” is a casual “Hello.” Saying “Děkuji” for “Thank you” will always bring a smile. And of course, knowing “Pivo”, which means “beer”, might be the most useful of all.

Final Thoughts

The Czech Republic is one of those rare countries where you can experience a vast range of activities within a short period of time.

What makes the country stand out is not only its castles and architecture, but also the charm of everyday life. Rather than rushing through a checklist, take time to enjoy the atmosphere and local culture. For anyone seeking history, nature, and affordability, the Czech Republic offers it all. Don’t forget to share your experience to inspire other travellers.

FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel from the UK to the Czech Republic?

UK citizens can travel to the Czech Republic for up to 90 days within any 180 days without a visa, as part of the Schengen Agreement. 

Is the Czech Republic more expensive than the UK?

Generally, the Czech Republic is more affordable than the UK for food, accommodation, and transportation. A meal in a mid-range restaurant will often cost about half of what it would in London. Beer is famously cheap.