Sights of the Czech Republic

It would be nearly impossible to list all the attractions of the Czech Republic. The country is practically adorned with castles, fortresses, turrets, palaces, gardens, sculptures, and museums. So, it would take a considerable amount of time to mention just a few of the Czech Republic's many captivating sights.

However, tripmydream has prepared descriptions of some of the Czech Republic's top attractions to assist you in navigating your trip.

Castles, Fortresses, and Palaces:

• Zvíkov: A castle built at the confluence of the Otava and Vltava rivers. One of Bohemia's oldest castles, with its first mention dating back to 1234.
• Konopiště: An exceptionally beautiful castle near Prague, built in the 13th century. It boasts a magnificent park and rose garden.
• Pražský Hrad: The largest fortress in the Czech Republic, founded in the 9th century, now serving as the historical, political, and cultural center of the country.
• Goethe Tower: This observation tower in Karlovy Vary, though relatively young compared to ancient castles, was built in 1889 and was always intended as a viewing platform.
• Becov nad Teplou: The ancient castle in the town of the same name, located 25 kilometers from Karlovy Vary, consistently attracts tourists.
• Vlaský dvor: This beautiful palace in Kutná Hora once served as the Czech mint. Only the name and the palace walls' unusual design have endured.
• Gluboka nad Vltavou: Built in the 13th century and regularly changing hands, this castle was reconstructed in the 19th century in the neo-Gothic style under the ownership of Eleonora Schwarzenberg.

Churches and Monasteries:

• The Church in Sedlec: This small chapel is famous for its unique decoration made mostly from human bones, including a remarkable chandelier.
• Saint Vitus Cathedral: Located at the center of Prague Castle, this cathedral serves as the current seat of the Archbishop of Prague. It was constructed in 1344.
• Strahov Monastery: Founded in the 12th century by an order of Protestant monks who adhered to a vow of silence, the monastery remains under their ownership to this day.

City Attractions:

• Karlov Bridge: This bridge connects the Old Town of Prague with the Malá Strana district. It spans 516 meters in length, is 10 meters wide, and is supported by 16 piers. Construction began in 1357 by order of Emperor Charles IV. The bridge is now pedestrianized and lined with numerous souvenir shops.
• Colonnade in Mariánské Lázně: This gallery-promenade, built in 1889, is designed for strolling and enjoying mineral water. It features a Baroque style with Art Nouveau elements.
• Staré Město: The Old Town, a historic district of Prague, where many of the city's attractions are concentrated. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Český Krumlov: This small town in the south of the Czech Republic is renowned for its castle complex, which gives it a truly fairytale-like appearance. The historic center of Český Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Zlatá ulička: A miniature street within Prague Castle, featuring colorful houses that create a toy-like atmosphere.

Gardens and Parks:

• The Botanical Garden in Teplice: This extensive collection of plants from around the world covers an area of 2 hectares.
• Dvořákovy Gardens: A small yet charming and beautiful park located in the central part of Karlovy Vary. It comprises a few tree-lined alleys with benches in the shade, along with monuments and sculptures. The gardens are named after Antonín Dvořák, the renowned Czech composer of the late 19th century.
• Ostrava Zoo: Home to many animals and birds, this zoo is nestled within a forested area spanning 103 hectares. The conditions provided for the animals aim to replicate their natural environments as closely as possible.
• Kříkovy Gardens: A picturesque park in Pilsen, established in the 19th century on the site of the city walls. It's named in honor of the famous Czech engineer.

Museums and Galleries:

• Museum of Alchemists and Magicians in Prague: The magical museum "Speculum Alchemiae" provides an immersive experience in the atmosphere of the dark and mysterious Middle Ages, where science and mysticism were closely intertwined.
• The Wax Museum in Prague: This museum features an astonishing collection of wax portraits of cultural, sports, and political celebrities. The figures are crafted with incredible realism and can sometimes be mistaken for real people.
• The Museum of Garnet in Prague: Although opened only in 2009, this museum has already gained significant popularity. Visitors can explore everything about the extraction, processing, and properties of garnet.
• Škoda Museum: The Škoda factory, founded in Mladá Boleslav by Václav Klement and Václav Loren in 1895, now houses a museum dedicated to this automobile brand and its history.

Natural Attractions:

• Moravian Karst: The most renowned protected area of karst caves in Central Europe. The Moravian Karst protected area is highly popular among tourists, offering the chance to witness nature's exquisite creations, including caves, chasms, underground rivers, and rocks.
• Czech Switzerland: Part of the natural complex of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, situated in the northern region of the Czech Republic. This natural reserve, characterized by its stunning rock formations and gorges, is a beloved destination for tourists.
• Machovo Lake: Located just 80 kilometers north of Prague, Machovo Lake is considered part of an astonishing nature reserve. Here, you'll discover comfortable sandy beaches surrounded by shady forest shores, warm and clear water, well-developed infrastructure, and excellent opportunities for swimming and water sports. The lake is rightfully regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the Czech Republic.

These are not all the sights you can explore in the Czech Republic. You can find more information about them on our Czech cities pages.