Prague is a city that is easy to fall in love with forever. It is elegant, mysterious and incredibly romantic, immediately captivating all its guests. She is like a cheeky beauty, it is clear that the first meeting will not be the last. However, in the Czech Republic, in addition to the capital, there are many other charming towns that are also magically mesmerizing. Some of them resemble a miniature copy of Prague, others are unique in their image. But they all deserve to be seen.
Prague
In this wonderful city, where medieval castles, ancient streets, baroque palaces and Gothic cathedrals are mixed, every tourist can collect a unique collection of bright and unique impressions. Prague is famous as one of the most beautiful capitals of Europe and never ceases to amaze even the most experienced travelers. Don't miss the famous Charles Bridge and don't forget to make a wish by touching one of the sculptures. The Old Town Square will amaze you with its complex of architectural buildings in the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles, including the world's oldest operating astronomical clock. Visit Prague Castle, long the residence of kings and presidents, and enjoy its many gardens, grand palaces and mysterious alleyways, including the famous Golden Street, where the alchemists once lived. However, the main asset of the city is the Gothic Cathedral of St. Vita In addition, Prague Castle is one of the five largest castle complexes in the world.
If you are fond of the old, then do not miss the Franz Kafka or Alphonse Mucha museums, where you can see original installations and art objects in the styles of postmodernism and deconstruction, located on the streets of Prague. The dancing house, black babies, and yellow penguins stand out against the background of the Tyn Cathedral, which was created more than seven centuries ago.
Český Krumlov
Český Krumlov is a small city that belongs to the era of knights and beautiful ladies, located on the banks of the Vltava River on the border of the Czech Republic and Austria. It was included in the UNESCO list and is considered one of the most atmospheric cities in the Czech Republic. If you like Prague, but don't like its popularity among tourists, then Cesky Krumlov will be the perfect choice for you. Here, guests of the city can feel like the heroes of a historical film, thanks to the bridges, paved with cobblestones, tiled roofs of houses and monumental castles that have remained untouched for many centuries.
The castle complex located in Cesky Krumlov is one of the largest in the Czech Republic. It combines examples of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architecture. The most prominent sights are the local cathedral of St. Vita, Krumlov Castle, Town Hall and Synagogue. Picturesque natural views lend unique charm to medieval scenery.
In addition, in Cesky Krumlov you can find modern attractions, such as the wax museum and the art center "Egon Chalet". To reach the city from Prague, you need to drive 175 km. It takes about 3 hours by train or bus, and 2.5 hours by car.
České Budějovice
Przemysl Ottokar II Square in České Budějovice is home to the main attractions, including the elegant white and blue 18th-century Town Hall, the magnificent Samson Fountain, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the mysterious Black Tower with the city's main observation deck. The entire square is considered one of the most beautiful in the Czech Republic. If you are familiar with the work "The Adventures of the Brave Soldier Švejk", then you probably know about the cute town of České Budejovice, where Švejk's battalion was based, and the main character was sure that all roads lead there.
České Budějovice is not only a beautiful city, but also has many secrets and legends. One should move carefully through the main square so as not to step on the Prodigal Stone - legend has it that a person who touches it immediately forgets the way home. A stone frog fighting on the wall of the Dominican monastery brings fear to vulnerable people - its task is to protect the monster that is hidden in the ground, or the countless treasures stored inside. However, the exact information was subsequently lost. It is only known that when the frog reaches the top of the structure, the end of the world will come. Such legends give České Budějovice a unique mystical aura and make walking through the city particularly spectacular. The city is located in Southern Bohemia, 150 km from Prague. The trip by train takes 2.5 hours, and by bus - a little less.
Brno
The town of Brno - the capital of southern Moravia, attracts tourists with various sights and picturesque surroundings. One of the main objects of tourist interest is the Špilberg castle, which is located on the hill "Mast si" ("My hill") and is surrounded by an ancient settlement. On Freedom Square, the center of city life, there are numerous colorful cafes, shops and souvenir shops. It is also worth visiting the planetarium, the museum of gypsy culture and the science and entertainment park. Returning to the historical monuments, you can continue your acquaintance with this unique city.
The outstanding sights of Brno are the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, the Town Hall and the Church of Saint Ona. However, the most iconic place is the church of St. James with the largest bone vault under it. Not far from Brno is the large and picturesque forest park Lednice-Valtice area, where you can enjoy natural beauty and visit wonderful palaces. The distance from Prague to Brno is no more than 200 km, it takes about 3 hours by train and 2.5 hours by bus.
Pilsen
If we consider partner cities for Pilsen, then St. Petersburg will be the best option. Like St. Petersburg, it was created by decree of the emperor and built according to a strict scheme: straight streets, corners and accuracy. To fall in love with the city at first sight, it is recommended to climb to the observation deck at the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. From this height, it seems that cozy houses, majestic castles and cathedrals are just toys.
The following route is likely to pass several attractions, such as the castle of the Radine Kings, the Town Hall, the West Bohemian Gallery and an ancient Gothic monastery. If this is not enough, you can add the underground world to your impressions. The city has a system of undergrounds with a total length of 24 km. In addition, it should be noted that Pilsen is the beer capital of the Czech Republic, with its own museum, brewery tours and many themed bars. Tourists are attracted no less than historical sights and beautiful landscapes.
Ostrava
Ostrava is the Czech Republic from another side. There is, of course, traditional Czech architecture, such as medieval streets, castles and churches. But unlike the mystical atmosphere of old cities, Ostrava is enlivened by the dynamics of an industrial city and a center of nightlife. The Miner's Museum, Vitkovice Metallurgical Plant, unique bars and modern art objects - all this creates a special atmosphere. Industrial monuments and Gothic spiers combine here to create an impressive sight.
Zoo in Ostrava, located inside a large forest and surrounded by water spaces and beautiful meadows, is a neighbor of the Botanical Garden. He imagines the inhabitants of wild nature, among which you can find rare types of vegetation. The exhibit of lemurs in the zoo is a special value that stands out even among other animals such as chimpanzees, hippos, elephants, red pandas and carnivores.
Karlovy Vary
Karlovy Vary is a small town where you can not only get treatment, but also relax. Here you will be delighted by beautiful streets, many baroque buildings with stucco and bas-reliefs, as well as impeccable landscape design. Life in this city is fluid and unhurried, which is ideal for leisurely walks and contemplation of the surrounding beauty. If you want to see the whole cozy town, you can climb the Castle Tower, where there is an observation deck. Karlovy Vary is so beautiful that it is often chosen for holding various festivals and events where the intelligentsia gathers.
If you are looking for entertainment, you can visit the city theater, art gallery or Becherovka museum. This drink is called the thirteenth healing spring of Karlovy Vary, and its history is also interesting.
Marianske Lazne
Marianske Lazne is also a famous balneological resort, but unlike Karlovy Vary, it is considered quieter and calmer. However, it is also a very expensive place. Czechs say that "We don't have enough money to relax in Mariánské Lázně, every first person there is a foreigner." The small town is so cozy that even walking through it can get boring after a few weeks, which usually take a treatment course. The prevailing baroque style is complemented by many decorative elements, which gives the city a spectacular atmosphere.
Even standard "threes" are located in buildings that can be called landmarks. In the park, where there is always an idyllic atmosphere, children feed ducks, and grandmothers watch them sitting on benches. Evenings include singing fountains and a brass band. However, the greatest pride of Mariánské Lazne is the Colonnade with graceful vaults and airy arched openings. In the past, such celebrities as Strauss, Rubenstein, Nobel, Prince Vladimir Romanov, King Edward of England, Mark Twain, Chopin and many others preferred to rest in this quiet Czech town, which was then called Marienbad.
Telch
Every country can find its own analogue of Venice, and the Czech Republic is no exception. This picturesque part of Moravia is home to the UNESCO-listed Telč. If you want to breathe fresh air, enjoy positivity and be excited, Telch is the perfect place for that. Colorful houses that look more like toys fill the winding streets. They are decorated with bas-reliefs, stucco, various paintings and angels. The city is quite small, so you won't have to wander around it for a long time, but a walk will be a real pleasure.
Cafes with a bright design are a common sight in Telchi, where you can have a short rest. But this city is not limited to gingerbread houses. Here you can see many attractions, such as the Telč Castle, which often appears in movies, which is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. In addition, the city has the Marian column, the city hall, museums, temples and churches. One of the most beautiful squares in the Czech Republic is Zacheria and Graz Square, which is a real highlight of the city. Telch becomes especially magical during the Christmas fairs, when the whole town is filled with an atmosphere of magic. Telch is located 160 km from Prague.
Liberets
Above the river, at the foot of two mountain ranges, the architectural styles of Gothic and Futurism rise. One of the most popular tourist spots in the area is the top of Jästed Hill, which is home to a television tower. Like many other similar structures around the world, it offers tourists a lot of interesting entertainment. Within its walls there is a small hotel, a restaurant with a panoramic view of the city and the highest observation deck in the city. In order to reach the top of the hill, vacationers can use the cable car, which in itself will be an unforgettable adventure.
Simply walking through the streets of the city, you can experience unforgettable sensations and see many interesting objects: a medieval castle, the Church of the Holy Crucifixion, the Church of St. Anthony and houses with a bolt system. If you like neo-Gothic style, you should definitely visit the city's Town Hall, which is a 65-meter tower.
