Top Things to Do and See in the Czech Republic

Why visit the Czech Republic

Compact and easy to cross by train, the Czech Republic packs in Gothic cities, spa towns, beer culture and storybook castles. Here are the experiences worth building a trip around.

Cross Charles Bridge in Prague

Built from 1357 under Charles IV, this 516-metre stone bridge is lined with 30 baroque statues. Come at dawn to beat the crowds and watch the sun rise over Prague Castle.

Explore Prague Castle and St Vitus Cathedral

The largest ancient castle complex in the world spans royal palaces, gardens and the soaring Gothic St Vitus Cathedral. Allow at least half a day; the full-circuit ticket costs around 450 CZK.

Watch the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square

The Orloj, dating to 1410, is the world's oldest working astronomical clock. On the hour, the Twelve Apostles parade past its windows above the medieval square.

See the bones at Sedlec Ossuary, Kutna Hora

This small chapel is decorated with the bones of around 40,000 people, including a chandelier of every bone in the body. Nearby St Barbara's Church is a UNESCO Gothic gem.

Wander Cesky Krumlov

A UNESCO-listed town wrapped in a bend of the Vltava, with a sprawling castle, a rare baroque theatre and red rooftops. It is one of Europe's prettiest small towns.

Taste beer in Plzen and Ceske Budejovice

Pilsner Urquell has been brewed in Plzen since 1842; the brewery tour ends with unfiltered beer drawn straight from oak barrels in the cellars. Budweiser Budvar lies an hour south.

Relax in Karlovy Vary

This elegant spa town in the western hills is famed for its hot mineral springs, colonnades and the herbal liqueur Becherovka. Sip from a traditional porcelain spa cup.

Hike Bohemian Switzerland

This national park near the German border has dramatic sandstone formations, deep gorges and the Pravcicka Brana, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe.

Discover Moravia's wine and Brno

The second city, Brno, offers the modernist Villa Tugendhat and lively cafes, while the surrounding South Moravian vineyards make for relaxed cycling and tasting.

Stay connected in the Czech Republic

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so you can navigate Prague's lanes, translate menus and book castle tickets without roaming fees.