Czech Republic Travel Guide

In 1989, after the Velvet Revolution ended the communist regime that ruled former Czechoslovakia, millions of travelers from the west started coming in droves to what is now the Czech Republic (after CZ and SL split in the amicable 1993 Velvet Divorce), especially the Czech capital Prague. And with good reason. This Central European country really has a lot to boast about, and Prague is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in the whole world. The country's ancient tradition of brewing beer (Budweiser was originally a Czech beer, the original - Budvar - is still brewed in České Budějovice, where you'll find the largest town square in Europe) makes your stay in the country an even more enjoyable one.

But don't limit your stay to Prague! There are several beautifully preserved medieval cities, most notably Ceský Krumlov and Kutna Hora in Bohemia and Znojmo in south Moravia, near the Austrian border. Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad) is a famous spa town, where you can take curative mineral water treatments while mingling with the rich and famous, many from Russia.

Brno, CZ's second-largest city is the capital of South Moravia, and the gateway to wineries, rolling hills, hiking trails galore, and caves. Even the less prosperous or industrial cities have plenty to offer - Liberec, Ceský Tešín, Ústí nad Labem, Ostrava, Olomouc, and many others, each have a unique charm. Beer lovers will also find delight at the "real" Pilsener brewery in Plzen, rock climbers will love Srbsko, etc.

The Czech Republic is situated approximately in the geographical center of Europe and has an area of 78,866 square km. It is a landlocked country 326 km from the Baltic and 322 km from the Adriatic. It shares borders with Germany (810 km), Poland (762 km), Austria (466 km) and Slovakia (265 km). The highest point of elevation is the peak of Mt. Snezka (1,602 m above sea level) and the lowest point of elevation is near Hrensko where the River Labe leaves Czech territory (117 m above sea level).

Suggested trip: Czech republic has many many beautiful historical cities and towns, mainly in the Southern Bohemia. Start early morning make a trip from Prague ride the D1 highway, exit at 90 (Humpolec) and stop in Pelhřimov, then go to Telč and further to Slavonice and České Budějovice. There you stay for the evening and night. Next day go the the very near gorgeous Český krumlov. These places are sweet with beautiful historical centres, buildings, castles, gardens, squares and great easy atmosphere.