Four Hidden Gems in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has plenty to offer for a European vacation, including baroque buildings and churches, 12 UNESCO monuments, historical cities and a strong medieval heritage. Europe Express is highlighting four Czech destinations beyond the capital city of Prague worth considering when planning your client’s next itinerary.

Český Krumlov – Located in the South Bohemian Region is a small well-preserved medieval city. The 13th century Český Krumlov Castle rises high above a little town that is filled with Renaissance-era buildings. The core of the town was built around the base of the castle on the horseshoe bend of the Vltava River. Transportation is available from the train station and in areas outside of the Old Town, although the historical town center with its small narrow lanes is a car-free zone. Walk through the city center and explore streets filled with traditional shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs.

Kutná Hora – Known as the city of silver, the town developed through the prosperity of silver mining. Just outside of Kutná Hora is the medieval Gothic chapel Sedlec Ossuary located below the Cemetery Church of All Saints. Drawing 200,000 visitors annually, it is well-known for its unusual decorating design that utilizes between 40,000 – 70,000 skeletons and human bones. About 50 miles east of Prague, Kutná Hora is a good choice for a day trip.

Terezín – A former military fortress built for defense and located in North Bohemia, this destination has become infamous for first being a prison and later, during World War II, a Jewish ghetto and concentration camp. Today, Terezín Memorial and National Cemetery serves as recognition of the lost lives at the camp, which is open to the public and includes a museum, as well as the possibility of visiting the former ghetto. 

Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad) – As one of three towns that make up the West Bohemian Spa Triangle, Karlovy Vary is a good pick for a spa experience. There are 13 main hot mineral springs, with hundreds of smaller springs accommodating dozens of top-class traditional spa services and complexes. It is also home to the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of Europe’s major film events, the popular Czech liqueur Becherovka, the glass manufacturer Moser Glass, Carlsbad plums and more.