Central Europe is one of the hottest tourist regions in the world right now. Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com has been to the Czech Republic three times and has road tripped all over the country, so we asked him to share some of his favorite places beyond Prague.
Photo by: Mike of MikesRoadTrip.com
The Czech Republic bestows travelers with immense beauty. Its rich cultural heritage and opulent architecture date back to medieval times. Few European countries outshine this small Central European nation in terms of its collection of captivating castles, architectural masterpieces, natural wonders, and picturesque villages preserved through the ages. The Czech Republic even boasts 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
While many people only spend their time in Prague, there are many other equally enchanting, but less popular tourist attractions in this Bohemian paradise. Here are five amazing places beyond Prague worth checking out.
Mariánské Lázně
The West Bohemian city of Mariánské Lázně is a popular spa town built in the middle of a mountain forest. This beautiful place beyond Prague was a favorite destination for enduring figures like Freud, Wagner, Mark Twain, and Edward VII in the 18th and 19th century. Its spectacular hotels and spa houses sit adjacent to verdant parks and evergreen mountain forests.
With 100 iron and carbon dioxide-rich mineral springs with majestic pavilions and colonnades dotting the town, and its surrounding hillsides, Mariánské Lázně is a spa lover’s paradise. The neoclassical Singing Fountain, the Park Boheminium and central Kolonada are some of the major attractions. One of the best places to stay in town is Dhsr Nove Lazne.
Loket
Loket, with its eponymous 12th-century castle, is the jewel in the Bohemian crown, having been a constant feature of the long and rich history of one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Walking around Loket is like traveling back in time, with delicately preserved streets and centuries-old houses creating a fairytale effect you can’t experience anywhere else. The focal point of town is Loket Castle, which is built on a rock on the banks of the Ohre River. The popular James Bond movie Casino Royale was filmed here, putting Loket on the proverbial tourist map.
Olomouc
Olomouc is another place beyond Prague that is off the beaten path for most tourists, but it’s one of the best-kept Czech secrets. Olomouc is a small but thriving university town, which hosts over 18,000 students. The city also offers an array of religious edifices—from the wanton opulence of the Saint Michael’s church, to delicately restored chapels, breathtaking squares, and several fountains, Olomouc provides an unforgettable look at Czech heritage. The Trinity column, astronomical clock, museums and the grandiose appeal of the architecture will make your visit to Olomouc a memorable one. If you go, don’t miss staying at the Theatre Hotel. It’s a performance in hospitality excellence.
Kutna Hora
Kutna Hora is a popular tourist destination in the Czech Republic. The Central Bohemian town is a sleepy place with impressive architecture. The entire town (and its buildings) is a UNESCO World Heritage site—and, its Sedlec Ossuary, a Baroque chapel built from the bones of people who died in the plague, is one of the most popular attractions in town. Additionally, the town’s famous silver mines, awe-inspiring Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and Saint John the Baptist, and the Gothic St. Barbara’s Church will take your breath away.
Bohemian Switzerland
The enchanting landscape of Bohemian Switzerland is one of incredible splendor. The area is famous for its giant sandstone formations, especially the Pravcicka Brana, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch; this panoramic landscape is unparalleled in its natural beauty. If you enjoy hiking in the great outdoors, Bohemian Switzerland is one place you don’t want to miss when you visit the Czech Republic. The best way to see this part of the country, just two hours beyond Prague, is with the folks from Northern Hikes.
If you have ever been to any of these cities, or, have suggestions on other places in the Czech Republic to get beyond Prague, please leave a comment below and share your experiences.
Mike Shubic
Latest posts by Mike Shubic (see all)
- Why New Orleans should be on your bucket list - October 23, 2019
- 10 incredible places that inspire photography - October 11, 2019
- 10 Instagram-Worthy Phoenix Restaurants - May 7, 2019
Travelocity compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.
I would also recommend Bohemian Paradise UNESCO Geopark just 45min drive from Prague. The best way how to get there is with small tour company Prague Active
http://www.pragueactive.cz
We took a one day tour from Prague with Bohemia Adventures up to Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National park and got a great deal with good service. My wife and I just booked directly http://www.bohemiadventures.com and got a spot in a car even 2 days before the tour.
I was just analyzing your post its extremely properly crafted, Im looking via the web searching for the right method to do this blog web site issue and your web site is just genuinely impressive.