Often reduced to spire-studded Prague, the Czech Republic deserves exploration beyond its storybook cities (no matter how pretty they are). From its world-renowned beer culture to its sprawling network of hiking trails, there’s plenty more Czech-related fun to discover across the country. So, whether sipping beer in Plzen (the birthplace of pilsner), trekking through Toulava or discovering the benefits of thermal spas in Karlovy Vary, read on for our favourite reasons to visit the Czech Republic.
- Beer capital of the world
- Hiking trails galore
- UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Comforting cuisine
- Thermal spas
Beer capital of the world
What’s cheaper than bottled water, has been brewed since 993 AD and accounts for 250 pints of a Czech citizen’s yearly liquid intake? It can only be the golden good stuff: beer. There’s no livelier reason to visit the Czech Republic than for its bubbling beer culture, one that’s a pivotal part of society. Don’t believe us? Back in the 13th century, the punishment for stealing hops was nothing less than death. However, beer etiquette today revolves around using coasters and saying na zdravi (to your health) when toasting. Phew. You’ll have to keep up, though, as Czechs drink more beer per capita than any other nation – an average of around 350ml a day. Time to grab a pilsner in Plzen and start chugging.
Hiking trails galore
Nothing works off last night’s pints like a sweat-inducing hike, and the Czech Republic has the trails to rival its breweries. With almost 25,000 miles of footpaths, the country boasts the world's densest (and best-marked) hiking trail network. Using four bright colours – red, blue, green and yellow – painted on trees, walls, fences and rocks, it’s easy to find and follow marked routes. Head to Toulava, a region renowned for its scenic trails, to wind through river valleys, sacred sites and thick forests. Staying in the cosy capital? Prague provides plenty of tracks, from city stomps to paths that branch into the nearby countryside.
UNESCO World Heritage sites
It’ll come as no surprise to history buffs that one of the top reasons to visit the Czech Republic is its portfolio of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Boasting an impressive 17 sites, the country is peppered with cultural treasures at every turn. In the south, Cesky Krumlov’s UNESCO-recognised historic centre, punctuated by Gothic castles and the Vltava River, draws over one million eager-eyed tourists per year. Further east, Telc flaunts an equally impressive centre surrounded by fishponds and city gates. Talk about a feast for the eyes.
Comforting cuisine
Czech cuisine can be summed up in one word: hearty. The mouth-watering array of meats, dumplings, soups and potatoes that delight dinner tables reflect the country’s culinary past, rooted in centuries of agrarian life. In short, it’s designed to warm the body and soul. Goulash is a soupy staple, famous for its punchy paprika flavour, tender chunks of meat and melt-in-the-mouth potato. Svickova, traditionally served at celebrations, is another dish to die for. Featuring slow-braised beef drenched in a creamy sauce and served with bread dumplings, it’s hard to miss (and impossible to resist).
Thermal spas
If all the Czech beer drinking, mountain hiking and soup slurping have worn you off your feet, fear not – our final reason to visit the Czech Republic will have you winding down in no time. Thanks to a network of underground geothermal activity, the country is blessed with abundant thermal springs to sit back and soak in. We recommend visiting the ancient spa town of Karlovy Vary for year-round thermal fun. The best part? The mineral-rich waters promise to improve skin, soothe joint pain and relieve stress. If there’s one way to end your Czech adventure, it’s this.
Written by Evie Buller | Header Image by Bjoern Steinz/PANOS-REA.
