Czech Republic tours & holidays

The Czech Republic enjoys a pleasant central European climate, which means the summers are hot and dry, and the winters are often a wonderland of snow-covered cobblestones.

If you’re after the more balmy weather, then June through to August is perfect. Although, this is the high season for tourists, so expect to be darting between the crowds.

The cooler spring months of April and May are usually sun-filled, and you’ll find the attractions less busy.

For those who want to experience the quintessential ‘winter wonderland’, why not head over from December through to February - there’s even a strong chance of a white Christmas.

The Czech Republic, informal name Czechia, was first inhabited by the Celts in the 4^th century B.C. It was this tribe, known as the Celtic Boii tribe, who first called this region Bohemia. After the Celts, this region was taken over by German then Slavic tribes before eventually becoming part of the Holy Roman Empire. Following this, the Austrian Habsburg Empire was in control until the end of World War I when the independent state of Czechoslovakia was founded. However, in 1993, Czechoslovakia was divided into two: the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic.

Today, the Czech Republic is a democracy. Czechs make up the majority of the population, with smaller cultural groups both from Czechia and other European countries making up the rest. Throughout the country, you’ll find influences from across Europe seen in the architecture, music and arts.

While the majority of Czechs are atheists, the country widely celebrates the Christian holidays of Easter and Christmas. Other notable events in the year include the Day of Czech Statehood, St. Wenceslas Day and Independence Day.

Geographically, the Czech Republic is nestled at the core of the central Europe, landlocked between Poland, Slovakia, Austria and Germany. Often referred to as an eastern European country due to its historical communist and Eastern Bloc influences, the Czech people however, are prompt to remind us that this is very much central Europe - and that Prague is in fact further west than Vienna!

The west of the Czech Republic is known as Bohemia and is surrounded by low European mountains that stem from the Alps. The foothills lead into lush rolling plains and beautiful green countryside. In the east, Moravia is blessed with a variety of dramatic landscapes, with hilly countryside punctuated by the famous limestone cave system - the Moravský Kras.

The Czech Republic’s cuisine is a fare of hearty, warm meals made from local ingredients. The Czechs consider lunch the most important meal of the day.

Things to try in the Czech Republic

1. Potato soup

Among various other types of soups offered in Czechia, potato soup is one of the most common. A thick soup often combined with other vegetables and herbs, potato soup is often served as a starter or main course.

2. Pork roast with dumplings

Main dishes are often meat-based, accompanied by a side of dumplings, bread, rice, cabbage or potato. The most popular meats are pork and chicken.

3. Czech Beef Goulash

While goulash is technically Hungarian, this is the Czech’s favourite beef variety. Slow-braised beef and onions are cooked slowly to make a delicious meal of beef and gravy-like broth. Also served commonly served with bread or dumplings.

4. Potato pancakes

Made with shredded, raw potatoes, garlic, flour, egg, milk and marjoram, these simple yet delicious fried pancakes are a Czech staple.

5. Beer

The Czechs are known for their pivo (beer), having invented the original pilsner in the town of Pilsen. However, there are plenty of other kinds found all around Czechia, with hundreds of breweries creating an array of colours, flavours and degrees.

The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech crown (CZK).

Major credit cards are usually accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash. Be sure to carry multiple methods of payment as credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in the Czech Republic.

ATMs are easily found in large cities and airports, although they are less common in rural and remote areas. When travelling out of the city, be prepared by having enough cash, as ATMs aren't always available.