Czech Republic

Visiting the land of fairy tales

The Czech Republic is an exceptional tourist destination, from romantic Prague to beautiful thermal spas to the lush countryside, dotted with countless castles in fairy-tale-like settings.  

Nestled at the heart of Central Europe, the Czech Republic, population 10.6 million, is a place with a vivid history and dynamic present. Completely landlocked, it shares borders with Germany, Austria, Poland, and Slovakia, from which it split peacefully in 1993.  

Especially on pleasant summer days, a visit to the welcoming country is best enjoyed exploring the outdoors and sightseeing. Here’s a closer look at a few of the Czech Republic’s top sights that you certainly won’t want to miss.

Prague

A visit to the Czech Republic is not complete without a stop in Prague, the country’s capital city and the fifth most visited city in Europe. Long a cultural, political and economic centre in Europe, Prague boasts a unique history and many must-see sights, from beautiful bridges to medieval churches. Start exploring the city in historic Old Town Square, whose roots reach back over 1,000 years. Glance up to take in the city’s medieval astronomical clock, the oldest of its kind still in operation. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and stop to enjoy the ancient squares.  

Prague, population 1.2 million, is bisected by the Vltava River. Take the Charles Bridge across, stopping to admire the awe-inspiring cityscapes and the 30 statues dotting the bridge. Prague Castle, one of the world’s largest castles and whose construction began in the year 870, rises up on the other side of the river. The castle was renovated and expanded on many times since its first foundations were laid, making it a remarkable representation of most architectural styles from the last 1,000 years.  

Other popular sights in Prague include the Jewish Quarter, Josefov, the town’s former Jewish ghetto with its well-preserved synagogues and cemetery. New Town, whose construction began in the 14th century, is home today to Wenceslas Square where you’ll find many popular shops and restaurants. In Prague you’ll also find many museums, such as the Czech National Gallery and the Prague City Gallery, with modern Czech art.

Carlsbad

This jewel of a place, called Karlovy Vary in Czech, is known throughout Europe as one of the continent’s most beautiful spa towns. Situated in Western Bohemia, Carlsbad has the natural wealth of 13 thermal hot springs, which many flock to each year to treat a range of illnesses and ailments. Beautiful architecture and a rich cultural history – figures such as Goethe, Beethoven, Casanova, and Mozart all visited, as well as heads of state and movie stars – make Carlsbad an enchanting treasure that is definitely worthy of a visit.

Konopiště Castle

Around 40 kilometres southeast of Prague lies the town of Benesov, surrounded by many historical sights. Among the most notable is a four-winged three-storey château built in the 13th century. Throughout its history, the castle was transformed time and again, becoming fortified with a drawbridge, occupied by the Swedes, and later purchased by Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne. Its grounds consist of an impressive 225-hectare English-style garden.  

Vlasim Castle

With gates that look like they are straight from a fairy tale, Vlasim Castle was constructed on a promontory above the Blanice River in the 14th century. Today, the original Gothic structure is well preserved in the castle’s northern wing. Throughout the rest of the castle is evidence of the numerous changes the remarkable structure underwent throughout the ages, as a result of destruction and rebuilding.  

The castle also houses a museum with a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions. It is also possible to visit part of the castle’s main structure, including the renovated cellars. The grounds are breathtaking, filled with romantic niches and structures – the perfect place to enjoy a picnic on a warm summer’s day.

Welcome to paradise

Did you know paradise is located in the Czech Republic? At least the spectacular Bohemian Paradise is. The first natural reserve in the country, Bohemian Paradise, a UNESCO Geopark, today consists of 182 square kilometres in Eastern Bohemia. It stands out for its massive rock formations, rising from the ground in seemingly inexplicable ways. Some of the rocks are even accessible to tourists seeking a closer look at the natural oddities, which have withstood eons of erosion and weathering to arrive at their current shapes.  

The countryside is calm and relaxing, perfect for a leisurely walk or drive. If you’re in the area, two castles and their surroundings are worth a visit: Kost Castle and Trosky Castle. Ruins also dot the countryside, evidence of the region’s long, rich history. Because the surface area is small, it’s possible to visit much of the area in a short amount of time.  

These are just a few of the many spectacular sights and destinations in the Czech Republic. We hope you enjoy taking in the sights of this fairy-tale-like country!

Dialysis centres in the Czech Republic

Visit the Czech Republic and rest assured you will continue receiving top quality care and treatment: Fresenius Medical Care runs a number of dialysis centres throughout the country. Use our online clinic finder at Nephrocare.com to find centres near areas you would like to visit.

Happy travels in Bohemia

Of course, there’s so much more to discover in the Czech Republic than the destinations mentioned here. Visit your travel agent, local bookstore or library, or search online to learn more and plan an enjoyable holiday. Here’s to safe, happy and healthy travels!

3 fun facts about the Czech Republic

1. Peaks all-around - The Czech Republic is almost entirely surrounded by mountains.

2. Fortified -  There are over 2,000 castles, keeps and ruins scattered across its beautiful terrain.

3. Cheers! Per capita, people in the Czech Republic consume more beer than anyone else in the world.