Bohemia occupies the western regions of Czechia, encompassing a landscape of fairytale towns, grand spa resorts, and perfectly preserved medieval architecture. While Prague is the undeniable crown jewel, this historic kingdom rewards travellers who venture beyond the capital’s famous bridges. From the macabre bone church of Kutná Hora to the crystal craftsmanship of Karlovy Vary, these guides provide the practical logistics, transport advice, and honest insights needed to experience the depth of Czech culture—both inside the capital and out.
Prague Castle, Old Town, and the Historic Core
Prague’s historical centre is a sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site. These guides break down the massive Prague Castle complex into manageable pieces and help you navigate the rich heritage of the Staré Město (Old Town) and the historic Jewish Quarter.
St Wenceslas Chapel: A guide to St Vitus Cathedral’s masterpiece: Planning tips for viewing this stunning, gem-encrusted chapel located at the spiritual heart of Prague Castle.
Vladislav Hall: Inside the Old Royal Palace: Visitor information for exploring this massive late-Gothic hall, famous for its intricate vaulted ceiling and indoor jousting tournaments.
Golden Lane: Prague Castle’s most colourful street: What to expect when walking this historic row of tiny, 16th-century houses, including the former residence of Franz Kafka.
Old Town Hall Tower: The best views in Prague: A visitor guide to accessing the tower above the Astronomical Clock for panoramic views of the Old Town Square.
Josefov: Exploring the synagogues of the Jewish Quarter: A comprehensive guide to navigating the deeply moving history, architecture, and cemeteries of Prague’s historic Jewish district.
Prague Neighbourhoods and Local Life
To find the authentic heartbeat of the Czech capital, you have to cross the river or head into the inner suburbs. These guides explore the city’s residential districts, offering advice on where to find the best local pub culture away from the crowds.
Malá Strana: A neighbourhood guide to the Lesser Town: How to explore the baroque beauty of the district nestled beneath the castle, far beyond the busy corridor of the Charles Bridge.
Vinohrady: Exploring Prague’s most elegant district: Discover the Art Nouveau facades, leafy parks, and expat-friendly café culture of this upscale residential neighbourhood.
Karlín’s Rebirth: Prague’s riverside comeback story: How a devastating flood transformed a gritty industrial area into one of the city’s most exciting culinary and creative hubs.
Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius: Karlín’s landmark: The history behind the massive Romanesque-revival twin-towered church that dominates the Karlín skyline.
Prague Pubs: Where to drink away from the tourist traps: A practical guide to finding reasonably priced, authentic Pilsner and escaping the overpriced bars of the city centre.
4 Great Places to Eat and Drink in Prague: Tried-and-tested recommendations for traditional Czech cuisine and modern European dining.
5 Great Prague Attractions for Solo Travellers: The best spots in the city for independent explorers who want to absorb the atmosphere at their own pace.
Prague Museums, Art, and Oddities
Prague’s museum scene ranges from the heavy history of the 20th century to the whimsical and subversive art of the modern day. Here is what to expect at the city’s most unique exhibitions and outdoor installations.
Mucha Museum: A visitor guide to Art Nouveau: Plan your visit to the world’s only museum dedicated to the life and work of the world-famous Czech artist Alphonse Mucha.
Museum of Communism: Ticket prices and visitor tips: What to expect at this fascinating museum detailing the post-WWII era in Czechoslovakia, from daily life to the Velvet Revolution.
Franz Kafka Museum: Immersive literary history: Prices, times, and a look inside this surreal and atmospheric exhibition dedicated to Prague’s most famous author.
Karel Zeman Museum: Special effects and cinema magic: A planning guide for this highly interactive museum celebrating the pioneering Czech film director and animator.
Lennon Wall and Waldstein Garden: Logistics for visiting Malá Strana’s most famous outdoor spaces—the ever-changing street art memorial to John Lennon, and the tranquil, geometric gardens of the Czech Senate.
David Černý’s Sculptures: The Peeing Statues and the Giant Crawling Babies: Where to find the subversive and bizarre public artwork created by the Czech Republic’s most provocative contemporary artist.
Prague Zoo visitor guide: How much do tickets cost, and when is it open?
Historic Bohemia: Spa Towns and Castles
Outside the capital, Bohemia is dotted with UNESCO-listed medieval towns and elegant 19th-century retreats. These guides help you explore the jewels of the wider region.
Český Krumlov: A travel guide for first-time visitors: Everything you need to know about exploring the winding, cobbled streets of South Bohemia’s fairytale town.
Český Krumlov Castle: Visitor guide and ticket prices: Logistics for exploring the massive Renaissance castle complex, including the famous bear moat and the baroque theatre.
Karlovy Vary: A city guide to the great spa town: How to navigate the elegant colonnades and thermal springs of Bohemia’s most famous wellness destination.
Moser Glass Factory Tour: A Karlovy Vary review: What it’s like to go behind the scenes and watch master glassblowers create the “King of Glass.”
Kutná Hora: What to do after the Sedlec Ossuary: A guide to the rest of this spectacular silver-mining town, proving there is much more to see than just the famous bone church.
Regional Rail and Travel Logistics
Navigating the Czech rail network is generally efficient, but some popular routes require specific local knowledge. These guides cover the practicalities of domestic and cross-border train travel.
Prague to Český Krumlov: Is there a direct train?: Crucial logistical advice for reaching South Bohemia’s top attraction without getting caught out by confusing connections.
Prague to Olomouc: Train times and day trip feasibility: How to catch the train east into Moravia to explore one of Czechia’s most underrated historic cities.
Prague to Linz: Direct train times and ticket prices: Information on the scenic cross-border rail service connecting the Czech capital with Upper Austria.
Linz to Český Krumlov: Train, bus, or private tour?: A breakdown of the best transport options for bridging the gap between Austria and South Bohemia.
Berlin to Prague: Is a day trip by train realistic?: A realistic assessment of the four-hour international rail journey for those looking to hop between the two capitals.
