Live a real-life fantasy at The Magical Cavern on Petřín Hill
Is it a house? Is it a cave? Is it a real-life painting? It's kind of all three! This place is a fantasy land conjured up by artist Reon Argondian, fittingly called Argondia. It already sounds like something from a movie. He's turned this house into a fantastical display, with paintings and sculptures covering the walls, floor and even the ceilings! There's something to see everywhere you turn here, so keep your eyes peeled.
Pull an all-nighter in a wine barrel
We said what we said. Vinarstvi Pod Hradem are lodges in the region of Klentnice, but this isn't your regular glamping ground. This vineyard decided to go the extra mile by offering not just your regular wine-tour experience, but two huge wine barrel 'pods' to spend the nigt in - each decked out with a double bed, heating, power and a complimentary bottle of vino. Obvs.
Each to their bone
Sedlec Ossuary is a Roman Catholic chapel which doesn't look much from the outside, but it's known as the Church of Bones, so we'll give you one guess as to what's inside. The grisly story dates back to 1298 when a monk returned from Jerusalem with what he claimed to be 'holy soil'. After hearing this, everyone wanted to be buried here - including people from around the globe - and, so, when the town started it's expansion, room had to be made. Enter: a woodcarver who was called to organise the bones. The result is actually more breathtaking than disturbing, with all kinds of floor-to-ceiling sculptures - the highlight being a whopper of a chandelier made entirely of bones.
Treat yourself to a pamper at THE spa town
If self care's your middle name, Karlovy Vary is the town for you. It's literally known as a spa town thanks to its bubbling hot springs, top spas and whimsical vibes. There are 12 hot springs dotted around the town if you like an earthy dip, plus a spa for every occasion - including a beer spa where you can literally bathe in all the best ingredients from the local tipple. Ding ding ding, we have a winner.
Park yourself at Šumava National Park
This is one of the largest national parks in the country (no biggie), with tone of hiking spots and outdoor activities like cycling, fishing and even horseback riding. It's also home to lakes, a ton of trees (obviously), as well as a bunch of endangered plant and animal species.
What events can I go to in the Czech Republic?
The Czech Republic's annual events calendar is jam-packed with all the culture-filled, carnival-themed, beer-fuelled fun you could want. Here's a sneak peek of what to expect throughout the year:
Czech Beer Festival (May) - beer-lovers, this is your paradise. It's like Oktoberfest's younger, cooler sibling with over 150 varieties of the golden brew. Na zdraví to that!
Prague Spring International Music Festival (May/June) - classical music buffs, rejoice! It's like the Oscars for symphonies and sonatas. Get ready for some serious culture, with a side of sophistication.
Prague Fringe Festival (May/June) - offbeat and quirky, this festival is like the wacky cousin of Edinburgh's festival we all know and love. Expect the unexpected - with theatre, comedy skits and more.
Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July) - lights, camera, action! It's the Cannes of the Czech Republic - minus the beach, but with an extra dose of charm.
Pardubice Gingerbread Festival (September) - celebrating the nation’s love for gingerbread, this festival is the sweetest thing since...well, gingerbread. It’s Hansel and Gretel’s dream come true.
Signal Festival (October) - Prague turns into a futuristic wonderland with light art and installations. It's like a rave for your eyes, minus the thumping headache the next day.
Velvet Revolution Anniversary (November) - commemorating the end of Communist rule, this is less of a party and more of a massive, country-wide sigh of relief. History buffs, this one's for you.
Christmas Markets (December) - get lost in a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, mulled wine, and enough festive spirit to make Santa jealous. It's like stepping into a Hallmark movie, but less cringey.
Where's the best nightlife in the Czech Republic?
Alright, night owls and party animals, let's plunge into the Czech Republic’s nightlife - where the beer flows a river and the dance floor beckons you with beats you can't resist. Ready to see how the Czechs party? Let's go!
Cross Club - picture a futuristic, industrial playground where every corner's a piece of art. It's like a labyrinth of bars, dancefloors and terraces with beats that keep your feet moving 'til the early hours. Perfect for if you like your night out to be as eclectic as your playlist!
Roxy - this legendary spot is like the godfather of Prague's club scene. Pulsating lights, chart-topping hits and a crowd that’s always up for a good time. If you’re looking to dance your socks off, this is the place.
Lucerna Music Bar - fancy a trip down memory lane? Lucerna's 80s and 90s nights are an epic blast from the past with a killer soundtrack. It’s cheesy, it’s nostalgic, and it's buckets of fun.
Chapeau Rouge - three floors, each with its own vibe, from live bands to underground DJs. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with music and cocktails.
Jazz Dock - add a little class to your night with some smooth jazz by the riverside. It's where you go to impress a date...or to feel like you’re in a suave spy movie.
Harley’s Bar - the bad boy of Prague’s bar scene. Think rock ‘n’ roll, strong drinks, and a no-nonsense vibe. If your motto is 'go hard or go home,' you'll fit right in here.
Friends Club - a welcoming spot for the LGBTQ+ crowd and anyone who loves good music, fun shows and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s where everyone instantly becomes your bestie.
Blues Sklep - get down and bluesy in this cosy, cave-like spot. It’s intimate, it's got soul, and it's perfect for a laidback night with a side of live blues.
Coyote Ugly - yes, it's exactly what you think – dancing on the bar, fiery shots, and a wild, wild night. It's not just a bar...it’s an experience.
What's the food like in the Czech Republic?
Get ready to loosen your belt a notch (or three!), because the Czech Republic's food scene is all about hearty indulgence and big, BIG flavours. Here's a taste of what's cooking:
Knedlíky - these pillowy dumplings are the sidekick to loads of Czech dishes. Bread or potato-based, they're perfect for soaking up all that saucy goodness.
Guláš - think chunks of meat (usually beef), onions, and a lusciously thick sauce, often served with knedlíky. It's like a warm hug in a bowl.
Svíčková – marinated beef served with a creamy veg sauce, cranberries, and whipped cream. Yes, whipped cream. And yes, it works.
Smazeny Sýr – imagine a slice of cheese, breaded and fried to crispy golden perfection. It’s like a mozzarella stick went to finishing school in Prague.
Trdelník – this rolled dough, grilled and topped with a sugar and walnut mix, is a street food superstar. It's like a churro's fancier cousin.
Palačinky – these thin crepes can be rolled with jam, fruit, or cream. It's breakfast, dessert, and everything in between.
Česnečka – loaded with garlic, potatoes and usually some meat. It's simple, but packs a punch - perfect for those chilly nights (or pesky vampires).
Vepřo Knedlo Zelo – roast pork, sauerkraut and knedlíky. This dish is like the Czech Republic on a plate – traditional, unpretentious, and downright delish.
Chlebíčky – these open sandwiches come with a variety of toppings, perfect for when you just want a nibble... or ten.
