The Czech Republic captivates visitors with its fairytale castles, medieval towns, and rich cultural heritage. From Prague's stunning architecture to the spa towns of Karlovy Vary and the natural beauty of Bohemian Switzerland, this Central European gem offers diverse experiences for every traveler.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Czech Republic.
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1
Prague Castle
The world's largest ancient castle complex dominates Prague's skyline with stunning Gothic architecture, including St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, and historic royal palaces. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been the seat of Czech rulers for over 1,000 years.
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip lines · Visit early morning for fewer crowds · Don't miss the changing of the guard at noon
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2
Charles Bridge
This iconic 14th-century stone bridge connects Prague's Old Town with Lesser Town, featuring 30 baroque statues and offering spectacular views of the Vltava River and city skyline. Street artists and musicians create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.
Tip: Visit at sunrise or late evening for the best photos · Touch the St. John of Nepomuk plaque for good luck · Watch for pickpockets in crowds
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3
Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock
The heart of Prague's historic center features the famous Astronomical Clock from 1410, colorful baroque buildings, and the Gothic Týn Church. The hourly show of the Astronomical Clock draws crowds from around the world.
Tip: Arrive before the hour to see the clock's animated figures · Climb the tower for panoramic city views · Explore the surrounding narrow streets
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4
Český Krumlov Castle
This stunning 13th-century castle complex in the UNESCO-listed town of Český Krumlov rivals Prague Castle in beauty and historical significance. The baroque theatre and castle gardens are extraordinary examples of European heritage.
Tip: Book guided tours in advance during summer · Walk around the castle gardens for free · Combine with exploring the medieval town
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5
Kutná Hora - Sedlec Ossuary
The famous Bone Church contains artistic arrangements of over 40,000 human skeletons, creating one of Europe's most unique and haunting attractions. The small chapel also features bone chandeliers and a coat of arms made entirely from bones.
Tip: Combine with visiting St. Barbara's Cathedral · Easy day trip from Prague (1 hour by train) · Visit early to avoid tour groups
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6
Bohemian Switzerland National Park
This spectacular natural wonderland features dramatic sandstone formations, the famous Pravčická brána (Europe's largest natural sandstone arch), deep gorges, and pristine forests. The landscape inspired the Chronicles of Narnia films.
Tip: Wear good hiking shoes · Take a boat ride through Edmunds Gorge · Start early for the best light and fewer crowds
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7
Karlštejn Castle
This imposing Gothic castle perched on a hilltop was built by Emperor Charles IV in 1348 to house royal treasures and crown jewels. The dramatic setting and well-preserved interiors make it one of the most visited castles in the Czech Republic.
Tip: Book tours online in advance · Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk · Combine with wine tasting in the village below
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8
St. Vitus Cathedral
The most important church in the Czech Republic took nearly 600 years to complete and showcases magnificent Gothic architecture, stunning stained glass windows by Alfons Mucha, and houses the tombs of Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors.
Tip: Entry to nave is free, but full access requires castle ticket · Look for the Mucha stained glass window · Climb the Great South Tower for city views
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9
Petřín Lookout Tower
This 63.5-meter iron lattice tower resembling a mini Eiffel Tower offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Prague. The surrounding Petřín Hill features beautiful gardens, orchards, and mirror maze.
Tip: Take the funicular railway up the hill · Visit the mirror maze nearby · Best views at sunset
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10
Vyšehrad Fortress
This historic fortress complex offers a peaceful escape from tourist crowds, featuring ancient ramparts, the stunning neo-Gothic Church of St. Peter and Paul, and the Vyšehrad Cemetery where famous Czech artists are buried.
Tip: Walk the fortress walls for river views · Less crowded than Prague Castle · Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens
Attractions by category
Explore by your interests.
Landmarks
Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
Gothic 14th-century bridge with 30 Baroque statues spanning the Vltava — Prague's most iconic structure
Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
Medieval astronomical clock on Old Town Hall dating to 1410 with hourly apostle procession show
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
Historic commercial boulevard and scene of key moments in Czech history including the 1989 Velvet Revolution
Museums
National Museum
Iconic Neo-Renaissance building on Wenceslas Square with natural history, national collections, and Czech historical exhibitions
Jewish Museum Prague
Six historic synagogues and Old Jewish Cemetery in Josefov — one of Europe's most important Jewish heritage sites
Museum of Communism
Compelling and darkly humorous chronicle of everyday life under Communist rule 1948-1989
Nature
Bohemian Switzerland National Park
Dramatic sandstone gorges and Europe's largest natural arch (Pravčická brána) in North Bohemia
Šumava National Park
Ancient forest wilderness, peat bogs, and glacial lakes along the German border in South Bohemia
Moravian Karst (Moravský kras)
Extensive cave system near Brno with the spectacular Macocha Abyss and underground river boat tours
Cultural
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
World's largest ancient castle complex — seat of Czech rulers for over 1,000 years including St. Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane
Český Krumlov
UNESCO World Heritage medieval town with a fairy-tale castle above the Vltava meander — one of Europe's most preserved Gothic and Baroque towns
Terezín Memorial
WWII concentration camp and Jewish ghetto memorial — a sobering and essential historical site north of Prague
Practical information
What you need to know before you go.
- Hours
- Most Prague museums and attractions open 9AM-6PM Tuesday-Sunday, closed Monday. Prague Castle buildings 9AM-5PM. Admission prices typically $8-18 for major sites.
- Fees
- Prague Castle circuit tickets $12-18; Jewish Museum combined ticket $17; Charles Bridge is free; Astronomical Clock tower $8. Prague City Pass covers multiple sites at discount.
- Best Times
- Visit major attractions at opening (9AM) or after 3PM for smaller crowds. Charles Bridge: before 7AM to avoid tourist groups. Prague Castle: weekdays better than weekends.
- Booking
- Book Jewish Museum and Prague Castle guided tours online in advance for peak season (April-September). Most other attractions are walk-up.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.