Aerial view over Vltava River and medieval Krumau, a UNESCO heritage site in Cesky Krumlov, Bohemia

Things to do in  Bohemia

Prague, palaces, and pilsner

Despite its artistic, alternative connotations, Bohemia is simply a region of the Czech Republic. The historical province has been incorporated into many nations and empires over the centuries, from the Habsburg Empire to post-war Czechoslovakia, and modern-day Bohemia reflects this rich, long history. Bohemia is the westernmost region of the Czech Republic and its largest. Incorporating the Czech capital Prague and the popular towns of Karlovy Vary, Plsn, Cesky Krumlov, Ceske Budejovice, and Kutna Hora, there’s a lot to see and many things to do in Bohemia.

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Top 15 attractions in Bohemia

#1

Moser Glassworks (Sklárne Moser)

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The Czech Republic is famous for its fine crystal glassware, which travelers can admire, learn about, and purchase at Karlovy Vary’s Moser Glassworks. Founded in 1857, the glassworks produces a range of decorative and practical glass pieces using environmentally friendly techniques. Visitors can tour the museum and shop for fine glassware at the Moser Glassworks.More
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#2

Terezín Memorial (Památník Terezín)

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A harrowing reminder of Europe’s dark history, the Terezin Concentration Camp once held prisoners awaiting transfer to Auschwitz and Treblinka. Today, the World War II site is preserved as the Terezín Memorial (Památník Terezín) and tells the horrifying truths of the Holocaust, as well as the stories of some of the 150,000 prisoners, including those who lost their lives.More
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#3

Bohemian Switzerland National Park (Narodni Park Ceske Svycarsko)

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It may be the Czech Republic’s newest national park, but Bohemian Switzerland National Park (Narodni Park Ceske Svycarsko) has long been a popular destination for traders and artists. The park’s curious name was inspired by two 19th-century Swiss artists who settled in the region because it reminded them of their homeland. Today the park draws hikers, bikers, climbers, and nature lovers from around the world.More
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#4
Elbe River

Elbe River

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One of Central Europe’s major rivers, the Elbe River runs through the heart of Dresden. It has played an important role in Germany’s history, forming part of the border between East and West Germany during the Cold War. Today the Elbe River is a popular spot for boat tours and views of landmarks like the Dresden Opera House. More
#5

Pravcice Gate (Pravcická Brána)

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At the northwestern edge of the Czech Republic, you’ll find one of the country’s favorite nature escapes. Bohemian Switzerland National Park is blanketed in lush green landscapes, steep navigable river gorges, and the 52-foot (16-meter -high Pravcice Gate (Pravcická Brána, Europe’s largest natural rock arch and the park’s symbol.More
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#6

Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad)

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Located 2 hours outside of Prague, Karlovy Vary (also known as Carlsbad is a charming spa town in the Czech Republic. Its spacious streets are lined with classical-style colonnades and colorfully painted buildings and the town is surrounded by green forest. Visitors come to drink the restorative spa waters and enjoy the countryside.More
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#7

St. Vitus Church (Kostel sv. Vita)

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In Cesky Krumlov, 105 miles (170 kilometers) away from Prague, the St. Vitus Church (Kostel sv. Vita) is not be confused with the cathedral of the same name located at Prague Castle. With its unusual steep-sided roof and single tower, the church is a popular stop for visitors coming to see Krumlov Castle—the church is inside the castle complex.More
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#8

Konopiste Castle (Konopiste Chateau)

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A short drive from Prague, Konopiste Castle is a grand chateau built in a French style. It’s famous as the former home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, whose assassination in Sarajevo triggered the First World War.More
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#9

Ceske Budejovice

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The Czech town of Ceske Budejovice in South Bohemia may be best known for the beer that has been brewed there since the 13th century. Even if you aren't a beer lover, this charming provincial capital is well worth a visit thanks to its vast main square, winding lanes, and a location that lends itself for exploring the region.More
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#10

Ghetto Museum (Muzeum Ghetta)

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The Ghetto Museum (Muzeum Ghetta) is part of the Terezín Memorial, which commemorates and teaches visitors about erstwhile Czechoslovakia’s dark World War II history. The late-18th century garrison town of Terezín, known as Theresienstadt in German, was turned into a work camp and ghetto by the Nazis and used as a transit point for Jews on the way to Auschwitz. An estimated 30,000 people died here.More
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#11

Magdeburg Barracks (Magdeburska Kasarna)

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The Magdeburg Barracks (Magdeburská Kasárna) were originally constructed as part of a Habsburg military fortress, but the baroque-style building was later annexed by the Terezín concentration camp during WWII. Today, the barracks are a place of reconciliation and hope, and house an educational center run by the Holocaust Education Trust.More
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#12

Loket Castle (Hrad Loket)

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The Gothic Loket Castle (Hrad Loket) looms over the Western Bohemian town of Loket. The town was founded in about the 9th century, and the castle a few hundred years later. The castle is a beautiful sight from the outside, with its pointed turrets and thick stone walls. Visitors can also tour the inside, which has been converted into a museum.More
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#13

Marianske Lazne (Marienbad)

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The spa town of Mariánské Láznĕ (also known as Marienbad) is one of the Czech Republic’s favorite getaways and easily accessible from Prague. With a balmy climate, panoramic mountain views, elegant architecture, and lush gardens, Mariánské Láznĕ is the perfect place for a day trip or relaxing weekend away from the big city.More
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#14

Cesky Sternberk Castle (Hrad Cesky Sternberk)

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Cesky Sternberk Castle sits on a cliff over the small village of Sternberk, in the countryside of Bohemia. It was built in the 1240s, redesigned in the Gothic style in the 15th century, and renovated in the baroque style in the 17th. It’s still owned by descendants of its original owners, who still live there.More
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#15
Jan Becher Museum (Jan Becher Muzeum)

Jan Becher Museum (Jan Becher Muzeum)

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Pilsner isn’t the Czech Republic’s only alcoholic claim to fame: A herbal liqueur called Becherovka is another popular tipple. Becherovka originated in the spa town of Karlovy Vary as a medicinal drink that complemented the therapeutic spa waters. Now, the Jan Becher Museum tells the liqueur’s 200-plus-year history and allows visitors to sample Becherovka.More
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Top activities in Bohemia

Pilsen Highlights Small-Group Tour and Pilsner Brewery Tour including Lunch and Beer Tasting

Pilsen Highlights Small-Group Tour and Pilsner Brewery Tour including Lunch and Beer Tasting

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From
$108.64
Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour

Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour

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From
$93.27
Walking private guided tour in Cesky Krumlov with local certified guide

Walking private guided tour in Cesky Krumlov with local certified guide

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3
From
$208.48
per group
Private Transfer from Karlovy Vary to Prague, English-speaking driver

Private Transfer from Karlovy Vary to Prague, English-speaking driver

From
$120.71
Scooter downhill tour from Děčínský Sněžník

Scooter downhill tour from Děčínský Sněžník

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9
From
$24.14
Best of Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle Exteriors

Best of Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle Exteriors

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From
$164.60
per group
Cesky Krumlov Tour 4 hours

Cesky Krumlov Tour 4 hours

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From
$279.82
per group
One day trips in the surroundings of Cesky Krumlov

One day trips in the surroundings of Cesky Krumlov

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From
$437.83
per group
Private Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague, English-speaking driver

Private Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague, English-speaking driver

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1
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$122.64
Private one way transfer from Karlovy Vary to Český Krumlov

Private one way transfer from Karlovy Vary to Český Krumlov

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From
$768.02
per group
Private one way transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Vienna

Private one way transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Vienna

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3
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$603.42
per group
Private one way transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Passau

Private one way transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Passau

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From
$438.82
per group
Private one way Sightseeing transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague

Private one way Sightseeing transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague

From
$735.10
per group
Transfer from Karlovy Vary to Prague: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing

Transfer from Karlovy Vary to Prague: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing

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1
From
$129.10
Private day trip to Hallstatt from Český Krumlov

Private day trip to Hallstatt from Český Krumlov

From
$691.20
per group
Via Ferrata Shepherd wall Bohemian Switzerland Guided

Via Ferrata Shepherd wall Bohemian Switzerland Guided

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62
From
$54.87
Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing

Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing

From
$157.37
Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area

Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area

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7
From
$60.35
Private one way transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Linz

Private one way transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Linz

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1
From
$329.09
per group
Romantic Whispers of Český Krumlov

Romantic Whispers of Český Krumlov

From
$95.47
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All about Bohemia

Getting around

There’s no real need to rent private cars in Bohemia because this part of the Czech Republic has reliable, affordable public transport. Trains connect most major towns and cities–and even some more remote ones, on limited schedules–and long-distance buses are a viable alternative. Prague has an excellent transport system, with a small metro and plentiful buses and tram lines. Small Bohemian cities, such as Ceske Budejovice, are serviced by buses, while smaller towns, like Cesky Krumlov and Kutna Hora, are walkable.

Traveler tips

The further you travel from Prague, the harder it is to get by on English alone. While many younger Czechs speak good English, many older folk don’t–although they may understand German, especially nearer the German border. When traveling around Bohemia, especially if you’re relying on public transport, it’s sensible to learn (or look up) the days of the week in Czech so you can read timetables. Learning the names of foods to read menus is also smart–you can’t go wrong with knedliky or smazeny syr washed down with a chilled pivo.

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People Also Ask

What is Bohemia called today?

Bohemia is still called Bohemia today, but it is a region of the modern nation of the Czech Republic rather than a separate kingdom or country. In the Czech language, Bohemia is called Čechy.

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Are Bohemian and Czech the same thing?

In the English language, Bohemian and Czech are not the same thing. Bohemian refers to the people or culture of the region of Bohemia, which is part of the Czech Republic. In contrast, Czech refers to the people or culture of the Czech Republic. However, in Czech, Čechy means both Bohemian and Czech.

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What is Cesky Krumlov famous for?

Cesky Krumlov is famous for its UNESCO-listed 13th-century Old Town. Within the Old Town is the Cesky Krumlov Castle, which is decorated with Renaissance frescoes and displays Baroque and Gothic elements. The Old Town sits within a horseshoe bend in the Vltava River and is very picturesque.

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Which is better, Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov?

Whether you like Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov better depends on your interests. The Austrian city of Salzburg is much bigger than Cesky Krumlov, a small Czech Republic town. While both towns contain beautiful historic buildings, there is much more to see and do in Salzburg, a large modern city.

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Is Cesky Krumlov a day trip from Prague?

Yes, Cesky Krumlov can be visited on a day trip from Prague, as it is about a 2.5-hour drive south of the capital. However, it's worth staying for a night or two to make the most of your time in the beautiful UNESCO-listed town and to experience it after the day-trippers have left.

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Can you walk around Prague Castle for free?

Yes, parts of Prague Castle can be visited for free. You can walk through many of the courtyards, gardens, and parts of St. Vitus Cathedral for free. However, you must pay an entry fee to enter the exhibitions housed within many of the buildings within the Prague Castle complex.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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