Best small towns in the Czech Republic
Czechia is lately one of the most attractive destinations in Central Europe. No wonder considering the number of magical castles, UNESCO sites, so many artists and beer! From famous Franz Kafka and Antonin Dvorak to everyday tourists, everyone finds their inspiration in beautiful cities such as Prague, Brno and Karlovy Vary. Yet, if you would like to soak up the true Czechian laid-back, artistic atmosphere, then take a step forward and discover one of the best small towns in the Czech Republic.
Here are our top 10 suggestions that will make you fall in love with Czechia even more!
Kutna Hora
Kutná Hora is a small town located in the Central Bohemian Region, only about an hour from Prague. The town is special for miles of silver mines, one of them today accessible through the Czech Silver Museum. The panorama of Kutná Hora features some landmarks including Saint Barbara’s Church and the Church of Saint James. But the most impressive church and the top attraction is Sedlec Ossuary with a bizarre, yet fascinating interior made of human bones (the remains of about 40 000 people). Thanks to these unique sights, Kutná Hora was listed as a UNESCO protected site in 1995.
Kutna Hora
Cesky Krumlov
Another Bohemian town and among the top-visited destinations in Czechia is a historic town centred around Český Krumlov Castle rising above the Vltava River. Thus, the town irresistibly reminds of Prague’s smaller version with the same picturesque old town and fewer crowds. Český Krumlov is a perfect combination of urban life and amazing outdoor activities, whether you want to sip a good Czechian beer in one of the many pubs or have a family picnic by the Vltava River. The town is also known for a good number of popular festivals such as the International Music Festival Český Krumlov. All in all, another deservedly listed UNESCO site.
Cesky Krumlov
Telc
Telč is an adorable small town known for its colourful old town, another UNESCO protected site. Its main square with Renaissance and Baroque architecture is one of the best-preserved ones and the main attraction per se. Other notable sights that you should dedicate your time to are Telč Castle or Telč Château, Church of St James and Church of the Holy Spirit. Take a step forward and peek in Telč Underground, a tunnel system that interactively teaches you about the history of the town. After all, if you want to spend the rest of the day in Telč leisurely, the town is surrounded by plenty of green areas where you can relax.
Telc
Tabor
Located on a hilltop, Tábor is a picturesque town that lies between Prague and Ceske Budejovice. The old town is surrounded by the River Lužnice and its central point is the Zizka Square lined with Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic buildings. Charming cafes and pubs are scattered all over the city, entwined with cobbled streets and colourful buildings. Tabor also has its underground tunnels that you can explore by entering the Town Hall on the main square. If you’re a history lover, combine them with the Hussite Museum and learn a lot about the town’s origins. Others can check out the Museum of Chocolate and Marzipan then burn the calories walking or cycling in parks.
Kromeriz
The small town of Kroměříž is a Moravian town with two UNESCO protected sites officially named the Garden and Castle at Kroměříž. Thus, these are the biggest and the most recognizable attractions in town. Next to the Archiepiscopal Castle, there are two gardens, Castle and Flower Garden. Each garden is magnificent and open to visitors all year round. Art lovers can visit Castles’s Gallery to check out the second most significant collection of paintings in Czechia. Since Kroměříž is most about art and flowers, the best time to visit it would be, obviously, in spring!
Lednice
One of the most beautiful castles hides in the small town of Lednice. The Castle of the same name in Lednice-Valtice Complex is the main feature of the town and one of the most visited attractions in Czechia. Moreover, the castle is surrounded by one of the largest parks in Europe with many more things to see. The complex became a residence of princes of Liechtenstein in the 17th century, today it is protected by UNESCO. Besides the Lednice Chateau, this small town hides many places where you can experience authentic Czech cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.
Lednice
Mikulov
One of the best and picturesque small towns in the Czech Republic is located in the South Moravian Region, south of Brno. The town’s main feature is the Mikulov Castle rising on the hill overlooking the charming old town of Mikulov. The Mikulov Chateau, as it is also called, is open to the public and houses a museum. The town is surrounded by vineyards, which is another top attraction for tourists. You can visit one of many wineries and taste some of the best local wines. Besides these, more attractions include Svatý Kopeček (The Holy Hill), Kozí Hrádek (Goat Tower) and the Jewish cemetery.
Mikulov
Znojmo
The walled town of Znojmo is another one in South Moravia, the winemaking region. The town’s highlights include the historic old town with Znojmo Castle located on a hilltop, Church of St. Nicholas and Rotunda of Our Lady & St Catherine, surrounded by the city walls. But the town is not only what you see at first. Underground Znojmo attracts a huge number of visitors who want to explore one of the largest underground labyrinths in Europe. There are plenty of things to see down there, from the Mysterious Underground exhibition to wine cellars. However, Znojmo won’t leave you disappointed.
Znojmo
Olomouc
Czechia’s hidden gem Olomouc is a charming little town perfectly combining marvellous architecture and cosy cafes and restaurants. Actually, the town is often referred to as a great alternative to the crowded Prague. Most of central Olomouc is protected by UNESCO, this includes the top attractions such as the Holy Trinity Column, Town Hall, Astronomical Clock, Church of Saint Michael and Saint Moritz Cathedral. In addition to this, dive into history by adding a few more museums. Other than sightseeing, stroll the streets and discover the most amazing bars and restaurants for authentic food and beer.
Marianske Lazne
A spa town called Mariánské Lázně is located in Karlovy Vary region, known for being attracted by numerous celebrities throughout history. The town’s biggest attraction is the hundred mineral springs around which are often built gorgeous pavilions and colonnades. The most famous spring is Cross Spring or Křížový pramen, a few other notable ones include Caroline’s Spring or Karolinin pramen and Rudolph’s Spring or Rudolfův pramen. The town is surrounded by lush greenery ideal for outdoor activities.
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