The Czech Republic is an enchanting place brimming with magical castles, ancient towns, and sprawling landscapes that are almost too beautiful to be true. No matter how much research you do in advance, this country is guaranteed to surprise you – in the best way possible!
While many people travel to the capital city of Prague, few venture beyond that. On your 14-day Czech Republic itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to spend in this exciting city before exploring the country’s lesser-known spa towns, rugged countryside, and fairytale villages, experiencing a side of the Czech Republic that a lot of travelers miss out on.
Despite the country’s small size (it’s a little smaller than South Carolina), the Czech Republic is bursting with fascinating places just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’d rather spend your vacation uncovering the many secrets hidden in medieval towns, relaxing in naturally-healing thermal waters, hiking in practically untouched countryside, or opening your mind by exploring inspirational art galleries, the Czech Republic is the place to be.
Creating your own Czech Republic itinerary from scratch can be incredibly overwhelming. There are just so many intriguing places to visit that it can be impossible to get started. Plus, if you’ve never been to these cities, towns, and villages before, it’s difficult to estimate how much time you’ll need at each place.
So you can have the best time possible without wasting weeks of frustrating planning, we’ve put together the perfect 2-week trip to the Czech Republic. To make things even easier for you, we’ve also included some insider tips to make sure your adventure gets off to the best start!
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Two Weeks in Czech Republic
Preparing for the Czech Republic
If you’re planning on spending less than 90 days in the country, you don’t need to worry about getting a visa. All you need for your 2 weeks in the Czech Republic is a passport that has been issued in the last 10 years and is valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure date. This is true for citizens of most countries outside the EU, including the US.
If you’re an EU citizen, you can spend as much time as you like in the Czech Republic with your passport that meets the previously stated requirements. As always, to avoid any unnecessary hassle, it’s always a good idea to confirm the latest rules and regulations with official sources before making any concrete arrangements.
Although the Czech Republic is part of the EU, it uses the Czech koruna (also known as the Czech crown) as its currency. While you can exchange your money for Czech koruna (CZK) before you leave home, we suggest waiting until you’re in the country before getting your hands on some cash. All you need to do is find an ATM after you’ve landed and withdraw Czech koruna with your debit or credit card. This method is usually cheaper than using money exchange kiosks.
Not a fan of cash? You don’t need to worry about withdrawing money at all if you don’t want to. Practically everywhere, from major tourist attractions to tiny market stalls, accepts all major debit and credit cards, which saves you from carrying cash around.
Things to Know Before You Go
One thing you’ll definitely come across during your 2 weeks in the Czech Republic is different people calling the country different names. You’ll hear some people calling it the Czech Republic, while others will call it Czechia. The shorter name became the country’s official name in 2016, but both are still used all the time.
The Czech Republic’s cities and towns are wonderfully compact, so you can easily get around on foot. But many of the roads and paths haven’t been updated since medieval times. So you’re not constantly tripping over the cobblestones, pack flat comfy shoes that you know you can walk around in for hours on end.
While the country remains one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe, it’s not as cheap as it once was. A couple of decades ago, you could easily order a 20fl-oz tanker of beer for less than 22CZK (around $1). Today, the same drink will cost you 50CZK (about $2.30). On the bright side, this is still probably much cheaper than you’re used to paying at home!
Getting Around Czech Republic
The airport you’ll land at depends on where in the world you’re traveling from. Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), formerly known as Prague Ruzyně International Airport, is the capital city’s international airport. It has the broadest range of connections, so it’s most likely to be the one you’ll land at to start your adventure. From the airport, you can reach the city center by metro, train, cab, rideshare, bus, or taxi – there are plenty of options.
The Czech Republic has one of the best rail networks in Europe. The fast rychlík (R) and spěšný (Sp) trains only stop at major towns, while the slower osobní trains run at around 18mph and stop at all the small stations. Hopping on a train is definitely the recommended way of traveling between big cities.
Because so many cities (including Prague) are pretty compact, you can easily get around many cities, towns, and villages entirely on foot. If you’d rather save your energy or the weather has taken a turn for the worse, you can also travel via bus.
If you’re more comfortable using a rideshare app, you’ll be glad to know you’ve got plenty to choose from in the Czech Republic. Uber, Liftago, HOPIN, and BlaBlaCar all work in most places throughout the country. Ridesharing services may be limited in small villages, so you may find yourself stuck hailing a taxi the traditional way.
Czech Republic Itinerary: 2 Weeks to Explore the Highlights of the Country
Prague – 3 Nights
The first stop on your 2-week Czech Republic itinerary is Prague. This enthralling city is bursting at the seams with fascinating history, spellbinding charm, and a captivating vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
One of the most interesting cities in the world, Prague boasts everything from fairytale-inspired castles to rowdy beer halls and intriguing art galleries. It’s an excellent place to begin your adventure and is where you’ll find some of the very best Czech Republic attractions.
Things to do in Prague
Start your trip with one of the must-see places in the Czech Republic – Charles Bridge. This iconic bridge dates back to the 14th century and is always teeming with life. Whenever you walk over it, you’ll come across musicians playing live music and artists painting stunning pictures.
Then it’s time to explore the world’s biggest ancient castle – Prague Castle. Here you can easily spend the rest of the day wandering around courtyards, losing yourself in grandiose palaces, and discovering all kinds of fascinating facts in museums.
The Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square is something you’ve absolutely got to see. Make sure you’re standing below it on the hour so you can watch the quirky show it has been performing hourly since 1410.
End the first leg of your journey with some beers at one of Prague’s many bars. Hemingway Bar is a welcoming place with a speakeasy vibe. They serve a huge range of local beers here, as well as expertly-mixed cocktails.
Getting To Prague
There are plenty of ways you can get from Prague’s international airport (Václav Havel Airport Prague) to the city center, although none of them are direct. The cheapest and quickest way to get to the center is to travel via bus and then the metro.
Head to Terminal 2 at the airport and you’ll find the bus station. Here you can buy a ticket for around 32CZK that’s valid for 90 minutes on buses, trams, and metros. Hop on the 119 bus to Nadrazi Veleslavin and get off at the last stop. From here, transfer to the metro line A (green) and ride it until you reach downtown (Mustek).
If you arrive in Prague after 11:30 pm, your public transport options will be very limited. You’ll be better off getting a taxi or using a rideshare app to get to the city center.
Getting Around Prague
Prague is an incredibly pedestrian-friendly city and the best way to get around is on foot. This way, you can experience the atmosphere and the gorgeous surroundings that make Prague such an enthralling place.
When you get tired, the second best option is to ride on the metro. Line A (green) moves between some of the top places to visit in Prague, including Wenceslas Square, Old Town Square, Mala Strana, and Prague Castle.
Karlovy Vary – 2 Nights
Next, it’s on to one of the best places to go in the Czech Republic – Karlovy Vary. Also known as Karlsbad or Carlsbad, this area is the country’s most famous spa town, and for good reason, too. This gorgeous town is full of bubbling hot springs, dreamy architecture, and spectacular viewpoints you’ll never want to walk away from. Get ready for a couple of days of pure bliss!
Things to do in Karlovy Vary
Start your time in Karlovy Vary by wandering around the city’s charming streets and admiring the many cute parks and dazzling buildings you stumble upon. Be on the lookout for the quaint street kiosks that sell colorful mugs. Buy one and seek out the hot spring within the Hot Spring Colonnade. You can use your new souvenir to taste the thermal water that is said to have powerful medicinal properties.
Karlovy Vary is home to one of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic – Mill Colonnade. This elegant white building is over 100 years old and is made from 124 impressive stone columns.
It makes an excellent backdrop for one-of-a-kind pics. If you’re in the mood for more exploring, check out the Westend Residential District. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the town, this area is where you’ll find spectacular villas and mansions that reflect different styles from all over the world.
End this section of your adventure by hiking to Goethe’s Tower. If you’ve got some energy to spare, it’s worth climbing the steps to reach the top. From up here, you’ll be rewarded with phenomenal panoramic views that go on for miles.
Getting To Karlovy Vary
The best way to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary is via bus. The journey is just 78 miles, which takes around 2 hours to cover from Prague’s main bus station (Florenc). There’s at least one bus every hour, the seats are pretty comfortable, and the tickets are affordable for even the tightest budgets.
There are two companies that operate buses on this route – Student Agency and Flixbus. For the best experience, we suggest booking a ticket with Student Agency. This company offers free onboard Wi-Fi, an international entertainment system, and complimentary drinks.
Getting Around Karlovy Vary
Like most places in the Czech Republic, walking is the most popular way of getting around Karlovy Vary. It’s safe to explore the town on foot at any time, even after dark. For a unique experience, hop on board the funicular railway Diana that passes through the spa woods. Or, alternatively, ride the Imperial funicular if you want to be able to tell people you’ve been on the oldest funicular in Europe!
Plzeň – 2 Nights
One of the largest cities in the Czech Republic, Plzeň (also known as Pilsen) boasts loads of things to see and do. While it’s best known for its incredible beer brewed in the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, this dynamic city also boasts stunning places of worship, fascinating galleries, interactive museums, and lots more. It was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture in 2015 and, during your trip, you’ll get to discover why it’s a must on any Czech Republic itinerary.
Things to do in Plzeň
Start your time in Plzeň with a tour of the world-famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery. During this fun tour, you’ll get to find out how Czech’s most popular beer came to be and watch how it’s made today. At the end of the tour, you’ll have the chance to explore the brewery’s ancient cellar and try some unfiltered pilsner.
Exploring the Historic Underground of Plzeň is something you’ve absolutely got to do during your visit. On this guided tour, you’ll get to head below the Earth’s surface and discover what life was like in the Middle Ages. The labyrinth of wells, cellars, and passageways you’ll cross all date back to the 13th century! Like many activities in Plzeň, your day will end with a beer.
If you’ve got any energy left, there are plenty of museums to explore, too. The Techmania Science Center and Puppet Museum are two of our favorites.
Getting To Plzeň
The cheapest and easiest way to get from Karlovy Vary to Plzeň is on the train. All the journeys are direct, and there are around 12 connections each weekday and 10 on weekends. Head to the Karlovy Vary train station and buy a ticket for Plzeň. Hop onboard, and in just 2 hours, you’ll be at Pilsen Hb train station!
Getting Around Plzeň
Plzeň has an excellent public transport network with plenty of options. PMDP (Plzeňské Městské Dopravní Podniky) is the local transport company that operates tram, trolleybus, and bus routes throughout the city.
You can buy single tickets, as well as tickets that are valid for 1, 2, 3, and 24 hours. As you’re staying two nights in the city, we suggest buying one of the tourist tickets from your nearest tourist information center and loading it with 48 hours’ worth of transport.
Český Krumlov – 2 Nights
Next up is one of the most beautiful cities in the Czech Republic. Nestled peacefully within the winding curves of the Vlatava River, this romantic city looks so much like a page out of a fairytale book that you’ll do a double-take when you first arrive.
The highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site is its spectacular castle. But no matter where you visit, you’ll be surrounded by unprecedented charm and grace everywhere you go. Make sure you’ve got plenty of memory free on your phone because you’ll be snapping pictures non-stop here.
Things to do in Český Krumlov
Get to grips with Český Krumlov by wandering around Old Town. Here you’ll be surrounded by cobblestone walkways, magnificent medieval buildings, and a buzzing atmosphere that will sweep you away with it.
This part of the city is dotted with gorgeous street art, as well as a handful of museums and art galleries. We recommend popping into the Egon Schiele Art Centrum if you’ve got time.
End your first day by heading to the small observation deck next to the main bus station. Here you’ll find a few benches where you can relax with a cool Pilsner (if you came prepared!) as you watch the sunset over the city.
Spend your second day exploring the grandiose Český Krumlov Castle. This imposing building is located on a rocky outcrop and towers over Old Town. It’s the second-largest castle in the Czech Republic (after Prague Castle) and is bursting with buildings, courtyards, bridges, towers, and gardens.
If you’re short on cash, you’ll be glad to know that only select parts of the castle have an entrance fee. Most of it is free.
Before heading to your next destination, visit one of the many street vendors you’ll come across and order a Trdelník. This delicious baked treat is a type of pastry that’s cooked over an open fire before it’s liberally dusted with cinnamon sugar. You’ve got to try one!
Getting To Český Krumlov
The quickest way to get from Plzeň to Český Krumlov is (you guessed it!) on the train. Head to the main train station at Plzeň and catch the train to České Budějovice. This journey takes around 2 hours and will get you most of the way there.
After that, you need to walk 4 minutes to the České Budějovice bus station. From here, you can catch the bus to Český Krumlov. There’s usually a bus once every hour and the journey only takes 25 minutes.
Getting Around Český Krumlov
Český Krumlov is a very small place that’s almost completely pedestrianized, making it easy to get around on foot. There are no vehicles allowed within the historical center, where the most impressive attractions in the city are located.
If you’d rather stay off your feet, public bus stops are scattered throughout the non-pedestrianized zones. However, you will have to do a little walking to visit the main tourist hotspots.
Hluboká Castle – 1 Night
You’ve already seen at least two castles on your trip so far, but you can’t pass up on the chance to visit Hluboká Castle. One of the most stunning places to see in the Czech Republic, this castle is so outstanding that it has appeared in a number of Czech and international movies.
It’s definitely worth stopping for on your way to Brno. The castle’s colossal size, intriguing character, antique furniture, and sprawling park will bewitch and delight you.
Things to do in Hluboká Castle
The castle’s grounds are completely free to visit. If you’re running out of your vacation budget, you can have a wonderful time wandering around the manicured gardens and admiring the alluring structure from the outside. The outdoor spaces surrounding Hluboká Castle are equally gorgeous, whatever time of year you choose to visit.
To take a look inside, you need to sign up for a guided tour. You’ll get to explore stunning private apartments, magnificent kitchens, and spectacular lounges. If you’ve got the time, we definitely recommend you climb to the top of the tower and check out the views.
When you’ve seen all there is to see, spend the night at Telč. This charming neighborhood is a UNESCO heritage town that will win you over as soon as you arrive. The ancient monuments, pastel-colored houses, and elegant parks will give you plenty to check out while you take a stroll through the streets.
Getting To Hluboká Castle
There are two main ways to get from Český Krumlov to Hluboká Castle. The easiest way is to simply hop in a taxi. The journey will take 35 minutes, but it will cost around 1,066 CZK ($49).
The other option is to take the train. This will take around 90 minutes, but it will only cost approximately 285 CZK ($13). Head to the Český Krumlov train station and catch the train to Ceske Budejovice. Get off at the last stop and then catch another train to Hluboka Nad Vltavou. This will take you straight to the castle.
Brno – 2 Nights
While some people say Brno is Prague’s ugly sister, we think it’s one of the best cities to visit in the Czech Republic. It is quite similar to Prague, but it has more of a local feel, with excellent restaurants, fantastic bars, and fewer tourists walking around. It’s a great place to go if you want to get a feel for a more local town but still have plenty of things to see and do to keep you entertained during your trip.
Things to do in Brno
Get your bearings by exploring Old Town on foot. As you’ve already visited the Czech Republic’s capital city, you’ll probably get unusual déjà vu feelings now and again. Brno’s Old Town can feel very similar to Prague’s Old Town. It even has its own astronomical clock!
If the weather’s in your favor, seek out one of Brno’s sun-kissed beer gardens. The Starobrno Brewery is one of our favorites. As well as top-quality beer, this popular hotspot also serves amazing BBQ platters.
If that doesn’t sound like your thing, head underground and enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea at one of the city’s many tea houses. Chajovna, with its distinctive Japanese vibe, is a great choice.
Hungry for more castles? Then check out Spilberk Castle. It has a fascinating, if somewhat macabre history. It was one of the most severe prisons in the 17th and 18th centuries and was also used by occupying Nazis as a political prisoner-of-war camp.
For something a little more cheery, check out Villa Tugendhat instead. This stunning villa is filled with some of the earliest examples of modern architecture and furniture dating back to the 1920s.
Getting To Brno
This is the longest leg of your 2 weeks in the Czech Republic. The cheapest, easiest, and quickest way to get from Hluboká Castle to Brno is on the bus. Start by either walking or catching a taxi to the České Budějovice bus station, then hop on the bus that takes you to Brno.
There’s only one direct bus each day and the journey takes around 3 hours 40 minutes. There are other bus routes, but you’ve got to change at least once, and the journey can take up to 14 hours! So best be organized and make sure you catch the direct bus.
Getting Around Brno
The best way to explore Brno is by tram. It runs every 5 minutes in the center of the city and will quickly whisk you away to most of the popular tourist attractions. You’ll find tram stops dotted all over the city with clearly marked schedules. As well as the trams, buses and trolleybuses also run in both directions regularly throughout the main streets.
If you’re in the mood to stay out late, Brno is a fantastic place to do so. It has a great night transport system, with buses leaving the main railway station and traveling throughout the city every 30 minutes after midnight.
Olomouc – 2 Nights
Last up on your Czech Republic itinerary is Olomouc. This charismatic city is where you’ll spend your final couple of days roving between lines of pastel-colored houses, people-watching in ancient squares, and soaking up the last few drops of the Czech Republic’s unique atmosphere.
Keep your phone in your hand because you’ll be surrounded by phenomenal photo opportunities wherever you are here. Olomouc is a wonderful, peaceful end to what has been a very active vacation.
Things to do in Olomouc
You’ll find some of the best things to do in the Czech Republic in Olomouc. Start off by walking around Old Town. Here you’ll find all sorts of interesting sites, from towering columns and religious buildings to cute cafes and even an astronomical clock. There are six Baroque fountains scattered throughout Old Town. See how many you can spot!
Arcibiskupský palác (Archbishop’s Palace) is worth checking out. It’s a fantastic example of Early Baroque architecture and has witnessed some of the most important historical events that took place in Olomouc. Vila Primavesi is another fascinating place to visit. It’s a stunning Art Nouveau home that was decorated by the famous Austrian artist Gustav Klimt for a local banking family.
Enjoy a relaxing end to your trip by spending your final evening at the Olomouc Beer Spa. Here you can unwind in a wooden bathtub filled with warm black beer that’s been enriched with brewer’s yeast.
The beer is said to contain essential nutrients which will leave your skin feeling amazing. Your visit also includes two large beers to drink, 30 minutes in a salt sauna, and a natural stone foot massage!
Getting To Olomouc
Getting from Brno to Olomouc is simple. There are direct buses every 30-60 minutes from the Grand Hotel (Hlavní Nádraží) in the city that will whisk you straight to Hotel Clarion (Třída Kosmonautů) in Olomouc. From here, you can walk, catch a taxi, or ride the bus to your accommodation. The journey only takes 60 minutes, so you’ll be there before you know it.
Getting Around Olomouc
Olomouc is pretty small compared to other Czech cities, and you can easily visit most of the attractions on foot. But if you’ve had enough walking this trip, you’ll be glad to know that there are also excellent tram and bus systems.
Olomouc’s tram connects the main train station with the rest of the city. You can buy your tram ticket directly from the vending machine at any tram stop or from newsstands that you’ll find scattered throughout Olomouc.
Bus stops are also located throughout the city. Just like at the tram stops, you can buy your tickets directly from the machines at the bus stops or from the driver when you get on the bus.
There you have it! That’s our perfect two-week Czech Republic itinerary. Where will you be visiting on your trip to the Czech Republic?
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