Car Hire Czech Republic - Mini guide to Czech Republic

Since its velvet revolution in 1989, the newly formed Czech Republic has blossomed and become one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, largely due to its showcase city, Prague. Picturesque and rich in culture and history, the country has much to offer visitors.

Prague is a living museum and textbook showcase of historic architecture, featuring 900 years' of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and even Art Nouveau architecture. Its elevated Castle (Hradcany) dominates the city and is the world’s largest. It is still the seat of government with plenty of incredible attractions inside, including St Vitus Cathedral. Surrounding it are several historic districts, such as Hradcany, (scarcely unchanged in 700 years), and the alleyways of Mala Strana (the ‘Small Quarter’) at its foot. Cross the Vlatava river on the Charles Bridge (Karluv most) to reach the Old Town (Stare Mesto), clustered around the magnificent Vaclavske namesti (Wenceslas Square). It’s full of markets, buskers and tourists. The Jewish quarter is quaint and historic and the enormous Petrin park, with its excellent vistas, is a treat if you wish to escape the tourists crowds. Prague has also become known as a European centre for Arts, opera and music, and has a lively atmosphere.

The Victorian-like Karlovy Vary is the oldest and most famous of the Bohemian spas, and one of the most popular with tourists. The medicinal properties of the hotsprings are well known, and the town has a stately character, set in a river valley among wooded hills.

Telc, another World Heritage site, is a charming 13th-century town in South Moravia, with its Renaissance castle, cobbled lanes and ancient houses. Also on UNESCO’s list is Ceský Krumlov, one of Bohemia's most beautiful towns, with a well-preserved, pedestrianised centre, enormous castle, and lovely position on the Vltava river.