30 of the Most Beautiful Cities and Towns in the Czech Republic

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Castles, churches, cathedrals, parks and gardens, picturesque squares, narrow streets, palaces, plague columns, architecture of all styles, oldest bridges, famous museums and even more you can see in the Czech cities and towns. Here is my list of 30 of the Most Beautiful Cities and Towns in the Czech Republic.

Most Beautiful Cities and Towns in the Czech Republic

1. Prague

The city of Prague is not only the capital city of the Czech Republic; it is the largest city in the country and the fourteenth largest in the entire European Union.

There are more than 2 million people who currently call this thousand year old city home today. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe.

Vltava river, Charles bridge and Prague Castle, The Czech Republic
Vltava river, Charles bridge and Prague Castle, The Czech Republic

If you would like to learn more about Prague and see all its attractions, check this article: 40 of the Most beautiful places in Prague.

2. Český Krumlov

In the southern part of the Czech Republic, you will find the city of Český Krumlov which is known throughout Europe for its architecture.

The Český Krumlov Castle is one of the most famous destinations in the city. Most of the old part of the city dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries.

Český Krumlov, The Czech Republic
Český Krumlov, The Czech Republic

3. Karlovy Vary

Every year, countless individuals and groups make their way to the spa city of Karlovy Vary which is situated where the Teplá and Ohře rivers converge.

At only 130 kilometers from Prague, it is a sought after retreat for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of urbanized living. There are more than 300 hot springs located throughout Karlovy Vary.

Karlovy Vary, The Czech Republic
Karlovy Vary, The Czech Republic

4. Brno

The city of Brno is the second largest in the Czech Republic. You will find the city nestled between the Svratka and Svitava River which converge at the edge of town.

While there are almost a million people who call Brno home, countless others make their way to the city for the culture and history. The Špilberk Castle is one of the most popular destinations in Brno.

Brno, The Czech Republic
Brno, The Czech Republic

5. Plzeň

The city of Plzeň is considered to be the fourth most populous in the nation. It is located only 90 kilometers from the capital city of Prague.

As one can tell by the name of the city, Plzeň is most known for its pilsner beers that have been made in the city for generations.

Plzeň, The Czech Republic
Plzeň, The Czech Republic

6. České Budějovice

The city of České Budějovice is a popular destination in the Czech Republic. It is home to several institutes of higher learning including the University of South Bohemia as well as the Academy of Sciences.

The city itself is nestled in the Vltava River valley in the southern part of the country.

České Budějovice from Black Tower, The Czech Republic
České Budějovice from Black Tower, The Czech Republic by KuanTing Wu

7. Olomouc

The city of Olomouc can be found in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, along the banks of the Morava River. It is the sixth largest city in the nation as almost a half a million permanent residents call Olomouc home.

There are many things to see and do in and around the ecclesiastical city of Olomouc, its old town has attracted countless visitors over the years.

Olomouc, The Czech Republic
Olomouc, The Czech Republic by Dominik.Tefert

8. Kutná Hora

The city of Kutná Hora can be found in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. Czech Museum of Silver including a medieval silver mine or the Royal Mint are some of the must-sees in this city.

Today many people chose to visit this UNESCO city. Kutná Hora is a hospitable city and there are the wide variety of cafes, pastry shops and restaurants, offering both contemporary and genuinely modern specialties.

Kutná Hora, The Czech Republic
Kutná Hora, The Czech Republic

9. Liberec

The city of Liberec can be found nestled in the foothills of the Jizera Mountains. It is considered to be the fifth largest city in the country.

Liberec is most well known for the Ještěd Tower which dominates the city’s skyline. Settled back in the 14th century, Liberec has played an important role in the history of the Czech Republic.

Town hall in Liberec, The Czech Republic
Town hall in Liberec, The Czech Republic by Da Sal

10. Ostrava

The third largest city that can be found in the Czech Republic is none other than that of Ostrava. The city is located close to the Polish border and is known for skiing.

While considered to be one of the most polluted cities in the European Union due to its coal industry, the city nonetheless sees thousands of visitors every single year.

Masaryk square in Ostrava, The Czech Republic
Masaryk square in Ostrava, The Czech Republic by MMO

11. Hradec Králové

The city of Hradec Králové is known for its musical instruments which have been made in the area for centuries.

It is home to several of the finest institutes in the Czech Republic; the University of Hradec Králové as well as the Charles University which has satellite departments in the city.

Hradec Králové, The Czech Republic
Hradec Králové, The Czech Republic by János Korom Dr.

12. Znojmo

Located close to the Austrian border, you will find the city of Znojmo. It is only an 80 minute ride from Znojmo to the Vienna.

The city itself has a rich history which dates back to the 13th century. Well preserved Renaissance historical center with many churches is surrounded by the medieval walls. It is full of winding streets, romantic views and charming corners.

Znojmo, The Czech Republic
Znojmo, The Czech Republic by RomanM82

13. Teplice

The town of Teplice is most well known for the spas which can be found throughout the city. It is the second largest of the spa towns in the Czech Republic.

The town is situated along the German border, between the Ore and Central Bohemian Mountains. Countless individuals make their way to Teplice every year for the healing properties of the natural springs found in the town.

Teplice, The Czech Republic
Teplice, The Czech Republic by János Korom Dr.

14. Mikulov

The sleepy little town of Mikulov can be found along the Austrian border near the Nové Mlýny reservoirs.

Many people who are seeking peace and quiet in the Pálava Landscape Protected Area chose to start their holiday in the town of Mikulov. Thanks to the rise of eco-tourism, the town has become a popular spot over the past few years.

Mikulov, The Czech Republic
Mikulov, The Czech Republic by János Korom Dr.

15. Telč

In the historic 13th century town of Telč, one can find a number of beautiful chateaus as well as homes that feature a mixture of the Baroque and Renaissance styles.

The most popular attraction in the town is a Gothic inspired castle which was built back in the 15th century. It also has beautiful town center, which is why Telč has become UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Telč, The Czech Republic
Telč, The Czech Republic by xkomczax

16. Třeboň

The small town of Třeboň has played an important historical role in the area where the Czech Republic is located today. There are many fine spas which attract countless visitors from all over Europe.

Many people come to Třeboň to participate in the annual International Festival of Animated Films which occurs in every May.

Třeboň, The Czech Republic
Třeboň, The Czech Republic by Kralpilot

17. Karlštejn

The small market town of Karlštejn is not that well known, however the Karlštejn Castle for which the town was renamed after back in 1952 is a very popular destination in the Czech Republic.

The Karlštejn Castle has played a pivotal role in the history of the Kingdom of Bohemia. The town and the castle can be found only 30 kilometers from Prague.

Karlštejn Castle, The Czech Republic
Karlštejn Castle, The Czech Republic

18. Benešov

The town of Benešov can be found only 40 kilometers from the capital city of Prague. The city is most known for the Konopiště Castle which can be found just outside of the town.

It is believed that the area where Benešov stands now was first settled back in the 11th century, however most of the structures in the city date back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Konopiště, The Czech Republic
Konopiště, The Czech Republic

19. Lednice

In the small village of Lednice, you will find a magnificent palace as well as the largest park in the whole of the Czech Republic.

The park itself covers an area of more than 200 square kilometers and the palace which is known as the House of Liechtenstein dates back to the 13th century. There is truly something enchanting about visiting the village of Lednice.

The Chateau Lednice, The Czech Republic
The Chateau Lednice, The Czech Republic

20. Jindřichův Hradec

Jindřichův Hradec has a nice historical center, bordered with the river on one side and with the lake on the other. Its main attractions are the castle, museum, mill and two narrow-gauge railways.

The city’s narrow streets and amazing atmosphere take you directly to the medieval times.

Castle Jindrichuv Hradec, Czech republic
Castle Jindrichuv Hradec, Czech republic by Rindi

21. Holašovice

Holašovice, is a town in the southern part of the country inscribed into UNESCO World Heritage List already in 1998. Its houses and granaries are built in the Baroque style and are well preserved.

This is why Holašovice is one of the prettiest villages in the country.

Holašovice, The Czech Republic
Holašovice, The Czech Republic by Miloš Fiala

22. Kroměříž

Kroměříž is like Czech Athens. City is full of monuments, art and culture. Here you cannot miss the archbishop’s palace with gardens, which was for its uniqueness inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Once here, stroll the charming streets of the historic center and admire the temples, palaces and romantic squares.

Kroměříž, The Czech Republic
Kroměříž, The Czech Republic

23. Litomyšl

The main attraction of Litomyšl is the Renaissance chateau, which has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. It is one of the most beautiful Renaissance buildings in Central Europe.

But very nice are also old town houses around the Smetana square, the monastery garden or painted Museum Portmoneum.

Litomyšl Castle, The Czech Republic
Litomyšl Castle, The Czech Republic by Agnete

24. Žďár nad Sázavou

Žďár nad Sázavou is another UNESCO town. It is here where you can find castle and pilgrimage church.

The town also has a historic center with town hall, plague column and Baroque style fortress with a museum.

Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora in Žďár nad Sázavou, The Czech Republic
Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk, Žďár nad Sázavou, The Czech Republic by Anna Prokopová

25. Třebíč

If you like Romanesque, Gothic or Baroque styles enhanced with some alleys of the old Jewish quarters, then Třebíč will be ideal for you to go for. It offers a little of everything.

Its Jewish quarter with a synagogue and cemetery were together with the Romanesque-Gothic Basilica of St. Prokop inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003.

Třebíč, The Czech Republic
Třebíč, The Czech Republic by Marius Svoboda

26. Tábor

Tábor is town which lies on the river Lužnice in the southern part of the country. It has a famous history related mainly to Mr Jan Hus. Many architectural monuments can be found in the town center and amazing natural beauty around it.

Town has well preserved medieval appearance, which makes it a very attractive tourist destination. Botanical gardens or ZOO are some of the most popular attractions in this town.

Tábor, The Czech Republic
Tábor, The Czech Republic

27. Písek

Písek is famous for being a home to the stone bridge, which is the oldest bridge in the Czech Republic. It was built already during the second half of the 13th century.

Unlike Prague’s Charles bridge, this one is not overcrowded but still offers really unforgettable experiences.

Stone Bridge in Písek, The Czech Republic
Stone Bridge in Písek, The Czech Republic by Chmee2

28. Litoměřice

Litoměřice has always been the center of wine industry in the Czech Republic. It has a picturesque old town, bordered with extensive Gothic walls.

The city walls, gardens, parks, former Gothic Castle or Cathedral are just few of the attractions you will see in this city. It is so much to do and see here that you will need to reserve at least one full day.

Litoměřice, The Czech Republic
Litoměřice, The Czech Republic

29. Loket

Loket is a city on the rocky promontory with spectacular medieval castle and surrounded by the river Ohří. It has a nice square with Baroque Holy Trinity Column and numerous historical town houses.

It was here, where Johann Wolfgang Goethe asked Ulrike von Levetzow to marry him.

Loket Castle, The Czech Republic
Loket Castle, The Czech Republic by Ladislav Boháč

30. Nové Město nad Metují

Nové Město nad Metují is a town situated in the northern part of the country. It is said that wherever you look at this city from, you will be pleased by nice views.

The town is also known for the old Baroque castle situated in its center with original garden and wooden buildings.

Nové Město nad Metují, Czech cities, Czech Republic
Nové Město nad Metují, Czech cities, Czech Republic by Karelj / Public domain

31. Harrachov

Situated along the banks of the Mumlava River, one will find the town of Harrachov. Located only 300 meters from the Polish borders, Harrachov has become a popular tourist destination for those looking to go hiking and mountain climbing.

Nearby one will also find an internationally renowned ski jump facility and several nice ski slopes.

Harrachov, The Czech Republic
Harrachov, The Czech Republic by Ondrej.konicek

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  1. Oprav si tam ten Jinďrichuv Hradec, to je fotka Třeboně. A namiesto napriklad Třebiča, či Písku, ktore moc pekné nie sú, či Harrachova, Ostravy by som dal Šternberk, Jičín a hlavne Štramberk
    Inak pekne sa ti rozvíja. Sme sem po dlhšej dobe zavítali 🙂 Držíme ti palce a chceli by sme poprosiť o použitie tvojej fotky Kapituly a chrámu Sv. Mikuláša v Prešove. Našli sme na flickri. Ja osobne som tvoju stránku lajkol 🙂

    • Julius

      100x mi pražáci vraveli aby som šiel do Jindřichova Hradce a 100x som ich odignoroval… Musím to napraviť! 🙂 České mestá ale zo zoznamu škrtať nebudem, ale pridám tie, čo ste navrhli! Mám tam neospravedlniteľné medzery…

      • Tak potom si tam ešte pridaj Cheb, ktorý má silno nemeckú atmošku, Mariánske Lázně. Inak, keď sme chceli robiť podobný zoznam na Slovensku povedali sme si, že desať postačí. Lebo väčšinu ľudí aj tak zaujíma len Top 10. Odvtedy všetko robíme top 10. Alebo top 5…

    • Julius

      Použitie fotiek samozrejme nie je problém! 🙂

      • Dakujeme 🙂

  2. Nice list. Maybe a tip what to see in each of the towns could be done in next update. Thanks for sharing.

    • Julius

      That’s a good idea, thank you, Martin. I will add few tips for every city/town!

  3. I also want to recommend Jihlava and Havlickuv Brod, thoese sleepy beautiful cities, and see people there enjoying their non-hectic life with many ‘potrovivy’ shops.

  4. Decin deserves being listed too, the castle with its gardens and the view on the Elbe (Labe) are amazing. In Pardubice, the only thing impressing me is the town hall, really beautiful!!! Also beautiful is Opava, the old Slesian capital. I also wanted to mention Cesky Tesin, another city which has a beautiful town hall. The city is an enitity with Polish Tesin, so you can visit another beautiful town beyond the river at the same time. So far, the only disappointing city is Chocen, I really tried hard to find something beautiful, but nothing, nada, rien 🙁
    In general, Czechia is a very beautiful country, people are nice and helpful. I just cannot love it more!!!!

  5. Cheb is also very beautiful, the old town square has many interesting and magnificent houses. Marianske Lazne is not bad either, has similarity to Karlovy Vary. On the way back from Litomysl to Prague I visited Vysoke Myto, which has an astonishing three old city gates with a beautiful SOKOL house. Trebic was kind of disappointing for me: around the central old town square there are not so many beautiful buildings (Hungarians have burned them mostly down) and there was much car traffic there. The UNESCO sites are not strikingly beautiful from the outside. For me even Kolin near Prague is more interesting than Trebic.

  6. I think Pardubice also deserves to be on this list. I was there this summer. It is very nice city. Main square and castle are charming.
    Thanks for list!
    Valentin from Osijek – Croatia

    • Julius

      That’s right, Pardubice will be added! I didn’t manage to go there during my 8-years long trip to Prague, what a shame! 🙁 But next time!!! 🙂

  7. I love to see Czech Republic one day. The country will be exciting

    • Julius

      Czech Republic is a wonderful country with lots of amazing places to visit!

  8. Like other European countries Czech republic also has a huge list of castles and cathedrals to visit. But thanks for the list.

  9. I have been to the Czech Republic many times, since my wife is Czech, and there is always something else to see. for a small country, it has incredible geographical variety and diversity.
    The Baroque, the medieval, they are all there, and beautifully preserved, in fact they are incorporated into modern life, bridges, castles and palaces, cathedrals, it is all the beautiful country of the Czech Republic.

    • Then Slovakia should be next on your list. Even greater diversity than Czech neighbours and brothers 🙂

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