Suggested Itineraries

The Czech lands offer many historic and cultural monuments. Castles and châteaux dominating the picturesque natural landscape represent the most important part of Czech attractions.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Prague

Spend the first 2 days as recommended above in "The Best of Prague in 2 Days." Then rent a car from one of our recommended rental agencies. Keep in mind that the speed limit is 90kmph (56 mph) on two-lane highways and 50kmph (31 mph) in villages, and that you must keep your headlights switched on while driving.

Day 3: Ceský Krumlov

Leave for this romantic destination in southern Bohemia early in the morning to give yourself plenty of time to walk around once you get there. Take Hwy. D1 and then E55. The trip takes about 3 hours. Once there, visit the castle first, then just wander, and finally relax in a local restaurant. Spend the night in one of the recommended hotels or pensions. But book early, as Krumlov is the most popular Czech destination after Prague.

Day 4: Ceské Budejovice, Castle Hluboká nad Vltavou

On this day start heading for Plzen via Ceské Budeovice, the home of Budvar beer. Upon arrival at Ceské Budeovice, have a quick stroll and look around one of central Europe's largest squares, where you can also have lunch. In the early afternoon, take Hwy. E49 and then Hwy. 105 north for 30 minutes (this includes parking time) to the tiny town Hluboká nad Vltavou, where you'll see a castle fashioned after the Windsor Castle in England towering above the green meadows.

Next, take Hwy. E49 to Plzen. You'll get there in about 2 hours. Spend the night there.

Day 5: Plzen

Explore Plzen's center in the morning, when it is the least crowded. If you're interested in the beer-making process, visit the Pilsner Breweries in the early afternoon. Just outside the factory is a restaurant that serves traditional Czech food.

After your break, hit the road again. Hwy. E49 will take you to the most popular Czech spa town, Karlovy Vary, in about 1 hour. Spend the night there.

Day 6: Karlovy Vary

This town was built for relaxation, which makes it the perfect place to end your Bohemian week.

Start slowly with a stroll around the city's historic center. Then, get your "cup" and taste the mineral waters that make this destination so famous.

Day 7: Karlovy Vary to Prague

It's time to return to Prague. Take Hwy. E48. You should reach the capital in 2 hours. Be warned that this two-lane highway is one of the busiest and most accident-prone in the country.