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Czech Republic

By Kerry Kubilius, About.com

Karlstejn Castle

Karlstejn Castle

Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
Czech Republic's Regions and People:
The Czech people consider themselves a part of the West Slavs, along with Slovaks and Poles. The Czech Republic itself is regionally divided into Bohemia (to the west) and Moravia (to the east). While the Czech Republic has existed under different names and different empires over the centuries, it still has its own identity, with Prague at the heart of it all.
Facts about the Czech Republic:
  • The central location of the Czech Republic means it shares borders with Germany, Austria, Poland and Slovakia. Many people consider Prague an ideal starting point for traveling the rest of Europe.
  • Staying in the Czech Republic, especially in Prague, might seem relatively more expensive than in countries situated to the east, but Prague has a lively night life, beautiful boutique hotels, and plenty of restaurants for the visitor who wants to experience it all.
  • Cold winters and temperate summers make the Czech Republic a reasonable destination for any time of year, depending upon personal weather preferences.
  • Czech is the language spoken in the Czech Republic. Czech phrases are useful to know for restaurants, making purchases, and just getting around--though a healthy expat population may mean that speaking English will not prove to be an impediment to seeing the sights.
  • Museums in the Czech Republic:
    The Czech Republic has many small, must-see museums. The Alphonse Mucha Museum displays paintings, drawings, and lithographs of this famous master of Art Nouveau. The Mozart Museum houses original works of Mozart and Mozart memorabilia. The Sex Machines Museum is also very popular.
    Prague Castle:
    This is one of the most popular sights for tourists to the Czech Republic. Past kings and current presidents have held offices here. The Castle is one of the largest in the world and houses the crown jewels of the Bohemian kingdom! Inside the Castle, tourists can visit the late Gothic-style cathedral of St. Vitus, and the Old Royal Palace, the seat of past Bohemian princes.
    Shopping in the Czech Republic:
    Prague has many small shops in which to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Look for: If you plan on buying art in the Czech Republic, there are many galleries and shops that offer contemporary works from local artists.
    Czech Republic World Heritage Sites:
    Visiting Czech Republic's World Heritage Sites will take travelers out of Prague and into other regions of the Czech Republic. They represent historically and culturally significant locations that also make great tourist destinations.

    Czech Republic World Heritage Sites Photos

    Practicalities for Travel to Czech Republic:
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