General tourist information for the Czech Republic. Local kitchen. What to try? How to save money in Prague

Czech Republic is in Central Europe, in the north borders on Poland, in the northwest and west - on Germany, in the south - on Austria, in the east - on Slovakia. The landscape of the country is quite diverse. Bohemia, western territory Czech Republic, located in the basins of the Vltava and Laba rivers, surrounded by low mountains.

The eastern part of the country - Moravia - mainly lies in the Morava river basin, hills and plains prevail here. Rivers from the Czech Republic flow into the Black, Northern and Baltic Sea. The territory of the country is 78.9 thousand square meters. km. .

Ancient castles, neat streets with houses from the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm, world-famous Karlovy Vary, elegant porcelain figurines - all this is the Czech Republic. A strict culture and unshakable traditions reign here, joining which you can feel like a real native European.

The Czech Republic is one of the ten most visited countries in the world. Czech resorts - Karlovy Vary, Marianske Lazne, Podebrady and others are known for their healing waters, gases and mud, favorable climate and modern equipment. The landscape of these places is amazing in its beauty and diversity.

Wide valleys with a dense network of rivers and lakes are replaced by dense forests, hills and mountain ranges, keeping the age-old freshness and coolness of stalactite caves.

But, despite the popularity of Czech resorts, the main type of tourism in the Czech Republic is sightseeing and educational. Fortunately, there is no shortage of historical heritage. The most popular tourist sites are architectural monuments. At the same time, it is difficult to find a tour that would include pure form sightseeing of castles and other architectural sights. An indispensable attribute of sightseeing tours is beer tasting and acquaintance with Czech cuisine. Very popular are visits to breweries and Jan Becher's factory in Karlovy Vary, where the drink of the same name is produced - Karlovy Vary Becherovka.

Today, about 130 historical complexes take vacationers in the Czech Republic, each of which is unique in its own way. Some accommodation facilities are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List - for example, Cesky Krumlov, Telch, Kromneriz, Litomysl.

Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic, with a rich historical heritage. The administrative center of the South Moravian region. The main attraction is the architecture.

Kutná Hora is a city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous, first of all, for its architectural heritage.

The main attraction is the Church of All Saints. This unique building is luxuriously decorated with human bones and skulls. In total, the remains of 40 thousand people were spent on "inlay"! Another grandiose monument of architecture - the Gothic Cathedral of St. Barbara - the second largest in the Czech Republic.

Kutna Hora is also famous for its "silver" history. Thanks to the deposits of silver ore, the city at one time mined a third of all European silver. Of course, it was not without the creation of a mint here, which is now a museum.

Český Krumlov is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps the second attraction of the Czech Republic, after Prague. The city has not changed much since the 18th century. On a rather narrow S-shaped cliff along the Vltava River, over six centuries, about 40 buildings and palace structures were built, united in a single complex around five castle squares and a castle garden. One of the main attractions of the complex is the three-tiered bridge "On the Square", which is a covered corridor, 40 m high and 30 m long, connecting the castle with the garden and the court theater.

Czech Sternberg- Gothic castle on a rocky cape in the valley of the Sazava River, founded in the 13th century. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Over time, after a series of reconstructions, it absorbed many different styles into its architecture and interiors - from baroque to renaissance. The castle has a unique collection of guns and hunting trophies.

Pilsen - historical city, "beer capital". Administrative center of Western Bohemia. The main attractions are architecture and beer.

Liberec is the administrative center of the Liberec region, with the remnants of German flavor. The main attractions are one of the largest zoos in Europe, zoological and botanical gardens, old castle, town hall of the end of the XIX century, museum of local lore, art gallery.

Olomouc is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the Czech Republic, the administrative center of the Olomouc region. The city is often referred to as the quieter and more peaceful Prague. The main attraction is the architecture.

In the town of Jablonec, at a glass factory, skillful glassblowers will create real masterpieces before your eyes, and in the town of Melnik you will try yourself as a wine taster.

České Budějovice is a historical city, the administrative center of the South Bohemian region. The main attraction is the architecture. For example, there is the Castle Hluboka nad Vltava, made in the English style, graceful and beautiful, like its creator, Eleonora Schwarzenberg, the most beautiful woman of the 19th century.

And finally, Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. At the beginning of the 19th century, Bernardo Volzano counted 103 towers in Prague and thus the city acquired the name "City of a Hundred Towers". There are currently over 500 of them! The ancient core of Prague is well preserved and forms a unique protected architectural ensemble. The center and the historical part of the city are the complex of the Prague Kremlin - Hradcany on the left bank of the Vltava River, the colorful Mala Strana, and on the right bank - the romantic and mysterious Old Town (Stare Mesto) and New town(Nove Mesto), which is the commercial heart of Prague. These historical places, plus Vysehrad and the Jewish Ghetto, have been included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

The "common" attraction of the Prague "cities" is the Royal Road. According to the rule established by Charles IV, the coronation procession of the new king began at Vysehrad and followed this path to Prague Castle. In Stare Mesto Royal the road goes from the Powder Tower along Celetnaya Street to the Old Town Square and along Karlova Street leads to the Charles Bridge.

Prague Castle (Hradcany) is the third chronologically Prague district, stretching along the top of a hill on the high left bank of the Vltava. Here is the majestic Prague (formerly Royal) Castle - the largest fortress in the Czech Republic, historical, political and Cultural Center Prague and the whole country, founded in the 9th century. One of the most favorite places of Hradcany among tourists is the Strahov Premonstratensian Monastery on Pogorzelec (founded in 1140, rebuilt in the 17th century) with the Museum of Czech Literature (1679). On the territory of the monastery are the majestic churches of St. Roch and the Ascension of the Virgin, as well as the famous Baroque library, which contains more than 30 thousand manuscripts, incunabula and books.

Gradchanskaya Square, which lies at the entrance to the Kremlin, has still retained its medieval layout, although after the fire of 1541 its buildings changed radically - the houses of the townspeople were replaced by the houses of the nobility and church hierarchs. On the square in the Schwarzenberg-Lobkowitz Palace (1563) there is now the Military History Museum, and on opposite side square - Sternberg Palace (XVII-XVIII centuries) with the National Gallery, which has a large collection of European art. The architectural pearl of the square is the archbishop's palace of the 16th century.

The famous Teresian Palace, built in the style of Viennese classicism, is located in the first ("Honorary") courtyard of the Castle. Matthias gate leads to the second courtyard - the first baroque construction in Prague (1614). There is a chapel of the Holy Cross (1763) and two fountains - in the Baroque style and a modern one (1967), as well as a well with a forged domed lattice - a work of the Renaissance (1719).

In the third courtyard (the oldest part of Prague Castle) is the famous St. Vitus Cathedral - " business card Prague", an impressive Gothic building, the oldest part of which is considered the chapel of St. Wenceslas, in which this "folk Czech saint" was buried in 932, this grave soon became a center of pilgrimage.

After visiting the Cathedral of St. Vitus, it is worth taking a look at the "Golden Lane" - several tiny houses, almost built into the fortress wall and painted in bright colors. According to legend, the alchemists of Rudolph II lived here, trying to find " philosopher's Stone". Franz Kafka lived in house number 22 in 1912-1914.

In the Royal Garden of the Kremlin is summer palace Queen Anne ("Belvedere"), built in 1538-64. - the best example of Italian Renaissance architecture. In front of it there is a "Singing Fountain", the falling drops of which supposedly repeat the ringing of Prague bells. The ancient Powder Bridge, originally wooden, led across the moat to the garden outside Prague Castle. At the entrance to the bridge there is a tower, which now houses a permanent exhibition of handicrafts from the time of Rudolph II and an exhibition on the history of the Powder Tower itself - one of ancient structures capital Cities. Nearby is the building of the Lion's Court (1583), where forest predators were kept during the time of Rudolf II.

The Prague City Gallery today occupies a number of buildings - the house and villa of the Czech painter and sculptor Frantisek Bilek (1872-1941), the old town hall and special rooms in the municipal library, as well as ancient architectural monuments with typical Czech tempting names: House of the Stone Bell ( used as an exhibition hall), the House of the Golden Ring (20th-century Czech art) and the Troyan Castle (19th-century Czech art).

The People's Technical Museum tells about the invention and development of the telephone, television, radio, camera, and cinema. The museum has an equipped television center where everyone can try himself as a cameraman or TV presenter. Museum wax figures in the very center of Prague, next to Wenceslas Square, is proud of its collection of "copies" of many historical figures - the Czech princess Libushi and Charlie Chaplin, the brave soldier Schweik and Stalin, Lenin and Albert Einstein, and many others are represented here. The Czech Glass Museum is open on the Old Town Square.

The Prague Castle Picture Gallery is located in the second courtyard, opposite the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Here you can see paintings from the Rudolf Gallery and the collection of Ferdinand II - the best works of Jacobo Robusti, Titian, Brandl, Veronese, Rubens and other great masters. The Museum of Czech Literature is located in the Strahov Monastery on Pogorzelec.

Prague is the city of the oldest pubs in the world, between which special "beer routes" are laid. This is the city of the soldier Schweik, paved bridges, stone houses and Charles Bridge. Of all European cities, it is perhaps the friendliest.

Having studied the tourism potential of the Czech Republic, we can conclude that this country has all the necessary resources for organizing sightseeing and educational tourism and attracting foreign tourists. That is, the Czech Republic, as a direction of Belarusian outbound tourism, is a very popular destination.

Based on the foregoing, it can be concluded that sightseeing tourism is playing an increasingly prominent role in the regional economy of states, and the Czech Republic is no exception. The tourism industry is one of the economic forwards, creating an impressive part of the gross domestic product.

Excursion tourism, in particular outbound tourism, in turn, occupies a significant place in international relations and is not only a popular form of recreation, but also an actively developing area of the world economy.

Excursion tourism has come a long way in its development and today is one of the most successfully developing branches of tourism. Like any other area of economic activity, the tourism industry is a very complex system, the degree of development of which depends on the degree of development of the country's economy as a whole.

Capital: Prague

Currency: Czech koruna

Time: UTC+02:00

Holidays in the Czech Republic - with romance and inspiration

Just imagine: unexpectedly, you ended up in Prague. The last rays of the sun run through the toy houses and small streets, painting them in a warm range of colors. There is a magnificent sunset all around. You are standing on a bridge lined with majestic statues. They are said to grant wishes. And you know your desire very well - be sure to return to the Czech Republic.

Tours to the Czech Republic are the choice of romantic and dreamy people who love to discover something new, fall in love and photograph wonders. And miracles in this country are apparently invisible: dancing houses, amazing tower clocks, miraculous medical resorts, charming parks, strange statues, the most beautiful temples in the world ... Even the shortest trip to the Czech Republic will provide the most sparkling impressions for several years to come!

Forward, to the toy Middle Ages!

They fly to the Czech Republic primarily for inspiration. Magnificent cities with their architectural masterpieces made this country one of the most beautiful places Europe. In Prague alone, you can walk day and night, looking at the graceful heritage of the Middle Ages: ancient castles, fortresses, temples and squares. The journey will start from the urban area of Stare Mesto - the "starting point" for all guests of the Czech Republic.

The Czech Middle Ages has one unusual feature - it seems like a toy. Powerful buildings and bridges are so nicely combined with modern houses, orange roofs, shops and parks that you want to put them under glass and admire somewhere at home.

Along with Prague, the list of the most beautiful Czech cities traditionally includes Ostrava, Karlovy Vary, Frantiskovy Lazne, Olomouc, Telch, Kromeriz, Litomysl and some other places.

The next 100% hit of the Czech Republic is, of course, a therapeutic holiday. About the local resorts with their mineral and thermal waters stories and legends go from century to century. Diverse healing springs there are more than 2000 in the country, and medical resorts - about 30. However, the matter is not limited to springs alone: healing mud, salts and natural gases are also waiting for travelers.

Medical tours to the Czech Republic are a real medical discovery. The list of diseases that are effectively “fighted” in Czech spas is surprising in its length. Some places (for example, Bludov) are intended for children's treatment, some for adults. by the most popular resort Consider, of course, Karlovy Vary, where the Czech treatment was “born” in the distant XIV century.

Other famous spas are Marianske Lazne, Jachymov, Luhačovice, Darkov and Poděbrady.

By the way, tsars, emperors and world famous cultural figures came to the Czech Republic for treatment, including Russian celebrities: Chekhov, Dostoevsky, Turgenev and many other writers and poets.

And of course, neither a relaxed rest in the springs, nor a walk along romantic cities will not do without gatherings in Czech cafes and restaurants! Local cuisine will delight you with incredibly hearty and delicious dishes. National soups (garlic, cibulachka, gulashova and others) and various meat dishes are especially popular: goulash, baked pork legs (sung everywhere “Boar's knee”), ribs and roasted goose.

And don't forget to taste the legendary Czech waffles, which will win you over with their rich sweetness. Many admit that the true taste of waffles can only be felt in the Czech Republic, as they add water from well-known sources to these goodies.

Vouchers to the Czech Republic - for those who love everything unusual

If you cannot imagine your trip without a carnival of new experiences, just take a stroll around Prague. Walk to the Old Town Square and look at the Prague Astronomical Clock. These famous watch- a real Prague masterpiece, theater in miniature. Not only do they show almost everything in the world (time, the position of the signs of the zodiac, sunrises and sunsets), they also periodically arrange “performances”. The skeleton rings the bell, the apostles look out the windows, the angel raises the sword, and the rooster cries at the very end, announcing the imminent strike of the clock.

Make your way to Petrin Hill to look into the famous Mirror Labyrinth. It will take a long time to study it: this strange place is designed so that guests wander among the mirrors for a long time, examining their puzzled reflections. After that, do not miss the opportunity to see ... dinosaurs! In Prague, there is a whole park "inhabited" by these creepy creatures. Toothy lizards, of course, are not real, but they know how to make a vivid impression.

In the Czech Republic, there are many miracles of all shades and stripes. And far from always they are found in the usual urban environment. For example, not far from the town of Jičina is the amazing Prachovské Rocks nature reserve. This place does not look like the Czech Republic at all - more like some kind of landscape from fantasy films. Giant boulders, overgrown with trees and vegetation, rush into the sky. Clusters of such rocks are called " rock cities". Walk along the local "streets" and feel the creative scope of nature. Watching the majestic Prachov sculptures, you understand that a vacation in the Czech Republic is a very meditative activity.

From rocky heights, you can go down lower - for example, to the caves of Moravian Kras. The giant dungeon fits in perfectly with medieval atmosphere Czech Republic: there are hidden passages in it, and invisible rooms, and open areas. There is even an underground river - walks along it are well-deservedly popular with tourists. Not every day you can see the underworld with your own eyes. cave system Moravian Kras is one of the largest in all of Europe. Total number the local caves exceeds a thousand!

Currency

Czech koruna (Ks). Banknotes come in denominations of 5000, 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50 and 20 crowns. Coins - 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 crown. 1 crown = 100 hellers. 1 dollar - 16.2 crowns, 1 euro - 24.3 crowns. The most common payment cards in the Czech Republic are Visa and Master Card (Euro Card). There are a sufficient number of ATMs in the city - mainly in bank branches and at metro stations.

Climate

The Czech climate is temperate, transitioning from maritime to continental. Winters are usually mild, -2 -4 °C in the plains and -8 -10 °C in the mountains. Summer in the Czech Republic is comfortable, moderately hot. For example, the average daily temperature at the height of summer is 19–21 °C in the plains. Temperatures are slightly lower in more mountainous areas.

Phones

There are few payphones in the Czech Republic, but still they are found on the corners of busy streets and at metro stations. You can also find them in post offices, where in order to make a call, you need to make an advance, make a call and then pay the telephone operator the cost of the call. It is most convenient to speak on the phone directly from the hotel room, but the cost of using the phone there is often prohibitive. After 19:00 and on weekends, international calls are slightly cheaper than usual. Most cheap way to call abroad - use the services of the company "Telecom Xcall" (telephone 970 00). In Prague, almost all payphones require payment by a phone card, which can be bought at most tobacco and newsstands, post offices, supermarkets and petrol stations. Czech mobile phones operate in the GSM 900/1800 MHz frequency band. To avoid high international roaming charges, you can buy a local SIM card. The price for local SIM-cards is very moderate - about 200 kroons for the main card. There are three main operators in Prague mobile communications: Telefonica O2, Vodaphone, T-Mobile. Cards can be bought in specialized stores cellular communication or at newsstands.

Story

Prague, located at the crossroads of European routes, attracted the attention of foreign merchants from ancient times, and at the beginning of the 10th century turned into a rapidly developing settlement with a large market (Old Town Square) and two fortresses (Prague Castle and Vysehrad), from where the first Czech princes from the Přemyslid family raided the possessions of their relatives. So, in 935, Prince Vaclav was brutally killed by his brother Boleslav, Vaclav was later canonized and became the most famous Czech saint and patron. The golden age of Prague falls on the Middle Ages. Especially favorable for her was the period of the reign of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, thanks to whose efforts Prague became the largest city, surpassing the then Paris and London in size. At the initiative of Charles IV, a number of important institutions were founded, including the University of Prague, the first in Central Europe. One of the first rectors of this university was the preacher and ideologist of the Reformation Jan Hus, who in 1415 was accused of heresy and burned alive at the stake, which was one of the causes of the Hussite wars. The ideas of Charles IV on the development of the city were also of great importance, among them - the restructuring of the Prague Castle, the construction of a new stone bridge instead of Judith, the foundation of the New City. In the 16th century, the Czech throne passed to the Habsburg dynasty for almost 400 years. One of the most enlightened Austrian emperors was Rudolf II. His love for the arts and sciences contributed to the emergence of a true Renaissance atmosphere in Prague. However, soon after his death, in 1618, an anti-Habsburg uprising of the Protestant nobility broke out in the city, which then resulted in the Thirty Years' War. Its consequences had a negative impact on the fate of Prague, the city began to decline. Revival began only in the XVIII century. The 19th century passed under the sign of the Czech national revival and the growth of civic consciousness. With the weakening of the oppression of the Austrian government, the Czech nation became more aware of the significance of its own culture and history. Czech was recognized as equal to German and received official status. National pride increased as cultural institutions such as the National Theater were built. The Jewish Quarter and the New City underwent a radical restructuring. Four decades of communist rule followed World War II. With the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, a new historical era began for Prague and the country.

Kitchen

Czech cuisine will delight tourists with a variety of styles. Modern Czech cuisine combines 2 culinary traditions: German-Czech (sausages and different kinds cabbage) and Czechoslovakian - simple but hearty dishes. Wherever you go, in a street cafe or in a famous restaurant, you will find a wide choice. national dishes: various options of fried meat, more often pork, sausages and pates, fish dishes from carp and endless options for dumplings. Popular Czech dumplings amaze with their variety: potato dumplings, the most common are bread dumplings with filling (onion, meat, liver), sweet poppy dumplings, with marmalade, jam or plums. A full meal in an average restaurant will cost about 7-10 euros. The main drink of Czech cuisine is beer. The most famous and popular brands of Czech beer are Gambrinus, Plzensky Prazdroj, Budvar and Staropramen. Fresh draft beer in restaurants costs 1 - 1.5 euros per 0.5 liter. If you real connoisseur Czech beer, we recommend that you go on a "Beer Tour" in the Czech Republic. As an appetizer for beer, be sure to order a local specialty - the “drowned man” appetizer, behind this frightening name lies sausage marinated in vinegar with onions. Marinated cheese "Hermelin" is also worth a try. In addition to restaurants with national cuisine, Italian and Chinese restaurants are popular in the Czech Republic. Also on the streets, in special kiosks, they sell delicious Czech sausages, which are definitely worth a try.

Transport

City transport in Prague is represented by metro, trams, buses and a cable car to Petřín Hill. It's best to buy a single travel tickets valid for 1, 3, 7 or 15 days. Tickets can be bought at kiosks and print shops, information centres, hotels, travel agencies, department stores or directly at metro stations. When boarding a tram and bus, as well as at the entrance to the metro, the ticket must be “marked” using a special device. Prague Integrated Transport fares are valid on all metro lines, trams, buses, as well as cable car. There are transfer, non-transfer, temporary and zone tariffs. The transfer fare is valid in the metro, trams and buses for 60 minutes from the moment the ticket is issued, on weekdays from 05:00 to 20:00, and 90 minutes the rest of the time, as well as on Saturday and Sunday. A direct fare - cheaper - is valid on trams and buses for 15 minutes from the moment the ticket is issued, without the right to transfer. In the metro, this fare is valid for 4 stops (excluding the landing station), with the right to transfer between lines "A", "B" and "C", however, you can stay in the metro for no more than 30 minutes. This rate does not apply to night routes and cable cars. The fare in a taxi consists of two positions - a fixed "boarding" fee and the amount for each kilometer of the way, depending on the tariff zone. All data about these rates must be indicated on the front doors and in the passenger compartment of the car. However, it is better to ask in advance how much the fare will cost.

Resorts of the Czech Republic:

The Czech Republic is a real ensemble of ancient medieval cities, amazing nature, traditions and customs that coexist with the modern rhythm of Central Europe, while relaxing in the Czech Republic, you can not only get acquainted with the cultural heritage of the past and see the sights, but also engage in ecotourism: go skiing, take walking tour on various natural routes through forests, caves, lakes, mountains and waterfalls. And besides, in the Czech Republic there are many different thermal springs which are great for those who want to improve their health. Available for you excursion tours to the Czech Republic and or. Prices for holidays in the Czech Republic in 2019 are a pleasant surprise: they are still lower than others European countries, and the country is closer

Geographic location and climate

The Czech Republic is located in Central Europe. In the north, the Czech Republic borders on Poland, Germany, Slovakia, and Austria. The area of the country is 78.9 thousand km2.

The climate in the Czech Republic is temperate, transitional from maritime to continental. Warm summers and cool wet winters. May, June and September - best months to visit the country. January-February is the best time to visit the ski resorts of the country.

Resorts

Prague

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, where every building is a work of architectural art. Thousands of tourists come here every year to see the sights and experience the unique atmosphere. Stunning panoramas of Prague will open to you from the Prague Castle, Letensky Gardens, Vysehrad, Vitkov, Petershinsky Tower. The city has many parks and gardens, they make up a little less than half of its territory. In April-May, Prague is buried in blooming magnolia and lilac. During this period, she is especially beautiful.

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary - about one of the most popular cities in the Czech Republic, famous for his rich history, unusual architecture, beautiful nature and, of course, its healing springs.

These include 12 mineral wells, the waters of which cure many diseases. internal organs, including disorders of the functions of the stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, liver and intestines. The resort is popular among those who want not only to have a good rest, but also to maintain their health.

Marianske Lazne

Marianske Lazne is one of the youngest resorts in the Czech Republic. Here reigns special atmosphere: nature is in perfect harmony with the amazing architecture of the city. The resort is located near the protected Slavkovsky forest, striking in its beauty and diversity of flora. If you need treatment for diseases of the kidneys, musculoskeletal system, problems with the nervous system and many others, then this is the place for you!

Frantiskove Lazne

Small resort town Frantiskovy Lazne is located in the very west of the Czech Republic. The unique atmosphere of the early 20th century, reflected in the architecture of the neoclassical era, has been preserved here, thanks to which the city is rightfully considered one of the most picturesque corners countries. The resort of Frantiskovy Lazne is characterized by soft climatic conditions, characteristic of the foothill areas, exceptionally clean air away from the hustle and bustle of large cities.

The Frantiskovy Lazne resort specializes in the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, diseases of the cardiovascular and urinary-genital systems. There is a special approach here for patients with problems in gynecology. Women with chronic diseases internal genital organs, with menopausal disorders, after rehabilitation from gynecological operations, as well as those who suffer from infertility.

Yachymov

This is the first radon resort in the world. In addition to high radon content, local mineral water also boasts the presence of rare elements - molybdenum, titanium and beryllium. Due to these circumstances, the resort is recommended as an exceptionally effective place for the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system of various etiologies and degrees of complexity. The city is located on the southern slope of the Ore Mountains, covered with picturesque healing forests. The numerous hills surrounding the resort offer breathtaking views that amaze with their beauty at any time of the year.

Teplice

This is a well-known balneological resort. The water temperature of the Teplice springs is 40 ° - 44 ° C; water is characterized by a high content of fluorine and is used to treat nervous diseases and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Also, good results are obtained in the treatment of post-traumatic conditions and the treatment of children with impaired motor functions as a result of damage to the central nervous system.

Population

The population of the Czech Republic is 10 million 290 thousand people. The bulk of the country's inhabitants (90.1%) are Czechs by nationality, Slovaks (1.8%), Germans (0.4%), Poles (0.5%) and Gypsies (0.1%) also live in the country .Catholics (39%), Protestants (5%), Orthodox (3%), atheists and others.The official language of the Czech Republic is Czech. Most of The population speaks Russian, German or English.

Kitchen

Czech cuisine was formed from local culinary tastes and numerous borrowings. It is distinguished by hearty dishes and juicy-sweet desserts, and in The famous dumplings of various types are a hallmark: potato or wheat dumplings, with lard, fruit and other fillings. Be sure to try Czech stewed pork, roast goose with red cabbage, which is considered a real delicacy here, as well as "apfelstrudel" with nuts, cinnamon and raisins. And, of course, the famous "boar's knee baked". Prague's shunka ham is popular, and Czechs' favorite vegetarian dishes are fruit-stuffed dumplings and breaded cheese.

Without a doubt, the Czech national drink is beer, many varieties of which are known far beyond the borders of the country. Each of the local varieties has its own taste and history, so choosing the best one is not so easy. Regardless of the place where the beer is brewed and the technology, all varieties are distinguished by some especially "Czech" rich taste and aroma.

Fine wines are produced in central and southern Moravia. The famous Czech liqueur "Becherovka" from Karlovy Vary is infused with 42 herbs and has long become a legend. The most popular spirits are "slivovitz" (plum vodka) and "absinthe" - a 72 ° wormwood drink of a bluish-green color, which is very difficult to find in other countries.

Sights of the Czech Republic

The main attractions of the Czech Republic are castles. It is hard to imagine a trip to the Czech Republic without visiting at least one of them. The most popular castles are located near Prague: Konopiste, Karlstejn, Orlik, Zvikov, Sychrov and others.

The city with the most attractions is, of course, Prague. One walking tour of the center will obviously not be enough - it is worth allocating at least a couple of days for walks in the center. Old city, cathedrals, bridges and pedestrian streets - there is always something to see

When Prague is traveled far and wide, and the nearest castles are studied, you can move on to other cities of the Czech Republic. Worth a visit and sightseeing tour: Karlovy Vary, Kutna Hora, Brno. In addition, the Russian Express tour operator offers excursions to German Dresden and other cities in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary

Visa

The Czech Republic is one of the Schengen countries. Citizens of Russia to visit the Czech Republic will need a Schengen visa.

Public holidays and weekends

January 1 - New Year's Day, the Day of the Restoration of the Independent Czech State.
May 1 - Labor Day.
May 8 - Day of liberation from fascism.
July 5 is the feast of Saints Cyril and Methodius.
July 6 - Memorial Day of Jan Hus.
September 28 - Czech Statehood Day.
October 28 - Day of the emergence of an independent Czechoslovak state.
December 24-26 - Christmas

Tour to the Czech Republic from a tour operator

Tour operator Russian Express offers to buy a tour to the Czech Republic online directly on the site. In the "Tour search" section you will find the best prices on vacation in the Czech Republic - taking into account all possible special offers and promotions from hotels and airlines

The Czech Republic, or officially the Czech Republic, is a young democratic state located in Central Europe and formed on January 1, 1993 after the collapse of the former Czechoslovak Federal Republic. In this regard, how tourist place, The Czech Republic has become popular relatively recently. But rest here is available to everyone and the quality of the services provided is not inferior to such states as France, Italy or Spain. The capital of the Czech Republic is Prague, the official language is Czech, the population of the entire state is about 10 million people.

Czech Republic: climate and geographical features

The climate in the Czech Republic is temperate continental. It is characterized by warm, and in some places even hot summers and wet cool winters. For tourist visits, the spring flowering period is especially recommended, as a rule, this is May and early June. At this time, city gardens and park areas amaze with a riot of bright colors and amazing aromas. In summer, it is sometimes so stuffy that the townspeople themselves rush to escape to nature away from the cramped streets and stone pavements. However, this does not affect the influx of tourists in any way - in the summer months, the Czech Republic and, above all, Prague are filled with tens of thousands of tourists. For those who want to enjoy this country in relative seclusion, it is better to plan your trip for the fall. In September, it is warm and comfortable here, and in October and November, Czech cities often plunge into a foggy haze, which gives them a special mystery and creates a magical atmosphere.

As for the geographical features of the Czech Republic, due to its location on the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, its relief is dominated by mountains of medium size, in particular the Šumava Ranges, the Ore Mountains, the Krkonoše and the so-called Bohemian Massif.

Recreation and tourism in the Czech Republic

As mentioned above, tourism in the Czech Republic is a relatively young industry that is developing more and more rapidly every year and is constantly preparing something new for tourists. So how to relax in the Czech Republic? Yes, almost anything.

First of all, the Czech Republic is rich in historical and cultural attractions. The amazing architecture of this country can be contemplated regardless of the time of year and weather conditions. Particularly interesting is the architecture of Prague, which, over the almost thousand-year history of its existence, managed to visit the capital of five different states, and this could not but affect its buildings and structures. However, outside of Prague there are many places that are worth seeing, because the Czech Republic is one of the leaders in terms of the number of castles that have survived to this day: about a thousand intact and dilapidated castles on an area not exceeding 80 thousand square kilometers. Some of the castles are waiting for tourists all year round, others are open only from April to October. Among the most visited are the castles of Krivoklat and Karlstejn, which are distinguished not only by their special bewitching beauty, but also by the presence of torture chambers, prisons and Gothic halls.

In addition to architectural sights, the Czech Republic can be proud of its natural resources. There are 8 National Parks here, the diverse landscape of which, together with a developed infrastructure and excellent service, attracts lovers of such types of physical activity as rock climbing and rafting to the Czech Republic.

In recent years, the Czech Republic has also "gained momentum" in the field of ski tourism. The local mountains are optimal for extreme skiing and snowboarding, as well as for family winter holidays with children. Ski resorts located on such mountain ranges like Krušný, Jeseníky, Šumava and Orlické Gory are equipped with pistes of easy, medium difficulty and pistes intended for children skiing. In addition, the Czech Republic is one of the few countries offering a comfortable stay for cross-country skiers with specially prepared and constantly maintained tracks.

Czech Republic: medical resorts and recovery

The Czech Republic is a country characterized by a large number of medicinal waters and mineral springs. Most of her balneological resorts concentrated in the so-called West Bohemian triangle. The most popular of them are Karlovy Vary, Marianske Lazne and Frantiskovy Lazne. In total, to date, Czech Republic there are 40 health resorts. Each of these institutions offers its customers different packages of services, depending on the age of the patient and his state of health. To achieve a sustainable result, at least a three-week stay in a sanatorium with the passage of all prescribed treatment is recommended. In addition, some resorts specialize in certain diseases, in particular:

in Karlovy Vary, diseases of the digestive tract and metabolic disorders are treated;
in the sanatorium Podebrady, the emphasis is on heart defects;
in Jáchymov they specialize in diseases of the musculoskeletal system and diseases of the central nervous system;
in Luhacovice they help patients with respiratory problems;
and at the Marianske Lazne resort they are ready to cure diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract.

In the Czech Republic, there are resorts that offer special wellness programs for the treatment of children from the age of two years. The most famous such resort is Lazne Kynzvart, which specializes in diseases of the respiratory tract.

For Czech resorts, as well as for the whole country, a certain mystery and mystery are characteristic, moreover, some of them even had legends. So, for example, in the resort of Frantiskovy Lazne there is a statue of little Frantisek. It is believed that if a woman dreams of giving birth to a child and touches this statue, then within a year she will certainly become pregnant.

Shopping in the Czech Republic

For those who consider shopping to be one of the types of recreation, the Czech Republic (primarily Prague) can bring many hours of exciting pastime. The fact is that in the Czech Republic, compared to other European countries, rent is relatively low, which, combined with the rapid growth of the Czech economy and growing consumer demand, has made Prague an attractive place for eminent designers and manufacturers to locate their boutiques. At the same time, the prices in them are significantly lower than the pan-European ones, and if you are lucky and you are in the sales season, you will see prices that can be two, and sometimes even three times lower than for similar goods in Moscow. First of all, we are talking, of course, about clothes and shoes. Czech hats, gloves, bags, jewelry (garnet and silver jewelry) and high-quality jewelry are also famous.

As souvenirs from the Czech Republic, as a rule, they bring porcelain, ceramics, glass (Bohemian crystal), lace and handicrafts. Popular among tourists are the national alcoholic drinks "Becherovka" and "Slivovitsa". A salt rose, a souvenir from Karlovy Vary, is also considered an unusual gift. A real rose is dipped in mineral spring, and it is soaked through with salts, turns into a kind of stone.

Department stores in the Czech Republic are open on weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm, on Saturday only until 1 pm; grocery stores are open from 6 am, and some exchange offices can work around the clock. National currency country Czech crown, for one Russian ruble you can get a little more than half a crown, and for one euro about 25 Czech crowns.

Shopping in the Czech Republic also has a profitable tax-free system, which implies a VAT refund (up to 22%) for foreign citizens when leaving the country. In order to get the opportunity to return part of your money, you must definitely take a cash register and sales receipt with the appropriate mark in the store, which you can later present when passing customs control. The return conditions are:

making a one-time purchase from one seller in the amount of at least 2.5 thousand kroons;
no more than 60 days from the date of purchase;
documents required by law.

In addition, the goods must be intended for personal consumption and must not exceed the personal needs of the citizen. VAT refunds are not made for exported products, alcohol and tobacco products.