Czech Republic Holidays 2012

Although the Czech Republic is a relatively new country, it is rich in history. It is made up of two ancient lands, Bohemia and Moravia, and is full historical marvels as well as modern day luxuries. The castles and chateauxs found here tell the stories of powerful and influential people who made the country what it is today. In addition, the Czech Republic has a lively music and arts scene as well as famous breweries. When it comes to visiting this country, there is certainly something for every taste. For a more detailed introuduction to the capital, check out our Prague City Breaks 2012 guide.

Capital

Prague is the captial and largest city in the Czech Republic and has served as the captial of the historic region of Bohemia for many centures. The city is also probably the most popular point of interest for tourists visting the Czech Republic. Prague is architecturally magnificient. From cathedrals and church domes to medieval areas with castles and bridges, Prague is full of site-seeing adventures. It is also a charming city lush in modern vibrancy – full of culture, arts and fine dining.

Points of Interest

The Czech Republic is also famous for puppetry. There are several puppet festivals throughout the country – celebrating the arts of puppetry and marionettes. Beer is another thing the country is famous for – the Pilsner style beer and Budweiser both originated there. Other popular holiday destinations include the spa towns of Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázn? and Františkovy Lázn?, as well as castles and chateaux, such as those at Karlštejn Castle, ?eský Krumlov and the Lednice–Valtice area.

Travelers would be remiss not to visit the town of Olomouc – a vivacious university town with a thousand year history. Olomouc is the second largest city in the Czech Republic. It is the home of many historical icons, including the UNESCO-listed column of the Holy Trinity, baroque fountains, churches and the renaissance town hall with a 15-meter-high astonomical clock.

Food

Meat is a staple in Czech cuisine – from pork to beef and chicken. Fish is rare in this country and is only served on special occasions, usually around Christmas time. Aside from beer, Czechs also produce liqours, such as Fernet Stock and Becherovka, and a non-alcholoic soft drink, Kofola.

Climate

The Czech Republic climate can be categorized as continental, with warm summers and cold winters. The country’s rainy season is in the summer and chances for snow are great in the winter. Extreme bouts of hot and cold weather depend greatly on elevation. At the highest peak of Snežka (1,602 m/5,256 ft), the average temperature is only ?0.4 °C (31.28 °F), whereas in the lowlands of the South Moravian Region, the average temperature is as high as 10 °C (50 °F). When visiting castles and chateaux, early May through late September is the best time, as this is when most venues offer special events along with general admittance.