Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is in Central Europe. It is a landlocked country which shares borders with Poland to the NE, Slovakia to the SE, Austria to the south, and Germany to the west and NW.  The country has a diverse landscape with low mountains, rolling plains, rivers, forests and woodlands.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CYPRUS
Find out about European Travel Insurance.

The Czech Republic is a member of NATO and joined the European Union in 2004.  Currency is the Czech koruna.

The historic capital city, Prague, is a very beautiful and unique city and a big draw for tourists.  It is the entry point into the country for most visitors through Ruzyne International Airport.  The city is situated to the NW of the centre of the country. There are many UNESCO monuments and sites throughout the country, including the historic centre of Prague, Prague Castle and the Gothic Cathedral.   

Prague’s Old Town is a fun and atmospheric place to visit, stroll, and people-watch from the many restaurants, cafes and coffee shops.   The ancient Town Hall and Astronomical Clock are major attractions. 

For those with time to travel outside of Prague there are many other places to explore.  In the west of the country, Southern Bohemia is an area of great beauty and charm.  The town of Cesky Krumlov is worth a visit for its UNESCO historic centre.  Western Bohemia is green and forested and popular for its spas and natural springs, notably at Karlsbad and Marienbad.  Northern Bohemia boasts spectacular scenery of a different type, with canyons and natural formations carved from the sandstone rock. The Czech Switzerland National Park is a popular attraction, especially for its picturesque sandstone bridge.

To the east of the country, Southern Moravia has many authentic villages and this is the area for wine lovers as it is the location of the main wine-growing region.   Northern Moravia is mountainous and provides for skiing and winter sports, as well as summer outdoor activities.

The Czech Republic is a popular holiday destination for its many spa towns with natural mineral springs, and its many chateaux and castles. It is also popular with lovers of adventure sports and activities.   The country is also known for its beer. 

In summer the Czech Republic is popular for many activities including golf, cycling, and horseback riding.  The many reservoirs offer sailing and other boating and water activities. The Labe and Vitava rivers offer opportunities for rafting and water sport.  In winter the country offers skiing and winter sports at it many ski areas and resorts.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Before visiting the Czech Republic we recommend a visit the website of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) for up to date information and general travel advice as part of their ‘Know Before You Go’ campaign. 

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As in any major tourist destination petty crime is always a problem.  Beware of pickpockets on public transport, flights, and at train and bus stations.  Always guard your possessions and valuables.  There have also been reported cases of theft from hotel rooms and safes.  Don’t forget to report any theft of property and obtain a police report within 24 hours. 

Prague is a popular destination for stag and hen parties, but some restaurants and bars do not permit entry to stag groups.  (Note:  it is not possible to change Scottish and Northern Irish bank notes in the country).

Those planning to engage in adventure or outdoor pursuits should check that their travel insurance covers all their planned activities – and also be aware of the possibility of picking up tick-borne encephalitis.

Those that are eligible should take their (free) European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but this should not be used as a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. 

Useful Websites: 
http://www.czechtourism.com

http://www.czechpoint.co.uk