Czech Republic Tour Packages

1. About the Czech Republic
2. Tidbits
3. Essential Tips to Know Before Travelling to Czech Republic
4. Our Best Budget Czech Republic Tour Packages
5. Czech Republic at a Glance
6. Top Reasons to Visit the Czech Republic
7. Best Time to Visit the Czech Republic
8. Top Things to do in Czech Republic
9. Foods to Try Out in the Czech Republic
10. Dos and Don’ts for Indian Travellers
11. Shopping in the Czech Republic
12. Top Cities to Visit in the Czech Republic
13. Art And Culture in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic was born in January 1993 after the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia and the formation of two independent states, viz., Czech Republic and Slovakia. This is a Slavic country and part of Central Europe. It was also the first country among the Eastern Bloc states to become a developed economy. The Czech Republic joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1999 and earned its European Union (EU) membership in May 2004.

While the country was officially declared a republic in the 1990s, the Czech Republic has long been inhabited by the Celtic Boii tribes who settled in the region at the beginning of the 4th century BC. They were later driven out by various Germanic tribes and Slavonic tribes in the 6th century. During the 9th century, the region became part of the Great Moravian Empire but was divided into two states: Bohemia and Moravia in the 10th century. The borders between these states exist till today, while other territory states have existed temporarily. During the 16th century, the Czech Republic became part of the Hapsburg Empire until its collapse. After World War I, Czech lands were united with Slovakia and Carpathian Ruthenia to form Czechoslovakia. The country fell under Communist rule for 41 years when the Velvet Revolution ensured the disintegration of the federation.

The country’s natural wealth is preserved in protected landscape areas and national parks. Four national parks have the strictest rules to protect their flora, fauna, and unique ecosystems.

The Czech people are pleasant and friendly but may seem grim, especially to strangers. This is because they are often shy and feel socially awkward. They also have less trust in strangers, probably because of the legacy of the Communist era. But when you get to know them, Czechs are known to be very cheerful and hospitable.

Read on if you’d like to explore the country, its main tourist attractions, food, and shopping destinations. And if you are planning to visit the country, check out our Czech Republic tour packages.

• The Prague Castle is the world’s largest coherent castle complex.
• Prague is home to more than 500 spires.
• The Czech Republic is the world leader in terms of most beer per capita consumption.
• Prague has the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world.
• The Czech Republic has the world’s highest density of castles per capita.
• Scientists from the Czech Republic are responsible for various interesting inventions, such as sugar cubes, polarography, and soft contact lenses.
• The Czech Republic has the world’s deepest underwater cave.
• Prague has a wall dedicated to the late singer John Lennon, known as the John Lennon Wall.
• The Czech Republic is the 9th most peaceful & the 7th safest country in the world.
• Soft contact lenses were invented by a Czech, Otto Wichterle.

• Indian citizens require a Schengen visa to visit the Czech Republic.
• It takes anywhere between 15-21 working days for Indian citizens to get their Schengen visa once the application has been submitted.
• Learning a few of the local phrases can help you build rapport with the people of Czechia and communicate with those residing in the rural regions.
• Do not hail taxis that do not display the registration number, company name, and price list on both sides of the vehicle, they will likely be operating illegally.
• Remember that the country’s currency is not euros, but the Czech koruna.
• Although the Czech Republic doesn’t have a high crime rate, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and drink spiking may occur in the major cities. Therefore, always be careful and pay attention to your belongings.
• While credit cards are accepted in the urban regions, it’s best to keep cash handy for the rural areas, markets, and small businesses.
• Always carry your passport, as you might need it for security checks or while purchasing.
• While tipping is not mandatory, you can leave a 10% tip if you enjoy the service provided to you.
• Tap water is safe to drink all across the country.
• Traditional Czech food is not vegetarian. Even meals that do not contain meat may include animal fat like lard or tallow. Carry ready-to-eat meals if you are vegetarian or vegan.

Listed below are some of the reasons why you should avail one of our Czech Republic tour packages right away:

Czechs are known to relish their food, which is why the country’s portions are quite huge. Czech cuisine is renowned for its hearty meals, including dumplings, baked meats, and thick soups. While Czech cuisine may not be as fancy as Italian or French cuisine, it is undoubtedly renowned for its use of high-quality ingredients and comforting nature.

If you’re visiting the Czech Republic, we suggest you don’t miss out on the food as you’ll rarely find them elsewhere in the world, thanks to the use of unique ingredients not commonly found outside the country. For instance, the traditional svickova sauce uses celery root or celeriac, an ingredient not commonly found elsewhere.

If you’re a beer lover, you’re in for an absolute treat because the beer culture in the Czech Republic is solid. Boasting a long tradition of beer brewing, the very first documentation of brewing in the country can be traced back to 993. In fact, the Czech Republic is also known to have developed the world’s first pilsner, which is still sold under the brand Pilsner Urquell. Many people like to meet at beer gardens for social gatherings, and these spots also play live music to make the evening more enchanting.

The Czech Republic has the highest density of castles in Europe. There are more than 2,000 castles present across the country. While some are in ruins, others are in a perfect state. If visiting a fairytale-like place has always been on your wish list, the Czech Republic will surely fulfil your dream.

Many of these castles are UNESCO World Heritage Sites thanks to their well-preserved architecture and unique history. For instance, the Karlstejn Castle, a 14th-century Gothic castle, is famous for its opulence and grand medieval architecture.

Cesky Krumlov Castle, built in the 13th century, is famous for its Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. It is also the second-largest castle in the country. The largest castle, the Prague Castle, dates back to the 9th century and is home to notable structures like the St Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.

The Czech Republic is more affordable than its neighbouring countries, Germany and Austria. Food, accommodation, and leisure activities are available at reasonable prices for travellers from all around the world. For example, a decent restaurant meal will cost about INR 2000 per person. A 24-hour unlimited transportation ticket costs about 120 CZK or INR 500.

Even if you plan to ditch hotels and stay at an Airbnb, basic groceries are cheap. A loaf of bread costs less than INR 100, and a dozen eggs cost less than INR 200.

The spa culture of the Czech Republic is tied to the ancient times when the healing properties of natural thermal springs were revered by the Romans, who considered the mineral-rich waters gifts from the gods. Be it the renowned historical figures or the medieval monarchs, indulging in therapeutic baths has been integral to the country’s culture. From massages and mud baths to saunas and oxygen therapy, you can avail of many spa treatments in the Czech Republic.

The natural springs contain an array of minerals, including calcium, manganese, and sulphur, which are believed to help with arthritis and rheumatism. A sauna session helps enhance circulation and reduce inflammation.

The Czech Republic is ideal to visit throughout the year, depending on the sights you wish to see and the activities you want to partake in. The months from March to May and September to October are usually considered the best periods to visit the country, as this is when Czechia experiences good weather and lots of festivals.

The country’s peak season is summer, from June to August. Let’s look at what each season brings so you know exactly when to book our Czech Republic tour packages.

The temperature during the spring season in the country remains between 2 degrees Celsius and 19 degrees Celsius. Spring in Czechia begins with warm weather and cherry blossoms blooming all around. It’s the ideal time to view them as this is when the country is not too crowded. Sunny and mild weather takes over soon enough, perfect for walking tours and relishing nature in all its glory. The festivals to enjoy now are the Czech Beer Festival, Prague Spring International Music Festival, and Liberation Festival Pilsen.

• Join the Easter festivities at Easter Markets in Prague.
• Join the locals for the Burning of the Witches tradition, where effigies of witches are set alight.

During the summer season, the temperature in Czechia oscillates between 14 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. The warm and vibrant atmosphere of the country at this time makes it perfect for enjoying all outdoor activities, including visiting gardens and parks. Occasional rainfall could occur during the summer season.

Since this is the peak season, we advise you to book our Czech Republic tour packages as soon as possible. The festivals you could witness in the country during this period include the Bohemia Jazz Fest, the International Folklore Festival, and the Smetanova Litomysl Music Festival.

• Join the locals for the Mezi Ploty event, where they help bridge the gap between people who are physically or mentally ill and those who are not.
• Join the locals for the Metronome Festival.

As autumn embraces Czechia, the temperature stays between 8 and 19 degrees Celsius. The gorgeous fall foliage gives tourists the right ambience to go on scenic walks, hikes, and explore the vineyards and castles.

With the weather comfortable, you can explore the cultural festivals and opt for wine tasting tours with GT Holidays’ Czech Republic tour packages. During the autumn season, you can enjoy the Signal Festival, Dvorakova Praha, and Czech Design Week.

• Take part in one of the many wine harvest festivals held across the country.
• Visit the Pumpkin Exhibition at the Prague Botanic Garden.

The weather gets frosty and chilly in Czechia during winter, and the temperature oscillates between -2 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius. Remember to photograph the environment all around with the presence of snow-covered landscapes. Also, indulge in skiing and indoor activities like visiting the galleries and museums.

If you are interested in winter sports or looking for affordable Czech Republic tour packages, winter is a great time to visit the country. For one, hotel and flight rates are cheap, and top tourist places are less crowded. Prague is also beautiful in winter. It’s also a great time to soak in the Christmas spirit that seems to engulf people.

The winter season brings about festivals such as Three Kings Day, Christmas, and Festival of St. Martin’s Day.

• Visit the many Christmas markets in early December.
• Join the locals for Carnevale Praha and Masopust for parades, folk music shows, and grand balls.

When you book our Czech Republic tour packages, you will be privy to all the country’s popular tourist attractions and outdoor activities.

Prague Castle is a castle complex in the city of Prague in the Czech Republic and serves as the official residence of the country’s president. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the late 9th century during the rule of the first Christian prince of Bohemia, Bořivoj. Sprawled over an area of about 70,000 square metres, it is renowned as the world’s largest ancient castle.

The Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge in Prague. It was built to replace the Judith Bridge, which was badly destroyed during a flood in 1342. Construction of the bridge started in 1357 and ended in 1402, and it was commissioned by King Charles IV. The architect behind this creation was Peter Parler, a German-Bohemian architect and sculptor.

The Prague Astronomical Clock, also known as the Orloj, displays the relative positions of the Sun, Moon, Earth, and Zodiac constellations. It’s one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the world and was first installed in 1410. According to a local legend, if the clock is neglected and its operation is endangered, the city will suffer.

The St. Vitus Cathedral is the largest church in the country and the seat of the Archbishop of Prague. It is a shining example of Gothic architecture, built in 1344 on the site of a 10th-century rotunda. It took almost six centuries for the construction to be completed, finally being completed in 1929.

The Old Town Square of Prague was established in the 12th century as the city’s central marketplace. Right on the pavement of the square, you will find memorial stones that mark the execution of 27 Czech lords in June 1621. At one end of Old Town Square is the Jan Hus Memorial to pay tribute to Jan Hus, a Czech theologian and philosopher who later became a Church reformer.

The Strahov Monastery is a Premonstratensian monastery situated in the district of Strahov in Prague. Founded in 1140 by King Vladislav II and Bishop Jindrich Zdik, the monastery has a church known as the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It also has a library that houses numerous globes, maps, and medieval manuscripts. Visitors are particularly drawn to the Strahov Gallery, which displays Baroque and Rococo paintings, Rudolfian art, and Gothic paintings.

• Hiking
• Trekking
• Skydiving
• Cycling
• Rock climbing

Czech cuisine is not easily found outside the country. This is because certain dishes are complex and incorporate local ingredients. Therefore, make sure to taste as much of it as you can with our Czech Republic tour packages. Most of the dishes found in Czechia are heavy on meat and starch. However, the country’s eateries have been experimenting with various dietary requirements and fresh cuisine styles over the last couple of years.

From gravies and root vegetables to hearty soups, there is plenty of Czech cuisine you will get to consume with GT Holidays’ Czech Republic tour packages. Let’s dive into the Czech dishes you absolutely must try during your vacation:

Svíčková is a traditional Czech dish that is made using marinated braised beef. Although ‘svíčková’ is the Czech word for ‘tenderloin’, it’s not always the cut of beef that’s used to make this particular dish. The beef is served in a creamy vegetable sauce that is created using parsley root, celeriac, and carrots.

The distinct flavours of the dish also come from the use of various spices, such as allspice, bay leaves, and thyme. Svíčková is usually served with bread dumplings. You will also often find the dish garnished with a slice of lemon, cranberries, and whipped cream. The dish is a traditional wedding food in the Czech Republic.

Česnečka, a traditional garlic soup in Czechia, is believed to cure several ailments, including colds and hangovers. While garlic is the primary ingredient, the other elements used to make it include onions, potatoes, marjoram, caraway, and meat broth. Česnečka is usually consumed as an appetiser and is often garnished with crunchy croutons and grated cheese. Sometimes, you will also find that this garlic soup with cheese, pork, or small sausage pieces. Some people like to top off česnečka with a raw egg.

Pečená kachna se zelím is a roast duck with sauerkraut and dumplings that is usually eaten during occasions such as family gatherings. Some people also order it at restaurants as a special treat. A whole roasted duck, which is seasoned with caraway seeds, is used to make this dish. The duck is roasted slowly till the exterior turns crispy, and the side dishes include potato dumplings and braised cabbage (mostly red cabbage).

Goulash or guláš is a slow-cooked meat stew with vegetables that the Czechs have derived from Hungary. Compared to the Hungarian version, the Czech version has more meat, fewer vegetables, and is milder. The meat used to make this dish is usually beef. Other ingredients include peppers, onions, crushed tomatoes, and paprika. It is usually served along with boiled or steamed bread dumplings. The dish is very common at pubs in the country and is often garnished with fresh onion slices.

Řízek is the Czech version of the Austrian dish, Wiener schnitzel. Thin and tender pieces of meat are used to make this dish. These pieces are coated in eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs and then fried in butter or oil. While the Austrian version of this dish is made exclusively with veal, the Czech version uses pork cutlets, pork chops, turkey breasts, or chicken breasts. Řízek is found in numerous restaurants across the country and is usually made as a family meal.

Vepřo knedlo zelo is considered the national dish of the Czech Republic. When translated, this dish means pork roast with bread dumplings and sauerkraut. Pork and chopped onions are roasted in the oven to make this dish. The drippings resulting from this roast are turned into a sauce served along with this concoction.

Based on the person preparing this dish, the sauerkraut can be plain or stewed and sweet or sour. You can also replace sauerkraut with red cabbage to make vepřo knedlo zelo. While simple bread dumplings are usually served alongside this dish, it’s also possible to find potato dumplings as a side dish.

Have you ever thought of eating fried cheese? Well, even if the thought has never crossed your mind, you can try it in Czechia with our Czech Republic tour packages. To make this dish, a block of cheese is coated in flour, breadcrumbs, and eggs. This mixture is then shallow-fried until it turns crispy. Due to its sheer size, it is often served as a main course. It can also be served alongside potatoes or meat.

• When introducing yourself to someone, do so with a firm handshake.
• The Czech culture highly values punctuality. Therefore, ensure to be on time for social gatherings, professional meetings, and so on, as it’s a sign of respect.
• The people of Czechia value personal space, so remember to maintain a comfortable distance while conversing with someone. Unless you have a close relationship with someone, avoiding physical contact with them is best.
• Most of the public places in Czechia do not allow smoking.
• When visiting someone’s home in the Czech Republic, always bring a small gift for the host, such as wine or flowers.
• When you are invited to a person’s home, wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.
• While eating, keeping your hands on the table but not your elbows is considered proper.
• Remember to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
• While using public transport, remember to keep your voice down and give people the time to get off before you board.
• When travelling by public transport, it is considered polite to give up your seat for pregnant mothers, small children, and older citizens.
• In Czechia, it’s a sign of politeness to wait to use someone’s first name only after being invited.

Here are the things you can buy from the Czech Republic and the best places to shop from in the country:

Puppetry and marionette theatre are integral parts of the Czech Republic’s culture. This is evident through the hand-carved and handcrafted marionettes, which are some of the country’s bestselling souvenirs. Available in numerous themes and sizes, these marionettes depict various forms, from political figures and literary characters to animals, cartoons, and witches.

Garnet is a semi-precious stone that has a reputation as a royal gem in Czech history. Back in the day, it was worn by kings and nobility. In the current era, it has become much more accessible and can be used to make accessories and jewellery. As per legend, garnet can transform sadness into joy. If you’re buying garnet from the country, make sure they give you a certificate of authenticity.

The Czech Republic’s history of glassmaking goes back to the 13th century. Various techniques, such as painting, engraving, blowing, and cutting, have been perfected over several centuries, making Bohemian glass one of the world’s highest-quality glasses. Apart from vases and glasses, you will also find jewellery and chandeliers made from this material.

Did you ever think that beer could be used to make cosmetics? Well, it’s true. The Czech Republic takes its love for beer so seriously that it also manufactures beer cosmetics, as evident from the popular brand Manufaktura. Along with beer cosmetics such as shower gels, hair balms, and shampoos, they make other items such as hand creams and bath salts.

Absinthe is a distilled spirit often referred to as ‘green fairy’ due to its bright green colour. If you wish to carry a unique kind of alcohol back home for yourself and your loved ones, then this is the best choice. Made from anise, wormwood, fennel, and other herbs and alcohol, the alcohol content in absinthe can be anywhere between 45% and 89%.

Becherovka, previously known as Karlsbader Becherbitter, is a traditional Czech herbal liqueur produced exclusively in the city of Karlovy Vary. It can have an alcohol percentage of up to 38%, and it is created using the highest-quality alcohol and city waters, lending it a unique taste.

Franz Kafka, the famous writer and novelist, was born in Prague, Czech Republic. Make sure to visit the Kafka Museum in the city, which displays diaries, letters, and photographs related to the writer’s life. A gift shop located within the museum has numerous Kafka souvenirs, such as postcards, calendars, and his literary creations.

• Palladium: For jewellery, electronics, fashion brands.
• Westfield Chodov: For books, jewellery, and luxury fashion brands.
• Bila Labut: For fashion products, shoes, jewellery.
• Havelska Market: For fruits, flowers, vegetables, and souvenirs.
• Parizska Street: For jewellery and luxury brands.

• Non-EU residents can indulge in tax-free shopping.
• The sale season in the Czech Republic usually occurs in January, April, July, September, and October.
• Stores in Prague are open from Monday to Saturday, and most remain open on Sundays.
• Most of the shopping centres and department stores open anywhere between 7 am and 9 am and stay open till 8 pm to 10 pm.

Known as ‘the city of hundred spires,’ Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic. The city’s red roofs, medieval architecture, and cobbled streets are more than enough reasons for travellers to book our Czech Republic tour packages.

Prague is home to the world’s largest castle complex, Prague Castle, and one of the oldest bridges in Europe, the Charles Bridge. Everywhere you look in Prague, you will find different examples of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles of architecture.

The historical centre of Cesky Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a brilliant example of a small European medieval town maintaining its architectural heritage while also evolving peacefully over the last couple of centuries. This picturesque town is situated about two and a half hours south of Prague. Make sure to visit the Cesky Krumlov Castle, a medieval castle complex that is also known as the second-largest castle in the country.

Karlovy Vary is a spa town in the Czech Republic. It is situated in the western part of the country and is well known for its picturesque views, mesmerising architecture, and natural healing springs. The thermal springs of this town can be traced back to the 14th century and are said to have healing properties. When you visit Karlovy Vary with the Czech Republic tour packages from GT Holidays, you can indulge in their various rejuvenating services, including facials, massages, and mud baths.

Liberec is often referred to as ‘the Manchester of Bohemia’. Since it has been a textile center since the 16th century, it is called the textile capital of the Czech Republic. The 94-metre-tall Jested Tower is among the must-see attractions in Liberec. Much of the city’s architecture can be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries when it was part of the Austrian monarchy.

Situated at the confluence of the rivers Svratka and Svitava, Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic. Reputed as a centre of culture and a significant hub for higher education, Brno plays host to numerous popular tourist attractions, such as the Špilberk Castle, the Villa Tugendhat, the Moravian Gallery, and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. As you visit the city to enjoy its vibrant club and music scene, experience its traditional pubs, bars, and restaurants.

Marionette theatre and puppetry are some art forms that are highly respected and enjoyed in the Czech Republic. The country introduced the world to renowned music composers such as Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana. The Czech Philharmonic and Prague Symphony Orchestra carry forward the legacy of these artists.

Traditional instruments such as the accordion and fiddle compose traditional Czech folk dance tunes. Notable literary figures who hail from the Czech Republic include Franz Kafka, Milan Kundera, Bohumil Hrabal, Jan Neruda, and Jaroslav Hasek.