Trips from Contents Introduction Český Krumlov ...... 2 A blend of influences from Czech, ...... 4 German and Jewish cultures in the Mariánské Lázně ...... 5 Czech lands has always created an ideal DEUTSCHLAND POLSKA Kutná Hora ...... 6 environment for the development of the České Karlštejn Castle ...... 8 arts, science and architecture – especially Švýcarsko Konopiště Chateau ...... 9 in Prague, the nucleus of Czech history. Ústí nad Liberec Bohemian ...... 10 How could one day ever be enough Labem Český Šternberk Castle ...... 12 to absorb a thousand years’ worth Český Křivoklát Castle ...... 13 of history? Terezín Mělník ráj Nelahozeves Chateau ...... 14 Karlovy Hradec Mělník Chateau ...... 15 Prague is not the only treasury Vary Nelahozeves Kutná Králové Bohemian Paradise ...... 16 of cultural and natural wealth in the Hora Křivoklát Praha Pardubice Plzeň ...... 18 . But it is an ideal base Mariánské ...... 20 for trips to places that are living Lázně Karlštejn Český Terezín ...... 22 chronicles of European history and Konopiště Šternberk Plzeň Olomouc Practical information ...... 24 culture as well as to places where you can enjoy adrenaline-fueled experiences and explore unique natural land formations. Jihlava Zlín České You won’t regret it! If you are charmed at Budějovice Brno first sight by Prague, then you will fall in Český love with the Czech Republic Krumlov for the rest of your life.

ÖSTERREICH SLOVENSKO

1 the chateau garden with its cascading entertained by jugglers and comedians. so much animosity that he soon had Český fountain. The garden is dominated by The tradition of the celebrations in Český to leave the city. the fresco-decorated Bellarie Summer Krumlov has gone unbroken since the Krumlov Palace, which along with the park days of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. GPS: 48°48‘51.510“N, 14°19‘4.419“E becomes a backdrop for a revolving The festival is held at the beginning Český Krumlov is one of the most outdoor amphitheatre. of summer. 173 km; 2 hours 25 minutes. beautiful Renaissance cities in Europe The highlight of the cultural season and, after , it is the second is the annual Český Krumlov The Seidel Photo Studio Museum Connections from the Main most visited place in the country. International Music Festival. is an exceptional cultural landmark Railway Station leave every two hours, Just a stroll through the historic city with a unique archive of photographs with a change in České Budějovice; centre with its unparalleled medieval On the other bank of the river , of the local population from the turn journey time 3 hours 40 minutes. atmosphere will leave no doubt why which is connected with the chateau by of the 20th century. The historically Český Krumlov is one of the pearls a small bridge, is the , where preserved interiors and furnishings Direct connections from on the UNESCO World Heritage List. you will find the splendid architecture from 1905 will acquaint visitors the Florenc Bus Station of original town houses, the soaring with the daily lives of the studio’s and the Na Knížecí bus depot The dominant feature of the city is Church of St. Vitus with the tomb of the last owners. (adjacent to the Anděl metro station) a chateau with a six-storey tower which Rožmberk (Rosenberg) family, and rustic leave several times a day; journey is richly decorated with sgraffiti. From medieval taverns and pubs. The Egon Schiele Art Centre time around 3 hours. here, you will have one of the most presents changing exhibitions beautiful views of the picturesque old Reason to visit with the main attraction being IV – X (daily except Monday) town. Among the most noteworthy a permanent exhibition of works 9 a.m.–5 p.m. sights at the chateau are the St. George During the Celebrations of the Five- by the Austrian Expressionist Chapel, the Masquerade Hall and the Petalled Rose, the city comes alive with Egon Schiele. Let yourself be inspired bridge connecting the Upper Castle with jousting tournaments, craft markets, by Český Krumlov, just like Schiele, the gardens and chateau theatre. After music and a historical procession. who relocated here from Vienna visiting the best-preserved Baroque You will encounter characters in the role in 1910. His lifestyle and his nudes theatre in Europe, be sure not to miss of Rožmberk family members and be of underage girls provoked www.ckrumlov.cz

2 Trips from Reason to visit Mariánské The greatest wealth of Karlovy Vary is the 12 hot mineral springs used for Lázně treating problems of the digestive tract, metabolic disorders as well as oncological From the discovery of a healing spring and musculoskeletal diseases. You can in the woods by Premonstratensian stay at one of the dozens of beautiful monks in 1197, six centuries passed spa buildings, villas or resort complexes. before the location was granted Among the most important hotels are the the status of a spa and received its name, Grandhotel Pupp, the Imperial Hotel and derived from Mary’s Spring. In the the Thermal Hotel. 19th century, spa buildings sprang up around here faster than mushrooms Visit the Moser Museum, where you in the surrounding forests. By the time will discover the magical world of the the poet Goethe fell passionately luxurious crystal glass with a tradition in love with the young Ulrike here dating back more than 150 years and in the summer of 1823, a stay in learn why it is called “the glass Mariánské Lázně had already become of kings”. a must on the European social calendar. Other famous guests have included Ema In 1905, the first golf course Karlovy Vary The alchemy of producing Becherovka Destinnová, Richard Wagner, Frédéric in the Czech lands was opened here liqueur has been a closely guarded Chopin, Franz Kafka, Thomas Edison by King Edward VII of England. When King Charles IV sampled secret for more than 200 years, and and hundreds of others. The highlight of the club‘s history the mineral water from a spring it will not be divulged even at the Jan is obtaining the right to use the title in the forests surrounding Castle Becher Museum. Enjoy a visit to the The importance of this spa town “Royal Golf Club” through a generous in 1350, he decided to establish newly reconstructed cellars where is confirmed by the fact that it is one decision by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003. a spa here. About 200 years later, Becherovka was made for 143 years, of the European spa towns applying It’s another reason why Mariánské Karlovy Vary was attracting famous and taste the herbal liqueur at the bar. for inclusion on the UNESCO World Lázně wears the royal crown guests from all over the world Heritage List. Come here to relax in the of Czech spas. and was the pearl of the West Bohemian GPS for the information centre: care of the professionals at the spa and spa triangle, which is a favourite to earn 50°13‘47.864“N, 12°51‘51.866“E to taste the delicious spa wafers. GPS for the information centre: a place on the UNESCO World 49°58‘31.091“N, 12°42‘10.767“E Heritage List. 130 km; 1 hour 40 minutes. Reason to visit 170 km; 1 hour 50 minutes. What to do first? Take a promenade Direct connections from the A real architectural gem and along the colonnade and taste the waters Main Railway Station every two hours; a perennially popular place to visit Direct connections from the from the 12 springs? Visit beautiful journey time 3 hours 20 minutes. is the cast-iron colonnade with Main Railway Station every two hours; church buildings? Sample a Becherovka the Singing Fountain, which at every journey time 2 hours 50 minutes. and spa wafers at the Grandhotel Pupp? Direct connections from the odd hour from April to October plays Spot the stars at the international Florenc Bus Station almost every hour; some of the most famous compositions film festival? Soak up the high-society journey time approximately 2 hours 15 of the international repertoire. If you atmosphere on the golf course or minutes. are a romantic spirit, make sure to come at the racetrack? With so much to choose back in the evening, when the music from in Karlovy Vary, you are spoilt for is complemented by lighting effects. choice! www.karlovyvary.cz www.marianskelazne.cz

4 Trips from of the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Reason to visit Kutná Hora has an ossuary which is unique in the world. Its decoration was created from the bones of nearly 40,000 people from a liquidated cemetery. The ossuary is located in the underground part of the church in the Sedlec district of the city. After the abolition of the local monastery, the church and the ossuary passed into the possession of the Orlík branch of the Schwarzenberg family, who initiated the modification of the underground chapel’s decoration into its present form.

The Royal Silvering is a historical celebration which recreates a visit Sedlec, known as the “cathedral of light” by the Czech and Roman King GPS for the information centre: Kutná Hora due to its huge windows. The prominent Wenceslas IV to Kutná Hora. 49°56‘59.125“N, 15°16‘7.410“E Czech architect Jan Blažej Santini A procession including members Kutná Hora, the city of silver, rightly Aichl took part in its reconstruction of the court, knights, burghers 84 km; 1 hour 30 minutes. earned the second nickname “treasury in the Baroque-Gothic style. and miners in historical attire passes of the country”. The wealth acquired through the city several times a day Direct connections from the Main through silver mining helped On a visit to the city, make sure for an entire weekend. The atmosphere Railway Station leave every even hour; to bring about an economic boom not to miss the magnificent Stone is enhanced by jousting tournaments, journey time 1 hour. The Kutná Hora for the Kingdom of . Fountain and the Italian Court, a historical market, courtly festivities railway station is about 3 km from which served as the central mint and fireworks. It is held each year the city centre, which is reachable A unique structure which will and a residence of Czech kings. in June. by public transport or local train. ensure that your visit to this royal At the Czech Museum of Silver, city is a memorable experience is the a lively presentation will acquaint A major attraction in Kutná Hora is the Late Gothic Church of St. Barbara, you with the history of silver mining Gallery of the Central Bohemia Region dedicated to the patron saint of miners. here. As part of the tour, you will (GASK) in the former Jesuit college. This architectural and ecclesiastical descend – equipped only with Devoted mainly to the presentation jewel was constructed by master a portable light, a helmet and a miner’s of Czech modern art of the 19th and builders over a period of more than tunic – through a 250-metre corridor 20th centuries, GASK also presents 500 years and is a symbol of the power of a medieval mine. exhibitions of contemporary art. and importance of this mining town. Another architectural gem is the The historical core of the city, together Cathedral of the Assumption of the with the Church of St. Barbara www.kutnahora.cz Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist in and the Cathedral of the Assumption www.guide.kh.cz

6 Trips from Reason to visit Konopiště The Chapel of the Holy Cross – the place where the crown jewels were stored Chateau – is located in the soaring Great Tower. The walls are covered with semiprecious Konopiště Chateau was founded in the stones and 129 rare panel paintings late 13th century as a Gothic fortress. by Master Theodoric. The gilded dome Through many modifications over the decorated with Venetian glass lentoids centuries, it was gradually rebuilt into creates the perfect illusion of a starry a romantic chateau, which in 1887 sky and makes a visit to this sacred place was bought by the heir to the Austro- a truly ethereal experience. Hungarian throne, Archduke Franz Ferdinand d’Este. His enthusiasm for Visit the castle during the great technical progress brought the chateau traditional celebration of the wine all the modern comforts of the time – harvest festival, which is held running water, electricity, a hydraulic on the last weekend of September. lift and flushing toilets. After his The wine festivities are opened each marriage to Countess Sophie Chotek, year with the arrival of Charles IV the couple settled here. Their romantic and the empress. love story, along with the Belle Époque, and also the yellow rose variety Karlštejn ended in the summer of 1914 in Sarajevo “Marshal”, which was a great favourite GPS: 49°55‘58.711“N, 14°11‘5.975“E with an assassin’s bullet and the start of Countess Sophie. Castle of the First World War. 37 km; 50 minutes. GPS: 49°46‘58.675“N, 14°39‘32.814“E Karlštejn holds an exceptional position Tour circuits will take you into the living among Czech castles. It was founded Direct connections from the Main areas, guest quarters, dining room and 44 km; 30 minutes. in 1348 by Bohemian King and Holy Railway Station at least every hour; armoury, allowing you for a while Roman Emperor Charles IV as a place journey time 40 minutes. From there to imagine life at the chateau before Direct connections from the Main for safekeeping the royal treasures, it is a 2-km walk to the castle. the First World War. Railway Station to Benešov leave collections of holy relics and the Czech at least every hour; journey time Crown Jewels. He had them stored III–X (daily except Monday), Reason to visit 40 minutes. From there, walk (about under the gilded dome of the Chapel around 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., 2.5 km) or travel by bus to the chateau. of the Holy Cross. Charles IV personally VII and VIII (daily) 9 a.m.– 6:30 p.m. Franz Ferdinand d’Este was an avid oversaw the completion of the imperial art collector, and with his assembly Direct links from the Florenc residence and the decoration of woodcarvings, paintings and a variety Bus Station to Benešov every hour - of the interiors, even conferring about of other artistic artefacts relating to the journey time 45 minutes. From there, it with his stargazers. cult of St. George, he wanted to outdo walk to the castle, go two bus stops King Edward VII himself, who had to Benešov–Konopiště, or take the The most famous of Czech royal castles, the same collecting passion. You can eco-train from the Czech Railways concealed on three sides by high wooded see the surviving items from the station. slopes, it has retained its magical collection at the Museum of St. George. atmosphere to the present day. The castle IV–IX (except Monday), is part of the Burgenstrasse – Castle Trail Make sure not to miss a tour of the around 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. connecting more than 90 castles between Rose Garden with greenhouses, Prague and Mannheim, . which invite you to relax. They grow www.hradkarlstejn.cz subtropical and tropical plants here www.zamek-konopiste.cz

8 Trips from Bohemian Reason to visit The heart of Switzerland is Pravčická brána, which is the largest natural rock gate in Europe. This rock Bohemian Switzerland (České Švýcarsko) formation’s monumental height and is one of the four national parks in the mass will completely astonish you Czech Republic. Massive rock towers, – it spans 27 metres and rises to a height gates, walls, gorges, towns and mazes of 21 metres. Attesting to the fairytale were formed through the erosion of atmosphere of Pravčická brána is the Cretaceous marine sediments. The park fact that the famous Danish author Hans is 97 percent covered by forests. Its Christian Andersen wrote part of his fairy location at the border with Germany tale “The Snow Queen” here. It has also makes the National charmed Hollywood filmmakers, who Park its neighbour. shot several scenes for The Chronicles of Narnia here. The gateway to Bohemian Switzerland is the town of Hřensko, which is the If you are caught in rainy weather, head lowest-lying municipality in the Czech to the House of Bohemian Switzerland Republic. The 20-kilometre nature trail in Krásná Lípa. In addition to tourist Around Hřensko takes you through all information, you will find an interactive of Bohemian Switzerland – leading past exhibition which will delight anyone steep walls, through tunnels, and in some who wants to discover the landscape places just by ferryboat along the river of Bohemian Switzerland with all the . In the past, the Kamenice senses. The highlight is a twenty- was both an obstacle and also a source minute projection of the stirring film of income, from floating wood down the The Mysterious Landscape. waterway and fishing trout and salmon. Today, the gorges are a tourist attraction, GPS for Hřensko: equipped with floating walkways, 50°52‘26.020“N, 14°14‘10.390“E tunnels, footbridges and a weir. Silent (Tichá) Gorge, also known as Edmund’s 130 km; 1 hour 50 minutes. (Edmundova) Gorge, was opened in 1890, and Wild (Divoká) Gorge Direct connections from the in 1898. Main Railway Station to Děčín about every two hours; journey time 1 hour Enjoy the panoramas from the look- 45 minutes. From there, buses go to out points at Mary’s Rock, Šaunštejn Hřensko–Mezná several times a day; or Belvedere, which is the oldest journey time 40 minutes. observation spot in Czech Switzerland. It offers a beautiful view of the 130-metre canyon of the river Labe () and of the and Kaiserkrone plateaux on the German side. www.ceskesvycarsko.cz www.pbrana.cz www.hrensko.cz

10 Trips from in the 18th century. Its greatest treasure is the Sázava Madonna, the only one Křivoklát in the world in which she appears to be disciplining the young Jesus! Castle

Reason to visit The Protected Landscape Area of Křivoklátsko conceals a castle which, In the castle you can see a unique due to its excellent location surrounded collection of 545 etchings from the time by forests full of game, was a favourite of the Thirty Years’ War. of many Czech kings. This royal residence was built in the 13th century In the summer, don’t miss a falconry as a seat of the ruling Přemyslid demonstration in the castle courtyard. dynasty. Vestiges of Czech kings and the The fascinating tradition of hunting splendour of their lifestyle is still evident with trained birds of prey dates back today at every step. The halls of the castle more than 4,000 years, and in 2010 witnessed many festivities and feasts, it earned a place on the UNESCO but also many consequential political Intangible Cultural Heritage List. talks and fateful diplomatic negotiations. GPS: 49°48‘27.703“N, 14°55‘26.895“E You will see dozens of master Český Šternberk During a tour, you’ll be dazzled woodcarvers at work and also 50 km; 35 minutes. by the interiors of the Late Gothic chapel a permanent exhibition of their Castle and the Royal Hall. You’ll be amazed creations. Trains leave from the Main Railway by the library with 52,000 volumes. Český Šternberk Castle, called the “Pearl Station about every two hours, with Chills will run down your spine on GPS: 50°2‘13.467“N, 13°52‘36.814“E of Posázaví”, towers above the central a change in Čerčany; journey time a visit to the torture chamber. And you part of the river Sázava. The family that 2 hours 10 minutes. will be awed by the magnificent view 61 km; 60 minutes. founded the castle still owns it today, from the Great Tower. Cultural events and the current owner, Zdeněk Direct connection from and traditional markets at the castle will Connections from the Main Sternberg, lives here. the Roztyly stop twice a day; journey acquaint you with the crafts and goods Railway Station leave at least every time 2 hours. A transfer is possible in produced by the inhabitants two hours, with a transfer in Beroun; A tour circuit will lead you through Benešov or Vlašim, going several times of the Křivoklátsko region. journey time about 1 hours 30 minutes. fifteen richly furnished rooms, from the a day; journey time about 2 hours. The train makes stops only on request. representative Knights’ Hall, to parlours Reason to visit and salons with furniture from various IV and X (weekends, holidays): IV – X (daily except Monday) historical periods, to the Hunters’ Hall, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., The most valuable part of the castle, with around 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. which is decorated with a variety of V and IX (daily except Monday): a massive cylindrical tower, is the Royal hunting trophies. You will learn about 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Hall, which has splendid star vaulting. the fate and lifestyle of the most recent VI–VIII (daily except Monday): After the Vladislav Hall at Prague Castle, generations of the oldest still existing 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. it is the second largest hall in the Czech Czech family. Last tour begins 45 minutes Republic. before closing time. Be sure not to miss the former monastery For pre-booked groups, the castle Every year in the first week of August, in Sázava, 12 kilometres away. The is open all year round. a traditional craft fair and the monastery was the centre of Slavic Křivořezání woodcarvers’ festival are education from 1032 until its closure www.hradceskysternberk.cz held in the courtyard of the castle. www.krivoklat.cz

12 Trips from Reason to visit Mělník The chateau holds one of the largest Czech collections of Spanish Chateau painting from the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The Lobkowicz collections Visit the place where 23 Czech contain some 1,500 paintings, including queens and princesses have lived. masterpieces by Brueghel, Velázquez, The Renaissance chateau in Mělník, Rubens, Cranach, Croll and others. together with the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, rises above the confluence From early spring until autumn, of the rivers Labe (Elbe) and Vltava. a popular music festival called Dvořák’s A tour of the chateau presents the rich Musical Nelahozeves runs at the collections of paintings and furniture chateau. The festival is a celebration of the , which owns of the works of Antonín Dvořák, whose the chateau today. birthplace and museum is located just below the chateau. From the chateau’s terrace and restaurant you will enjoy magnificent The nearby Chateau views of the confluence of the Labe is a Baroque building with a beautifully and Vltava rivers, the majestic Říp The Mělník Regional Museum Nelahozeves landscaped park, where centuries- Mountain, the volcanic peaks of the is located in the former Capuchin old trees tower above sculptures and České středohoří (Central Bohemian monastery right in the centre Chateau pavilions – and time seems to have Uplands) and the St. Ludmila Vineyard. of town and focuses on the history stood still. The Veltrusy Chateau also The best known wine from Mělník, of winemaking in the region. A wine The Nelahozeves Chateau, with interiors offers tours and exhibitions. Ludmila in its distinctive bottle, tasting in the 14th-century cellars here richly decorated with frescoes, is among is named for St. Ludmila. You can brings the museum tour to a pleasant the most beautiful Renaissance buildings GPS: 50°15‘39.221“N, 14°18‘1.148“E taste it in the chateau cellars. conclusion. in the Czech Republic. It also includes a museum and gallery with the exhibition 39 km; 40 minutes. Reason to visit GPS: 50°21‘8.604“N, 14°28‘30.019“E “Private Spaces: A Noble Family at Home”, which examines the lifestyle Direct connections from In the Great Hall of the chateau you can 32 km; 40 minutes. of the noble Lobkowicz family in the the Masarykovo Railway Station admire part of an outstanding collection 19th century. This family has played (metro Náměstí Republiky) leave of vedutas and maps of European Connections from the Main a major role in the history of Central every 1 – 2 hours; journey time around countries and cities from the 17th Railway Station leave every 1 – 2 hours, Europe for more than 600 years and also 50 minutes. century, which are a testament to the with a transfer in Všetaty; journey time boasted the title of prince of the Holy excellent skill of cartographers, graphic around 1 hour. Roman Empire. They were patrons IV – X (daily except Monday) artists and printers of that period. of science and of artists such as Ludwig 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. A comparable group of maps can be Direct connections from van Beethoven, among others. found only in the collection of King the Holešovice Railway Station Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden. leave at least twice per hour; journey time around 40 minutes. Near the chateau, in the crypt of the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, you can I – III 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. visit one of the biggest ossuaries in the IV – XII 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Czech Republic, containing the bones www.lobkowiczevents.cz of up to 15,000 people. www.lobkowicz-melnik.cz

14 Trips from today you can admire the abundance If you are going to Bohemian are jewellery from traditional glass Bohemian of igneous rocks which form the Paradise for a ramble through nature, beads and the glass figurines typical dominant feature of the landscape. it is best to start in Turnov. From there, of this region. Paradise Enjoy amazing views from you will set off to the southeast the Kozákov lookout tower, from on a scenic rocky path through GPS: 50°35‘20.337“N, 15°9‘10.926“E For centuries, Bohemian Paradise (Český the ruins of Trosky Castle, or from the Hrubá Skála area. The entire trip ráj) has attracted artists, writers and the top of Zebín Hill. is within 2 km of a railway, so it’s up 91 km; 1 hour. romantics of all kinds. Discover the to you how far to walk. From Turnov, unique harmony of bizarre rock towns, Reason to visit follow the red hiking trail. First visit Direct connections from the Main deep pine forests, and majestic castles the picturesque Valdštejn rock castle, Railway Station to Turnov leave fairly and chateaux – and lose yourself for Bohemian Paradise is not only about and then continue on an undemanding often; journey time 2 hours. a while in the rock mazes of Bohemian the beauty of nature but also an array walk up to the Hrubá Skála Chateau. Paradise, a UNESCO Geopark! of castles and chateaux. Directly atop the It is certainly worthwhile to keep Direct connections from the rocks is the elegant Hrubá Skála Chateau, following the red trail all the way Florenc or Černý Most bus station The sandstone rock towns and mazes where you can stay and enjoy the beauty to the Trosky castle ruin, which to Turnov leave fairly often; of Bohemian Paradise will thrill of Bohemian Paradise right from your is 15 kilometres from Turnov. journey time 1 hour 30 minutes. you with countless passageways between own room. Another attraction is the the rocks. You will squeeze through impressive ruins of Trosky Castle, which If you want to bring back a traditional narrow crevices between rocks and climb stands on two volcanic plugs and is an and valuable piece of jewellery from up from inside them to be rewarded with unmistakable landmark of the region. the Czech Republic, then it should marvellous views. You will find the best The silhouette of its two towers – called be made of Bohemian garnets. vista in the Hrubá Skála rock town from Baba and Panna (Crone and Maiden) – At the Garnet Gallery in Turnov, the Marian Lookout. It offers magnificent made it a destination for tormented poets you can learn all about the history views of Ještěd Mountain and and painters in the Romantic period. of mining garnets and the production particularly of the Hrubá Skála Chateau Also worth a visit are the impregnable of jewellery in the region. Other high- and the ruins of Trosky Castle. castle Kost and the romantic Sychrov quality souvenirs from your travels Thanks to the effects of natural forces, Chateau. through Bohemian Paradise www.cesky-raj.info

16 Trips from Prague 17 along with hundreds of unique exhibits Plzeň illustrating the history of beer brewing from ancient times to the present. Plzeň is a city that literally lives through beer. It all began in 1842, when the beer The Liberation Festival is a unique with a unique colour and taste, Pilsner event, expressing gratitude to the Urquell, was tapped for the first time at U.S. Army for the liberation of Plzeň. the Měšťanský brewery (today Plzeňský In a 1940s atmosphere with the heart- Prazdroj). You can taste this superb beer stirring appearance of American at the Na Spilce Restaurant – the largest veterans, Jeeps ride down the Czech beerhall – which is located street carrying soldiers in American in the former fermentation cellar. uniforms. Everywhere people are dancing and jazz is playing. Fighter The city is dominated by the planes fly overhead, and leading St. Bartholomew Cathedral, which has the Freedom Convoy is the legendary the highest church tower in the Czech M4 Sherman tank. Where better Republic. From the tower, there is to be in early May than in Plzeň? a beautiful view of the historic city centre and the wooded hills of the Plzeň Basin. In the urban conservation area you’ll A strong Jewish community formed see typical burgher houses and in Plzeň in 1893 around the Great a historical underground network, Synagogue, which is the third largest built beginning in the 14th century. in the world. An 800-metre tour circuit leads through a labyrinth of medieval Proof of Plzeň’s importance is its corridors, cellars and wells. victory in the competition for the title of European Capital of Culture for 2015. GPS for the information centre: 49°44‘53.412“N, 13°22‘39.129“E Reason to visit 91 km; 1 hour. If you want to learn about the history of Pilsner Urquell beer, be sure not Direct connections from the Main to miss a trip to the world-famous Railway Station every hour; journey brewery that gave the world the Pils style time 1 hour 35 minutes. of beer. An exhibition will acquaint you with the whole procedure of making Direct connections from the excellent beer. You will become the Florenc Bus Station or Zličín familiar with the ingredients used, at least once an hour; the historical and current brewhouses, journey time 60 minutes. and the bottling plant. A real treat is a tasting of filtered, unpasteurized Pilsner Urquell beer straight from the barrel. Also visit the Brewery Museum, where you can explore the Gothic malt house with a well, www.icpilsen.cz a two-level cellar and the former tavern, www.pilsen.eu

18 Trips from with an astronomical clock designed of its historical and artistic value, the The famous composer and conductor Olomouc in the spirit of Socialist Realism, which, column was inscribed on the UNESCO Gustav Mahler stayed in Olomouc after Prague’s Old Town Orloj, World Heritage List. Its height and in 1882. Mahler is also associated with Since the Middle Ages, Olomouc has is the second largest astronomical clock monumentality will impress you at first one of the houses on the square, which been the stage for major events in Czech in the country. Be sure not to miss sight. It is so large that it even contains now houses a café bearing his name. history and is the traditional spiritual the symbol of ecclesiastical power, a small chapel. and historical centre of Moravia. After the Archbishop’s Palace, which will GPS: 49°35‘30.831“N, 17°16‘43.764“E Prague, it is the second most significant dazzle you with the splendour of its halls. About five kilometres northeast urban conservation area in the country. of Olomouc lies the large pilgrimage 280 km; 2 hours 40 minutes. Today, it is also a lively university town The city of Olomouc was protected site of Holy Hill (Svatý Kopeček), with a picturesque historical centre full by a unique system of fortifications, which is a destination of pilgrims Direct connections from of pleasant nooks, Baroque fountains and consisting of twenty forts and other and admirers of Baroque beauty alike. the Main Railway Station leave twice cosy cafés. More than 100,000 visitors military objects. During the Napoleonic You can visit the elegant Basilica an hour; journey time approximately come to Olomouc each year, and if you Wars, General Lafayette was imprisoned of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, 2 hours 20 minutes. are not yet among them, it’s time here and Marshal Suvorov stayed which Pope John Paul II elevated to do something about it! here. Now they are connected to a basilica minor during his visit by a 30-kilometre educational trail in 1995. Also be sure to visit the local Start your tour with the towers for hikers and cyclists. zoo with a lookout tower, from which of the St. Wenceslas Cathedral, then visit you will have animals, the basilica and a treasury of art and ecclesiastical works, Reason to visit Olomouc at your fingertips. explore the nearby underground, or learn about the history of the foundations The pride of Olomouc is the Holy You should also taste the local of the Přemyslid Royal Palace. On the Trinity Column, which was consecrated specialty – the famous Olomouc upper square, Horní náměstí, direct in 1754 in the presence of Empress tvarůžky. It is a ripened cheese your gaze up to the Holy Trinity Column, Maria Theresa. The column represents which is completely unique a UNESCO monument. On the same the largest grouping of Baroque in its zingy flavour and characteristic www.tourism.olomouc.eu square stands the Town Hall from 1378 statues in . Because aroma. www.central-moravia.cz

20 Trips from death camps such as Auschwitz not required to display a toll sticker and Treblinka. The Small Fortress Practical are indicated with applicable traffic was used as a prison by the Prague signs (motorway, toll-free road). Gestapo in 1940–1945. information 2/ Buses and trains Reason to visit 1/ Driving The Czech Republic has one of the After the Second World War, the Terezín Basic traffic regulations: densest railway networks in Europe Memorial was established in the Small • the Czech Republic drives and has a well-planned system of bus Fortress to commemorate the victims on the right, transportation with an ample number of racial and political persecution • there is zero tolerance for any of connections. Bus and train travel during the Nazi occupation. It is now amount of alcohol in the driver’s is relatively dependable and inexpensive. a National Cultural Monument. Part system, of it is the Ghetto Museum, which • the use of a mobile phone or other Timetables: presents an exhibition on the “final communication device is forbidden Information about travel within solution of the Jewish question” while driving, the Czech Republic can be found in 1941–1945. The exhibition was created • the use of seat belts is compulsory, at www.idos.cz. Carriers often show in collaboration with former prisoners • headlights are required at all times, the ticket prices here as well. in the Terezín Ghetto and with the help • pedestrians at a crosswalk always of hundreds of documents, drawings, have the right of way, Carriers: objects, letters and films about life in • children up to 36 kg or 150 cm must Train transport is provided almost the prison. Is is also a testament to the be in a child safety seat and may exclusively by Czech Railways, while human will to survive, even in barbarous not sit in the front passenger seat, coach service is provided by ČSAD and conditions, and the creative and artistic • maximum speed limit: a number of private bus operators. Terezín acts the people engaged in as a way motorways 130 km/h, Train travel is usually slower but more to help them endure the situation. outside built-up areas 90 km/h, comfortable, while bus travel is generally The Terezín Fortress today is a sad within towns 50 km/h. less expensive and somewhat faster. reminder of the atrocities that happened The historical city of Litoměřice during the Second World War. spreads along the river Labe (Elbe) just Required documents: Tickets: The fortress town of Terezín was a few kilometres from Terezín. Be sure • driver’s license For intercity coaches, you buy constructed in the late 18th century not to miss the interactive exhibition (European or international), a ticket from the driver as you board; as a defence against invasions by the on Czech winemaking in the newly • identity card (EU) or passport, for trains, you buy a ticket at the railway Prussians, however the evolution reconstructed castle in the city centre. • vehicle documents (certificate station or through www.cd.cz. of weaponry and military strategies You can also also sample some of registration, proof of liability meant that it was never used for military of the wine here, of course. insurance, Green Card). 3/ Accommodations purposes. It stretches across both banks of the river Ohře (Eger), which separates GPS: 50°30‘57.412“N, 14°9‘34.437“E Motorway tax / toll stickers: You can find accommodations the Small Fortress from the Main • yearly 1,500 CZK, and make reservations for a wide Fortress. 64 km; 50 minutes. monthly 440 CZK, range of lodging options 10-day 310 CZK, at www.czechtourism.com. The Main Fortress served as a Jewish Direct connections from • can be purchased at national border ghetto under Nazi occupation in the the Holešovice Railway Station leave crossings, filling stations Second World War. But it also became nearly every hour; journey time 1 hour. and post offices, a jail for leading politicians, scientists • affix to the lower right corner of the and artists of the prewar era. From here, www.pamatnik-terezin.cz windscreen (on the passenger side), the Nazis sent the Jewish inhabitants to www.terezin.cz • roads on which the driver is and is

22 Trips from Prague 23 The official tourist presentation of the Czech Republic Nádraží Praha www.czechtourism.com Holešovice

Ústí nad Labem Masarykovo Slaný nádraží Náměstí R7republiky Florenc

Hlavní Vltava Můstek nádraží Letňany Muzeum C Mladá Boleslav Dejvická

Černý Hradec Králové A Most Karlovy Vary B

Na Knížecí B (Anděl) A Zličín Depo Hostivař Plzeň Trips from Prague Kolín Published by CzechTourism, Prague 2013 © Vinohradská 46, 120 41 Praha 2 [email protected] [email protected] Háje [email protected] Roztyly C Written by: Agency Prague Cherry, spol. s r.o. & CzechTourism Translation: Mimi Fronczak Rogers Photographs: © Ladislav Renner, Michal Vitásek, Václav Sojka, Libor Sváček, CzechTourism, Vltava Brno Kutná Hora Sdružení České dědictví UNESCO, Production: MCU Publishing, www.mcumedia.cz Berounka Year: 2013, 1st edition ISBN: 978-80-87824-22-1 The data given cannot be guaranteed Strakonice in spite of meticulous research.