Road Trips in Czechia

When thinking about the Czech Republic, many travellers imagine Prague, a melting-pot of cultural heritage, historical monuments, and architectural jewels. Yet, the Central Bohemian Region has a lot more to offer with places such as Kutná Hora, Kolín, and Karlštejn Castle, located just across the district’s border.

Many travellers will be surprised at the abundance of health resorts located in the western part of the country. Mariánské Lázně and Karlovy Vary are among the most popular spa spots steeped in green hills and tranquillity. A relaxed atmosphere and an abundance of medicinal treatments are all that can be expected from these charming towns. While still in this region, you shouldn’t miss Pilsen, known for its notable architecture and delicious regional beer, and Kladruby, which can boast a large monastery dating back to the first half of the 12th century.

Holidaymakers, who choose the southern part of the Czech Republic as their main aim, won’t be disappointed when visiting such cities as Tábor, Telč, or Jindřichův Hradec. These places will welcome visitors with a lively atmosphere, interesting architecture, and romantic cobbled streets.

Brno is a top-rated choice for all lovers of an ideal blend of history and culture. Dating back to prehistoric times, the city offers stunning examples of historical sites, important monuments, and an excellent selection of museums.  

Those who aren’t fed up with places dating to the Middle Ages should direct their steps either to Kroměříž or Olomouc. Both of these cities can boast an array of medieval architectural jewels, remnants of old bastions, and even palace gardens.

Suggested Road Trips in Czechia

• Prague to Cesky Krumlov: This road trip takes you from Prague to the charming town of Cesky Krumlov, known for its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and hilltop castle. On the way, you can stop at the Konopiště Castle, a stunning medieval castle with beautiful gardens, or the Karlstejn Castle, a Gothic masterpiece.

• Moravian-Silesian Beskids: This road trip takes you through the stunning Moravian-Silesian Beskids mountain range in the northeast of the country. The road winds through rolling hills, past crystal-clear lakes, and through charming villages, offering breathtaking views along the way. You can stop at the Pustevny Mountain Resort, which is a popular ski resort in the winter and a great place to hike in the summer.

• Bohemian Forest: This road trip takes you through the lush and serene Bohemian Forest, known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. The road winds through rolling hills, past pristine lakes, and through dense forests, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can stop at the Sumava National Park, which is home to an array of wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Regardless of whether you choose your own vehicle or a rental car while moving around Czechia, there exist a number of traffic regulations that should be followed. 

Don’t worry, most of these laws are in compliance with the European traffic rules so you won’t face major problems when adjusting to a new driving environment. For example, in order to drive a vehicle in Czechia, you have to be 18 years old. What’s more, the country follows the right-hand driving system.

There are no toll roads in the country so you won’t have to face any additional costs while moving around in your hired car. In order to spare yourself paying any additional on the spot fines, don’t use radar detectors that might interfere with the equipment used by the police. Another penalised offence is drinking and driving. Interestingly, in the Czech Republic no amount of alcohol in the blood will be tolerated while behind the wheel. 

Those who have to make an urgent phone call in the middle of the trip should use special hands-free sets that won’t become an additional distraction while driving. In case of emergency, you should always wait for a police car before leaving the scene of the accident. Also, some useful phone numbers include: 150 for fire department, 155 for ambulance, and 158 for police. You can also use the international emergency number 112.

It is illegal to park on the left-hand side of the road. Whenever you see yellow lines – it is a sign that no parking is allowed in that place. If the same yellow lines are dashed, there are certain restrictions that are applied to this particular parking spot – so always remember to read the signs carefully.

While driving in the Czech Republic, you should always carry your driver’s licence, liability insurance, ID or passport, registration document, and vehicle technical inspection certificate.

When it comes to the Czech speed limits, you are allowed to drive at a speed of 130 km/h on motorways. When it comes to driving in rural areas and built-up areas, you should observe the limits of 90 km/h and 50 km/h respectively. You can also drive as fast as 80 km/h on expressways. In order to spare yourself any additional costs connected with speeding fines, it’s best to drive below the designated limits.

Obligatory car equipment includes: reflective vests for both the driver and passengers, a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, a warning triangle, a set of spare bulbs, a spare fuse, a lever, and a spare tyre. 

When taking a road trip in Czechia, it's important to be aware of the following:

• Driving conditions: The roads in Czechia are generally well-maintained and well-marked, but it's important to be aware of the driving conditions, especially in winter when the roads may be slick with snow and ice.

• Speed limits: The speed limits in Czechia are different from those in many other countries, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the local rules. For example, the speed limit on highways is 130 km/h, and in the cities is 50 km/h.

• Toll roads: Some of the highways in Czechia are toll roads, so it's important to have enough cash or a credit card to pay for the toll sticker right before starting the road trip

• Parking: Parking in cities and tourist areas can be difficult to find and expensive, so it's important to plan and be prepared to park a bit further away and walk to your destination.

• Language: Although English is widely spoken in Czechia, it's always helpful to have a basic knowledge of the local language, especially if you're traveling to more remote areas.

• Culture and customs: Czechia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to take your shoes off when entering someone's home.

• Drinking and driving: Drinking and driving are strictly prohibited in Czechia, and the penalties for doing so are severe. It's always best to have a designated driver or use public transportation when consuming alcohol.

Overall, by being aware of these things, you can make your road trip in Czechia a safe and enjoyable experience.

The best time of year for taking a road trip in Czechia depends on personal preference, but the most popular times are typically spring and summer. During the spring months (April to June), the weather is mild and the countryside is lush and green, making it a great time to explore the country's stunning natural beauty. In the summer months (July to August), the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking.

If you prefer cooler weather, fall (September to November) is a good time to visit, as the autumn colors create a stunning backdrop for your road trip. Winter (December to March) is also a beautiful time to visit, especially if you're interested in skiing and other winter sports, but be prepared for colder temperatures and possibly snow and ice on the roads.

Regardless of the time of year, Czechia is a great destination for a road trip, with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine.

The cost of a road trip in the Czech Republic can vary depending on several factors such as the season, type of accommodation, activities, dining choices, and mode of transportation.

If you are looking to rent a car for your road trip, the cost will also vary depending on the type of car, rental duration, and insurance coverage. Generally, the cost of renting a car in the Czech Republic ranges from 20-50 EUR per day for a small economy car, and up to 100 EUR per day for a luxury vehicle. Longer rental periods may come with discounts, and it's always best to shop around to find the best deals.

As for the cost of accommodation, you can expect to pay anywhere from 15-100 EUR per night depending on the type of lodging you choose. The Czech Republic offers various options, from budget hostels and guesthouses to high-end hotels and apartments. If you are traveling during peak season or in popular tourist areas such as Prague, you may find that prices are generally higher.

Food and drink costs will also depend on your preferences and choices. The Czech Republic is known for its delicious and affordable cuisine, with many traditional dishes costing around 8-15 EUR per meal. You can also find plenty of affordable cafes, pubs, and street food vendors throughout the country.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in the Czech Republic can vary depending on your choices. By being mindful of your budget and doing some research beforehand, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in the Czech Republic:

• Lonely Planet Czech Republic - Lonely Planet is a trusted travel guidebook series that offers in-depth information on destinations around the world. Their Czech Republic guidebook provides comprehensive information on things to do, places to see, and where to eat and stay in the country.

• Rick Steves Prague & the Czech Republic - Another popular guidebook series, Rick Steves' guidebook to Prague and the Czech Republic offers practical information and insider tips on everything from cultural attractions to outdoor activities.

• Michelin Czech Republic Map - Michelin is well-known for their high-quality maps, and their Czech Republic map is no exception. This map provides detailed information on roads, highways, and scenic routes throughout the country.

• Czech Republic Road Atlas - The Czech Republic Road Atlas is a comprehensive atlas of the country's road network, including major highways and minor roads. This atlas also includes useful information on points of interest, as well as accommodations and dining options.

• Marco Polo Czech Republic Guide - The Marco Polo Czech Republic Guide is a handy pocket-sized guidebook that includes information on top attractions, insider tips, and detailed maps of the country.

These guidebooks and maps should provide plenty of useful information to help plan and navigate a road trip in the Czech Republic.