Summer Guide for Czechia

Prague has recently become a popular summer destination for families, thanks to its affordable prices and typically mild weather compared to other European cities. This article aims to provide a variety of ideas and attractions for you to enjoy alone or with your family and children.

Cesky Raj

Let's talk about the weather for a moment.

As previously mentioned in the detailed article about Prague's weather, the summer season here has temperatures and climate quite different From those in other countries around the world. For example, many hot days can suddenly turn into thunderstorms with heavy rain, which, while soaking you, do not bring unnecessary cold. Due to the Czech Republic's location in Central Europe, I've learned that all the weather here is leftovers from Germany, from rains to sandstorms. The hardest part is that it's a bit difficult to know what to pack since the weather here is very dynamic and can change within a few hours, "even if the iPhone said otherwise."

As someone who studied aviation and finds weather the most interesting part of the course, I realized that it's best to check the forecast two days before your flight to get an indication. A local tip: carry a small umbrella in your bag for any surprises.

Where to travel?

The Czech Republic is indeed a wide and long country but not too large, and with that, it's worth considering the travel time between places so you don't find yourself sitting too long in the car instead of exploring.

Most of the time, you'll arrive by flight to Prague, rent a car at Prague Airport, and from there head to your next destination. Where will that be?

North Czechia

The Bohemian Paradise, or in its local name Český ráj, is a mesmerizing natural area in the heart of northeastern Czechia, attracting travelers from all over the world. It's one of the lesser-known spots for the average traveler, but for those seeking magical landscapes, unique rock formations, endless forests, and breathtaking trails, it's truly a paradise, not just in name but also in essence and beauty. This area, where wild and natural scenery blends with rich culture, deep history, and a sense of tranquility that's hard to find in more touristy areas, was declared the country's first nature reserve in 1955 and entered UNESCO's list of reserves due to its geological and ecological uniqueness. Access to the area is very convenient it's located about an hour and a half drive from Prague, surrounded by many towns and villages offering starting points for hiking, rustic restaurants, and charming spots to stay. While many choose to rent a car to move between natural sites, public transportation also connects the area well including trains and buses. What makes the Bohemian Paradise special is its dramatic rocky landscape sandstone pillars rising tens of meters high, creating natural mazes, arches, ravines, and steep cliffs. Among the most famous places is Prachovské skály, a nature reserve characterized by narrow paths winding between tall rocks, overhead bridges, stone stairs, and breathtaking viewpoints in all directions. This area is favored by families, couples, photographers, and nature.

Not far from there is Hrubá Skála, another rocky area attracting hikers due to the combination of impressive cliffs, deep forests, and a historic castle perched atop a high cliff. It's also one of the recommended starting points for hiking trails, especially the trail leading from the castle towards Trosky Castle itself a stunning and varied day trail passing through Bohemian landscapes. During busy times, night tours are held there; check the castle's website.

The most architecturally impressive castle is likely Kost Castle, located in a green and quiet valley surrounded by forests. This is a well-preserved Gothic castle with knight halls, walls, towers, and permanent exhibitions of medieval life. Visitors can join guided tours, listen to stories about ancient battles, see weapon and clothing displays, and even taste local wine.

Alongside nature and history, the area also offers cultural richness. The district town of Jičín, for example, is full of charm: a central square with colorful mansions, a tall Baroque gate, cozy cafes, and local markets. The climate in the area is suitable for hiking most months of the year. In spring, the area is covered in colorful blossoms; summer is warm and green; autumn brings breathtaking foliage with shades of red and gold; and in winter—when part of the area is covered in snow the silence is almost absolute. Even then, nature lovers can enjoy the beauty at its peak, provided they are equipped with appropriate clothing. I recommend less in winter. Regarding accommodation, the Bohemian Paradise offers plenty of options from hotels in ancient castles, through rural guesthouses, to pleasant camping sites. Families can find warm and comfortable wooden cabins; couples will enjoy secluded boutique houses with relaxing views; and hikers can settle in hostels or campsites along the trails. Food is also abundant many places offer traditional Czech food like goulash, dumplings, mushroom soups, roasted meats, homemade sausages, and cold local beer. In larger towns, you'll also find modern restaurants, cafes, pizzerias, and even options for vegetarians.

Bohemian Switzerland

It's highly recommended to consider incorporating Bohemian Switzerland into two to three days of your trip. No, it's not in Switzerland; yes, it's indeed in Czechia, and it's one of the most beautiful places I've been to on my last trip. This is a nature reserve located right on the border with Germany (near Saxony), a very green area full of cliffs, rivers, and trails. Completely different from anything you've seen in the south or center of the country. The closest town to this entire area is called Hřensko, a small border town located in a valley between giant rocks. On the way there, you'll pass a relatively narrow road with endless scenery, and sometimes it feels like you're in a fantasy movie set. This entire area is very green, very quiet, and has a slightly different atmosphere much less touristy, much more real nature. The most famous thing there is the giant arch called Pravčická brána— natural stone arch that's the largest of its kind in Europe. It's hard to explain how impressive it is until you stand in front of it. You reach it via a hiking trail (not too long, about 45 minutes to an hour of moderate ascent), and there's also a small restaurant nearby if you want to stop for a beer or soup. By the way, it's highly recommended to arrive early in the morningbecause in the afternoon it can be crowded.

Besides that, one of the most special things in the area is a short boat ride in a gorge called Edmundova soutěska. It's a kind of canyon where you walk along a beautiful stream and then reach a point where you board a small boat with a local rower who tells some stories and pulls you along with a stick. It's not an extreme ride; it's just quiet, special, and gives a real sense of being abroad. The trails in the area are suitable for both adults and children. You don't need to be serious hikers to enjoy them. Just comfortable shoes, water in your bag, and it's worth checking the forecast because rain here can come as a surprise. Regarding parking there is, but like in many places in Czechia, you need coins to pay at the machine. So make sure you have some crowns on hand. If you're into staying in the area, there are some small guesthouses, simple hotels, or pensions with breakfast. There are no luxurious resorts here, and that's part of the charm. Those really looking for something rural-romantic will find it.

And if you're staying in the area, you can also combine a short trip to the German side of the reserve it's called Saxon Switzerland, and the landscapes are very similar but with a more German touch. If you're traveling with children, this place is perfect. Nature, easy trails, water, good air, and there's no crowd and mess of amusement parks. Everything feels natural, not forced. And if you're a couple or traveling alone, it's also one of the more peaceful and clean places to spend a day or two without screens, without noise, just walking and peace of mind.

A local tip: bring insect/tick repellent spray and plenty of water bottles.

The Giant Mountains, Krkonoše

If you've already reached northern Czechia and feel like experiencing real mountains, not "hills with a view," then it's worth keeping an eye on the Krkonoše area—the Giant Mountains. This is the highest mountain range in Czechia and among the few in the country where you can truly feel a mountainous atmosphere like in the Alps—but within a two to three-hour drive from Prague. What's most beautiful there is that even if you're not mountain climbers or Olympic athletes—you'll still find plenty of trails and views suitable for everyone, including families with children, couples wanting a relaxed hike, and even just a day of nature in the middle of a more urban trip. The most popular town to start from is Špindlerův Mlýn. It's a small but very touristy resort town—both in summer and winter

Sources

In winter it serves as a ski hub, while in summer it becomes a departure point for many hiking and nature trails. The town has a pleasant promenade, restaurants, hotels, bakeries, and plenty of German, Polish, and Czech families walking around with children, trekking poles, and rain jackets. The atmosphere is relaxed, prices are reasonable, and overall – it’s a great base for a day trip or two days exploring mountains and rivers.

One of the main attractions in the area is Mount Sněžka – the highest peak in the Czech Republic, at 1,603 meters. It’s no Everest, but the view from the top is amazing, especially on a clear day.

Krkonoše mountains

There are several ways to reach the summit: either by foot – via a trail starting from the town of Pec pod Sněžkou – or by cable car that takes you almost to the top, with a short walk to the peak. It’s very suitable for families with children who can walk for an hour or two. At the summit, you’ll find a spectacular lookout, a small church, a post office, and a café where you can relax and feel like you’re on top of Czechia.

Note: on very windy days, the cable car does not operate. Winds can reach over 110 km/h on stormy days due to the altitude.

Another point of interest worth visiting is the Pančavský vodopád – the highest waterfall in the country. The trail to the waterfall passes through a lovely viewpoint called Labská bouda (where you can also stop for coffee or a snack) and continues along well-marked paths over river valleys and cliffs. The scenery on the way is just as impressive as the waterfall itself.

For those not interested in climbing and with young children – there are also gentler attractions. For example, Stezka korunami stromů Krkonoše – a treetop walk near the town of Janské Lázně. It’s something unique – walking between the tree canopies dozens of meters above ground, with a spiral slide down from the observation tower at the end. Kids love it. Adults too, let’s be honest.

The whole area is filled with mountain cottages – called chata in Czech – where you can enjoy local food: hot soups (garlic or lentil with sausage), cheeses, goulash, dumplings, and fresh beer flowing like water. If you’re staying in one of the nearby villages, many pensions offer breakfast and a very relaxed atmosphere. Not luxurious, but clean, warm, and with friendly service.

One more important note: the whole region is part of the Krkonošský národní park (KRNAP), meaning trails are well marked, there are restrictions on leaving the paths, and there's real conservation of nature. If you’re hiking there – respect the environment. Don’t enter closed areas, don’t litter, and don’t feed animals.

Weather? Here too – it’s very dynamic. A day that starts sunny with a bottle of water can end with strong winds and surprising rain. Always take an extra layer, a hat, water, and proper hiking shoes. Not sandals – real walking shoes. It's really worth investing in.

South Czechia: Český Krumlov

Summer Guide to Czechia have to be with Český Krumlov is a small town in South Bohemia that could easily win the title of “the most picturesque town in Czechia,” and perhaps even in Europe. It’s set on a perfect bend of the Vltava River, full of red-roofed buildings, cobblestone alleyways, and a huge castle at its center that feels like it came straight out of a Brothers Grimm story.

The town isn’t big – you can walk from one end to the other in half an hour – but every corner is worth a stop. Whether it’s a hidden courtyard with a small café, a viewpoint over the river, or a stone bridge leading to the castle.

Český Krumlov

The castle – Státní hrad a zámek Český Krumlov – is one of the most impressive in Czechia. Not just for its size, but for how it’s built – terraced along a hill with inner courtyards, a decorated lookout tower, and a beautiful baroque garden at the top. You can enter for a tour, but even just walking around the grounds is an experience.

My favorite part, honestly, is just to get a little lost. Follow the streets, stop when you smell good coffee, sit by the river, watch the kayaks pass by, and soak up the vibe. You don’t need to rush here. It’s a place to slow down.

In summer, there can be some crowds – so if possible, come early in the morning or stay overnight to enjoy the town without all the tourists.

Accommodation in Český Krumlov can fit any budget – from beautiful boutique hotels in the old city to budget pensions just outside the center, all within walking distance. What’s special is that most places offer a view of the castle or the river, so the experience continues even when you return to your room.

As for food – there are plenty of classic Czech restaurants (like Krčma Šatlava, a cellar restaurant with an open grill), as well as cafés and pizzerias for something more familiar. And don’t skip dessert – honey cake (medovník), strudel, and ideally – a slice of cake with coffee while sitting outside by the river.

If you’re into culture – the castle also has a Baroque theater (Zámecké barokní divadlo), one of the only ones in Europe preserved almost entirely in its original form. In summer, there are performances, festivals, and sometimes live music in the streets. It’s a place with soul, not just beauty.

The town is about 2.5 hours south of Prague and easily accessible by car (there are organized parking lots outside the historic center).

Weather? Like everywhere in Czechia – it could be a perfect summer day or suddenly rain in the afternoon. So always good to carry a small umbrella and breathe deeply. In the fall, the town looks like it’s been painted with a brush – autumn leaves everywhere and soft light over the rooftops. In winter, fewer tourists come, but if there’s snow – it looks like a Christmas village.

Kayaking in the Area

One of the most fun and unique ways to experience Český Krumlov isn’t just from above – but from below, via the Vltava River. If you look at a map, you’ll see the town sits on a double bend of the river, meaning the old city is surrounded by water on almost all sides. Now imagine seeing it from a kayak – you float slowly past the castle, under bridges, alongside restaurants and cafés – all at a completely different pace. Not on foot, not in a car – just flowing.

Full Gear and ready to enter the water

There are several companies that rent kayaks, rafting boats (good for families), and two-seater canoes in the area. Two recommended and well-known companies are:

• Maleček Rafting & Canoe – one of the oldest companies in the region. They have a branch close to the town center, right on the riverbank. You can choose from kayak, raft, or canoe, and they also offer return transport from the end of the route.

  
  

• Rafting Krumlov – another solid company located near the town entrance. They offer various routes along the river, from short hours-long rides to multi-day trips. Perfect for combining kayaking with camping or pub stops along the river.

  
  

What to Know:

First of all – in most cases, this is not extreme rafting. The river flows quite gently, and at points where there are small dams or drops, there are designated “pass-through” routes to guide the boats safely. Kids can participate, as long as they’re not afraid of water and wear life jackets.

Most companies provide full gear, including life vests, waterproof barrels for your belongings, a map of the route, and even a sandwich if you order in advance. You can choose a short trip – around an hour or two within the city limits to get a taste of it. Or take a longer trip – for example from Vyšší Brod to Český Krumlov, which is a full-day route or two days if taken slowly. Along the way, you’ll pass through villages, forests, riverside pubs, and have nature almost entirely to yourself.

In summer, this is one of the coolest activities. A small tip – if you’re visiting in July–August, book in advance. It’s a very popular attraction, especially on weekends.

One more tip? Bring spare clothes. No matter how careful you are – you’ll end up wet. And that’s part of the f