Lonely Planet Eastern Europe

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• Publisher: Lonely Planet
• Year: 2019
• Print ISBN: 9781787013704
• eBook ISBN: 9781788687102

Czech Republic

Prague

Karlštejn

Kutná Hora

Bohemia

Plzeň

Český Krumlov

Karlovy Vary

Moravia

Brno

Olomouc

Czech Republic

Pop 10.6 million

Why Go?

Since the fall of communism in 1989 and the opening up of Central and Eastern Europe, Prague has evolved into one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations. The city offers an intact medieval core that transports you back – especially when strolling the hidden streets of the Old Town – some 600 years. The 14th-century Charles Bridge, traversing two historic neighbourhoods across a slow-moving river, is one of the continent’s most beautiful sights.

Prague is not just about history. It’s a vital urban centre with a rich array of cultural offerings. Outside the capital, in the provinces of Bohemia and Moravia, castles and palaces abound – including the audacious hilltop chateau at Český Krumlov – which illuminate the stories of powerful dynasties whose influence was felt throughout Europe. Olomouc, the historic capital of Moravia to the east, boasts much of the beauty of Prague without the crowds.

When to Go

• May Prague Spring Festival makes this the capital’s most popular month.
• Sep Lovely strolling weather in West Bohemia’s spa towns.
• Dec Svařák (mulled wine) and music at Christmas markets in town squares across the country.

Best Places to Eat

AField

AKrčma v Šatlavské

AEntree

ALevitate Restaurant

ABuffalo Burger Bar

Best Places to Stay

AHostel Mitte

ADominican Hotel

ALong Story Short

AHotel Myší Díra

AHotel Romance Puškin

Entering the Country

The Czech Republic lies at the centre of Europe and has good rail and road connections to surrounding countries. Prague’s international airport is a major air hub for Central Europe.

Flights, cars and tours can be booked online at lonelyplanet.com/bookings.

ITINERARIES

One Week

Experience the exciting combination of a tumultuous past and energetic present in Prague. Top experiences include the grandeur of Prague Castle, Josefov’s Prague Jewish Museum, and getting lost amid the bewildering labyrinth of the Old Town. Take an essential day trip to Karlštejn, and then head south to Český Krumlov for a few days of riverside ...

Table of contents

• Table of Contents
• Welcome to Eastern Europe
• Eastern Europe’s Top 25
• Need to Know
• If You Like…
• Month by Month
• Itineraries
• Albania
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• Bosnia & Hercegovina
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Relics of Communism
• Jewish Heritage
• Estonia
• Hungary
• Kosovo
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Moldova
• Montenegro
• North Macedonia
• Poland
• Romania
• Russia
• Serbia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Ukraine
• Directory A–Z
• Transport
• Language
• Behind the Scenes
• Our Writers