---

Planet In1 Destination Europe - Czech Republic
If you are looking for a quality hotel at the right price, you have come to the right place. We have hundreds of hotels throughout the continent of Europe, from Norway to the sunny Greek Islands and from the Ukraine to the Emerald Isle. We feature accommodation to suit your every requirement, whether you want to improve your golf handicap in Portugal or visit your Swiss banker.

The Czech Republic is located in the geographical centre of Europe. It is a landlocked country bordered by Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria. Bohemia in the west is made up of plains, hills and plateau surrounded by low mountains with very hilly country in Moravia in the east. Since its break from Soviet influence in 1989, the country has attracted more tourists and while Prague is certainly a bustling city, the countryside is still unspoilt and perfect for those looking for somewhere different. The country is an interesting ethnic mix of Czechs, Slovaks, Poles, Germans, Romanies and Hungarians.

Prague, the capital, is a beautiful city. The centre of the city between the Castle district, the Mala Strand (small quarter), the Stare Mesto (old town) and Vaclavske Namesti (Wenceslas Square) covers about 3 km and is easily negotiated by foot. Walking is the best way to see Prague and its variety of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Prague Castle was built in the 9th Century and renovated many times since then. Settlements built up around the castle and gradually incorporated into the city. Because of its central location, Prague became an important destination for trade. The river Vitava flows through the city and is spanned by the famous Charles Bridge, one of the most popular sights, which affords the best night view of Prague Castle. Music of all kinds, from classical to jazz can be enjoyed everywhere and opera and ballet are also popular. The many theatres, museums and art galleries ensure the visitor is kept fully entertained.

Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic, is located in the southeast of the country. The city was made famous by textiles at the beginning of the 19 th century and although industries are present, this is a pleasant city with lots of green areas and opportunities for leisure pursuits. A rail line from the Balkans to Western Europe and to Scandinavia intersects Brno, making it easily accessible. Just north of the city is the Moravian Karst, a heavily wooded, hilly area, with canyons and 400 caves, created by the underground Punkva River, well worth a visit for the beautiful scenery as well as the caves, with their stalactites and stalagmites.

Kutna Hora, southeast of Prague, was once an important town because of its silver deposits, which was once the hard currency in Europe. Although not now in the same league economically, the town has been added to the UNESCO's World Heritage List because of its fabulous architecture. Lots to see and do for the culture vulture.

Karlovy Vary, in the west of the country, is the oldest of the Bohemian spa towns and is a very popular resort, not just for those seeking medical benefits from the 12 hot springs, but also as a relaxing destination for a quiet break.

Towns like Blatnice, Straznice and Vicnov in the Moravske Slovacko region are noted for their festivals of folk art and music. This area is also noted for wine production and the wine can be sampled in the many little wine cellars or vinne sklipky.