From mountains to national parks: Czechs share their favorite summer destinations

Locals always know their own country best. There is only so much a visitor from abroad can find out from books. For real insight, it is best to ask a native.

We reached out to two large Czech Facebook communities devoted to travel and asked them what they would recommend to non-natives and visitors from abroad. We also added recommendations from Campiri, a unique rental platform for RVs.

Respondents votes for the best destinations from a list and also added their own suggestions making for a broad and diverse range of tips. Bookmark this article whenever you're looking for summer travel inspiration, though most of these amazing places can be visited year-round.

First up we asked the Czech travel community Amazing Czech Places (Úžasná místa v Česku) with 662,000 members, to rank it's favorite destinations. The group's clear favorite? Czech Switzerland (České Švýcarsko) in first place, with Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) coming in second. Other hot spots in the top 10 included Prague, the fairytale medieval town of Český Krumlov, and monument-laden Lednice-Valtice.

TOP 10

Several other places from the "Amazing Czech Places" didn't make the top 10 but were frequently mentioned. The town of Štramberk, with its timber houses, is nicknamed the “Wallachian Nativity Scene.” For steampunk fans, there is the unique industrial area Dolní Vítkovice. Wilderness lovers will like the picturesque nature reserve Toulcovy Maštale.

The next Facebook group we polled Sleeping in a Car (Spaní v autě) with 99,000 members, looked at things from the perspective campervan enthusiasts. They voted Šumava as the most attractive place. The Krkonoše Mountains ranked second, especially among bike lovers. The beautiful protected landscape of Pálava, the town of Štramberk, and the medieval castle of Loket, which stands on a distinctive rocky ridge, all made the top 10.

TOP 10

A number of interesting spots should belong on your bucket list as well, according to the group. The Museum of Tatra Cars in Kopřivnice will appeal to retro tech fans. Nature lovers will be more attracted to the cozy Atüln, a chain of student-designed tourist shelters found across the Krkonoše Mountains or the Beskydy Mountains, which offer a trip to the Pustevny mountain saddle, named for the hermits that used to live there. The adventurous can hike all the way to Smrk, the highest point in the Jizera Mountains. 

Campiri is synonymous with freedom and the modern way of traveling. Their team of passionate travelers who have adventured all over Czechia made these recommendations.

In first place is the Malevil resort in the valley of the Lusatian Mountains. It wins because of its peace, relaxation, beautiful views, great golf course, high-quality wellness services, and other activities. It offers a slice of paradise on Earth.

Wine lovers can stop at the romantic Stellplatz (campervan spot) in Velké Bílovice. From your motorhome or campervan, you can go straight to the wine cellar in your slippers. It is accessible year-round, and you won't need anything for your stay.

A trip to the Radhošť pond is a great option, even if you don't fish. You can enjoy a quiet holiday and an active time with friends in this part of the Beskydy Mountains. If you like water sports, cycling, hiking, or horseback riding, then this is the place for you.

An ideal trip for animal lovers and families with children, Safari park Dvůr Králové lets you stay in amazing accommodation inside the zoo. You can have breakfast and dinner right there with the animals. Plus, you’ll get the chance to enjoy the zoo when ordinary visitors aren’t there.

The last tip from the Campiri team is Šikland. The atmosphere of this resort town styled after America's Old West engulfs you in times long gone. You can look forward to parades, dance performances, and a fire show.

Are you planning your own caravan trip? You can read handy tips on how to get started, and make the most of your trip.