Things to see and do in Czech Republic

UNESCO World Heritage site Český Krumlov is widely thought to be the Czech Republic's prettiest town. Wander the ramparts of its fairytale castle, stroll along the banks of the infant Vltava River, and lose yourself among its medieval back streets (www.ckrumlov.cz).
 

Take in a classical concert in one of Prague's many atmospheric venues, which include ancient churches, opulent concert halls, historic buildings and outdoor theatres (www.heartofeurope.cz).

Go hiking in the Å umava Forest, the country's largest national park. A region of forest-clad hills along the border with Austria, the park includes scenic lakes, trout streams, areas of virgin forest and important historic monuments (www.npsumava.cz).

Treat yourself to a spa treatment among the hot springs and mineral baths of West Bohemia's famous spa resorts - opulent Karlovy Vary (www.karlovyvary.cz), which once attracted the crowned heads of Europe, Marianské Lázně and FrantiÅ¡kovy Lázně.

Explore an ancient silver mine and marvel at the magnificent murals in St Barbara's Cathedral in Kutná Hora, a pretty medieval town and another UNESCO World Heritage site (www.kutnahora.cz). Kutná Hora once rivalled Prague and even London in terms of size and importance. The discovery of silver ore here in the 14th century led to the creation of the Royal Mint and the town became the political, cultural and economic centre of Bohemia. The legacy of this glorious epoch can be seen in the fine Gothic and Italianate buildings that line the cobbled streets.

Visit the attractive university town of Olomouc, noted for its parks, baroque churches, sculptures and fountains (www.olomouc.eu). The surrounding Hana region is strongly agricultural, with many villages holding attractive harvest festivals in late September.

Soak up the atmosphere in capital city Prague: one of Europe's most beautiful and cultural cities, with a wealth of magnificent gothic, baroque, art nouveau and cubist architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, and the world's biggest castle (www.pis.cz).

Get the creeps at Sedlec Ossuary, where the centuries-old bones of around 40,000 people have been crafted into a stunning display of garlands, chandeliers, sculptures and coats of arms (www.kostnice.cz).

Get a different perspective on Prague with a cruise along the Vltava River (www.paroplavba.cz); either head downstream to Prague Zoo, or upstream to the Slapy Dam.