Travelling this summer: Czech Republic, Hungary, Austria

Prague

The capital is the country’s tourist epicenter. The first point of interest for tourists, its history and heritage have much to offer. We recommend a visit to the astronomical clock, a true historical monument dating back to medieval times. You’ll only have eyes for her when she comes to life (sorry for your partner).

You can also visit Prague Castle, which dominates the city of Prague from its hilltop location. Its chapel is magnificent, with colorful stained glass windows created by the most famous painters of the time. You’ll learn all about the history of this country, through its gardens and fortifications! What’s more, you’ll have a magnificent view of the city and the Vltava river.

We recommend a visit to Žluté lázně, where you’ll find grassy beaches. Here you can play volleyball, try waterskiing or paddleboarding. You can also rent a boat or pedalo for a trip on the Vltava River. This sports and leisure complex is very popular in Prague, and will allow you to relax by the water!

To protect yourself from the heat, don’t hesitate to take a stroll in the gardens, of which there are many in the city. In the heart of the city is the Františkánská zahrada garden, a veritable oasis of greenery. You can also enjoy the gardens around Prague Castle, where you can stay in the shade!

If you want to add a real cultural touch to your stay, you can attend a ballet at the National Theater, visit the National Gallery and its superb Gothic paintings.

Prague is a great place to spend the summer. With its beaches, shady gardens and stone streets, there’s plenty to keep you warm!

Český Krumlov

It is located in South Bohemia, and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lies on the meandering Vltava River, which meanders through the center of the city, skirting its castle. Château Sternberg is a must-see. It dates back to the 13th century. Climb its tower for a magnificent view of the city. You can also visit the castle, but it’s so vast that it could take several hours!

You’ll be able to discover photos by the Seidel studio, famous photographers from the early 20th century who took a large number of snapshots of the city, focusing on the lives of its inhabitants. A good way to understand the living conditions of these people at the time.

You’ll have the chance to visit the open-air theater, known as the revolving theater, because it turns (literally moves) around the stage during the performance! Located in the gardens of the château, you’ll experience an unforgettable moment!

There’s lots to do in Český Krumlov. You can attend a festival right in the middle of town, enjoy a beer at the Eggenberg brewery or learn something new at the regional museum. You’ll be amazed at what the city has to offer!

Krkonoše National Park

For nature lovers, the highest mountains in the Czech Republic can be found here. Renowned for its unique landscapes and preserved ecosystems, from alpine plains to tundra, it has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1992.

We recommend setting off from the town of Pec pod Sněžkou. You can reach the highest point by cable car or by trail if you’re brave enough! Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Czech Republic and Poland!

Karlovy Vary

This jewel of Western Bohemia is the country’s second most visited town, known for its magnificent spas and surrounding countryside. You’ll be captivated by the architecture of its buildings and monuments.

The town was frequented by the European elite before the First World War. Take a stroll through its streets, and you’ll be able to appreciate all the history and culture it has to offer.

The city is home to events such as the Food Festival and the Czech Film Festival.

And above all, try Karlovy Vary’s famous spas, with their distinctive architecture that will immerse you in history.

Budapest

The Hungarian capital offers a multitude of things to see and do!

The Hungarian Parliament is a huge building on the banks of the Danube. It’s lit up at night and looks truly majestic! You can even visit it to appreciate its interior design.

Castle Hill is an area with plenty to see and do. First of all, you can visit the Royal Palace, or the Fishermen’s Bastion, which offers a magnificent view of the Danube! This cobbled quarter is a great place to visit on foot, taking you back to the time of the knights!

You can walk along the Danube to see the “Danube shoes”, a memorial to Jews shot in the river during the Second World War. They were asked to remove their shoes before being shot. An emotional place.

Budapest is a spa town. If you need to relax, you’ll have plenty of choice. It never hurts!

Hortobágy National Park

If you love nature, you’ve come to the right place! Located two hours from the capital, in an agricultural region with fields as far as the eye can see, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will surprise you with the diversity of its animals. In particular, you’ll be able to spot Prezwalski’s horses, a thousand-year-old species with a very distinctive appearance!

Visegrad fortress

Located just 30km from Budapest, it was built at the top of a hill to overlook the Danube and watch the enemy coming! A magnificent view of the river. In fact, it has always resisted Turkish invasions!

This fortress is also known as Cloud Castle, as it stands 350m above the river. You can see the Hungarian crown jewels and stroll along the ramparts as if you were on guard duty!

There are exhibitions inside, dedicated to the history of Hungary in the days of royalty.

A great place to see if you love history!

The wine route

And yes, Hungary is a wine country! If you like good wine, you’re in for a treat! There are vineyards all over the country, but the region best known for them is Tokaj. This is the origin of the famous Tokay wine, also known as the wine of kings. Its sweet taste, golden color and nectar-like flavors led Louis XIV to call it the “wine of kings, king of wines”. Drink in moderation, especially if you’ve come by car!

Vienna

You can’t go to Austria without visiting its sublime imperial capital, one of the heartlands of European history!

It was the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and is therefore home to some architectural gems. I’m thinking in particular of the Belvedere Palace and the Imperial Palace of the Hofburg, whose architecture will make you say “wow”, so impressive and elegant are they!

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is considered one of the world’s leading museums of ancient art. It features major works by Raphael, Vermeer and Rembrandt. Plenty of food for thought!

There are so many things to do and see in Vienna that we can’t possibly list them all! I’m thinking in particular of the Spanish Riding School and its distinctive architecture, St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its Gothic architecture, and the Hundertwasserhaus district inspired by the works of Antonio Gaudi. A city rich in heritage and culture!

Hallstatt

The village is a jewel on the shores of Lake Hallstättersee, from which it takes its name. The town offers a romantic side to Austria (you’ll have to bring your partner along, gentlemen), with its typical buildings and natural charm. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, its pastel-coloured houses and marvellous landscapes make it a picture-postcard setting!

We recommend walking through the village, to admire the old houses and narrow streets, and to get up high and admire the view.

You can also visit the Hallstatt Skywalk for the best view of the village! You won’t be disappointed! In the same vein is the 5 Fingers, a panoramic platform reproducing the shape of a hand. Here, too, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and lake. One of the platforms even has a transparent floor, if you want to give yourself a scare.

You can also visit the salt mines, which are the oldest in the world! You can discover their history through films, and watch a sound and light show on an underground lake.

Melk Abbey

Located only an hour from Vienna, on a rocky spur above the Danube, don’t miss this cultural and historical site. It’s one of the finest examples of the Austrian Baroque style!

Inside, you can admire the magnificent architecture, with its churches, imperial apartments and, above all, its impressive library! We suggest you take your time once inside, to see all the details created by the artists who used the best possible materials to make this place what it is.

Although a tourist attraction, the Abbey is still home to practicing monks. You can attend daily prayers to soak up the atmosphere.

Salzburg

Mozart was born here, no less. It’s a typical Austrian town, nestled between mountains and protected by the Hohensalzburg fortress, which dominates the city. The view from the fortress is magnificent, and you can visit rooms such as the torture chamber, the dungeon and the gilded salon.

You can visit Mozart’s birthplace, where you can learn about the famous composer’s childhood. Upstairs, an exhibition of his creations is dedicated to him.

Stroll through the gardens of Mirabell Castle, laid out in Baroque style with numerous marble statues and fountains. Of course, you can also visit the castle, with its magnificent architecture.

If you’re still in your teens, head to the Puppet Theater for a great time in a world-renowned venue.