Sea in Prague. To the sea for a weekend: from Prague by rental Nissan Juke to Slovenia

TOURISTS' ANSWERS:

Different opinions

Communicating with various acquaintances, I often heard the following point of view: “Ugh, Prague is the territory of the former Czechoslovakia. They are all obsessed with the fight against the Soviet Union and they are all gloomy there. You won’t get any joy from traveling while relaxing in a city with such sad people who treat Russians disgustingly.”

In fact, I don’t quite understand where this opinion comes from. If with the Baltic countries like Latvia and Lithuania everything is more or less clear: politicians divide something there and generously supply the media with low-grade stories about their division. And based on these stories, people imagine special “tomato-throwing” detachments that meet every tourist from Russia right at the station. But it seems like nothing like this has been said about the Czech Republic and Prague in particular for a long time!

Perhaps I’m spreading my thoughts too far, so I’m returning to the original topic.

During my travels, I became convinced that the residents of Prague for the most part are very friendly and pleasant people, at least in relation to tourists. I remember when I got off the tourist bus for the first time, while rearranging my suitcase, I hit some passer-by, and I hit him hard. What do you think happened next? I still didn’t have time to turn to him to say something like “Sorry,” when he had already apologized to me. For what? Because I hurt him! Actually, in such an atmosphere of mutual understanding and mutual respect with local residents, every trip I take to Prague takes place.

"What kind of sea is there?"

I don’t want to offend anyone with my next sentence, but there are often times when people ask me: “Prague? What kind of sea is there?” =) At first this caused me a storm of indignation, but then I just began to chuckle quietly into my fist and answer: “Well, whatever - Czech, of course! It consists entirely of beer – that’s where the famous Czech foamy drink comes from.” For some reason people are offended by such an answer... So! There is no sea in Prague, as well as in the whole Czech Republic!

Let's move on. Prague – old City, half of which are entirely architectural monuments. It so happened that during the Second World War it was not bombed into splinters (more precisely, into rubble) neither by ours nor by our enemies, and almost undamaged (at least in relation to many other cities) it remained the same as it was. Its historical part stretches on two banks of the Vltava River, and you can wander there for a very, very long time. It took me 3 days on foot at my standard speed of 5 – 7 km/h just to get around everything, looking left and right.

The main tourist scene is located in the Prague 1 area, on the right bank of the Vltava. It is, in general, understandable. The entire city stands on huge hills, which are sometimes very difficult to climb, the only area of ​​the old part of the city where the streets do not have brutal elevation changes is precisely this very Prague 1. Most of the shops and taverns, cafes and shops are concentrated there, it is always very crowded, so sometimes you just can’t squeeze through.

You can walk around Prague endlessly. The whole atmosphere of this city inspires a positive, calm mood. And while walking, you can always find a cozy place to stop by and “refuel” with standard coffee or delicious Czech beer.

Absorbing the beautiful

Another reason to go to Prague is the Laterna Magica theater. The theater troupe gives many magical performances on the New Stage of the People's Theatre, and the actors communicate with the audience not with words, but with body language and gestures, throwing language barriers into the dustbin.

Neither "be" nor "me"

By the way, about language barriers. I communicated everywhere and with everyone in my weak “pigeon English” and they understood me quite well. Sometimes I came across places (cafes, shops) where they understood Russian, but still, knowledge of the Russian language in Prague is not widespread. And also, since our languages ​​(Czech and Russian) are very similar, sometimes they could say something to me in Czech, I could answer in Russian - and we understood each other perfectly.

Bored of Prague?

Finally, I note that from Prague they take us on various excursions to other cities. Moreover, these are not only Czech, but also German and Austrian, I have even seen 2-day tours to Paris. Considering the “middle” location of the Czech Republic between Germany and Austria, I can recommend going first to Prague, and then devoting several days to visiting other countries.

Let me summarize

Prague is suitable for:

Lovers of urban romance;

Lovers of leisurely relaxation with a glass of beer;

Art connoisseurs.

Prague is not suitable for:

Parents with small children;

For beach lovers =)

Is the answer helpful?

When we were planning to visit Europe for the first time, we started with Prague. And they didn’t regret it. Now I am convinced that this city is the place to start getting acquainted with Europe for several reasons. Firstly, Prague leads a fairly relaxed lifestyle, without too much fuss. This really helps to feel the atmosphere of the city. Secondly, in a small area the main eras of development of all European countries. There are centuries-old churches, tiled roofs of houses, aristocratic castles, and modern parks. Having visited Prague, you can have a general idea of ​​Europe as a whole. But do not forget that each city is beautiful and individual in its own way.

Considering that the Czech Republic has no access to the sea, accordingly, traveling around the capital will remain a purely excursion trip. Such lovers of exploring new places beautiful places Like us, this city is perfect. But I would not recommend future tourists to fill all their vacation days with excursions. You should definitely leave at least a couple of days for leisurely walks and enjoying the views and architecture. We didn’t plan it this way on purpose, but that’s exactly what happened to us. And it was great! When you walk around the city slowly, without regard for time, and return to places you already love, it brings a lot of pleasant impressions.

I would not travel around Prague with small children. This is not yet of particular value to them, but they will get tired quite quickly. Carrying a baby in a stroller along the pavement is very inconvenient and not every stroller can handle it. It is better to take children with you at middle or high school age. Although it is possible that they will be a little bored.

Is the answer helpful?

Prague is small and very cozy European capital Czech Republic. It seems to me that Russian tourists are its most frequent guests. All you have to do is get on the Internet and see rave reviews, bright photographs and loud phrases from everywhere: “We’ll definitely come back here!”

Of course, in order to understand what Prague is, the opinions of those who have visited are not enough, you need to plunge into the magic of this city yourself. Moreover, it has enormous opportunities for tourist recreation.

Those who love a passive type of holiday, consider other countries, such as the Maldives. You have to walk around Prague, a lot, constantly taking pictures: houses, sculptures, streets, attractions, which will make your index finger on your hand hurt by the end of the evening. But you won't be upset about this.

The biggest pleasure is that it is a very short flight. A little over two hours and the plane is already landing. The two oldest airlines fly there: Aeroflot and Czech Airlines. For me, choosing between the two, I would choose our Aeroflot; in some ways it is still better. In maintenance, in the newness of the aircraft. Or maybe I was just that lucky.

As for where to stay in Prague, you won’t have any problems choosing. There are hotels here for every taste and budget. There are also very luxurious ones: Palace Praha, Savoy, Kings Court and others, there are a lot of them in the city. What’s nice is that budget tourists will be able to stay very comfortably. From own experience, I would note such hotels as: Congress and Sport Hotel Olsanka (formerly Olsanka), Prague Center Plaza, Hotel Amadeus (the most budget).

In any case, no matter what hotel you choose, you won’t spend much time in it. In fact, just spend the night and take a shower. Therefore, I would advise taking more a budget option, but with a good location, preferably closer to the center. Otherwise, you will spend a lot of time moving around. And the same excursions begin in the city center, where a guide with a sign usually waits for his tourists. Therefore, those in the center will have the opportunity to sleep, and guests from hotels on the outskirts will have to set their own alarm clock. But we’re on vacation, what a wake-up call!

So, what else will catch your eye in Prague is the hospitality local residents. It happened that I accidentally pushed someone, and before I had time to apologize, they already said to me: “Sorry,” and smiled broadly. People are very open, ready to help in any way they can. Of course, this is very captivating and makes you trust them. Many, by the way, speak excellent Russian. But these are mostly older residents, not young people. In some ways, it seemed to me that our languages ​​are similar. So, learning Czech and Russian will not be difficult.

Prague is a safe city, even a young girl can easily travel here, unaccompanied. Theft on the streets and in hotels is extremely rare and most often such offenses come from tourists themselves. The Czechs themselves are very decent. Here's an example: there are no turnstiles in the underground metro in Prague. Everything rests on the integrity of citizens. There are controllers on trains, but they are extremely rare.

Prague is a city, a complete attraction. The most impressive is St. Vitus Cathedral. With its power it shocks and fascinates. There is even a joke about it among tourists. That due to its colossal size, the cathedral cannot be completely captured in just one lens. St. Vitus Cathedral is considered the most important in Prague; all the coronations of kings took place inside it. An entire dynasty of kings rests on its territory. The inside of the Cathedral is just as stunning and impressive. Something instills horror. At that time, this was done specifically to control people with the help of their own faith.

St. Vitus Cathedral

For walking, take a stroll through the Old Town Square. She is very beautiful during the daytime. Ancient houses are like pictures, lanterns are everywhere, street musicians play famous compositions. Just wear comfortable shoes; walking on the paving stones in heels will be difficult.

Street musicians

In Prague, in addition to the classic sights from guidebooks, there are mysterious and mystical places. Guides usually don’t talk about them. For example, Golden Street, there are legends about it that it was here that alchemists once lived who knew how to turn simple metals into gold. Rumor has it that similar things are happening now in the tiny houses that are located there. For those who like to tickle their nerves, every evening a man dressed in a skeleton costume comes near the historical clock and gives a tour of the mysterious places of Prague.

And of course, what Prague is most famous for is its intoxicating beer. It's really high quality and delicious. Each restaurant has its own small brewery. And in Czech culture it is considered the norm to pour beer even for children. But they really have something different, not the same as what they sell in Russia.

In conclusion, let me say that you can do some good shopping in Prague. Be sure to bring beer. And the signature attribute will be puppets. Every family in the Czech Republic has its own small home theater, and tells children fairy tales not from books, but with the help of these “live” dolls. For the Czech Republic this is real art. True, they are expensive. From 50 euros and above.

The Charles Bridge

Is the answer helpful?

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is the most beautiful city in Europe and the dream of any tourist. After all, this is one of the most visited cities in Europe for excursion holidays. A variety of excursions in Prague will allow you to explore the city and the whole country far and wide. They will discover medieval architecture and show historical monuments culture, will introduce you to amazing cuisine and signature Czech beer - all this attracts travelers here.

There are at least 10 reasons to fall in love with Prague:

1. Tourist paradise

Prague is so diverse with hotels, inns and resorts that anyone can choose a holiday according to their budget.

2. No language barrier

The Czech language is so similar in sound to Russian that having a small stock of Czech words, you don’t have to worry about being misunderstood. In addition, there are a lot of Russian-speaking Czechs in hotels and shops.

3. Magnificent medieval castles, fortresses and landmarks

The Czech Republic is considered a country of castles and fortresses. There are more than two thousand ancient buildings on its territory. Prague Castle, Wenceslas Square, Prague Zoo, Kafka Museum, John Lennon's Wall, Charles Bridge, Karlštejn Castle, Vysehrad Fortress, Strahov Monastery, the narrowest street in Prague Vinara Certovka, Troy Castle. There probably won't be enough time to visit everywhere. And this is a reason to return to Prague again.

4. Treatment with healing waters

Czech healing muds are known all over the world, mineral water, superior service resorts. Karlovy Vary, Frantiskovy Lazne, Jesenik, Konstantinovy ​​Lazne and other resort places.

5. The unique nature of the Czech Republic

The climate can be defined as maritime and continental. Winters are mild, dry and not cold, and summers are humid and warm. Nature is unique with its landscapes and picturesque views.

6. Gastronomic pleasure

When going to another country, you simply need to taste the national dishes. And Prague is no exception. Pork knuckle, local sausage and all kinds of cheeses, goulash and dumplings, boar knee, svichkova with sour cream, pechena kachna, all these dishes sound like a song.

7. Shopping and Shopping

Fashionistas and fashionistas should not miss their chance to expand the range of their items from branded manufacturers. Shoes, haberdashery, jewelry and much more will delight you with their abundance.

8. Souvenir products

Of course, you should bring memorabilia and souvenirs from Prague for yourself and your loved ones. Czech beer and cosmetics based on it. Becherovka, liqueur-balm infused with spices and herbs. Czech waffles and cheeses. Czech garnet and crystal. Souvenirs with the mole Krtek, the symbol of the Czech Republic - chocolate with his image, mugs, T-shirts, stationery. Having visited the Havel market, as if specially created for tourists, you can buy honey, sweets, pastries, souvenirs made of wood and leather, and all kinds of jewelry.

9. Get into the classics

Lovers of classical music will not remain indifferent to Prague and its churches. Listen to the Catholic organ and feel the spirit of classical music, what could be better for your state of mind. In addition, the streets of Prague are full of street musicians.

10. Visit extraordinary excursions in Prague

They can be ordered on the website, without the help of a tour operator. Moreover, excursions are conducted in Russian. Sightseeing tour in Prague, fabulous Prague, excursion for lovers, gastronomic excursion, wine tasting, photo walk. And also excursions from Prague to the Czech Republic, to Munich, to Dresden, to Vienna and Budapest. Any tourist can find a route to their liking.

Prague is a fabulous and lovely city that will make you come back for more. Longing for walking, spontaneous shopping, spiers and streets, delicious food and architectural buildings will not let go of a single person who has been in it. In a word, Prague is here to stay. Or maybe forever.

One of the many advantages of living in Europe is that you can travel around 5-6 cities and 3-4 countries over the weekend, without really straining yourself. Which, in fact, is what we did one weekend in July. And again the week-end tariff from RUNWELL.

This time my friend and I decided to take a quick Nissan Juke for 185 euros for the weekend. By the way, I really liked the car: nimble, excellent handling, comfortable, it was very convenient to drive, and also built-in navigation, Bluetooth, USB and other joys for such a lover of gadgets and modern technologies like me - I tried everything on the road, I was satisfied with everything 

This is what Juke looks like)

So, Friday afternoon, we set off towards Vienna, along the already beloved, in places being repaired, route to Brno. In Vienna, we decided to pick up travel companions whom we had found in advance on the Internet. For what? - you ask - just like that, we didn’t have any special goal, purely sporting interest - to meet new people and try to have fun on the road.

As always, before the Austrian border we buy a vignette (8 euros for ten days), and we also pick up Czech guys who are hitchhiking to the Slovenian mountains, but we only dropped them off as far as the outskirts of Vienna. It turns out that hitchhiking is a fairly popular topic among local extreme sports enthusiasts. The guys told us that they have been traveling like this for 5 years, it takes 3 days to get to their destination, but it’s fun.

And so, at 4 o’clock in the afternoon we are in beautiful Vienna, meeting our fellow travelers: Zuzanna, her daughter and a pug (the dog from Men in Black)).

We agreed to take them to Trieste (Italy). For now, let's have a cup of tea Viennese coffee, ate the world-famous strudel and hit the road. Before Trieste, we stopped only once at a gas station, to warm up, have a snack, and buy a vignette for Slovenia. The rest of the time we admired the landscapes of Austria and Slovenia: mountains, meadows - incredible beauty - they are magnificent even from the car window... We were very impressed by the Slovenian roads, absolutely perfect, many overpasses and tunnels, no extreme ascents or descents.


If you have a small trunk, no problem!

We arrived in Trieste around 10 pm.


It is immediately clear that the dressing is Italian.

We were met by a friend of our fellow travelers: an Italian, a Sicilian (although rather the opposite). In gratitude for the fact that we brought his friends, he invited him to dinner. In this small port town, it was not difficult at such a late hour to treat yourself to excellent pizza and drink cold white Lambrusco in a wine bar
(What I mean is that in Prague there are problems with food closer to 11, and I personally know only one 24-hour pizzeria).


Various grappas at the bar.

After such a dinner, we decided to stay overnight in this cute town. I was lucky enough to snag Hotel Central through my favorite iPhone app, booking.tonight, for only 55 euros. When we were leaving, our Italian friend gave us a parting gift, again as a sign of gratitude, a bottle of vintage prosecco. A broad-hearted man!


Prosecco.

In the morning, invigorated by a cup of strong Italian coffee and a panini snack, we went to the chic Unity of Italy Square, which opens directly into the sea, which is very rare, and went to Izola, where our Prague friends were just relaxing. Trieste is a wonderful town, and we will definitely go there again, one hundred percent!

Unity Square

From Trieste to Izola it takes about 15 minutes maximum. The road through the tunnels, past the cargo port and then into Slovenia, and in a few more minutes the town of Izola itself.

Sea and cargo port.


Sea.

By and large, this is not quite Slovenia, because not so long ago (before World War II) the city was subordinate to Italy, typical Italian houses, red tiles, a bay with yachts. There is a small passenger port from where you can reach Venice in 40 minutes by ferry.
But we just went to the beach. The beach, however, turned out to be, to put it mildly, not very good. You can only lie on a sun lounger, a mixture of pebbles and sand. And the entrance to the sea is not very comfortable, except perhaps via ladders from the pier, but the water is clean. Naturally, we were lucky with the weather! In general, Saturday was spent in complete relaxation: we lay on the beach, drank wine, ate Mediterranean fish.


A typical dwelling in Izola.

In the evening we had a get-together on the veranda of a house that our friends rented. A couple of points about this: a three-room villa 3 minutes walk from the sea with a park and wireless internet costs 80 euros per day in Izola. This is probably why Izola is a favorite holiday destination for Czechs. People begin to book housing for the summer, starting in February, but due to the relatively low cost, the game is worth the candle and many are excitedly tracking the “tasty” price offers for housing, both in the private sector (houses and apartments), as well as pensions and hotels.

Such dangerous steps led to the sea)

On Sunday morning we got up early to lie on the beach a little more and then hit the road again. We were going to visit Ljubljana and Salzburg.

It's only an hour's drive from Izola to Ljubljana, and it's a pleasure to drive on an empty road on a Sunday morning. Ljubljana looks like a typical European town, with monuments, churches, red roofs, narrow streets, paving stones... but it doesn’t look like the capital at all. The houses have not been restored, with crumbling plaster, holes in the paving stones have been carelessly repaired, there are no tourist crowds, although there are souvenir shops. Perhaps it’s because of Sunday morning and the sea coast, located quite close, but most likely tourists are not very fond of this cute small town. Here on the mountain there is a castle that can be climbed by cable car, a river flows along which there are many cute cafes, coffee shops and cozy restaurants.


Fruit shop)

Leaving the car in the underground parking lot located in the very center, we wandered around the city for an hour and had an afternoon snack in one of the local coffee shops. And, having purchased a batch of magnets, we moved on.


Narrow streets in Ljubljana.


Embankment.
Our path lay to Salzburg, the homeland of Mozart. The road took quite a long time, we did not take into account that summer weekends are an excellent reason to go to the sea and many take advantage of this, and on Sunday the flow of cars is so dense that traffic jams form. There was a real traffic jam in front of the payment terminal for the Karavanke tunnel. The tunnel itself, at a speed limit of 80 km/h, was also not moving very briskly. The tunnel is very long, almost 8 km, I was really scared while we were driving through it, it seems I even had an attack of claustrophobia. We drove slowly, there were a lot of cars, there was gas and the light at the end was not visible for a long time. In general, at first glance it didn’t take a very long journey a large number of time, effort and pretty much spoiled our plans.


Entering the tunnel.

Salzburg is wonderful. The first thing that catches your eye, at least to me, is the lack of red roofs. Salzburg is located on the banks of the Salzach River. On one side there is a plain, Old city it is supported by a rather high hill with a castle, and then the Alps begin.
On a Sunday summer evening, Salzburg is quite crowded.


The square in front of the house where Mozart was born and the library.

Panorama of the city from the castle.


Lock.

Locals are definitely actively involved in the public life of the city. A street library was set up on one of the squares, and a theater stage was built on the other. Many men and boys in national costumes. In general, in the short time that we had left to explore the city, we were very impressed with the atmosphere and comfort of this place. After dinner with excellent schnitzels, we headed back to Prague.

We arrived at 2 am, tired but very happy. It’s good that the weekend tariff from Runwell ends on Monday at noon, we managed to get some sleep)
Results:
-On weekends you have to choose: either the sea or tourist walks around the towns. It is impossible to embrace the immensity.
-in the summer it’s worth taking traffic into account, although of course it’s impossible to take everything into account, but you can safely spend a couple of hours on the routes where there are turnstiles for payment and tunnels, and a lot of repair work...
-We liked the Nissan Juke. All negative comments are not accepted, you can’t please everyone, we were pleased))

Every nation has its own favorite sea. The Russians have black and red, the French have azure, the Danes have northern, and the Czechs have the Croatian Adriatic. Why not Italy or France, but rather Croatia? The answer is simple: closer, cheaper, and the sea is no worse.

Thriving in Croatia private sector housing. Remember how in the past, somewhere in Gelendzhik, my grandmother rented out a shed, and so it is here. You can rent a hut or an expensive mansion, but basically everyone rents apartments with a kitchen and everything necessary for independent living. Many Czechs have long-established connections with their owners, as they come to them from year to year. The cost of such housing usually does not exceed 20-25 euros per day per person.

Summer is coming, and thousands of cars loaded with many necessary things rush to warm sea And bright sun. The hostess fries the Czech version of pork schnitzel - řízek - for the trip, and the men take with them a keg of their favorite beer. There is plenty of beer and meat in Croatia, but this is already a tradition, like boiled eggs and fried chicken in our old days.

Entry into Croatia is free for Czechs and other residents of the eurozone, but for citizens of third countries it is necessary to have either a Croatian visa, or a multi-Schengen visa, or a residence permit of any EU country. And another important tip: try to plan your route so as not to cross the Croatian border on Saturday. Usually apartments are rented for a week (Saturday - Saturday), so on this day there are many kilometers of queues at checkpoints. So, everything is ready, all that remains is to choose a route - and off you go!

How to get from Prague to Croatia by car? 4 best routes

First option. The fastest and easiest (Prague - Brno - Vienna - Graz - Maribor - border crossing Macelj).

Distance - 620 km, travel time - 5.5 hours.
Tolls for roads

The road is almost a continuous highway, with the exception of a small section between Brno and Vienna. You can eat at gas station snack bars. In Austria, pay attention to roadside self-service restaurants of the Rosenberger system. Not cheap, but high quality, tasty and convenient. One of them is located at the entrance to Vienna, and the second is not reaching the border with Slovenia. On the way you can see the South Moravian cities of Mikulov, Lednice and Valtice, and the Austrian cities of Baden and Graz. Outside Vienna it is nice to stop and take a walk in Laxenburg Park. If you are traveling overnight, it is best to choose a hotel in South Moravia or in the Slovenian Maribor region - hotels in Austria are much more expensive.

Second option. The shortest (Prague - Ceske Budejovice - Linz - Graz - Maribor - Macelj border crossing).

Distance- 570 km, travel time- 6 hours.

Tolls for roads: Czech, Austrian and Slovenian vignettes.

The road from Ceske Budejovice to Linz is bad: narrow and congested. After this section you will enter the highway, which will stretch almost to the border with Croatia. On the way you can stop by Cesky Krumlov, Hluboka nad Vltavou Castle and Austrian Graz.

Third option. Via Hungary (Prague - Brno - Vienna - Sopron - Heviz - border crossing Letenyei Határátkelőhely közúti).

Distance- 610 km, travel time- 7.5 hours.

Tolls for roads: Czech and Austrian vignettes.

From Vienna, set the route on your navigator to the Hungarian Sopron, and then to Hévíz. When traveling from Heviz to the border crossing Letenyei Határátkelőhely közúti, disable the use of toll roads: then you will not have to spend money on the Hungarian highways. On the way, you can explore Sopron, and also stop overnight in Heviz and start the next morning with a swim in the famous healing lake with radon water.

Fourth option. Through all of Slovenia (Prague - Brno - Vienna - Graz - Maribor - Ljubljana - border crossing Kaštel).

Distance- 830 km, travel time- 8.5 hours.

Tolls for roads: Czech, Austrian and Slovenian vignettes.

Between Maribor and Ljubljana there are two beautiful parks - Mozirski gaj and Volčji Potok arboretum. The capital of Slovenia itself is also worthy of a visit. Also on the way you can explore one of two cave complexes: Postojnska jama or Škocjanske jame. Slovenia has a very good and understandable cuisine: the food is tasty and inexpensive. Hotel prices are also low, and the hosts are hospitable and friendly.

Each of the listed routes has its own advantages: the choice depends, rather, on the availability of time and your desire to see something interesting along the way. Think, decide - summer is just around the corner. Have a great holiday!

Czech Republic or Czech Republic- a state in Central Europe. It borders with Poland (border length 615 km) in the north, Germany in the northwest and west (815 km), Austria in the south (362 km) and Slovakia in the east (197 km). The capital is Prague.

The territory of the Czech Republic is 78.9 thousand square kilometers.

The Czech landscape is very diverse. The western part (Bohemia) lies in the basins of the Laba (Elbe) and Vltava (Moldau) rivers, surrounded mainly by low mountains (the Sudetes and their part - the Giant Mountains), where highest point countries - Mount Snezka with a height of 1,602 m. Moravia, East End, is also quite hilly and mainly lies in the Morava (March) river basin, and also contains the source of the Odra (Oder) river. Rivers from the landlocked Czech Republic flow into three seas: the North, Baltic and Black.

Climate

The climate in the Czech Republic is moderate, transitional from maritime to continental, with pronounced seasonality. Summer is moderately hot, the average daily temperature of the hottest month (July) is +19..+21 °C. Winter is mild and humid, the average daily temperature of the coldest month (January) is −2..-4 °C. Ski season lasts from December to April.

It’s difficult to pinpoint the best time to travel to Prague or the country’s health resorts: they are good at any time of the year. For visiting ski resorts January and February are best.

Population

The population of the Czech Republic in 2009 is 10,211,904 people. Urban population: 73% of the total population.

The majority of the population of the Czech Republic (95%) is made up of ethnic Czechs and speakers of the Czech language, which belongs to the group of West Slavic languages.

Foreigners make up about 4% of the country's population. Among immigrants, the largest diaspora in the Czech Republic are Ukrainians, of whom 126,500 lived in the country at the end of 2007. Slovaks are in second place (67,880), approximately 2% of the population. In third are citizens of Vietnam (51,000). Following them are citizens of Russia and Poland. Other ethnic groups include Germans, Roma, Hungarians and Jews.

Official language: Czech, German, English, French and Russian are also spoken.

The majority of the population considers themselves atheists (59%), and almost 9% find it difficult to answer the question about their religion.

Believers: Catholics - 27%, Czech Evangelical Brothers - 1%, Czech Hussites - 1%, other religions (Christian minority churches and sects, Orthodox, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists) - about 3%.

Currency

Czech crown (CZK), 1 CZK = 100 hellers, 1 USD ~ 18.9 CZK, 1 EUR ~ 25.8 CZK.

In circulation there are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 kroner, as well as banknotes in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 kroner.

Although the Czech Republic is a member of the EU and is also part of the Schengen zone, the euro will begin to be officially used there no earlier than 2012.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 17:00, some exchange offices Open also on Saturdays from 9:00-12:00. When exchanging currency, a commission fee of 1-15% is charged, so you must first find out what amount will be issued in hand, and only then exchange.

The Czech Republic has a dense network of ATMs that accept all common international card types (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Maestro, Cirrus and others). Most shops and restaurants also accept credit cards.

American Express, Thomas Cook or Visa customers will have no problems accepting traveler's checks at Czech banks. Eurocheque cards are also accepted everywhere.

Communications

Telephone code: 420

Internet domain: .cz

Emergency numbers: police: 158, ambulance: 155, fire service: 150.

City codes

Prague - 2, Karlovy Vary - 17, Marianske Lazne - 165, Podebrady - 324, Teplice - 417.

How to call

To call the Czech Republic from Russia, dial: 8 - dial tone - 10 - 420 - city code - subscriber number.

To call from the Czech Republic to Russia, dial: 00 - 7 - city code - subscriber number.

To call from the Czech Republic from a landline to a Russian mobile: 00 - 7 - ten-digit subscriber number.

Landline communications

The Czech network of public payphones is one of the densest in Europe. Public telephones work mainly with calling cards and less often with coins. Telephone cards can be purchased at post offices, newsstands, gas stations, and sometimes also in supermarkets. The cards are sold in denominations of 150, 300 and 500 CZK.

With O2 TRICK cards you can send short text, voice or email messages.

mobile connection

Currently, 3 mobile operators offer their services in the Czech Republic: Vodafone, T-Mobile and Telefónica O2. All mobile networks are dual - they operate at frequencies of 900 and 1800 MHz, i.e. in the bands for which most devices are adapted.

Before you start using your mobile phone in the Czech Republic, consider whether it would be cheaper to buy a local SIM card. In this case, the lock on your phone should be removed. The price of a new SIM card ranges from 300 to 2000 CZK, depending on the original credit.

Internet

Just like in most European countries, in the Czech Republic connecting to the Internet is a common occurrence. You can connect at your hotel or Internet cafe.

Increasingly, you can also connect to the Internet in information centers and public libraries.

Mail

Postal services are provided by the Czech Post. The level of these services is quite high and at the same time they are inexpensive. Sending a postcard or letter (up to 20 grams) to European countries costs 17 CZK, to other countries - 17-18 CZK. A postcard or letter can be sent directly from the post office, or you can buy a stamp at a kiosk and place the letter in the orange mailbox.

Czech Post website: www.cpost.cz

Shopping

Store opening hours are from 9:00 to 18:00, on Saturdays from 9:00 to 13:00. Shops and department stores in major cities open seven days a week, usually until 10 pm, and some open 24 hours a day (eg Tesco). Only a few small shops observe a lunch break, usually from 12 to 13 hours.

From the Czech Republic you can bring several types of absinthe, the most incredible beer mugs, Becherovka, jewelry made from garnet (the prices for it are encouraging), as well as things made of glass and crystal (Bohemian crystal is the main item of Czech export).

From the health resorts you can bring Carlsbad salt, medicinal cosmetics, and cups for drinking water from the springs.

Where to stay

The country has adopted the European classification of hotels from two to five “stars”; there are hotels from well-known world “chains”. The level of service in hotels is close to the “Central European” level and directly correlates with the category of the establishment.

Many sanatoriums in health resorts Rather, they resemble not health institutions, but first-class hotels. However, hotels, almost always equipped with good medical facilities, often resemble sanatoriums. Some sanatoriums can be called "spa hotels".

Sea and beaches

Beach holiday in the Czech Republic it is presented exclusively on river beaches.

Despite the fact that, due to strong currents and dirty water, you cannot swim in the Vltava, everyone can relax on the beach right in the Czech capital. On the banks of the river there are two sandy beach with swimming pools and volleyball courts.

First beach is located in the Smíchov district on the Upper Embankment (Hořejší nábřeží). It will be open until September 30, 2009. Visitors can not only lie on a sun lounger with a cocktail, but also attend one of the many concerts in the evening. There is also an equipped children's playground on the beach.

Second beach. on open air. There is a small pool and playground for children.

Story

Historical chronicles speak of the settlement of the Czech Republic starting from the 1st century AD. Then various Slavic tribes gradually began to move from the Eastern lands. Later in the 6th century AD. The Slavic peoples of the Czech Republic were captured by the Avars - Tatar nomads and paid them tribute.

In the 8th century, on the site of the future Czech Republic, the state of Great Moravia was formed. It included: Bohemia, Slovakia, part of Hungary and Poland. In the 9th century, Mojmir I became the first king.

In the 9th century, Cyril and Methodius were invited to the Czech Republic, who brought here the Slavic writing - Glagolitic.

At the beginning of the 13th century. The Přemyslidians again restored the unified integrity of the country, which had already acquired the status of a kingdom.

In the XIII-XIV centuries. the then kings Přemysl II and Wenceslas II conquered more and more lands around the country.

In the XIV century. The Luxembourg dynasty began to rule, and the first king from this family was John I. However, constantly being on military campaigns, he died in 1346.

In the 14th century, the Czech Republic began to be ruled by Charles IV (1346-1378), who also became Emperor of the Roman Empire. The capital of the empire was quickly moved to Prague, and Czech became the official language of the Roman Empire. And in 1348 the first university was opened in Prague.

When the next king, Wenceslas IV, reigned, the Reformation began in the Czech Republic. This movement was started by Jan Hus, professor of theology and rector of the University of Prague. His main speeches were calls for equalizing the rights of the clergy and laity; he condemned the excessive wealth of the church, and also questioned some church tenets, for which he was executed in 1415. After this, unrest began in the Czech Republic. In 1419, several Catholic priests were killed by the Hussites and the Roman Emperor Sigismund I began a war against the Hussites. The Hussite wars continued until 1434, when Sigismund finally defeated the rebels.

In the 16th century, during the reign of Rudolf II (1576-1611), the capital of the Roman Empire moved again to the Czech Republic. A period of prosperity and economic recovery begins again.

In 1740-1780, the Czech Republic was ruled by Maria Teresa. During this period, the Age of Enlightenment began in the Czech Republic. Maria Teresa's son Joseph II (1780-1790) began with grandiose reforms. Many Catholic churches and monasteries were closed, and their enormous wealth was confiscated. And in 1791 Joseph abolished serfdom.

In the 19th century, economic growth began in the Czech Republic, as in many European countries.

At the beginning of the 20th century, in the First World War, the Czechs did not want to fight against Russia, a Slavic country, despite the calls of Austria-Hungary. In 1918, following Russia, the monarchy also fell in the Czech Republic, a provisional government was created and a new state emerged - Czechoslovakia.

In 1939, Hitler occupied Czechoslovakia, and only in 1945 did Soviet troops liberate it.

In 1968, Slovakian Alexander Dubcek became the ruler of Czechoslovakia, proclaiming the slogan “socialism with a human face.” Censorship was abolished and political prisoners were released from prison. The result was the entry of Soviet troops into Prague and the removal of Dubcek. As Okudzhava wrote: “tanks are walking around Prague - tanks are walking in truth.”

In 1989, after demonstrations and public statements, a multi-party government was created and Vaclav Havel was elected president of Czechoslovakia.

And in 1992, Slovakia separated from Czechoslovakia, and the Czech Republic again became the country it had been for 1000 years.

The Czech Republic joined NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004.

Simultaneously with joining the EU, the Czech Republic signed the Schengen Agreement, and since December 21, 2007, border controls at the land borders of the Czech Republic were abolished. On March 31, 2008, controls were also lifted on flights arriving from Schengen countries.

Phrasebook

Good morning! - Good early!

Good afternoon - Dobri dan!

How are you (you/you)? - Yak se mate/mash?

Thank you, ok - Diekoui, please

My name is... - Ymenui se...

Goodbye - Na shladanou

Morning - Early

After lunch - Odpoledne

Evening - Vecher

Night - Nots

Tomorrow - Zitra

Today - Dnes

Yesterday - Yesterday

Do you speak Russian (English, German)? - Mluvite Rushtina (English, German)?

I don’t understand - Let’s not understand

Please - We ask

Thank you - Diekoui

Who/what - Kdo/tso

Where/where - Where/kam

How/how much - Yak/colic

How long/when - Yak long/kdy

Why? - What else?

How is this in Czech? - Yak ten to cheski?

Can you help me? - Muzhete mi pomotsi?

Yes/no - Ano/no

Sorry - Prominte

When does the museum/church/exhibition open? - Where are the museum/church/exhibition?

What is the price? - How long are you standing?

Too expensive - To ye mots drage

Where is the bank/exchange office? - Where is the bank/exchange point?

Where can I buy a calling card? - Where can I get a phone card?

They stole from me... - They stole my husband...

Please, menu - Idelni listek please

Bread - Bread

Coffee - Kava

Tea - Tea

With milk/sugar - with milk/cucrum

Orange juice - Pomerančova shtiava

Soup - Polevka

Fish/meat - Fish/maso

Vegetarian dish - Vegetarianska strava

Egg - Weiqe

Salad - Salad

Dessert - Detsert

Fruits - Ovotse

Ice cream - Zmrzlina

White/red/rose wine - Bile/chervene/ruzhove wine

Beer - Beer

Water - Water

Breakfast - Snidanie

Lunch - Lunch

Dinner - Viecherzhe

How much per night? - How much does it cost per night?

Czechs love music and still celebrate some traditional holidays. Czechs are very hospitable.

Many residents, especially older ones, know Russian well. There is a good attitude towards tourists, since many understand that tourism is one of the important means of replenishing income. Although in the Czech Republic foreigners are officially charged higher hotel fees, they may unofficially inflate the bill in a restaurant or taxi.

Since January 1, 2006, there has been a smoking ban in in public places (seats public transport - stops, train stations, vehicles, places of cultural recreation). In restaurants, the administration is obliged to allocate space for non-smokers (a separate room or during, for example, lunch and dinner).

From Krasnodar from Moscow

By train