Spark a winter romance in Czech Republic

Turn up the heat this winter and let romantic sparks fly in front of an open fireplace while snowflakes are falling outside the window. Czech Republic offers the right winter feel with an untouched landscape of white snow, quaint restaurants, charming hotels and winding streets dotted with softly glowing street lamps that look more appealing than ever after a snowfall. Why not try a different Christmas with the family with the same festive atmosphere, but with someone else taking care of the dishes? In the Czech Republic, Christmas is sacred and the Christmas markets are as numerous as the gifts under the Christmas tree. Take the opportunity to share moments of joy and happiness and relax with your loved ones.

Magical moments in Český Krumlov

Let the gates open to the historic part of Český Krumlov and be mesmerized by the Vltava River that meanders through the medieval city. Discover a maze of narrow and winding alleys, small squares, monuments and historical tales and legends. It is somewhat painfully romantic to see the UNESCO protected monuments, the castle and the Gothic statues covered in snow, and watch the sun go down over the city. Best of all is that you avoid the hordes of tourists. It’s not for nothing that many artists fell in love with Český Krumlov such as the eminent Austrian artist Egon Schiele (1890-1918). Do not miss a visit to the Egon Schiele Art Centre, an exhibition that is open all year around and which documents his life and work. Another popular destination is the museum and photographic studio of Seidel, showing photographs of the master Seidel and how photography emerged in the Czech Republic during the 19^th century. The house with the photo studio is an architectural gem and a place where time has stood still.
Another popular excursion is the tour to the Eggenberg brewery, which has operated in the city since 1560. Here you get an insight into the secrets behind the manufacturing of the famous beer and a tasting is also included. Take the opportunity to try their stylish brewery restaurant with Czech delicacies and traditional dishes accompanied by their various beers.
For those of you who love a magical winter atmosphere, there is no better place than Český Krumlov.

A snow covered baroque castle and wine tasting in Mikulov

Mikulov is the city that you should not miss on a trip through the South Moravia. Amidst the stunning landscape dotted with vineyards and white cliffs is the town of Mikulov in the shadow of its own baroque castle. Here you can admire some of the many historic sites the city has to offer, and enjoy a glass of excellent wine with friends by the fire. The first Sunday of Advent the lavishly decorated Christmas tree on the square in Mikulov will be officially lit. Visitors can expect irresistible Christmas markets with traditional Czech handicrafts and many treats. Christmas carols will create a festive and peaceful atmosphere and you can enjoy several Christmas concerts. For children there is an opportunity to listen to Christmas stories and the Czech Santa Claus St. Nicholas will pass by with small gifts. During Advent, the tourist office in Mikulov has a popular one-hour long tour of the historic town, accompanied by a cup of mulled wine. A stroll through the charming town centre is a relaxing experience. The guide will tell stories about the decorated houses and take you to the impressive Dietrichstein Mausoleum. The journey also runs through the famous Jewish Quarter and the castle cellar where the wines are stored in large oak barrels. Mikulov have a "little extra" that makes Christmas perfect.

Karlovy Vary - a healing experience

Create your very own winter fairy tale in the romantic spa town of Karlovy Vary, which has an excellent reputation around the world both for its treatment methods and its natural healing resources. In this corner of Czech Republic they still use traditional therapeutic treatments derived from the natural mineral water, mud, natural gas and the climate. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment at the famous Grand Hotel Pupp.
A lot of history has been written at the hotel that opened its doors in 1701. It was here they filmed the James Bond movie Casino Royale. Grand Hotel Pupp is the ultimate place to escape everyday life and relax in beautiful surroundings with many gastronomical highlights. A visit to the Christmas House located close to the castle Doubí in Karlovy Vary is a must for the lovers of Christmas. The place raises the Christmas spirit one notch with its rich decorations, smell of Christmas cookies and peaceful Christmas music. Besides the natural springs and the beautiful architecture of Karlovy Vary a guided visit to the Becherovka museum is the icing on the cake. You’ll visit the original basement of the factory and get acquainted with the history of Becherovka and its manufacturing and the tour includes a tasting of the herb liquor. If the cold is biting your cheeks, it may be fitting to visit the glasswork and museum of Moser. Here you can enjoy the fascinating glass production process from beginning to end. Karlovy Vary offers many chances to experience true romance.

ČCCR — CzechTourism is an allowance organization of the Ministry for Regional development of the Czech Republic. Its main activityis the promotion of the Czech Republic as an attractive tourist destination both at home and abroad.