Overview
The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia and historically referred to as Bohemia, is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. It shares its borders with four neighboring countries: Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the southeast. This central position has long made the country a crossroads of European history, culture, and trade.
Geography and Climate
Czechia covers an area of approximately 78,871 square kilometers (30,452 square miles) and is characterized by a hilly landscape. The country's terrain includes rolling hills, plateaus, and low mountain ranges that give the land a varied and scenic character. Czechia experiences a mostly temperate continental and oceanic climate, which typically brings warm summers and cold, snowy winters, along with moderate rainfall spread throughout the year.
Major Cities
The capital and largest city of Czechia is Prague, renowned for its historic architecture and cultural significance. Beyond the capital, several other cities serve as important urban and economic centers across the country:
- Prague – the capital and largest city, and the political, cultural, and economic heart of the nation
- Brno – the second-largest city, known for its historic center and role as a regional hub
- Ostrava – a major city in the eastern part of the country
- Plzeň – a notable urban center in the west
- Liberec – a city located in the north, near the border with Poland and Germany
Historical Background
The lands that make up modern Czechia were historically known as Bohemia, a name that reflects the region's long and layered history stretching back centuries. This historical identity remains an important part of the country's cultural heritage and continues to influence its traditions, architecture, and regional character today.
Why Visit Czechia
As a landlocked country nestled in the heart of Central Europe, Czechia offers travelers a blend of historic cities, picturesque hilly countryside, and a rich cultural legacy rooted in its Bohemian past. Its central location, bordered by Austria, Germany, Poland, and Slovakia, also makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider Central European region.