The Most Beautiful Castles and Châteaux in Czechia

Czechia is a castle superpower — thousands of monuments stand across the country, from royal castles to romantic châteaux. Here are the most beautiful ones you shouldn't miss.

Český Krumlov — the jewel of South Bohemia

Český Krumlov Castle is the second-largest castle complex in the country after Prague Castle, and its historic centre is a UNESCO site. The bends of the Vltava and the tower with Renaissance paintings are among Czechia's most photographed sights.

Karlštejn — castle of the crown jewels

Karlštejn Castle was built in the 14th century by Emperor Charles IV to safeguard royal treasures and relics. It rises above the village of the same name, just outside Prague.

Hluboká nad Vltavou — romance in white

Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle is one of the finest châteaux in the English Gothic style. Its white façade and park recall English estates and were inspired by Windsor Castle.

Konopiště and Křivoklát

Near Prague you'll find two gems: Konopiště Castle, former seat of heir to the throne Franz Ferdinand d'Este, and the royal Křivoklát Castle, one of the oldest in the country.

Lednice — a château in a fairy-tale park

Lednice Castle in Moravia is part of the UNESCO-listed Lednice–Valtice cultural landscape, a vast complex of châteaux, parks and romantic buildings.

More tips

• Bouzov Castle — a fairy-tale castle used as a film set.
• Loket Castle — a stone fortress in a bend of the Ohře river.
• Pernštejn Castle — one of the best-preserved Gothic castles.

Practical tips

• Book a tour. The most popular châteaux sell out in season.
• Combine several sites. The area around Prague and southern Moravia offer many monuments close together.

See the full list in the catalogue, or read The Most Beautiful Castles and Châteaux in Slovakia.