Czechia: a traveller's guide

Marianske Lazne

Another well-known resort, Marianske Lazne, is located among picturesque forests. This place is famous for its unique microclimate and mineral springs. A calm atmosphere reigns here, which is so appreciated by older guests. The resort infrastructure offers many procedures for healing the body.

Temperature and precipitation in lowlands and mountains

The climate of the Czech Republic by month is divided into two distinct types: lowland and mountain. In Prague and Karlovy Vary, located in lowlands and valleys, winters are mild — the average January temperature stays around zero, and snow often turns to rain. In summer, the air in the capital warms up to 25–28 degrees, while in the Krkonoše Mountains it rarely gets warmer than 18–20 degrees even in July.

Precipitation is distributed unevenly: in the lowlands it amounts to 500–600 mm per year, while on mountain ridges it reaches up to 1200 mm. The weather in the Czech Republic changes noticeably: from snowy mountains in winter to warm evenings on beer terraces in summer. When planning a trip, it is worth studying the climate of the Czech Republic by month in advance — this will help you pack your suitcase correctly.

The rainy season in the Czech Republic comes twice: in early summer and in October. June is considered the rainiest month in Prague, while September delights with dry and warm weather. In winter, a stable snow cover lies in the mountains from December to March, making Krkonoše a popular destination for skiers.

In the lowlands, snow does not last long, and already in February the first crocuses begin to bloom in the capital. For a tourist from Almaty, it is important to remember: the weather in the Czech Republic is changeable, and even in summer it is worth having a light jacket with you.

What clothing the weather dictates in each season

When packing for the Czech Republic, focus on the specific month of your trip. In winter, from December to February, waterproof boots and a warm down jacket will come in handy — in Prague and Karlovy Vary there is often slush. In spring, especially in March and April, the weather is deceptive: it can be +15 during the day and drop to zero in the evening, so layered clothing will be the best solution.

In summer, take light clothing, but be sure to add a windbreaker and an umbrella — June downpours in the Czech Republic can be sudden.

In autumn, from September to November, the climate of the Czech Republic by month resembles a mild spring: comfortable during the day, with fogs in the morning. For a trip to Mariánské Lázně or to mountain castles, comfortable shoes and a warm sweater will be useful. Regardless of the season, take a small backpack with you — in the Czech Republic it is customary to walk a lot.

And remember: Czech weather does not tolerate neglect, so always check the forecast before leaving the hotel.

When it is warm in the Czech Republic and when the rainy season is

It is from May to September that are considered the best for sightseeing tours around Prague and walks around Karlovy Vary. In winter, in the lowlands, the temperature rarely drops below minus five. Spring comes to the Czech Republic early: already in March the air warms up to above-zero values, and in April gardens bloom. In autumn, warm weather persists until the end of October, but nights become noticeably colder.

For a tourist from Kazakhstan, it is important to understand: the Czech summer is milder and more humid than in Almaty, and the winter is significantly warmer. The rainy season in the Czech Republic falls in June and October, but downpours here are rarely prolonged — usually they are short and intense thunderstorms. In the mountains, snow cover remains stable in winter, which attracts skiers to Krkonoše.

Stopovers in Istanbul and Frankfurt: which to choose

A trip from Almaty to Prague via Istanbul takes about 9 hours including the layover. The Turkish hub is attractive for its convenient connection times and relatively low ticket prices. Frankfurt is the second popular option: the flight from Kazakhstan to Germany takes a little longer, but connections at this airport are considered among the most reliable in Europe.

The choice of route affects travel time, ticket prices, and the comfort of the layover. Let us consider the two most popular connection options and look at how to get from the airport to the center of Prague.

There is no direct Almaty — Prague flight, so all options include a layover. Several airlines fly from Istanbul to Prague, with a flight time of about three hours. Frankfurt offers more flights throughout the day, which is convenient for late arrivals from Almaty. For a tourist from Kazakhstan, both options are equivalent, and the choice depends on personal preferences.

How to get from the airport to the city center

Prague Václav Havel Airport is located 17 kilometers from the center, and you can get to the city in several ways. The most budget option is bus No. 119 to the Nadrazi Veleslavin metro station, the ride takes about 20 minutes. A public transport ticket in the Czech Republic is valid on trams, metro, and buses, but it must be purchased in advance at a machine or kiosk.

The fare depends on the validity period: 30 minutes or 90 minutes.

A taxi from the airport to the center of Prague will cost more but is faster — about 30 minutes depending on traffic. Order a car through official apps to avoid overpaying: the ride will cost approximately 500–700 crowns. Another option is a transfer from the hotel, which many hotels in the Czech Republic offer for an additional fee.

For a tourist with a large suitcase, a bus or taxi is most convenient, while the metro does not go directly from the airport.

Hearty dishes: a portion for one or for two

Prague and Karlovy Vary offer hundreds of restaurants where you can try national dishes without hurting your budget. The main dish of Czech cuisine is pork knee, which is served in most restaurants in Prague. The portion is huge: often one knee is enough for two, and the price in tourist areas reaches 300–400 crowns.

Duck with dumplings and red cabbage is the second most popular option; its portion is more modest but also very filling. Beef in the Czech style with celery root and cream sauce is a classic worth trying in Karlovy Vary. For a guest from Kazakhstan, Czech food may seem unusually dense, but that is precisely its charm.

Soup in a hollowed-out bread loaf is a traditional appetizer served in tourist restaurants in the capital. Czech dumplings are not a side dish but a standalone dish served with meat and sauce. In Mariánské Lázně and other resort towns, portions are often smaller and prices higher due to the focus on Western guests.

When ordering food in the Czech Republic, remember: local chefs do not skimp on butter and flour, so one dish can replace a full meal.

Beer traditions and ordering rules

Beer in the Czech Republic is a national treasure, and its price is often lower than the cost of bottled water in a restaurant. A mug of lager in a Prague pub will cost 45–60 crowns, and in the provinces even less. When ordering beer, remember: in the Czech Republic it is customary to drink it slowly, enjoying the taste and conversation.

The waiter will bring a new mug only after you finish the previous one, unless you ask otherwise.

In Czech restaurants, the rule applies: tips amount to 5–10% of the bill, but if the receipt states "service included," you do not have to leave one. Beer in the Czech Republic is brewed according to different recipes: lager, dark, wheat, and even coffee beer. For a tourist from Kazakhstan, it is important to remember: Czech beer is stronger than it seems, so do not rush to order several mugs at once.

Bus or train: which is faster and cheaper

A traveler can choose a bus or a train, and each option has its advantages. Buses in the Czech Republic often turn out to be faster than trains on regional routes. For example, from Prague to Karlovy Vary, a bus takes about two hours, while a train takes longer and requires a transfer. Bus tickets are purchased online on carrier websites; the price depends on the time of purchase and the class.

Trains in the Czech Republic are convenient on long-distance routes, but regional trains sometimes run 5–10 minutes late. International trains passing through the Czech Republic run strictly on schedule. For a guest from Kazakhstan, it is important to understand in advance how the Czech transport system works.

For a trip to Mariánské Lázně from Prague, a bus with a transfer in Karlovy Vary is more convenient. The cost of travel between cities in the Czech Republic ranges from 100 to 300 crowns depending on the distance. Long-distance trains have first and second class carriages, as well as sleeping compartments. Buses in the Czech Republic are modern, with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

When choosing between the two types of transport, focus on the exact departure time and the number of transfers.

Features of regional and international routes

Regional trains in the Czech Republic connect small towns and villages but run less frequently than buses. International routes connect Prague with Berlin, Vienna, and Munich, and advance seat reservation applies to them. For a trip to the Krkonoše Mountains from Prague, there is a direct train to Harrachov, but in winter the schedule may change due to snow.

When planning a route, keep in mind that the Czech Republic has a single ticket for trams, metro, and buses within the city.

For intercity trips, it is convenient to use the Czech Railways app, which shows the current schedule. Bus companies in the Czech Republic, such as FlixBus and Student Agency, offer comfortable seats and power outlets. On regional trains, a ticket can be bought from the conductor, but this will cost more than at a machine. When planning a trip between cities, allow time for possible delays of regional trains.

How much time to allow for transfers between cities

For a trip from Prague to Karlovy Vary by bus, allow 2–2.5 hours including waiting at the stop. The road to Mariánské Lázně with a transfer will take about 3.5 hours, so leave in the morning to arrive by lunchtime. The transfer from the capital to the Krkonoše Mountains by train takes about 3 hours, but in winter delays due to snowfall are possible.

If you plan to visit several cities in one trip, choose a base in Prague and build radial routes from it.

Booking tours and rules of conduct

Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně are the country's main resorts with mineral springs. Each such place has its own visiting rules and seasonal operation. Many castles in the Czech Republic, including the famous Karlštejn, offer tours only at certain hours and with a guide. It is better to book tickets in advance through official websites, especially in the high season from May to September.

Tours in Russian in the Czech Republic are rarely organized, so choose English groups or an audio guide. Inside castles, flash photography is prohibited, and in some halls — all photography is prohibited. The rules of conduct in Czech castles are strict: do not touch exhibits and do not lag behind the group.

For a guest from Kazakhstan, it is important to find out in advance how tours are organized and what to consider when planning.

When visiting resorts in Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně, it is worth observing the etiquette of drinking springs. Mineral water is drunk from special cups sold in souvenir shops. In Mariánské Lázně, some springs have a laxative effect, so study the water composition before drinking. At Czech resorts, it is customary to behave quietly and not disturb vacationers who have come for treatment.

Castle tours often include visits to several halls, so dress comfortably and bring water with you.

Seasonality of hotels and colonnades

Resort Czech Republic operates on a seasonal schedule, and Mariánské Lázně is a vivid example of this. The main season here lasts from May to September, when all colonnades and hotels operate. In winter, some hotels in Mariánské Lázně close for renovation, and the springs are available only in the main colonnade. Karlovy Vary operates all year round, but in winter there are fewer tourists and lower prices.

In December, Christmas markets are held in Prague, but from December 24 to 26, most museums and shops are closed.

When planning a trip to the Czech Republic, keep in mind that castles are often closed in winter months or operate on a reduced schedule. In Karlovy Vary, free parking is available only on the outskirts, while paid zones operate in the center from 40 crowns per hour. Hotels in Czech resort towns require advance booking in season, especially for weekends.

For visiting mountain areas in winter, be sure to check the weather forecast and road conditions. Out of season, a trip to Mariánské Lázně will be cheaper, but be prepared for closed establishments.