Tucked away in the heart of Europe is Czechia, a land of ancient castles, raucous beer halls, and breathtaking Gothic architecture. From the windy streets of Prague to the rolling hills of Bohemia, Czechia is a real treasure trove of cultural riches and natural beauty. But savoring this incredible country does not have to take an enormous amount from your wallet.
It’s possible to see the best of Czechia without blowing all your savings, and you don’t have to be a broke backpacker. Accommodations are super affordable, and you will find deliciously cheap street food, with a plethora of free things to see and do throughout the country. We will show how to navigate the more hidden treasures of Czechia, sample some of the country’s most famous beers, and really take in the atmosphere-all on the most meager of travel budgets.
Imagine yourself right in the middle of Czechia’s fascinating history, culture, and landscape.
when to go
When to Go: Making the Most of Your Budget
As a broke backpacker, timing is everything. The Czech Republic’s tourist season peaks in June and July, with prices skyrocketing accordingly. Instead, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October), when mild weather and smaller crowds make for a more relaxed and affordable experience.
Seasonal Breakdown:
- Spring (April-May):
- Mild weather (average highs around 17°C/63°F)
- Festivals like Prague’s Easter Markets and Brno’s Spring Music Festival
- Greenery and blooming flowers
- Fewer tourists, lower prices
- Summer (June-July):
- Peak tourist season
- Hot weather (average highs around 25°C/77°F)
- Higher prices for accommodations and attractions
- Events like Prague Summer Festival and Rock for People
- Autumn (September-October):
- Comfortable temperatures (average highs around 15°C/59°F)
- Harvest festivals and wine tastings
- Beautiful foliage
- Shoulder season prices
- Winter (November-March):
- Cold weather (average lows around -2°C/28°F)
- Christmas markets and festive atmosphere
- Lowest prices for accommodations
- Some attractions and businesses may be closed or have limited hours
Events and Festivals:
- Prague Spring Classical Music Festival (May-June)
- United Islands of Prague Music Festival (June)
- Colours of Ostrava Music Festival (July)
- Brno Christmas Market (December)
- Prague Easter Markets (March-April)
where to stay
Prague:
- Hostel Vibe: Lively, social atmosphere at hostels like:
- MadHouse Prague ($15-30/night)
- Mosaic House ($20-35/night)
- Sir Toby’s Hostel ($15-25/night)
- Camping Vibe: Relaxing, natural atmosphere at campsites like:
- Camping Prague ($10-20/night)
- Autocamp Troja ($10-20/night)
- Prague City Camping ($15-25/night)
- Popular Spots: Old Town, Lesser Town, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge
- Tips: Explore Prague’s nightlife, visit local markets, and take a stroll along the Vltava River
South Bohemia:
- Hostel Vibe: Cozy, rustic atmosphere at hostels like:
- Hostel Skippy (Český Krumlov, $15-30/night)
- Telč Hostel ($10-20/night)
- Krumlov House ($20-35/night)
- Camping Vibe: Serene, lakeside atmosphere at campsites like:
- Camping Český Krumlov ($10-20/night)
- Lake Lipno Campsite ($15-25/night)
- Šumava National Park campsites ($10-20/night)
- Popular Spots: Český Krumlov Castle, Telč town square, Šumava National Park, Lake Lipno
- Tips: Visit Český Krumlov’s castle, hike in Šumava National Park, and explore Telč’s medieval town center
Moravia:
- Hostel Vibe: Vibrant, cultural atmosphere at hostels like:
- Hostel Mitte (Brno, $10-20/night)
- Flanner’s ($10-20/night)
- Brno Youth Hostel ($10-20/night)
- Camping Vibe: Scenic, vineyard-surrounded atmosphere at campsites like:
- Camping Brno ($15-25/night)
- Wine Camp Moravia ($20-30/night)
- Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape campsites ($15-25/night)
- Popular Spots: Brno city center, Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, Moravian wine region
- Tips: Explore Brno’s cultural scene, visit Lednice-Valtice castles, and wine taste in the Moravian region
Bohemian Switzerland:
- Hostel Vibe: Quaint, village-like atmosphere at hostels like:
- Hostel Hřensko ($10-20/night)
- Jetřichovice Hostel ($10-20/night)
- Bohemian Switzerland Hostel ($15-25/night)
- Camping Vibe: Peaceful, forest-surrounded atmosphere at campsites like:
- Camping Hřensko ($10-20/night)
- Jetřichovice Campsite ($10-20/night)
- Bohemian Switzerland National Park campsites ($10-20/night)
- Popular Spots: Hřensko village, Jetřichovice town, Bohemian Switzerland National Park
- Tips: Hike in Bohemian Switzerland National Park, explore Hřensko’s scenic valleys, and visit Jetřichovice’s medieval castle
Šumava National Park:
- Hostel Vibe: Rustic, mountain-lodge atmosphere at hostels like:
- Šumava Hostel ($15-30/night)
- Modrava Hostel ($10-20/night)
- Kvilda Hostel ($10-20/night)
- Camping Vibe: Secluded, nature-immersed atmosphere at campsites like:
- Šumava Campsite ($10-20/night)
- Modrava Campsite ($10-20/night)
- Kvilda Campsite ($10-20/night)
- Popular Spots: Šumava National Park trails, Modrava village, Kvilda town
- Tips: Hike Šumava’s trails, explore Modrava’s rural landscape, and spot wildlife in Kvilda
Some popular events and festivals:
- Prague Spring classical music festival
- United Islands of Prague music festival
- Brno Christmas Market
- Český Krumlov Festival of Arts
a. Public Transportation: Use public transportation, such as buses, trams, and metros, to get around cities like Prague and Brno. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for unlimited travel at a discounted price.
b. Trains: Traveling by train in the Czech Republic is affordable and efficient, especially for longer journeys between cities. Look for discounted tickets available for off-peak travel.
c. Cycling: The Czech Republic is a great destination for cycling, with many bike-friendly routes and rental shops available. Renting a bike can be a cost-effective way to explore the country.
d. Walking: Many Czech cities and towns are pedestrian-friendly, so consider exploring on foot to save money on transportation and experience the local culture up close.
2. Accommodation
a. Hostels: Hostels are the most budget-friendly option for accommodation in the Czech Republic, with dormitory beds available for as little as a few dollars per night. Look for hostels with kitchen facilities to save money on meals.
b. Guesthouses: Guesthouses are another affordable option, offering private rooms at reasonable prices. Look for guesthouses that include breakfast to save money on meals.
c. Camping: Camping is a popular and inexpensive way to stay in the Czech Republic, especially in rural areas. Many campsites offer basic facilities at low prices.
d. Airbnb: Consider renting a room or apartment through Airbnb, especially if you’re traveling in a group, as it can be cheaper than staying in a hotel.
3. Food and Drinks
a. Local Markets: Visit local markets for fresh produce, cheese, and bread. Many markets also have food stalls where you can enjoy inexpensive meals.
b. Street Food: Try local street food like trdelník (a type of pastry), klobása (sausage), and langos (fried dough) for a cheap and tasty meal.
c. Budget Eateries: Eat at budget eateries like hospodas (pubs) and potravinys (convenience stores), where you can find affordable traditional Czech dishes.
d. Cook Your Own Meals: If you have access to a kitchen, consider buying groceries from supermarkets and cooking your own meals to save money.
4. Sightseeing and Activities
a. Free Attractions: Many churches, piazzas, and parks in the Czech Republic are free to visit. Enjoy wandering around the historic centers of cities and soaking up the atmosphere.
b. Museums and Galleries: Many museums and galleries offer free entry on certain days or during specific hours. Plan your visit accordingly to take advantage of these offers.
c. Hiking and Nature: The Czech Republic has many beautiful national parks and hiking trails that are free to explore. Enjoy a day of hiking in the countryside for a budget-friendly outdoor activity.
d. Cultural Events: Check local listings for free or low-cost cultural events, such as concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. This can be a great way to experience Czech culture without spending a lot of money.
5. Budget-Friendly Destinations
a. Prague: Explore the historic streets of Prague, including the iconic Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square. Accommodation and food options in Prague cater to all budgets, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers.
b. Český Krumlov: Visit the picturesque town of Český Krumlov, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming narrow streets. Accommodation and food options in Český Krumlov are affordable, especially compared to other European cities.
c. Brno: Discover the vibrant city of Brno, known for its modernist architecture, lively nightlife, and cultural scene. Accommodation and food options in Brno are budget-friendly, making it a great destination for budget travelers.
d. Karlovy Vary: Relax in the spa town of Karlovy Vary, known for its thermal springs and elegant architecture. Accommodation and food options in Karlovy Vary are affordable, especially if you visit outside of the peak tourist season.
6. Miscellaneous Tips
a. Travel Off-Peak: Avoid traveling during peak tourist seasons to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
b. Learn Basic Czech: Knowing some basic Czech phrases can be helpful, especially in smaller towns where English may not be widely spoken.
c. Take Advantage of Discounts: If you’re a student or under 26, don’t forget to ask for discounts on transportation, accommodation, and attractions.
d. Be Flexible: Stay open to changing your plans based on budget constraints or last-minute deals to make the most of your trip.
In conclusion, backpacking through the Czech Republic on a shoestring budget is entirely feasible with careful planning and a sense of adventure. By opting for budget accommodations, enjoying affordable local cuisine, and exploring free or low-cost activities, you can experience the best that the Czech Republic has to offer without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, brush up on your Czech, and get ready for an unforgettable backpacking adventure through this charming country.