Our culinary adventure through Central Europe begins in the enchanting city of Prague. With the iconic Prague Castle as a majestic backdrop, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Savor the sweetness of a Trdelník pastry as you wander the charming streets. Explore the flavors of Czech cuisine, pairing your meal with a refreshing glass of Staropramen beer or the herbal Becherovka liqueur. Ascend the Royal Metronome for breathtaking panoramic views, then embark on a scenic cruise down the Vltava River, soaking in the city’s beauty from a different perspective.
Popular itinerary for a culinary tour of the Czech Republic:
Departing from Prague, head to Hrad Střekov, a hilltop castle near Ústí nad Labem, offering stunning views of the Elbe River. Crossing the border into Germany, you’ll arrive in Dresden, a historic city brimming with palaces, museums, and delectable culinary experiences. Savor Dresdner Stollen, a traditional fruitcake, and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. Continue to Meissen, the birthplace of European porcelain. Discover the intricate craftsmanship that made its name world-famous, and enjoy delicious local cuisine.
The culinary adventure continues in the serene spa town of Karlovy Vary. Explore the elegant architecture and savor hearty Vepřo knedlo zelo, a traditional Czech dish, among other delights. On your way back to Prague, stop in Plzeň to toast with the famous local beer, Pilsner Urquell.
This recommended 7-day itinerary begins and ends in Prague, covering approximately 375 miles. The route combines historical landmarks, breathtaking views, and the rich flavors of Central Europe.
Day 1: Prague
The adventure begins in Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic. This city, steeped in history and culture, will captivate you with its stunning architecture and iconic sites dating back as far as the 14th century.
Stroll through the charming streets and admire Charles University, the oldest in Europe, and the famed Prague Castle perched atop Hradčany Hill. The castle complex, which includes several historic buildings such as Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace, is not only an architectural marvel but also offers breathtaking views of the city. Wander through the charming Golden Lane, a street of colorful houses with a rich history.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll across the historic Charles Bridge, a masterpiece of medieval engineering that has connected the two banks of the Vltava River for over 600 years. As you walk, you’ll encounter statues of 30 saints, street performers, artists, and a lively atmosphere.
Venture into the heart of Old Town Square, where the 14th century Old Town Hall served as the seat of city rulers. Admire the Gothic tower on its southern wing and be sure to catch the hourly show at the Astronomical Clock as it comes alive with a mesmerizing display of animated apostles. Standing proudly at the square’s edge is the Church of Our Lady before Týn, its multiple spires reaching towards the sky. Originally constructed in the 14th century, the church’s towers were later reconstructed, adding to its unique grandeur.
As you explore the charming alleys branching out from the square, you’ll discover a captivating blend of architectural styles – Renaissance, Baroque, and even Art Nouveau. These winding streets will also lead you to Prague’s once-thriving Old Jewish Quarter with its synagogues, cemeteries, and museums.
Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culinary scene, savoring the flavors of traditional Czech cuisine. Indulge in Trdelník, a sweet pastry treat made from coiled dough wrapped around a spit, roasted to golden perfection, and dusted with sugar and nuts. Warm your soul with a hearty bowl of Goulash, a rich stew of beef, onions, potatoes, and paprika-infused spices. Svíčková, a tenderloin of beef marinated and served with a creamy vegetable sauce, often accompanied by bread dumplings and whipped cream, is a true Czech delicacy. For a taste of down-home cooking, try Knedlo, vepřo, zelo, a hearty dish featuring roast pork, sauerkraut, and bread dumplings. And don’t forget Knedlíky, fluffy bread-like dumplings often served alongside meat dishes to soak up those delicious sauces.
Spend the night in Prague.
Day 2: Prague
Your second day in Prague begins with a nostalgic trip back to the technology of a bygone era. The National Technical Museum (Národní Technické Muzeum) is dedicated to showcasing the history of science, technology, and industry. Its vast collection encompasses a diverse range of exhibits, from historical artifacts like early automobiles, airplanes, boats, trains, and machinery to interactive displays that demonstrate the marvels of modern technology.
From there, take a stroll through Letná Park (Letenská Pláň), a sprawling green oasis with panoramic views of the city. Ascending the hill, you’ll reach the Prague Metronome (Pražský metronome), a majestic timepiece that once regulated the city’s clocks. Soak up the breathtaking Old Town panorama from this vantage point.
Embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Vltava River, gently gliding through the tranquil waters. As you navigate the river’s curves, you’ll pass under the iconic Charles Bridge (also known as the Czech Bridge), admiring its intricate sculptures and architectural splendor. The journey will also take you along the picturesque Certovka Canal, a charming waterway nestled amidst the city’s historic center.
As evening approaches, venture into the bustling shopping district surrounding the Palladium Shopping Mall (Palladium Praha). Discover an array of shops, boutiques, and restaurants catering to every taste and budget.
No visit to Prague would be complete without indulging in the city’s renowned beer culture. Raise a glass to local favorites like Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen, and Budweiser Budvar, savoring their rich flavors and distinct characters. For a taste of something truly unique, try Medovina, a traditional Czech mead – a sweet and aromatic alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey.
Spend the night in Prague.
Day 3: From Prague to Hrad Střekov and Dresden
This morning, wind your way through scenic landscapes on a road trip along Highways 422E, 613, and 30. After roughly 50 miles, you’ll arrive at the charming town of Ústí nad Labem. Your destination– the Hrad Střekov – is a magnificent castle perched above the Elbe River.
Stepping within the castle walls, you’ll be transported to a world of artistic treasures. The castle houses a remarkable collection of paintings by renowned masters like Bruegel, Canaletto, Cranach, Rubens, and Velázquez. These masterpieces, spanning the Middle Ages and Renaissance, are complemented by an impressive array of medieval and Renaissance armor, exquisite ceramics, and the extensive private library – the largest and most valuable in Central Europe. Among its rare holdings are a 9th-century Gospel book and a 15th-century edition of the Apocalypse adorned with exquisite woodcuts by Albrecht Dürer. The library also boasts an unparalleled collection of musical instruments, manuscripts, and printed music editions.
From there, continue along Highways 8, 17, and 170 for approximately 43 miles, arriving in the enchanting city of Dresden, Germany. Often referred to as the “Florence of the Elbe,” Dresden exudes a captivating blend of historical charm and artistic splendor.
Begin exploring Dresden at the Zwinger Palace, a Baroque architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the city’s illustrious past. From there, make your way to the Semperoper, Dresden’s iconic opera house, and then stroll along Theaterplatz, where majestic equestrian statues of King John of Saxony and King Frederick Augustus II stand guard.
Delving deeper into Dresden’s history, visit the Dresden Castle, the former residence of Saxon rulers, and marvel at the Fürstenzug, a magnificent mural depicting the region’s history. Continue to the Frauenkirche, a symbol of Dresden’s resilience, and marvel at the panoramic view from Brühl’s Terrace overlooking the Elbe River.
Next, step into the Dresden Cathedral, renowned for its impressive dome, and conclude your tour at the Albertinum, an art museum showcasing modern and contemporary works.
As your explore Dresden, you’ll encounter delectable dishes that reflect the city’s culinary heritage:
- Sauerbraten: A classic German pot roast, typically made with beef, vinegar, and pickled spices, served alongside potato dumplings and red cabbage.
- Kartoffelsalat: A German potato salad made with cooked potatoes, onions, vinegar, oil, and seasonings, often served warm or cold as a side dish.
- Bratwurst: Grilled or fried pork sausages, typically accompanied by sauerkraut, mustard, and bread.
- Quarkkeulchen: Fried potato pancakes made with quark (a type of fresh cheese), flour, eggs, and spices, often served with applesauce or powdered sugar.
Be sure to raise a glass to local beers like Radeberger, Feldschlößchen, and Watzke. For a warm and comforting beverage, indulge in Glühwein, a mulled wine made with red wine, spices like cinnamon and cloves, citrus fruits, and sugar.
For a sweet ending, savor the local Dresdner Stollen, a traditional fruitcake made with dried fruits, nuts, marzipan, and dusted with powdered sugar, or indulge in Dresdner Eierschecke, a layered cake made with yeast dough, filled with a rich custard and topped with a buttery streusel.
Spend the night in Dresden.
Day 4: Dresden
The morning begins with a visit to the Grünes Gewölbe, a museum renowned for its unparalleled collection of precious objects, including jewelry, gemstones, intricate gold work, and other treasures spanning the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Divided into the Historic Green Vault (Historisches Grünes Gewölbe) and the New Green Vault (Neues Grünes Gewölbe), the museum houses an extraordinary array of artifacts that showcase the opulence and artistry of the Saxon royal court.
Within the Grünes Gewölbe, you’ll be captivated by exquisitely crafted objects like the Dresden Green Diamond, elaborate gold pieces, elegant tableware, and ornate sculptures. The museum’s meticulously designed exhibitions offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of European nobility during the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
After lunch, enjoy the splendor of the Großer Garten, Dresden’s sprawling parkland. From there, venture to an extraordinary attraction: the Dresden Panometer. Housed within a historic cylindrical building, the Dresden Panometer offers visitors an immersive experience across time and space through breathtaking panoramic works of art. These large-scale paintings and 360-degree projections envelop you in historical and cultural scenes, bringing the past to life with remarkable detail. The Dresden Panometer frequently features exhibitions showcasing diverse themes, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern cities.
Spend the night in Dresden.
Day 5: Meissen and Karlovy Vary
Start your morning with a scenic drive along Highway 6, covering approximately 12 miles to reach the enchanting city of Meissen. Renowned for its porcelain production, Meissen rose to prominence in the 18th century with the discovery of the porcelain formula. Inspired by Chinese and Japanese ceramics, Meissen artisans developed their unique style, crafting exquisite porcelain pieces that garnered worldwide acclaim.
Explore the city’s rich porcelain heritage by visiting the Meissen Porcelain Museum, housed within the majestic Albrechtsburg Castle. The museum showcases an extensive collection of Meissen porcelain artifacts, including tableware, figurines, vases, and decorative objects that epitomize the diverse styles, techniques, and designs that have characterized Meissen porcelain throughout the centuries.
Before departing Meissen, indulge in a local culinary delight: Meißner Fummel. These delectable pastries, resembling donuts, are typically made from deep-fried yeast dough and generously dusted with powdered sugar.
From Meissen, embark on a journey along Highways 101, 174, and 442 for approximately 93 miles to the captivating city of Karlovy Vary. Nestled amidst the picturesque Krušné Mountains, Karlovy Vary is renowned for its natural beauty and therapeutic hot springs.
Spend the night in Karlovy Vary.
Day 6: Karlovy Vary
Located amidst lush hills and forests, Karlovy Vary beckons with a day of tranquility and rejuvenation. The town’s therapeutic hot springs, renowned for their mineral-rich waters and healing properties, offer a true wellness experience. The elegant architecture and charming streets of Karlovy Vary further enhance the serene ambiance.
Using traditional ceramic cups with their distinctive drinking spouts, savor the unique flavors of the various mineral water sources. Wander through the town’s picturesque streets and alleyways, culminating in a refreshing dip in one of its well-maintained spa centers.
In the evening, embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of Czech cuisine:
- Vepřo-knedlo-zelo: A classic Czech dish featuring roasted pork, bread dumplings (knedlíky), and sauerkraut (zelí).
- Kulajda: A creamy soup made with mushrooms, potatoes, dill, vinegar, and often topped with a poached egg.
- Trdlo: This traditional Czech pastry is made from rolled dough wrapped around a rod, grilled, and coated in sugar and nuts.
For dessert, indulge in Karlovarské oplatky, traditional wafers made locally and often flavored with almonds or hazelnuts, accompanied by toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, or fruit.
Be sure to raise a glass to Becherovka, a herbal liqueur produced in Karlovy Vary from a secret blend of herbs and spices, and of course, savor the diverse selection of Czech beers.
Spend the night in Karlovy Vary.
Day 7: Plzeň
Begin the day with a 50-mile drive along Highways 48E and 49E to reach the enchanting city of Plzeň. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Náměstí Republiky, Plzeň’s central square. Surrounded by colorful Baroque buildings, the square culminates in the awe-inspiring St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, its Gothic spires piercing the skyline.
No visit to Plzeň would be complete without delving into the world-renowned Pilsner Urquell, the birthplace of the Pilsner lager style. Join a brewery tour to uncover the fascinating history and brewing process behind this legendary beer, and, of course, savor a refreshing pint of Pilsner Urquell, freshly poured from the source. Pilsner Urquell pairs perfectly with an array of hearty Czech dishes, including succulent meat stews, grilled sausages, fried cheese, and traditional Czech pub fare.
Following the brewery tour, the journey concludes with a scenic 68-mile drive along Highway 3A back to Prague.
