Moravia, Czechia Travel Guide

Discover Moravia, Czechia's hidden gem, where history, culture, and nature converge in a picturesque landscape.

Nestled in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, Moravia is a land steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. This region is known for its rolling vineyards, charming villages, and the vibrant city of Brno, which serves as its cultural and economic hub. Moravia is a haven for wine lovers, with its well-renowned wine routes where visitors can sample local varieties and enjoy scenic views of the lush countryside. Moravia's rich history is reflected in its numerous castles, chateaux, and ancient ruins. The region is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lednice-Valtice, a cultural landscape that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of European nobility. The historic town of Olomouc, with its stunning Baroque architecture and the Holy Trinity Column, is another must-visit destination. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Moravia's natural parks and reserves. The Moravian Karst, with its impressive cave systems and underground rivers, is a popular spot for spelunking and hiking. The picturesque Pálava Hills, adorned with ancient ruins and rare flora, offer breathtaking views and numerous trails for outdoor activities. The region's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous festivals celebrating everything from traditional folk music to contemporary arts. Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, sample delicious Moravian cuisine, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moravia.

Visit during the wine harvest season in September to enjoy local festivals and fresh wine.
Don't miss the underground tour of the Punkva Caves in the Moravian Karst.
Explore Brno's historic center and visit the iconic Špilberk Castle.
Try traditional Moravian dishes like svíčková and Moravian sparrow at local restaurants.
Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic wine routes and countryside.

Top City Travel Guides in Moravia

The cities of Moravia, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Brno

Olomouc

Kutná Hora

Ostrava

České Budějovice

Destinations in Moravia

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Pálava

Moravian Karst

Podyji National Park

Svatý Kopeček

Jeseníky Mountains

Explore Moravia: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Moravia

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Brno Zoo

Discover Brno Zoo, where wildlife conservation meets beautiful hiking trails amidst stunning natural scenery in Brno-Bystrc.

4.2

Punkva caves

Discover the enchanting Punkva Caves in Vavřinec-Punkevní Žleb, a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the heart of Czech Republic.

4.8

Bouzov Castle

Explore Bouzov Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in Czechia, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

4.8

Lužánky Park

Explore Lužánky Park, the oldest city park in the Czech Republic, where nature, culture, and tranquility come together in Brno's vibrant cityscape.

4.7

Best landmarks in Moravia

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape

Discover the breathtaking Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending stunning gardens, historic architecture, and serene waterways.

4.8

Castle Lednice

Explore the stunning Castle Lednice, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of South Moravia's majestic manor house.

4.8

Špilberk Castle

Explore Špilberk Castle, a stunning historical fortress in Brno, offering breathtaking views, captivating museums, and a rich cultural experience.

4.7

Mikulov Castle

Explore the enchanting Mikulov Castle, a historical manor house in South Moravia offering breathtaking views, rich history, and cultural experiences.

4.7

Best restaurants in Moravia

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Stopkova Plzeňská Pivnice

Discover authentic Czech cuisine at Stopkova Plzeňská Pivnice in Brno - where tradition meets taste!

4.4

The bar that doesn't exist

Discover the hidden gem in Brno - an extraordinary bar serving delicious burgers in an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.7

Restaurant U Tlustých

Experience exquisite Czech cuisine at Restaurant U Tlustých in Lednice na Moravě – where tradition meets culinary innovation.

4.3

Drapal Restaurant

Experience authentic Czech cuisine and locally brewed beers at Drapal Restaurant in Olomouc – where tradition meets flavor.

4.5

Best bars in Moravia

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Hemingway Bar

Experience the charm of Old Town at Hemingway Bar, where exquisite cocktails and a literary atmosphere await in a cozy setting.

4.7

Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl & Boat Party

Join the ultimate nightlife adventure in Prague at Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl & Boat Party, where exhilarating pub crawls meet scenic river cruises.

4.6

BeerGeek Bar

Discover the essence of Prague's craft beer scene at BeerGeek Bar, where quality brews meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

4.5

Anonymous Bar

Experience the artistry of cocktails at Anonymous Bar, a vibrant cocktail haven in Prague's Old Town, offering unique drinks and a captivating atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Moravia

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

TWO FACES music club

Discover Brno's energetic nightlife at TWO FACES Music Club, where music, dance, and local culture unite for an unforgettable experience.

3.6

Desert

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Brno at Desert, a cozy bar offering live music and a diverse drink menu, perfect for an unforgettable evening.

4.3

Jazz Tibet Club

Experience the vibrant jazz scene at Jazz Tibet Club, Olomouc's premier spot for live music, cocktails, and unforgettable nights.

4.4

7th heaven

Dance the night away at 7th Heaven, Brno's vibrant disco club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable nightlife experience.

3.5

Best shops in Moravia

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

GRIZLY

Explore GRIZLY in Olomouc, the ultimate internet shop offering a vast selection of products perfect for tourists and locals alike.

4.6

MAKRO Cash & Carry Olomouc

Explore MAKRO Cash & Carry Olomouc, your ultimate destination for wholesale shopping with an extensive range of products at competitive prices.

4.2

OD Senimo

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at OD Senimo, Olomouc's premier department store featuring local farmers' market delights and unique shops.

4.0

T.S.BOHEMIA a.s.

Explore T.S.BOHEMIA a.s. in Olomouc for top-notch electronics, appliances, and bicycles, all in one convenient location.

4.5

Explore Moravia on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Moravia, mapped for you.

Moravia Essentials

Moravia is accessible via several means of transportation. The nearest international airports are Brno-Tuřany Airport in Brno and Leoš Janáček Airport in Ostrava. From Prague, you can take a direct train or bus to Brno, which is the largest city in Moravia. The journey from Prague to Brno takes approximately 2.5 hours by train and around 2.5 to 3 hours by bus.
Public transportation in Moravia is well-developed, with trains and buses connecting major cities and towns. Trains are operated by České dráhy (Czech Railways) and buses by various companies. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the region at your own pace. In cities like Brno and Ostrava, trams and buses are the primary means of public transport, and tickets can be purchased at kiosks or via mobile apps.
The official currency in Czechia is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns. It is recommended to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Moravia is generally a safe region for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Be cautious in crowded places and keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly in larger cities such as Brno and Ostrava.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number. Police, fire, and medical services can be reached through this number. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and larger cities have hospitals and clinics for more serious concerns.
Fashion: Do dress neatly and avoid overly casual attire when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in places of worship. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trams or buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Dobrý den' (Good day). A handshake is common, especially in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks, such as Moravian wine and traditional Czech cuisine. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Moravia like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Moravian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape and the Tugendhat Villa in Brno. For a unique experience, explore the Moravian Karst, known for its stunning caves and underground rivers.

When is the best time to visit Moravia?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Moravia

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Moravia. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
- GoodbyeSbohem
  [sbohem]
- YesAno
  [ah-no]
- NoNe
  [neh]
- Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [pro-seem]
- Thank youDěkuji
  [dyeh-kwee]
- Excuse me/SorryOmlouvám se
  [om-lou-vahm seh]
- How are you?Jak se máš?
  [yak seh mahsh]
- Fine. And you?Dobře. A ty?
  [dob-zheh. ah tee]
- Do you speak English?Mluvíš anglicky?
  [mloo-veesh ang-lits-kee]
- I don't understandNerozumím
  [neh-roh-zoo-meem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChtěl bych vidět menu, prosím
  [kht-yel beekh veed-yet meh-noo, pro-seem]
- I don't eat meatNejím maso
  [nay-eem mah-so]
- Cheers!Na zdraví!
  [nah zdrah-vee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChtěl bych zaplatit, prosím
  [kht-yel beekh zah-plah-teet, pro-seem]
- Help!Pomoc!
  [poh-mots]
- Go away!Jdi pryč!
  [yee preech]
- Call the Police!Zavolejte policii!
  [zah-voh-lay-teh poh-li-tsee]
- Call a doctor!Zavolejte doktora!
  [zah-voh-lay-teh dok-toh-rah]
- I'm lostZtratil jsem se
  [ztra-til ysem seh]
- I'm illJsem nemocný
  [ysem neh-mots-nee]
- I'd like to buy...Chtěl bych koupit...
  [kht-yel beekh koh-pit]
- I'm just lookingJen se dívám
  [yen seh dee-vahm]
- How much is it?Kolik to stojí?
  [koh-leek toh stoy-ee]
- That's too expensiveTo je moc drahé
  [toh yeh mots drah-heh]
- Can you lower the price?Můžeš snížit cenu?
  [moo-zheesh sneez-eet tseh-noo]
- What time is it?Kolik je hodin?
  [koh-leek yeh ho-din]
- It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [ye yed-na ho-dee-na]
- Half past (10)Půl (10)
  [pool (deh-set)]
- MorningRáno
  [rah-no]
- AfternoonOdpoledne
  [od-po-led-neh]
- EveningVečer
  [veh-cher]
- YesterdayVčera
  [v-cheh-rah]
- TodayDnes
  [dnes]
- TomorrowZítra
  [zee-trah]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Kde je...?
  [kde yeh...?]
- What's the address?Jaká je adresa?
  [yah-kah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Můžeš mi ukázat (na mapě)?
  [moo-zheesh mee oo-kah-zaht (nah mah-peh)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kdy jede další (autobus)?
  [kdee yeh-deh dal-shee (ow-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Jeden lístek (do ....)
  [yeh-den lee-stek (doh ....)]

History of Moravia

The Great Moravian Empire was the first significant state in Central Europe, flourishing from the 9th to early 10th centuries. It played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity, thanks to the mission of Saints Cyril and Methodius. The empire's influence extended over modern-day Czechia, Slovakia, and parts of Hungary, Poland, and Austria.
The Přemyslid Dynasty ruled Moravia and Bohemia beginning in the late 9th century. The dynasty is significant for its consolidation of power and the establishment of Prague as a central hub. Notable rulers include Wenceslaus I and Ottokar II, who expanded the territory and influence of the region.
The Hussite Wars (1419–1434) were a series of conflicts initiated by the followers of Jan Hus, a Czech priest who called for religious reform. Moravia was a significant battleground during these wars, and the region’s landscape is dotted with historical sites and monuments commemorating this turbulent period.
Moravia came under Habsburg rule in the early 16th century, a period marked by significant cultural and architectural development. The Habsburgs' influence is evident in the region's Baroque palaces, churches, and administrative buildings. The rule also brought about the Catholic Reformation, which shaped the religious landscape of Moravia.
The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century brought rapid industrialization to Moravia. Cities like Brno became important centers for textile and engineering industries. This period also saw the rise of a strong working-class movement and the establishment of numerous cultural and educational institutions.
During World War II, Moravia was occupied by Nazi Germany. The region suffered significant destruction, and many of its Jewish communities were decimated. Post-war, Moravia became part of the restored Czechoslovakia, leading to socio-political changes and the eventual establishment of the communist regime.
The Velvet Revolution of 1989 led to the fall of the communist regime in Czechoslovakia. Moravia, like the rest of the country, experienced significant political and economic transformations. Today, Moravia is a vibrant region known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and historic sites.
Moravia is renowned for its wine production, particularly white wines such as Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. The region's folklore traditions are deeply rooted, with vibrant festivals celebrating traditional music, dance, and costumes. The town of Strážnice hosts one of the country's most famous folklore festivals annually.