Forget crowded cities and discover a slower, more fragrant side of Czechia, rich in gardens, herbs, roses, and lavender fields. From rural farms and natural cosmetics to historic landscapes, here are the top tips for a truly memorable summer escape.
Flowers, gardens and peaceful landscapes
Czechia has much to offer travelers who appreciate nature, culture and tranquility. In northern Bohemia, in Děčín, the Baroque Rose Garden sits gracefully on the château’s terraces, offering lovely views of the town and the Elbe Valley. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or a leisurely afternoon.
Where to find lavender in Czechia
The best-known lavender fields are in South Moravia, particularly around Hustopeče. In summer, the fields burst into bloom, their vibrant purple rows inviting visitors to wander, take photographs and sample locally made herbal products. The region itself is perfect for a relaxed countryside break, with rolling vineyards and excellent regional food and wine.
Another delightful stop is the Lavender Valley near Beroun, where lavender fields are combined with herb gardens and a calm, rural atmosphere.
Botanical gardens: green sanctuaries in the cities
In Prague, the Botanical Garden in Troja is especially impressive, with its striking Fata Morgana greenhouse and hillside setting near the Prague Zoo. Closer to the city center, the Albertov Botanical Garden, part of Charles University, is something of a hidden gem. Though primarily used for academic purposes, it remains open to the public and offers a surprisingly green retreat in the heart of the capital.
Just outside Prague, the gardens at Průhonice Castle are also well worth a visit. Elsewhere, notable sites include the Botanical Garden in Brno, the Botanical Garden in Liberec, one of the oldest in the country, and the spa town of Teplice, where historic greenhouses reflect its long-standing reputation among European aristocracy. A particular highlight is the Flower Garden in Kroměříž, a UNESCO-listed Baroque masterpiece and one of the finest historic gardens in Europe.
Tip: The Open Gardens Weekend (normally the first weekend in June) opens the gates to dozens of normally inaccessible gardens, parks and monastic grounds across Czechia.
Herbs, crafts and traditions
In Čejkovice, Sonnentor offers guided tours of its herbal production, along with tastings of organic teas, all set within beautifully maintained herb gardens showcasing a wide variety of aromatic and medicinal plants.
The Botanicus complex in Ostrá brings traditional crafts and historic techniques to life through a blend of open-air workshops and immersive experiences. Visitors can watch artisans at work using age-old methods (such as soap making, candle dipping and paper crafting) and even try their hand at these skills. The themed gardens are thoughtfully designed to reflect medieval life, highlighting the close relationship between people and nature.
