You've almost certainly heard of Prague, one of Europe's most beautiful and historic cities, but what about the rest of this small country in the heart of the continent? Here are ten observations to encourage a visit the Czech Republic, to help start your holiday planning and further research. Old city: Prague is great for walking and soaking up the atmosphere - and if you travel midweek or off-season, it isn't over-crowded. The medieval streets and squares are a showcase of architecture ranging from Gothic to Art Nouveau, and a trip across Charles Bridge to Prague Castle offers striking river views and lots of street entertainers. Modern city: Prague has all the attractions you would expect in a European capital, including museums, concert halls, opera houses and a wide choice of bars and restaurants. Hearty food: International food may have come to Prague and other major centres, but try typical dishes including roast pork and dumplings, and many varieties of sausage. Have another beer: The Czechs are Europe's greatest consumers of beer per head of population, with brands that have been exported or imitated around the world. The type of lager known as pils originates in the city of Pilsen, with Pilsner Urquell being one of the best-known brands. Wine too: Czech wines are little known in the UK, but the Moravia region produces some fine whites. Spas: The curative waters of the Czech Republic have been known and exploited for centuries, and now there is strong emphasis on beauty therapies and wellness treatments as well as taking the cure. The Western Bohemia spa towns of Karlovy Vary and Marianske Lazne are also elegant places for a few days' relaxation and exploring the surrounding countryside. Go golf: Golf has developed rapidly over the last decade and there are now around 80 courses to choose from. Royal Golf Club Marianske Lazne is one of the best. Boutique style: Large, impersonal hotels are now very much in the minority, while boutique hotels are booming. Chateau-style rural hotels are also growing. World Heritage: Twelve sites are recognised by UNESCO for their cultural significance, only one of which is in Prague. The historical centre of Cesky Krumlov, in Southern Bohemia, makes a memorable trip. Beyond the borders: The Czech Republic shares frontiers with Austria, Germany, Poland and Slovakia, all of which are EU members. It's easy to cross borders to discover more of Central Europe. The Czech Republic is a small country with a big heart, that has been transformed over the last 15 years into one of the most welcoming and accessible countries in Europe. With availability of low cost flights to the Czech Republic from all over Europe, holidays in the Czech Republic remain affordable and a great alternative to the more traditional European holiday centres
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