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While Czechia’s visual beauty took my breath away, its sounds enchanted me just as much – the rumblings and squeaks of trains chugging through the countryside, the chatter of Czech speakers, birds whistling atop the bridge statues.
I was especially impressed by what these sights and sounds inspired: a dynamic tapestry of Czech classical music, with its legacy so ingrained in the culture that it is still honored and celebrated to this day.
The year 2024 is an especially exciting year for music in Czechia, as it marks the 200th anniversary of Bedřich Smetana’s birth, a composer widely regarded as the father of Czech national music. Smetana inspired many other composers who all contributed to the unique identity of Czech music.
During my visit to Czechia (formerly called the Czech Republic), I learned about their lives, stories and musical processes while exploring the very places that inspired them.
Here’s why you should visit Czechia and immerse yourself in its rich musical culture.
Music’s Significance in Czechia
While I was in Czechia, it became clear why this place is such a hub for music. You can feel the deep connection to folk traditions and national pride everywhere, but the history really explains it.
Czechia has always been at the heart of Europe, influenced by places like Austria and Germany, yet it’s held on to its own unique identity. During those times, music became more than just art—it was a way for the Czech people to express who they were.
Composers like Smetana and Dvořák took those folk melodies and made something powerful, blending them into classical music. Even now, walking through Prague, you can feel that history in the air. Music here isn’t just background noise—it’s part of the country’s soul, shaped by its past and the cultures around it.
Prague: The Heart of Czech Music
Prague feels like a portal to another era, with its beautifully preserved blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. Unlike many other major European cities, it was largely untouched by the destruction of WWII, leaving centuries-old buildings intact.
When I was in Prague, I was often at a loss for where to look, because there is that much unique beauty. The gently winding streets along the river and its brilliant bridges initially drew me in but I became more and more in awe as I approached Old Town Square. The colors alone were brighter than many of the neutral European tones I’m used to elsewhere.
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One of the most prominent buildings in Old Town Square is the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. It towered proudly above the other buildings, showing off its enormous spires and gothic brilliance.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get better, I saw the square at night. Everything lights up and glows with the bustling energy of those going to restaurants, strolling around and enjoying the nightlife. In addition to being so historically preserved, Prague intertwines a modern lifestyle filled with nightlife, sophisticated hotels and countless shops to explore.
What to Do, See and Hear in Prague
Bedřich Smetana Museum
If you’re interested in learning more about Smetana’s background, I highly recommend a visit to the Bedřich Smetana Museum, curated by musicologist Sanda Bergmannová. Located right on the banks of the Vltava River, the museum’s setting is symbolic, as it houses Má Vlast (my fatherland), one of Smetana’s most famous works, which includes a symphonic poem inspired by the river.
Officially opened in 1936, the museum offers collections of his compositions, biographical exhibits that provide insight into his personal life, as well as instruments and artifacts from his career.
Open Air Concert at Vyšehrad
Right after learning about Má Vlast, I was lucky enough to see it performed by the Prague Symphony Orchestra at an open-air concert. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect—it was right outside Vyšehrad Castle on a hilltop with amazing views of the whole city.
The series of symphonic works felt like it was composed to be played in that exact spot. They also surprised us with a rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody, which was delightful in a classical style.
Klementinum
Located near the famous Charles Bridge in the heart of Old Town, the Klementinum is a culturally significant complex that includes the Baroque Library Hall, the Astronomical Tower and the Mirror Chapel, where Mozart once performed.
Built in 1772, the Klementinum served as a cultural and intellectual hub, housing one of the largest book collections in Europe and hosting prominent scholars, scientists, and musicians. It became a center for astronomical research, theological study, and education, shaping the academic and cultural landscape of Prague.
The Baroque Library Hall is the perfect example of Baroque grandeur, a highly decorative architectural style known for its intricate detailing, dramatic use of light and the presence of polished wooden Solomonic columns.
Viewing the hall, with its stunning frescoes and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, I was in awe—it’s easily the most beautiful library I’ve ever seen.
I highly recommend climbing the Astronomical Tower all the way to the top (if you have the stamina—it’s not easy). Along the way, you’ll pass the meridian instrument, once used to determine the exact time of day.
At the top, you’ll reach the Observation Deck, where you’ll find the best view of the city. Here is where I finally grasped just how well-preserved Prague is, with its sea of red-roofed buildings and Gothic churches.
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Strahov Monastery
Another place I highly recommend visiting is the Strahov Monastery, which has another impressive library and beautiful grounds to explore. You can book a tour with a monk who will give you a detailed history of the monastery and what it is like to be a monk there today.
Founded in 1143, it is one of the oldest Premonstratensian monasteries in the world. Similarly to the Klementinium, it is also a cultural center (with more religious undertones, of course) and houses the Cabinet of Curiosities, several spaces of worship and libraries filled with tens of thousands of volumes across various subjects. Life as a monk is centered around the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom and life-long happiness.
After you tour the Strahov Monastery, you should have dinner at the Strahov Brewery, dating back to the 13th century. Try traditional Czech beers and cuisine.
Summer Refectory
Also on the monastery’s premises is the Summer Refectory, a space where they periodically host concerts. I was impressed with the musicians’ passion as I watched the Czech Baroque ensemble Collegium Marianum perform.
I couldn’t keep my eyes off of one flutist in particular who was so theatrical and playful with her performance. The concert told a story through a stunning operatic duet between a man and a woman, some of the most extraordinary voices I’ve ever heard. And the acoustics were amazing in the refectory.
Dining in Prague
Prague’s dining culture blends hearty traditional Czech cuisine that is largely influenced by its neighbors, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Poland. Classic dishes like svíčková (marinated beef with cream sauce), goulash, and smažený sýr (fried cheese) are staples, often served with dumplings or potatoes.
When I first tried the dumplings, I was expecting something similar to the Asian-style dumplings I knew—soft, stuffed, and savory. Instead, these were more like round slices of bread soaked in sauce. They were delicious, just not at all what I had imagined.
Czechs certainly love their beef. One day, I had four different variations: braised beef, dumplings in beef broth, beef tartare, and a juicy steak. While beef and other meats are staples of Czech cuisine, there are still plenty of options for vegetarians to enjoy.
Here are my restaurant recommendations for Prague:
- Next Door by Imperial: modern Czech cuisine in a French Bistro setting
- MeatEater in the Mozart Hotel Prague: Meat, meat & meat, featuring some of the best steak in Czechia
- Restaurant Mlýnec: A modern take on traditional Czech cuisine
- Strahov Brewery: Traditional Czech cuisine and many beer options
- 420: my personal favorite – a creative restaurant in Old Town Square run by a Michelin star chef. Some of the most unique food I’ve ever tasted.
Where to Stay in Prague
If you want to stick with the musical theme during your visit to Prague, I recommend staying at The Mozart Hotel. The Mozart Hotel is just a just a three-minute walk from Charles Bridge. It offers a unique variety of rooms, some with a view of the river and castle.
I had a suite overlooking the courtyard, with the smell of fresh flowers greeting me every time I stepped outside. The hotel also has a dedicated space for art and musical performances, aptly aligning with its musical theme.
Beyond Prague: Exploring East Bohemia
Just outside of Prague, you’ll find several towns rich in musical heritage, some of which can be visited on a day trip from Prague. I recommend exploring these destinations to see firsthand what inspired some of the greatest Czech composers.
The Town of Nelahozeves
Nelahozeves is a 50-minute train ride from Prague, and a beautiful one at that, crossing the Elbe River.
Dvorak Birth House
My first stop was the Antonín Dvořák Birth House. Owned by the aristocratic House of Lobkowicz, the site has been restored and turned into a museum dedicated to Antonin’s childhood and his early life. The museum just opened in June of 2024 and plays around with immersive technology to really encapsulate what life must’ve been like for Antonín as a child.
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Nelahozeves Castle
When you’re in Czechia, you have to explore a castle or two. I recommend The Nelahozeves Chateau, which is considered one of the most beautiful Renaissance buildings in the country. It is both a museum and gallery where you can explore what life was like for the noble Lobkowicz family in the 19th century.
This family has been significant in Central European history for over 600 years and held many royal titles. They were notable patrons of both science and the arts, supporting renowned figures like Ludwig van Beethoven.
The Petrof Museum and Gallery in Královéhradecký
On the way to Litomyšl, it is worth stopping at the Petrof Museum and Gallery, home to the family-owned Czech piano brand. Many famous performers have fallen in love with these instruments, and I can understand why. I haven’t played piano in years, but I would’ve purchased the bright red one pictured above if I could. I mean, just look at that work of art.
Litomyšl, the Birthplace of Smetana
If you want to dive deeper into the life of Bedřich Smetana, a visit to his birthplace, Litomyšl, is a must. Here you can explore the stunning Litomyšl Castle, where you’ll find restored rooms, including one featuring the exact chandelier from the movie Amadeus.
Smetana was born and raised in the castle’s brewery, as his father was a brewer. Today, the brewery is a museum preserved to reflect what his childhood home once looked like. Smetana’s story is fascinating and, at times, tragic. He didn’t find success until the age of 42, and just a decade later, he became deaf. Despite this, he composed and conducted eight operas during that time.
Every June/July, the Smetanova Litomyšl Festival celebrates the life and works of Bedřich Smetana. As one of the largest music festivals in Czechia, it features a lively program of music and dance performances in the beautiful Litomyšl Castle courtyard (but this year it was held in a park due to Castle restoration).
To top off the Smetana-themed day, I attended his opera, Tajemství (Secret). This is considered one of his most beautiful operas and amazingly, he composed it when he was deaf. This was the first opera I’ve ever attended, and luckily had English captions. The story is simple but beautiful and the music was engaging throughout the whole three-hour performance.
Brno
Brno is the birthplace of composer Leoš Janáček, whose work helped shape Czech and modern classical music. Brno’s exciting music scene extends beyond classical, with jazz clubs, concert halls, and annual festivals.
Jihlava
Though lesser-known, Jihlava is the birthplace of the influential composer Gustav Mahler. Born into a Jewish family, Mahler grew up in a town shaped by a blend of Czech and German influences, which had an interesting impact on his music. Check out the Gustav Mahler House to learn more about this early life and career.
***
Visiting Czechia during the Year of Czech Music really opened my eyes to a new world of music. As an American, experiencing this kind of cultural unity offered an interesting perspective. It’s incredible to see how deeply Czechia’s cultural identity is rooted in arts and music, which I believe makes it a great destination for anyone interested in immersive cultural experiences.
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