Moravia

Moravia, occupying the eastern third of the Czech Republic, is a region where history, nature, and viticulture seamlessly blend. Unlike the beer-centric culture of Bohemia to the west, South Moravia is the undisputed wine capital of the country, characterized by sun-drenched vineyards, historic cellar alleys, and a deeply ingrained folklore tradition. The region's capital, Brno, serves as a dynamic cultural hub, offering a mix of medieval architecture, functionalist masterpieces, and a thriving culinary scene.

Beyond the cities, the landscape transforms into the 'Moravian Tuscany,' famous for its rolling, photogenic hills. Visitors can delve into the subterranean wonders of the Moravian Karst, featuring vast cave networks and the dramatic Macocha Abyss. The Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases romantic chateaux set within meticulously landscaped parks. Whether you are cycling between wine tastings, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying a traditional cimbalom music performance, Moravia provides a deeply authentic and enriching European escape.

Reasons to Visit

• World-class white wines and historic cellar alleys in towns like Mikulov and Valtice.
• The Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, one of the largest artificial landscapes in Europe.
• Brno's vibrant cafe culture and the UNESCO-listed Villa Tugendhat.
• The breathtaking caves and underground rivers of the Moravian Karst.
• Extensive, well-maintained cycling trails winding through picturesque countryside.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid relying solely on credit cards in rural villages and small wine cellars; always carry some cash.
• Don't assume all locals speak English outside of the main cities; have a translation app handy.
• Avoid visiting vineyards unannounced during the busy harvest season in September without prior booking.
• Don't forget to validate your public transport ticket before boarding trams or buses in Brno.

Local Transportation Tips

Moravia is well-connected by the Czech Republic's efficient and affordable train and bus networks. Brno serves as the main transport hub, with frequent connections to Prague, Vienna, and Bratislava. For exploring the countryside, especially the South Moravian wine region, renting a bicycle is highly popular, as the area features hundreds of kilometers of marked cycling paths. Renting a car is also a good option for reaching more remote castles and nature reserves at your own pace.

Travel Etiquette

• Always say 'Dobrý den' (Good day) when entering a shop, cafe, or elevator, and 'Na shledanou' (Goodbye) when leaving.
• Tipping around 10% is customary in restaurants; it is polite to tell the waiter the total amount you want to pay when they bring the bill, rather than leaving coins on the table.
• When clinking glasses for a toast, maintain eye contact and say 'Na zdraví' (To your health).
• Take off your shoes when entering someone's home; hosts will usually offer you slippers.

Recommended Age Group

Moravia is a versatile destination that caters to a wide range of travelers, from active adventurers to those seeking a relaxed cultural experience.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The region is safe and family-friendly, though a baby carrier is advised for cobblestone streets and castle tours.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love exploring the caves of the Moravian Karst, riding boats on underground rivers, and visiting the expansive castle gardens.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Teens can enjoy cycling tours, exploring the vibrant city life of Brno, and visiting interactive museums and historical sites.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for wine tasting, architectural tours, hiking, and experiencing the rich culinary and cultural scene.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The region offers slow travel opportunities, accessible wine cellars, and comfortable scenic train rides, though some historic sites may have stairs.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Major cities like Brno have made significant strides in accessibility, with low-floor trams and accessible museums.
• Many of the main paths in the Lednice-Valtice complex are flat and paved, making them wheelchair friendly.
• Historic castles and older wine cellars often have stairs and uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for those with limited mobility.
• The Punkva Caves in the Moravian Karst offer partial wheelchair access, but it is highly recommended to book in advance and confirm specific needs.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the Lednice-Valtice complex in South Moravia is often referred to as the 'Garden of Europe'? Covering nearly 300 square kilometers, it is the largest artificial landscape in the world and was meticulously crafted by the House of Liechtenstein over several centuries.

Cool Statistics

• Moravia produces over 90% of all wine in the Czech Republic.
• The Macocha Abyss in the Moravian Karst is 138 meters deep, making it the deepest sinkhole of its kind in Central Europe.
• Brno's Ossuary under the Church of St. James contains the remains of over 50,000 people, making it the second-largest ossuary in Europe after the Paris Catacombs.
• The region boasts 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.