The Czech Republic: History, Humor & Heaps of Food

Some destinations are just vacations, but others are deeply personal. Our family trip to the Czech Republic was one of those extra-special experiences. While Ash grew up in Australia, both of his parents were born in the Czech Republic. He had visited many times before, but this was the first time we had taken the kids. Sharing this journey with them—exploring family history, charming towns, and, of course, indulging in Czech cuisine—was an unforgettable experience.

Cesky Krumlov: A Fairytale Town

Our family trip to the Czech Republic began in the stunning town of Cesky Krumlov. With its cobblestone streets and magnificent medieval castle, it felt like stepping into a storybook. The kids were instantly won over by the atmosphere—and by the Bramboráčky (Czech savory potato pancakes), which they devoured with absolute joy. It was such a treat to watch them discover and enjoy a dish that had long been a favorite of Ash's family.

We spent hours exploring the town’s winding streets, ducking into small shops filled with handmade crafts, traditional wooden toys, and beautiful Bohemian glassware. The castle itself was a highlight, with breathtaking views from its tower and a fascinating bear moat—a quirky but memorable sight that captivated the kids.

Our accommodation was perfectly located, within walking distance of delightful little shops and cafes. One of our favorite discoveries was the opportunity to book a rafting trip right from town. We opted for a half-day trip on the Vltava River, which turned out to be the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, allowing us to soak in even more of the region's breathtaking scenery. Drifting past lush greenery, medieval bridges, and charming riverside cottages, we marveled at how peaceful and picturesque everything was. It was, without a doubt, one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Tracing Family Roots in Usobi

From Cesky Krumlov, we traveled to the small town of Usobi, where Ash's family had come from. Walking through the town, we visited areas where his ancestors had lived and even the site where his family's crystal factory had once stood. It was a poignant moment for all of us, connecting the past to the present in a very tangible way. The kids were fascinated by the stories Ash shared about his grandparents and great-grandparents, giving them a real sense of where they came from.

We also visited the town’s historic church, which had stood for centuries, and imagined how many generations before us had walked through its doors. Talking to some of the locals, we even learned new details about Ash’s family history, which made the experience even more meaningful.

A Brewery Tour in Budweis

Ash's must-do activity was next—a visit to the Budvar Brewery, home of the original Budweiser. We toured the facility, learned about the beer-making process, and, of course, sampled some of the famous Czech lager. While the kids weren’t quite as enthusiastic about this stop, they were happy to walk around the brewery’s surrounding areas while we enjoyed the tasting experience. Ash, a long-time fan of Czech beer, was in heaven, and even I found myself appreciating the smooth, crisp taste of a freshly poured Budvar.

Prague: Walking, Scooting, and Eating Our Way Through the City

No family trip to the Czech Republic would be complete without exploring Prague. We walked. And walked. And then walked some more. The city was so beautiful that we simply couldn’t stop wandering, taking in sights like the Charles Bridge, the Astronomical Clock, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square. Each turn revealed another stunning piece of architecture, a quaint alleyway, or a hidden courtyard that seemed untouched by time.

To break things up and keep the kids entertained, we rented electric scooters a few times, zipping around and laughing as we took in even more of the city. They absolutely loved it, and it gave us a chance to cover more ground while having fun.

We also did a beer tour focused on Pilsner-style brews, but what truly stood out was the food. From crispy roast duck with red sauerkraut and dumplings to a new-to-me favorite—Česnečka, a delicious Czech garlic soup—I felt like we ate our way through Prague. The kids found their own favorites, including Trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in cinnamon sugar, and Svíčková, a comforting dish of braised beef in a creamy vegetable sauce with dumplings. Every meal felt like an event, full of hearty flavors and generous portions.

Leaving With Full Hearts (and Stomachs)

Our family trip to the Czech Republic was more than just another destination checked off our list. It deepened our connection to family history, introduced the kids to Ash’s heritage in a meaningful way, and gave us so many shared experiences—plus a long list of new favorite foods.

We left the Czech Republic with full hearts, grateful for the history, the beauty, and, yes, all the incredible food. This was one family adventure we’ll never forget, and one that left us longing to return and discover even more of this remarkable country.