From castles to festivals: Czechia promotes a refreshing summer journey for GCC travellers
New travel options strengthen links from Gulf markets
DUBAI – As temperatures climb across the GCC, Czechia is positioning itself as a refreshing European summer destination, offering travellers a combination of cooler surroundings, historic charm, cultural experiences and seasonal events.
With picturesque towns, scenic landscapes and a rich heritage stretching across centuries, the destination is attracting visitors looking for meaningful summer escapes beyond traditional city breaks.
Known for its architectural treasures, wellness retreats and cultural landmarks, Czechia provides a diverse range of experiences for families, couples and luxury travellers. While Prague remains a major attraction, the country’s appeal extends far beyond its capital, with more than 1,200 castles and châteaux, UNESCO-listed heritage locations and charming destinations including Český Krumlov, Brno and the spa town of Karlovy Vary.
During the peak summer months of July and August, Czechia’s cities, countryside and historic landmarks host a wide programme of festivals, performances and cultural celebrations, creating opportunities for travellers to explore the destination through music, traditions, food and outdoor activities.
Summer events
The summer calendar features a variety of open-air cultural experiences across Prague and regional cities. Internationally recognised events such as the Bohemia Jazz Fest bring live performances to public spaces, while the Summer Shakespeare Festival transforms historic castle venues into settings for theatrical productions. Prague Folklore Days also showcase traditional music, dance and cultural performances from different parts of the world.
Historic sites become key venues for seasonal celebrations, with castles and châteaux hosting special programmes that highlight Czechia’s heritage. The annual Castle-Château Night in August invites visitors to experience evening tours, live entertainment and theatrical performances across multiple historic locations, offering a different perspective on the country’s centuries-old landmarks.
For travellers interested in relaxation and wellbeing, Western Bohemia continues to stand out with its renowned spa destinations. Karlovy Vary combines wellness experiences with cultural attractions and hosts the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in early July, bringing together international cinema, entertainment and visitors from around the world.
Outdoor activities also form an important part of Czechia’s summer offering. Travellers can explore hiking and cycling routes, enjoy river cruises along the Vltava, attend open-air cinema screenings and experience regional celebrations such as the Telč Holidays Festival. The combination of nature and cultural programming allows visitors to discover different sides of the country throughout the season.
Gulf appeal
Czechia’s summer offering also reflects growing interest from GCC travellers seeking family-friendly attractions, wellness-focused holidays and culturally immersive journeys. The destination continues to benefit from improved air connectivity, with direct services from the UAE operated by Emirates, flydubai and Air Arabia, alongside additional connections from regional carriers.
Travellers from across the GCC can access Czechia through a growing network of flight options, including services from Qatar Airways in Qatar, flynas and flyadeal in Saudi Arabia, and Jazeera Airways in Kuwait. The expanded connectivity provides more flexibility for visitors planning summer trips, with a mix of direct and one-stop travel options available during the holiday season.
Alongside accessibility, Czechia offers experiences designed around evolving traveller preferences, including multi-city itineraries, countryside escapes, cultural exploration and wellness stays. Regional destinations are gaining attention as visitors look beyond Prague to discover historic towns, spa areas, natural landscapes and local traditions.
The country’s summer programme also highlights its culinary heritage, with seasonal markets and food-focused events introducing visitors to Czech flavours. Celebrations such as the Blueberry Festival in July and the Cucumber Festival in August showcase regional produce, while street food markets across Prague and other cities add to the seasonal atmosphere.