A Hidden Fairytale Town with Colorful Streets, Historic Castles, and Scenic Squares Awaits South of Prague

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A Hidden Fairytale Town with Colorful Streets, Historic Castles, and Scenic Squares Awaits South of Prague

Prague, the capital of Czechia (more commonly known as the Czech Republic), is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. And while Prague is a standard stop on many a European sojourn, the rest of Czechia is often overlooked. This is a shame, as Czechia is one of Europe’s safest countries, home to dazzling cities, fairytale castles, and friendly locals. One of the country’s most underrated gems lies in the picturesque Moravia. Known for its wine and associated vineyards, Moravia is one of three historical regions within Czechia.



About a two-hour drive southeast of Prague’s awe-inspiring castle, the town of Telč (pronounced “Telch”) is small, with a population of just over 5,100 and an area of less than 10 square miles. However, this medieval town punches well above its weight, with a UNESCO-listed historic center, ornate pastel-hued buildings, and a requisite castle. Plus, Telč is surrounded by canal-like moats and ponds, earning it the nickname the “Moravian Venice.”

Telč is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Czechia

Colorful facades on the main square of Telč, Czechia



While Telč makes for an easy day trip from Prague, if you’re relying on public transport, there’s no direct route, so a train or bus trip will take at least four hours. Despite its diminutive size, there’s plenty to see and do in Telč, and it’s worth an overnight stay. If you can only squeeze in a day trip and don’t want to drive, consider joining a guided tour, most of which include transport from Prague.

Telč is most famous for its triangular, traditional square, lined with gorgeous, colorful facades of historic buildings, the Zachariáše z Hradce Square. The Historic Centre of Telč was designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1992, due to its well-preserved buildings, some of which date back to the Middle Ages. However, the colorful buildings are primarily gorgeous examples of Baroque or Renaissance architecture, called burgher houses, as they were once the homes of untitled, upper-class elites. Each unique facade, painted in vibrant yellows, pinks, oranges, and blues, is linked by an arcade, or passageway. 



Castles, color and charm in Telč

Telč Castle reflected in a canal, in Telč, Czechia

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.