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Guide to Ostrava, Czech Republic
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Ostrava
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Ostrava The largest city in the Czech Republic's easternmost province, Ostrava was born a country town, for quite some time living as a quiet, well-structured location, serving as a hub for the region. As the 20th Century began to take root, changes were made that would alter the course of what was then a city for decades. Whether fortunate or unfortunate, Ostrava emerged as the site of one of the richest coal reserves in the former Soviet Union. While many residents and regional activists fought to keep unhealthy mining and pollution from the clear skies and neighborhoods of Ostrava, industrial advancement won the battle. For much of the 1900s, Ostrava was the center for business in what would eventually come to be known as the eastern Czech Republic. It may now seem somewhat outlandish to presume that such a place would appear inviting to tourists, vacationers - global travelers in general, however, a tarnished city and its hard-knock upbringing makes for intriguing stories, and with some extraordinary architecture, standing both the test of time and the pressure of development, you'll come to know Ostrava as it is known among its people. Though it is no Prague, Ostrava knows its role, and exercises its power in its position well. If only it's ever-present Gothic theme showed a bit more color.
When to go:
The Czech Republic is known for is wonderful seasonal displays, and though Ostrava has a long way to go before its own imagery contrasts well with the surrounding landscape, you'll still be able to be feel the climatic effects that distinguish the country from others in the region. Summers are warm, but never so much so as to deter outdoorsy plans from being put into action. On the other side of the spectrum, winter turns all of North Moravia (the province to which Ostrava belongs) into a pearlescent dreamscape. Of course, you'll have to venture out to the city's suburbs to see those snowflakes without the grime the streets almost naturally infuse into every annex and nook in the general area. Spring and autumn are good safety points, though if you're traveling to the city inside either season, you're best off paying a visit in their warmest months.
Getting there and around:
Ostrava Airport, a regional flight center doubling as an international entry point on occasion, is relatively close to the city, though you'll need a good hour to effectively travel with some peace of mind. Getting to and from the airport are relatively simple tasks. Rely on a taxi or bus to transfer you to/from the terminal. Car rental services are available, but parking spaces are in short supply inside Ostrava. The city has cleaned up its act since its peak coal mining days and now offers reputable public transportation, but if you'd like to travel via more comfortable means, taxis have a strong presence on Ostrava's map as well.
Attractions:
Though you'll never see a modern-day castle being erected in Eastern Europe, you can still enjoy the sight of historic structures of such kind. Sternberk, Hukvaldy, and Helfstyn all boast fantastic Gothic exteriors; within each is a collection of equally fascinating items. The hill of Jeseniky, just outside of the city, allows great views of the metropolitan area. More expansive outlooks can be visited upon the face of Beskydy Mountain.
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