Top most interesting islands for vacation. mine working hours

In the east of the Czech Republic, almost on the very border with Poland, is the third largest city in the country, Ostrava. Russian tourists usually do not come here, it is rather a place for business negotiations and meetings. So I was brought to this city, a hard worker by necessity, initially not pursuing any tourist goals.

The Czechs themselves call Ostrava "the steel heart of the republic." Since this city has a developed metallurgical and coal industry, in which most of the population is employed. In 2005, a Russian company acquired a 99% stake in Vítkovice Steel, one of the largest steel companies in the country, for almost 7 billion crowns. I don’t know if this is related or not, but at about the same time there was a large influx of migrants from Russia to the Czech Republic and, in particular, to Ostrava.

In general, it’s amusing, local residents say that they don’t like living in this city: a lot of industry, dirty air, etc., while Russian-speaking migrants, on the contrary, like Ostrava for its opportunities, “aliveness”, unlike the rest of the half-asleep Czech Republic.

At the entrance to the city by car, I was greeted by painfully familiar suburban areas. Yes, the Czechs also have dachas, and they love them very much. On the outskirts, as in all major cities countries, dull industrial zones are moving into sleeping areas, built up either with new high-rise buildings, or with houses reminiscent of our Khrushchev and Stalinist buildings.

Ostrava is somewhat similar to a typical post-Soviet city, features of which can also be found in the former Soviet republics and Warsaw Pact countries. Despite such industrial and urban character, there is a lot of greenery on the streets: trees, lawns, as well as interesting parks, which are always crowded during the day.

You can also get there by car or by intercity bus.

By plane

Get by air from Moscow you can get to Ostrava by a flight with a transfer in Prague, the company Aeroflot. Departures are carried out every day from Sheremetyevo Airport. The ticket price a few days before the round-trip departure will cost 366 EUR or 25,000 RUB. If you take a ticket 3-4 months before departure, you can save 50-100 EUR.

From St. Petersburg flights are carried out "Czech Airlines" from Pulkovo airport. The price is approximately comparable to that indicated from Moscow.

During the season, and this is the New Year, Christmas holidays and summer time, you can buy charter tickets to Prague from almost any international airport in Moscow or St. Petersburg. Prices, according to sites selling cheap tickets, start at 80 EUR or 5,000 RUB, you can look for options, for example,. And upon arrival, buy a ticket to Ostrava for 160 EUR or 11,000 RUB. As for me, this is not the most convenient option.

A hostel 3-5 km from the Center near the Zoo (near the Carolina area) will cost 15 EUR. Many offers of such housing can be found.

What are the prices for holidays

The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union and it would be quite logical to assume that the euro circulates on the territory of the country. In fact, the Czechs acted very wisely, keeping their national currency, the kroon, thus avoiding many of the problems associated with the transition to the euro.

A sad example, probably, can serve as, which got rid of the drachma, but did not raise its level of economy to the countries of Western Europe (Germany, France, Belgium). So, having retained their currency, the Czechs ensured smooth but stable economic growth and quite reasonable prices. Until 2015, according to my feelings, the prices for food, clothes, etc. were 20-30 percent lower than in Russia.

Renting a one-room apartment for a month in Ostrava will cost you from 155 EUR or 4,200 CZK. You can search for an option, for example,. A room in a 3-star hotel in the city center costs 30 EUR or 810 CZK.

Food in the supermarket is about the same price as in Russia. The average check in a restaurant for 2 persons is 12 EUR or a little more than 300 CZK. Excursions, if they are not individual, or you do not order a transfer, are affordable for everyone who has found the opportunity to get to Ostrava.

I don't have life hacks on how to save money in Ostrava. It is, in principle, an inexpensive city.

Clue:

The cost of food, lodging, transportation, etc.

Currency: Euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub Czech koruna, Kč

Main attractions. What to watch

You will need not a single day to see the sights of the city. Ostrava has a beautiful city center with its main Masaryk Square, which is pleasant to walk along, turning into unfamiliar streets, visiting museums, parks and even theaters.

It is very pleasant, walking around the city, to accidentally stumble upon monuments to the Soviet war-liberators, which the Czech authorities carefully look after. Tired of walking, you can relax in one of the many cafes. In the city center there is a lot of interesting things from the exhibition of miniatures and the exhibition of retro cars to beautiful churches and the old town hall, which now houses the local history museum.

The whole day you will have excursions to the brewery museum at the Ostravar factory, a trip to the Zoo or the Mining Museum.

In Ostrava there are places to go and things to see!

Top 5

Central square in Ostrava - Masarykovo locality (Masarykove namesti).
Its configuration resembles the letter L. This square is decorated with several statues, among which we can note the Marian Column, erected in 1702 in honor of the deliverance of the city from the plague, the sculpture of St. Florian and the bust of President Masaryk. There is an interesting fountain in the square. Its jets hit right from under the pavement, which allows children to take baths in the summer and imagine themselves on the beach. The most beautiful building on the square is the Old Town Hall, which now houses the Ostrava Museum. Neighboring mansions are also historical buildings.
It is worth paying attention to the building of the former pharmacy, now given over to a museum, which musicians and lovers of ancient musical instruments will be happy to visit.
Silesian-Ostrava castle The magnificent castle, which appeared near the Polish border as early as the 13th century and initially performed only security functions, is called Silesian-Ostrava and is considered one of the most famous sights of Ostrava.
A lot of interesting things are offered for adults and young visitors: there is a Museum of Witches, an exposition of torture instruments, terrible dungeons, where, according to legend, treasures are hidden that can only be seen on Good Friday, a corridor where the White Lady sometimes appears with loose hair and a golden key in hand. She is said to bring bad news to the owners of the castle. There is an observation deck on the tower of the fortress. Ticket price: adult - about 2 EUR or 50 CZK, child - 1 EUR or 30 CZK.
Mining Museum Landek Park (Landek Park Hornické Museum) Ostrava developed and gained fame primarily as a city of miners and miners. This is probably a symbolic place for understanding where the character of the locals was tempered and the city took its pulse.
The museum is located in the abandoned Anselm coal mine, founded in the 18th century. You will be told about archeology, geology, mining, natural sciences as well as the surrounding flora and fauna. The exposition is presented in three parts: an underground exhibition, an exhibition of mountain and rescue equipment and an exhibition in an open area. The underground exhibition tells about the history of the mine itself from ancient times to the present day, and the process of mining itself will be shown to guests. Tickets are 2 EUR (50 CZK) for an adult and 1 EUR or 30 CZK for children.
Brewery Museum (Pivovarské muzeum) You can not ignore the brewing museum, it is located on the territory of the Ostravar plant.
The production of an amber drink began here quite a long time ago, and over the years it has become one of the best in the Czech Republic. Currently, the Ostravar brand is among the top ten producers of this drink in the country. Everyone will be introduced to the technology and features of beer brewing. You can also see old labels, glasses and numerous photographs that tell about the history of the plant. A very interesting and tasty tour. Ticket price - 2.2 EUR or 60 CZK. The museum is not open every day, so it is better to find out the schedule in advance and sign up for a tour.
Miniuni Park (Miniuni-svět miniatur) It's nice sometimes to feel like Gulliver in the land of the Lilliputians.
"Miniuni" is a place where sights from all over the world fit. In the 1.5 hectare park, you can see the seven wonders of the world, important buildings of the Czech Republic and the European Union, tiny ships and the railway. Models historical miniatures presented on a scale of 1:25. Ticket price: from 1 EUR (30 CZK).

Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit

In general, as the Czechs themselves joke, there are four churches for two believers. This is partly true: there are a lot of beautiful temples, churches in the Gothic style, but the flock is almost invisible in them. But you can often meet weddings and a few groups of tourists. I will not talk about most of the churches in Ostrava, after all, this is not a pilgrimage city. I'll tell you about two, in my opinion, the most interesting:

Museums. Which are worth a visit

I will try to tell in this section about those museums that were not previously mentioned in the text.

parks

As I said, despite the fact that Ostrava is an industrial city, it is very green. It has a lot of both large parks that have their own name, and small nameless squares where you can sit on a bench under a branchy tree and just relax and admire the well-groomed lawn, fountain or flower bed.

Large parks include:

tourist streets

Tourist streets can be called all the pedestrian streets that go from the central square or Svyatopolk Cech Square. But most guidebooks highlight Stodolny street(Stodolni street).

Stodolny Street is the most popular holiday destination for tourists and locals. It is located right in the center of the city and is considered one of the main sights of Ostrava.

Getting on it, travelers find themselves in the center of a noisy, vibrant metropolis that never sleeps. Medieval streets, neat mansions, churches touching clouds with spiers - everything remains outside of it. Fun, dancing, loud music, blinding lights reign here.

Each house located on Stodolny Street has either a bar, or a restaurant, or night club or disco. However, you do not need to look for a place where you can dance and have a good time on this street. With the onset of night, it turns from a respectable street where rich people like to dine into one fun disco. Here you can sit on the open terrace of one of the bars with fancy names.

What to see in 1 day

The most beautiful and interesting buildings are located on the squares. Depending on your taste, I would advise you to visit 3 city squares. I would start the inspection with:

You can see the route in more detail on the map:

What to see in the surroundings

Around Ostrava there is just a heap of interesting places that are not at all like this industrial city. The places that I will talk about below, I would advise every tourist to visit. It seems to me that they reveal the spirit and heart of the Moravian-Silesian region.

Opava

I'll start with the city of Opava, which is located only 34 km from Ostrava and can be reached by a simple shuttle bus.

Opava is the historical capital of Czech Silesia, founded over 800 years ago. It used to be the capital of the Duchy of Opava.

This is one of the most famous cities of the Middle Ages, annually attracting thousands of tourists who want to get acquainted with its sights and significant places.

The ancient Gothic buildings of the central part of the city will not leave indifferent lovers of antiquity. I was strongly impressed by the local cathedral and, oddly enough, the shopping center, which was located in the building of a former brewery. After the closure, the Czechs did not demolish the old walls of the plant, but restored it, expanded it with glass and metal, and even left some of the equipment inside. This city is worthy of a separate article.

Shtramberk

The second place I would like to talk about is Štramberk.

It is located on a hill, on the slopes of the Castle Hill, at the foot of the Beskid Mountains, 25 kilometers from Ostrava. The main attraction of Štramberk is the Štramberk-Truba castle and its main tower towering above the surroundings.

At the foot of the castle there is a very cozy restaurant.

From the top of this majestic tower you have a wonderful view of Štramberk and its surroundings. The town itself is very nice, it has many wooden buildings of the 17th-18th centuries.

And in the city they sell very tasty rosé wine made in this area. Surely, many did not even suspect the existence of local wine in the Czech Republic. There is also a legend about "Shtramberk ears". In a nutshell: during Mongol invasion the inhabitants ambushed, climbing the highest mountain, collapsed the dam, and the pressure of the water killed the invaders. When the townspeople went down, they found the ears of their victims in the bags of the Mongols. And they didn’t come up with anything better than how to bake cookies in the shape of ears.

Hradec over Moravici

And finally, I cannot fail to mention Hradec nad Moravici, located about 20 km from Ostrava. A cozy settlement with a chic castle, in which there were many famous guests, for example, Mozart.

I would like to mention the ruins of the Hukvaldy fortress (Zamek Hukvaldy) located 30 km from Ostrava. The fortress is really impregnable: it is located on the top of a mountain, in ancient times at the crossroads of important trade routes.

At various times it belonged to local feudal lords and clergymen. Because of all these qualities, no one has dared to attack her in the whole history.

All listed places and the route to them can be seen on this map (marked in red).

Food. What to try

Ostrava has typical Czech cuisine: tasty and satisfying, and certainly well known to everyone who has been to this country. National cuisine is quite unusual for its fatty, salty and high-calorie dishes.

Most dishes include pork or beef. Carp and trout dishes are also very popular, which are prepared for Christmas. Garnished with potatoes, stewed cabbage and dumplings, which are thick pancakes made from wheat flour and potatoes. Portions are traditionally very large. And everyone, without exception, is washed down with beer, the most beloved and popular drink in the country. You can read more about Czech cuisine.

What you will not try in other parts of the Czech Republic is:

Dishes of Czech and Moravian cuisine can be tasted both in fashionable restaurants and in wine bars, taverns and pubs.

I myself am not a particular fan of Czech cuisine and especially dumplings. But about Ostravar beer, I will say that this is quite a solid lager, even if not the best in Moravia.

Budget

In principle, the majority of cafes and bars in Ostrava can be attributed to the middle and not expensive segment.

You can eat cheaper only in street foods: they are scattered throughout the city and look like stalls on wheels or small pavilions. The assortment is probably the same as in the whole world: shawarma, sandwiches, various sausages in dough and buns with a cutlet, similar to hamburgers. You can eat in them within 2 EUR or 54 CZK.

U Skakaveho Ponika,
Heiwa cafe (Japanese cafe),
Los Capolitos Ostrava,
Subway Ostrava OC Futurum.

Expensive

Fine dining restaurants:

Guest Restaurant Francais.
La brasserie.
Na Hradbach.
Zamek Zabreh restaurace.

Security. What to watch out for

Ostrava is a fairly safe city, the police strictly monitor public order. Tourists are welcome here and there are no separate norms of behavior for them.

On the street you can meet marginal individuals and drunkards crawling out of bars, but I have not seen them show aggression.

Things to do

In addition to exploring the city's sights and museums, there are other things to do in the city that suit your taste. Shopping during the sales season can be more exciting than playing at a local casino, but unlike the latter, you will not leave the store empty-handed and with a wallet. Night clubs hopefully will not disappoint fans of hanging out. Also in Ostrava there is something for lovers of a healthy lifestyle, for example, rent a bike and go to one of the natural parks or just ride around the city, equipped with special bike paths.

Shopping and shops

The city is considered the central place for trade and shopping in the region. Impressive hypermarkets, shopping galleries and small shops are located here. There are markets everywhere where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers.

All sorts of memorable souvenirs and gifts that symbolize the city are sold everywhere: in the branches of the Ostrava information service, on the observation deck of the New Town Hall, at train stations and at the airport.

Of the large malls, I can recommend the Karolina shopping center. A huge store where you can buy almost everything from famous branded items, clothes and shoes of local brands, to food, souvenirs and gifts. Karolina has a large cinema, a recreation area with children, a dining area.

Local brands

From local brands, I will advise everyone to leather goods and especially shoes from a Czech company Bata.

Blazek- Czech brand, the brand is focused on men and sews exclusively men's clothing. Kara- again a local manufacturer. This Czech brand is famous for its warm outerwear, especially sheepskin coats, furs and down jackets, as well as leather goods.

Of the features of shopping in Ostrava and in the region in general, I note that all small and medium-sized shops are closed on holidays and weekends. So shopping on Sunday can only be done in large hypermarkets.

Discounts are traditionally during the Christmas holidays and then summer sales.

Bars. Where to go

Clubs and nightlife

Someone calls Ostrava the capital of club life in Moravia. Partly it is. Mostly the clubs are located on Stodolny Street, I already mentioned one of them above: "Black Spider". The larger the city, the more such establishments. Below are a few clubs that deserve attention:

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

In Ostrava you can buy the same set of souvenirs as in other parts of the Czech Republic. Beer, which is brewed only in this city, and various trinkets, such as ashtrays and mugs with the name Ostrava, can be considered an original gift.

You can read more about souvenirs from the Czech Republic.

How to move around the city

The city has a well-developed and well-functioning urban transport network. Surprisingly, the main and main mode of transport here are trams, along with them, trolleybuses and buses enter the city transport system. The schedule of city routes is posted at all stops in the city, and it is surprisingly accurate.

The city is divided into four tariff zones (the center and three parts of the city). The fare depends on the number of zones crossed. There are 2 types of one-time tickets (for one or two zones), the ticket price is approximately 0.4 USD for one zone and 0.5 USD for two. In addition to single tickets, there are travel tickets (1, 2, 3 or 4 zones) with different validity periods.

Tickets can be bought in advance at tobacco shops or at special kiosks. You can also buy a ticket from the driver. Children and students who have made themselves an international student ID ISIC can count on a discount of up to 30%.

Tickets are also divided into time-based: valid for 15 minutes, hours and days. Tickets for 15 minutes cost 0.5 EUR (15 CZK), for an hour - 0.8 EUR (24 CZK), for a day - 2.7 EUR (75 CZK). When entering the transport, be sure to mark your ticket with a special device inside the bus, tram and trolleybus.

Taxi. What features exist

If you are not reading my first article, you probably noticed that I scold taxi drivers everywhere. In the Czech Republic, and in particular in Ostrava, I have no complaints about them. Everything is strictly on the counter, no one tried to fool me.

A taxi in the city costs 0.82 EUR (22 CZK) per kilometer. Payment is accepted in cash, but card payment is also possible. You can get from the airport to the city center for about 22 EUR (590 CZK). Taxis are ordered by phone.

Trams

Trams have been running in Ostrava since the 19th century, when the first line was opened from the current Ostrava main railway station to Vítkovice.

Today they are the main form of public transport. The schedule of city routes is posted at all city stops.

Buses

The blue and white colors of Ostrava buses are clearly visible in the traffic flow. They move comfortably and quickly enough. Today there are approximately 60 bus lines. I wrote about prices above.

Transport rental

To rent a car in the Czech Republic, you will need a driver's license and a credit card. The driver must be over 21 years of age and have at least 2 years of driving experience. You will also need to pay a deposit in the amount of 350 EUR.

The cost of car rental in the Czech Republic usually includes: unlimited mileage, CASCO insurance, tolls, vignette for driving on toll roads and VAT. The cost of a week of renting an economy class car is about 175 EUR (4,700 CZK). For a day - about 40 EUR (1,000 CZK). The cost of a liter of gasoline is 1.39 EUR (37.5 CZK). Offers from different distributors can be viewed, for example,.

The car will give freedom of movement both in all the most beautiful corners of the Czech Republic and throughout Europe.

rules traffic comply with general international standards, but there is a strict ban on alcohol while driving. The content of alcohol in the blood of a driver in the Czech Republic is not allowed. In Ostrava, the so-called “European driving style” has been adopted: a polite attitude towards pedestrians and the absence of violations. All passengers are required to wear seat belts in the car.

In the Czech Republic, as I said, there is a network of toll roads. The inscription bez poplatku means that the ride is free.

Ostrava - holidays with children

Vacation in Ostrava, especially with children, is not the best idea. This city is more for business, business meetings and a transit point for traveling to remote corners of the Czech Republic. But, if for some reason you find yourself in this city with a child, then, if you wish, this trip can be turned into an exciting journey: a quest through castles, factories and mines, theaters and museums ... in general, choose entertainment according to the soul of those that will offer Big city with centuries of history.

Ski holidays

The Beskydy Mountains are nothing like the snow-capped Alps. In winter, tourists will find small ski slopes and everything necessary for outdoor activities on them. Gentle slopes are covered with alpine meadows and spruce-fir and beech forests. The mountains are not high, but picturesque.

Natural conditions allow skiing from December to April.

The most favorite ski areas for tourists - Pustevny, Lysa Gora, Bila, Yavorovs, Solan. I have never been skiing, so I can not advise you on a specific place.

Ski jumping is better Frenstat nad Radhostem.

Ski passes

The Pustevny resort in the Beskydy Mountains has been especially popular among tourists for many years. It is located at an altitude of 620–1,098 meters between the mountains Radhošť and Tanečnice, not far from the town of Frenštát pod Radhoštěm and the village of Trojanovice, which is 70 km from Ostrava.

All details about how much ski passes and training cost can be found on the official website of the ski resort.

Tracks

This is the oldest resort of Beskydy. The tracks here are different in complexity: There are black, red and blue levels. Their length is 8 km.

For those who do not know how to ski (including children), a professional school is open here. Equipment rental is available. The hotels have restaurants and cafes, night bars, discos, swimming pool and sauna. You can live both in the villages at the foot, and closer to the snow caps.

Ostrava was founded in 1267 at the crossroads of trade routes (the so-called Amber Road) and for a long time remained a small craft town. A turning point in the development of the city was the discovery of coal deposits in the 2nd half of the 18th century and the growth of the mining industry. After the completion of the North railway an industrial leap took place in the city, which led to industrial growth, an increase in population and an increase in culture.

In Prague, Ostrava has been stereotyped as an industrial city. Most of the population is working class, which is not surprising, because. Ostrava became famous thanks to metallurgy and coal. Even 15 years ago, cable cars that stretched right over the heads of the townspeople transported coal from one plant to another. In addition, the inhabitants of the city speak a special Czech dialect, which differs from the usual speech of the capital's inhabitants and is similar to the Polish language.

The so-called "steel heart of the republic" was also called the "early bird" of the Czech Republic. The city wakes up at four in the morning, as evidenced by the beginning of the movement of trams. Newsstands open in 30 minutes, and beer establishments start working at six. But the night here comes relatively early (about 10 o'clock).

Climate and weather

Due to the temperate climate, summers are quite warm here, while winters are wet and cold. Since the city is located in the eastern part of the country, the continental climate here is a bit harsher than in most parts of the Czech Republic. The average temperature for the year is 8.6 °C (17.8 °C in July and -2.4 °C in January), the average rainfall per year is approximately 600 mm. Relative humidity - 77.6%. and the average wind speed is 3.6 m/s.

Nature

The city is located in the east of the picturesque and fertile Moravian Plain, which in this place is covered with small hills. The city is surrounded by numerous agricultural lands, water meadows and coniferous forests (spruce and pine).

Ostrava literally stands at the confluence of three rivers - Ostravice, Odra and Opava, which here have a flat and calm character. Nearby is the beautiful Polansky Forest, which is a protected reservation. Thus, despite the fact that the city is one of the largest industrial centers in the country, there are quite a few blue-green natural oases in it.

Attractions

In the central part of the city there is a large rectangular square. Masaryk, which attracts absolutely all the guests of the city. Here rises the tower of the old town hall in the Renaissance style. Now it houses the Ostrava Museum. Nearby stands a "plague" pillar with the image of the Virgin Mary, it was installed by medieval townspeople in gratitude for delivering the city from the plague. Here you can see the Gothic Church of St. Vaclav.

Other historical sights of the city include: the Neo-Renaissance Basilica of the Savior of the Lord, the New Town Hall with viewing terraces and the wooden church of St. Catherine.

Places of interest include the urban area of Poruba with bold modern architecture. Industrial buildings and structures from the time of the prosperity of the mining and metallurgical industries have also been preserved here. The Landek Mining Museum and the Michal Mine, a national cultural monument, can clearly tell the history of the mining industry in the region. Tourists can be introduced to entertaining and unusual exhibits at the Museum of Fire and cultural center zither Citerrarium.

Nutrition

The national Czech cuisine is quite unusual for its fatty, salty and high-calorie, but incredibly tasty dishes. Most dishes include pork or beef. Carp and trout dishes are also very popular, which are prepared for Christmas. Potatoes, stewed cabbage and dumplings, which are thick pancakes made from wheat flour and potatoes, are offered as a side dish. Portions are traditionally very large. And everyone, without exception, is washed down with beer, the most beloved and popular drink in the country. Dishes of Czech and Moravian cuisine can be tasted both in fashionable restaurants and in wine bars, taverns and pubs.

Beer in the Czech Republic is a kind of cult. There are hundreds of varieties in every city and region of the country. Ostrava has been brewing its own beer under the Ostravar brand since 1897. A unique atmosphere hovers in numerous city pubs and taverns, and signature beer snacks “drowned” (blue-green sausages) and pickled Camembert cheese are considered the most delicious in Ostrava.

For tourists, as well as the natives of Ostrava, there are classic and hotel restaurants that serve Czech and foreign cuisine. In the central area of the city there are many pizzerias, cafes, eateries and fast food establishments such as McDonald´s.

Accommodation

The city can offer a wide and varied range of conditions for comfortable accommodation and accommodation of tourists, which depend on financial and territorial preferences. All kinds of hotels, hotels and boarding houses are waiting for guests here, where professional service, comfort and attention are offered.

The most famous and comfortable are the four-star hotels Zamek Zabreh, Mercure Ostrava Center and Hotel Brioni. There are many budget accommodation options, including renting apartments and rooms, all kinds of hostels.

The cost of living in a large hotel in the central area of the city ranges from $300 to $25 per day and depends on the room and the range of services. Small hotels and boarding houses outside the center offer more moderate prices - from $ 14 per day.

Entertainment and recreation

Most of all, Ostrava is famous for its various festivals. One of the most popular is the Irish Cultural Festival, which traditionally takes place in March. During the holiday, concerts of Irish music and dance are held annually, musical groups from Ireland and the Czech Republic perform, exhibitions, fairs and tastings work. Admission to many events, including most concerts, is free.

No less popular is the traditional witch-burning holiday, which takes place on April 30 on the Filipo-Yakub night. An integral part of the holiday is not only the ritual "burning of witches" at the stake, but also concerts, bazaars, and other entertainment.

Noteworthy is the festival "Dance of Ostrava", International Festival music Colors of Ostrava and Shakespeare celebrations.

The most interesting place in the city is the Miniuni Park. The peculiarity of the park is that on its compact territory it is possible to see about 30 miniature models of famous sights from all over the world. Among them are the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, the Brandenburg Gate, the pyramids and much more.

Ostrava is also famous for its zoo, which is located on a vast territory with mixed forests, spacious meadows and ponds. The zoo specializes in rare fauna, in particular, the Carpathian lynx.

The center of the city's nightlife is Stodolni Street, which is located in the center of Ostrava. There are nightclubs, bars and restaurants open 24/7 here. And lovers of classical cultural recreation can always get into the opera, philharmonic and theater.

Purchases

Since 2001, the largest bookstore in the country, Librex, has been opened in the city, which is housed in a five-story building.

All sorts of memorable souvenirs and gifts that symbolize the city are sold everywhere: in the branches of the Ostrava Information Service, on the New Town Hall Observation Deck, at railway stations and at the Airport.

Transport

The city is divided into four tariff zones (the center of the three parts of the city). The fare depends on the number of zones crossed. There are 2 types of one-time tickets (for one or two zones), the ticket price is approximately $ 0.4 for one zone and $ 0.5 for two. In addition to single tickets, there are travel tickets (1, 2, 3 or 4 zones) with different validity periods.

In addition to public transport, the city is filled with all kinds of taxi services and private carriers.

Connection

Absolutely all types of communication function in the city - from telephone boxes to satellite connections. From the machine you can get through by phone card, they are sold everywhere. You can also call from the post office. Rates for calls abroad vary depending on the time.

Communication in the Czech Republic is considered quite expensive. The cost of one minute of conversation in roaming will cost about $0.50-1.20 (depending on the time of the call). For international calls, it is more profitable to buy phone cards of a large denomination (about $20). A phone call from any hotel will cost much more.

There are many salons for connecting to local mobile operators in the city. Any tourist can become a subscriber of the local network for calls within the country, which will save a lot of communication costs.

There are several Internet providers in the city and Internet cafes are open everywhere, where you can always get in touch via Skype. The cost of one hour on the Internet will cost about $ 1-3.

Security

Ostrava is a fairly safe city, the police strictly monitor public order. Tourists are welcome here and there are no separate norms of behavior for them.

Traffic rules comply with general international standards, but there is a strict ban on alcohol while driving. In Ostrava, the so-called “European driving style” has been adopted: a polite attitude towards pedestrians and the absence of violations. All passengers are required to wear seat belts in the car. On the roads outside the city, you need to be careful - the local wild animals are absolutely not afraid of cars.

Business climate

Business opportunities in Ostrava are almost unlimited. The main prerogative of the organization of business is to provide the maximum allowable freedom. Ostrava, along with Prague, is one of the most promising destinations for investments and investments. A tax audit must be carried out once every 7 years.

The city occupies an advantageous geographical position available are the Polish and Slovak markets. Moreover, it has a developed transport infrastructure and a huge potential of human resources. Such large investors as Siemens, PEGATRON Czech, CTP Invest and others are based here.

The property

Ostrava real estate is generally considered to be of a high class in the global and European market.

Many foreign entities, in the presence of free cash in circulation, purchase real estate in Ostrava in order to obtain a European Union passport in the future. The purchase and sale of commercial and residential real estate does not require licensing.

Before the trip, it is useful to master a few common phrases in Czech or take a Russian-Czech phrase book with you.

With the presentation of an ISIC ID and a youth card (GO-25), a variety of discounts and benefits are provided.

The islands are a prime example uniqueness and beauty of our planet. There are many amazing locations on Earth, including countries, cities and others. settlements. There are seas and oceans, amazing wildlife. Plants deserve special attention. Speaking of relaxation, we try to choose a place where the best climatic conditions and natural landscapes. Everyone wants to spend their free time in a clean and beautiful place. Therefore, we will consider the best islands for holidays in the world for 2019. If you're not into pure nature, you're more into infrastructure or just an alternative, check out the world's best tourist destinations.

The best islands for an unforgettable holiday

Bali Island is the epitome of picturesque landscapes and clean ecology. A unique place with a unique culture. The island attracts tourists from all over the world due to its climate and the simplicity of the locals. Speaking of the latter, it is worth noting that all tourists here are always treated favorably and responsively. Great atmosphere for family holidays. Many comfortable hotels and developed infrastructure will make your stay unique for any traveler. Incendiary dances and festivals that are held in Bali every week deserve special attention.

Barokay Island is one of best regions Philippines, which combines beautiful natural places and attractions. The recreational site is distinguished by a mass of locations that will leave unforgettable impressions in the memories of travelers. Special attention deserves the culture and attitude of local residents to recreation. You can go in search of adventure through horseback riding or cycling. Mountaineering, windsurfing and water skiing also thrive.

Bora Bora is one of the best holiday islands due to its historical value and ecology. Clean air, warm climate and many unique locations will give you an unforgettable travel experience in Bora Bora. Speaking about history, it must be said that during the Japanese war, soldiers from America lived on this island. For them, Bora Bora was a military base. Currently, the island is one of the most picturesque places on the planet. Holidays on the island are very expensive, many celebrities come to Bora Bora every year and consider it the best place to relax!

Maui is the second largest island in Hawaii. By no means, this is not the only factor that determines the popularity of this place. It is worth noting that the climate here is pleasant, warm and mild. A clean beach stretches on the rainbow horizon of the ocean. More beautiful than such a location can only be picturesque flora Maui. This area is home to many animals that attract with their exclusivity. Some species of dolphins are listed in the Red Book.

Anguilla is one of the best travel islands for 2019! A small area, but rich wildlife - this is how you can characterize a pleasant island, which also attracts with historical value. Spreads across the Caribbean. Attracts clean air and attractive vegetation. Many delicious and rare fruits grow on the island.

The island of Jamaica is that rare place that not many have seen, but everyone has heard of. This trend is due to the presence of unique tropical landscapes and the pleasant, mild climate of the island. At the same time, Jamaica encourages tourists from different countries of the world by the presence of comfortable living conditions in local hotels. The hotel business is on the level here. You can get acquainted with local customs, culture and history thanks to the work of good and friendly guides. Jamaica always has great weather, a pleasant climate that creates a unique atmosphere for outdoor activities!

There is no doubt that the Seychelles is one of the best places for foreigners to visit. Rather, a group of small islands located in the Indian Ocean. The uniqueness of these places is that they seem untouched by man. People really come here to relax. And on white sands it is extremely easy to do. Holidays in the Seychelles are a pleasure for wealthy people who are used to getting only the best and exclusive, unfortunately the prices there are such that not everyone can boast of having been there.

The island of Hvar is a truly unique place that attracts with its history and beaches. It is located in the Adriatic Sea in the South of Croatia. Tourists from different countries come to the islands not only to have a good time, but to gain new knowledge. Delicious food, unique atmosphere and wonderful conditions are just a small list of the advantages of a holiday on the island of Hvar. Nearby are many medieval cities, and in June the lavender blooms and the air becomes simply incredible. In the heart of the island, life does not stop day or night! This is not an island for loneliness and tranquility, here you want to live life to the fullest and have fun in the company of friends!

The ex-leader in the list are the Galapagos Islands. There are many amazing animals in these places. Vegetation also attracts the eye of any tourist. Actually for this reason, many places are protected by law, they are protected. While enjoying the rest in this meta, it is important to abide by the law and honor the traditions of the locals. In this case, you will be provided with a wonderful and serene vacation in nature, which delights the minds of many travelers around the world!

The largest island of this archipelago is Isabela, and the rest here is not what you might think! People spend most of their time here getting acquainted with various animals that live here, namely: colorful iguanas, penguins, as well as a huge colony of giant turtles! The nature here is simply incredible, there are many plant species that cannot be found anywhere else! So if you want to touch one of the most incredible islands in the world, then you are here!

The best island to stay for 2019 - Aruba. Located off the coast of Venezuela. Apart from azure shores and clean beaches, great atmosphere and positive people. Speaking of positive, benevolence, responsiveness and friendliness are provided. People are constantly cheering and enjoying life. There is a feeling of peace. Against the backdrop of beautiful landscapes and climate, this feeling is more than ever useful for a pleasant pastime.

People of all ages come here and consider the island one of the best in the Caribbean! Parties here almost never stop, a lot of educational excursions to the corners of the island, and of course shopping! All this of course cannot be cheap, so Aruba remains a small dream for many travelers!

The Czech city of Ostrava, one of the oldest in the country, is located in the center of the Moravian-Silesian region, in the northeast of the country. This third largest city in the Czech Republic is a major transport center and is known for its coal mines, which produce black coal. High Quality and metallurgical plants. That is why the second name of Ostrava is the “Steel Heart of the Czech Republic”. Agree, not many in their lives managed to go down into the mine on an excursion, to touch everything with their own hands.

Ostrava is also distinguished from other tourist cities by the early start of everyday life: the first trains and trams start running at four in the morning, at half past four local newspaper stalls and bread kiosks are open, and at six you can safely have breakfast in almost any restaurant or cafe.

Ostrava has become famous throughout Europe for its “sleepless” and busiest street called Stodolnaya. Its unique atmosphere, created by numerous nightclubs, bars and cafes, like a magnet attracts tourists to rest after a busy sightseeing tour of the city.

bus tickets

Departure city

Arrival city

Travel date Exact date +2 days +/-3 days +6 days

Main square of Masaryk

It would be right to start acquaintance with the city from its visiting card - the Central Masaryk Square (named after the Czech Republic), where old buildings in the Art Nouveau style (magnificent private mansions and the University Rectorate), buildings in a strict Gothic style and modern buildings are intertwined in a harmonious combination. , among which is the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, made in the best traditions of modern architecture.

Here is located the Cathedral of St. Wenceslas, which is one of the oldest places of worship in the region, and the Old Town Hall, built in the 16th century. Currently, the Ostrava Museum functions in it.

In the very center of the square, you can see the Plague Pillar, erected at the beginning of the 18th century, as a token of gratitude for the end of the plague epidemic. Another highlight of this place is a wonderful fountain and a sculpture of the patron saint of all firefighters - St. Florian.

Silesian-Ostrava Castle

While in Ostrava, one cannot fail to visit one of its most interesting, visited and important sights - (Slezskoostravský hrad). It was built in the Gothic style and was built to protect the border. Guests of the castle have the opportunity to visit the medieval castle smithy and the new chapel of Jan Chuprynyak. In the exhibition halls there is a permanent exhibition that acquaints those who wish with the history of this interesting architectural structure.

For lovers of national zest, an exhibition of dolls in village national costumes is presented in the castle tower, highlighting the traditions in everyday and festive clothes of local residents.

The basement will present you with a museum of witches and a large aquarium with freshwater fish, and from the observation deck of the castle you can observe a beautiful panorama of the city.

Currently, the Silesian-Ostrava Castle often hosts various fairs, concerts, exhibitions, as well as a large local music festival called Colors of Ostrava. Read more.

Brewery Museum

The Brewery Museum (Pivovarské muzeum), located on the territory of the Ostravar brewery, cannot be ignored. The production of an amber drink began here quite a long time ago, and over the years it has become one of the best in the Czech Republic. Currently, the Ostravar brand is among the top ten producers of this drink in the country.

In the 21st century, a museum was opened on the territory of the plant to acquaint everyone and guests of the city with the technology and features of beer brewing. You can also see here old labels, glasses and numerous photographs that tell about the history of the plant.

The beer isn't even bad. I like it.

Ticket price:

Child: 30 CZK
Adult: 60 CZK

Museum opening hours:

The schedule changes frequently, check the official website: ostravar.cz

Fine Arts Gallery

For those who are interested in painting, the Gallery of Fine Arts (Galerie výtvarného umění) is of particular interest, as more than 20 thousand paintings from all over the world are collected here. They provide visitors with the opportunity to get acquainted with the paintings of Italian and Dutch authors, as well as the works of Czech masters of the 19th and 20th centuries and the canvases of contemporary artists.

Ticket price:

Child: 50 CZK
Adult: 100 CZK

Gallery opening hours:

Tuesday-Sunday: 09:00-18:00

Michal Mine

To come to the "Steel Heart" of the Czech Republic and not visit one of the mines, thanks to which the city became famous, would be an unforgivable mistake. Therefore, go on an excursion to the Důl Michal mine, where you can feel like one of the miners and feel all the features of coal mining for yourself.

Ticket price:

Child: 50 CZK
Adult: 80 CZK

Mine opening hours:

Tuesday-Sunday: 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00
Monday: day off

local transport

Transport in Ostrava is excellent. To travel around the city or outside it, you can use the tram, bus or trolleybus. By the way, Ostrava's tram transport is the most modern in the Czech Republic.

Tickets must be bought in advance at tobacco shops or at special kiosks. You can also buy a ticket from the driver. Tickets are divided into several categories: valid for 15 minutes, an hour and a day. Tickets action for 15 minutes costs 15 kroons, for an hour - 24 kroons, for a day - 75 kroons. When entering the transport, be sure to mark your ticket with a special device inside the bus, tram and trolleybus.

Ostrava will please its guests with diverse attractions that will not leave anyone indifferent. History connoisseurs will be able to touch the past by visiting fortresses, castles and significant places of the city, amber drink lovers will appreciate local beer, and those who love extraordinary travel will certainly be inspired by visiting coal mines and metallurgical plants.