Czech Republic Showcases the Best of Eastern Tourism in Ostrava, Blending Adventure, Culture, and Gourmet Delights for Global Travelers

Published on May 2, 2025

The Czech Republic is making waves in the global tourism scene by showcasing its vibrant eastern region, particularly in Ostrava. With an exciting blend of adventure, rich culture, and delectable cuisine, the city is drawing the attention of international travelers looking for a unique experience. From exploring the scenic Beskydy mountains to indulging in local gourmet delights, Ostrava is offering a one-of-a-kind experience that combines natural beauty, history, and authentic Czech flavors. This innovative tourism event highlights the region’s transformation from an industrial hub to a modern cultural and gastronomic destination.

Visit Czechia recently hosted an impressive, weekend-long travel and trade convention in Ostrava, the third-largest city in the Czech Republic. Once known for its industrial might, Ostrava has undergone a remarkable transformation into a dynamic destination celebrated for its heritage, outdoor activities, and gastronomic offerings. The event, which ran from April 25 to April 28, 2025, drew nearly 200 domestic and international tour operators, journalists, and tour guides.

The focus of the event was to showcase the east of the Czech Republic, with a particular emphasis on the Moravian-Silesian region. Delegates were introduced to a well-rounded itinerary that highlighted gastronomy, active tourism, and cultural experiences. Local guides expertly led the participants through the Beskydy mountains, an area renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich folklore. One of the standout experiences was a cable car ride to view a statue of a local pagan god, offering a striking glimpse into the region’s ancient spiritual traditions. The event also offered a variety of exhilarating activities including hikes, golf, and even a thrilling bobsleigh run – the perfect way to burn off the hearty Czech dishes served throughout the weekend.

The gastronomic highlights included an array of Czech classics such as roasted duck, salmon, cheese, dumplings, noodles, and local honey cake from the renowned Marlenka bakery. These flavors were paired perfectly with the region’s natural beauty, making for an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Accommodation for the event was as memorable as the activities themselves, with the Art Miura Hotel taking center stage. Located with breathtaking views of the foothills, this extraordinary property is not just a place to rest but an art lover’s paradise, featuring original works by iconic artists like Warhol, Damien Hirst, and Basquiat. The Mercure and Clarion Congress hotels, both offering state-of-the-art conference facilities, also hosted many of the event’s delegates, providing an excellent base for business and leisure alike.

The convention also delved into the region’s industrial past, providing guests with a chance to explore Ostrava’s legacy as a coal and iron industry hub. One of the most intriguing visits included a tour of a decommissioned Soviet-era blast furnace, which still stands as a symbol of the region’s industrial heritage. Delegates gained insights into the working lives of local miners, learning how the industry shaped the area’s economy and culture. The final event of the convention took place at Gong, a stunning venue inside the former gasworks, where guests enjoyed a gala dinner accompanied by a mesmerizing performance by dancers and aerial artists, all set to the powerful music of the Ostrava Philharmonic Orchestra.

At the media conference, František Reismüller, director of Czech tourism, provided valuable insights into the recovery of the Czech tourism sector following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Germany, Poland, and the Baltic countries emerged as the Czech Republic’s largest source markets, underscoring the strong regional demand for Czech tourism. Prague continues to dominate as the country’s most visited destination, attracting just under nine million visitors in 2024—a remarkable increase of 8.6% compared to the previous year. While the Moravian-Silesian region remains a key destination, it ranks seventh in terms of growth, experiencing a 2.3% increase in visitors in 2024, bringing the total number of tourists to just over one million.

This event marked a significant milestone in the Czech Republic’s tourism revival, showcasing the diverse offerings of the eastern part of the country and highlighting Ostrava’s shift from an industrial powerhouse to a thriving cultural and tourist destination. With its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, Ostrava and the surrounding region are set to become even more prominent on the global tourism map in the coming years.