Cheb is a town in western Bohemia, in the Czech Republic, close to the borders with Germany and Bavaria. Its historic centre gives a clear picture of a place that has long sat between cultures, with Czech and German architectural influences visible side by side.
The market square and Špalíček
The main market square is the heart of the old town and is dominated by a Gothic character. Its most distinctive sight is the Špalíček, a complex of interconnected medieval houses that form a compact, unusual group. Wandering the square and its surrounding streets is a good way to get a feel for the town's older layers.
The castle ruins
Cheb's imperial castle ruins are linked to the history of the Holy Roman Empire, and they offer a quieter counterpoint to the bustle of the square. The site suits visitors who enjoy reading the traces of older buildings and thinking about the figures and events associated with the empire.
A base for the region
Cheb is also a practical base for exploring the surrounding area. The town lies near several spa resorts, so it works well for a visit that combines town sightseeing with time in the countryside and spa towns of western Bohemia.
- Stroll the Gothic market square and see the Špalíček houses.
- Visit the imperial castle ruins and their connection to the Holy Roman Empire.
- Use the town as a base for trips to nearby spa resorts.
For visitors interested in medieval architecture and the mixed Czech and German heritage of the border region, Cheb makes a worthwhile stop, whether as a single day trip or as part of a longer journey through Bohemia.
