Lednice-Valtice

This complex of chateaus and gardens is a true gem. No wonder it made the UNESCO World Heritage list. Distance from Prague: 245 kilometers, driving time: 2.5 hours.
Lednice Castle was built for the Liechtenstein dynasty, and a tour of the interior presents the family’s history. Guests will discover stylish furniture, ceilings with rich decorations and a staircase made using a single oak tree. Tours of the castle's interior are performed in guided groups. Opening hours: May-August, Tuesday-Sunday from 9am to noon and 1 to 6 pm.
The nearby Lednice-Valtice gardens are a 156-hectare estate composed of two gardens. One is a French garden and another consists of pools and North American plants. Visitors will also find an intriguing Roman aqueduct and sculptures.
Many buildings were built by Liechtenstein architects such as Josef Hardmuth and Josef Kornhäusel. Of particular note are the 1823 colonnade and the Temple of Diana with its triumphal arch. The castle itself was on the old border between Austria and Moravia - dating back to 1827.
Located in front of Lednice Castle is a minaret, erected in 1797. Today, it houses the family's Oriental collection.
Jan Castle, located four kilometres from Lednice is a set of artificial “ruins”. Many people celebrate weddings here.
Gothic-era Valtice Castle dates back to the 12th century. During the 16th century, the Liechtenstein family chose Valtice as their main home, and the architect Fischer von Erlach gave the fortress a baroque style. Today, the castle remains a beautiful example of this style. The interior has been restored, and although it no longer boasts its original furnishings, it remains a beauty, with trompe l’oeil frescos and a splendid decorative hall of mirrors. The castle is open to visitors from April to October: Tuesday-Friday, 9 am to noon and 1 to 5 pm (in April and October, it closes at 4 pm); Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to noon and 1 to 4 pm.