The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe and a member state of the European Union. The country has borders with Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south and Slovakia to the east. The capital and largest city is Prague (Czech: Praha), a major tourist destination. The country is composed of the historic regions of Bohemia and Moravia, as well as parts of Silesia.
The Czech Republic has several centers of tourist activity. The historic capital city of Prague is the primary tourist attraction, and the city is also the most common point of entry for tourists visiting other parts of the country. Notable sights in Prague are Old Town, the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Other popular tourist sites include the many castles and chateaux throughout the country, as well as the many beautiful mountains, forests and lakes. The Czech Republic is also famous for its love of puppetry and marionettes. Furthermore, the Pilsner style beer originated in Western Bohemian city of PlzeĆ (Pilsen in German), and Czech beers are famous around the world.