Tourists from Asia are starting to return to the Czech Republic, although their numbers are still noticeably lower than before the pandemic.

Chinese travelers, who were once the fifth most numerous visitors to the country, have not yet returned in the same numbers. Before the 2019 pandemic, around 1.7 million tourists came from Asia annually; last year, the figure was just under 800,000.

The direct air link between China and Prague, which had been out of service for four years, has now been restored and operates three times a week.

“We believe that the resumption of direct flights will attract Chinese tourists to the Czech Republic and that visitor numbers will soon return to pre-2019 levels,” said Chinese Ambassador Feng Piao.

In the first quarter of this year alone, nearly 22,000 tourists arrived from China, and the CzechTourism agency expects this number to increase tenfold by the end of the year. According to the agency’s director, František Reismüller, the Czech Republic could see a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels by 2025 or 2026.

Most Asian tourists spend only a few days in the Czech Republic, typically three, before traveling to other European destinations.

Asian Tourists Replaced by Other Visitors

In the Czech Republic, Asian tourists primarily visit cultural landmarks such as Prague, Český Krumlov, and Kutná Hora. Kristýna Drahotová, head of monuments operations at the Kutná Hora archdeaconry, noted a significant decrease in Asian tourist groups. However, visitors from neighboring European countries have compensated for the decline.

The castle in Český Krumlov remains popular among South Koreans, who frequently book paid tours. Guide Hana Hajerová mentioned that South Korean tourists typically spend half a day in the town, taking a city tour before heading to their hotel.

According to Český Krumlov’s deputy mayor Dalibor Uhlíř, the town is pleasantly crowded but not overcrowded. Chinese tourists have been largely replaced by Germans and Austrians. Despite the steady flow of visitors, local business sales are lower this year compared to last year.

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