Things To Do
in Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav
Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav sits along the Elbe River just northeast of Prague, blending riverside scenery with centuries of history. The town center is marked by a grand château and well-preserved Baroque and Renaissance architecture. It serves as a convenient, peaceful base for exploring central Bohemia while staying within easy reach of Prague.
Visitors will find charming streets, markets, and cultural sites that reveal everyday Czech life at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Czech pastries and coffee. After your meal, take a stroll through the charming streets of Brandýs nad Labem, admiring the beautifully preserved architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss visiting the St. John the Baptist Church, where you can appreciate its stunning Baroque style and historical significance.
In the afternoon, head to the Brandýs nad Labem Castle, where you can explore the grounds and learn about its rich history through the informative exhibits. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Elbe River, soaking in the scenic views and perhaps spotting local wildlife.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a riverside restaurant for dinner, indulging in classic Czech cuisine like goulash or svíčková. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll along the river promenade, where you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and the soft glow of the lights reflecting on the water. Cap off your night with a visit to a local pub to taste some Czech beers and engage with friendly locals.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic town of Stará Boleslav, known for its significance in Czech history. Enjoy breakfast at a local bakery, sampling a traditional koláč while soaking in the morning atmosphere. Afterward, explore the Basilica of St. Wenceslas, one of the oldest Romanesque churches in the Czech Republic, where you can admire its intricate architecture.
After a morning of history, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers regional specialties. Spend your afternoon visiting the unique Museum of the Czech Language, where you can learn about the evolution of the Czech language through interactive exhibits. Take some time to wander the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a coffee at a quaint café.
As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a traditional Czech restaurant, where you can sample local wines paired with your meal. After dining, take a leisurely walk around the historic square, where you can appreciate the beautifully illuminated buildings. Consider attending a local cultural event if available, to immerse yourself in the local traditions and music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (single ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $60-100 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to Prague
- Rich history, charming chateau, and riverside scenery
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Prague
- Limited big-city attractions; some facilities may have seasonal hours
- "Dobrý den" - Hello
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much is this?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand Baroque-era residence with landscaped grounds along the Elbe, perfect for palace and park photography.
Historic hilltop church site offering atmospheric views and roman-influenced architecture.
Scenic riverfront sunsets and reflective water shots, with bridges and willow-lined banks.
Colorful historic buildings and a charming central fountain ideal for street photography.
Food in Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav
Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce served with cranberry sauce and bread dumplings.
Must-Try!
Beef or pork goulash with soft bread dumplings and onions.
Crispy potato pancakes often served with sour cream or applesauce.
Sweet pastries filled with jam, poppy seeds, or curd cheese.
Roast duck with dumplings and a rich gravy, a Czech Sunday favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the town square offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and seasonal treats.
Casual stalls along the riverfront offering fried cheese, sausages, and sweet snacks during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common on first meetings; address people with Mr./Ms. and last name until invited to use first names.
Be punctual for appointments; keep noise levels moderate in residential areas, especially in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving a tip of 5-10% for good service is common; larger groups may include a service charge. Cash tips are appreciated, though card tips are increasingly accepted.
Cash and cards (chip-and-PIN) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees and markets returning; layer clothing for cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; stay hydrated, enjoy riverside walks, and attend outdoor events when available.
Pleasant temperatures and turning leaves; ideal for walking tours and photography of fall colors.
Cold with the possibility of snow; indoor attractions shine, and festive markets can appear around holidays.
Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav at Night
Hiking in Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic hill with hiking trails and panoramic views; a short trip from Brandýs for a day hike.
Stunning sandstone formations and forest trails suitable for longer day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav by plane.
Main international airport serving Prague; about 30-40 minutes by car or rail to Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav with good transport links.
Smaller regional airport to the east with limited flights; useful for budget connections and regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of families, retirees, and commuters who travel to Prague for work or study.
Attracted by the quiet town atmosphere and easy access to the capital.
Visitors exploring historic sites, river walks, and nearby nature areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the region with local clubs and casual games in community fields.
Common in colder months; nearby rinks host amateur and junior leagues.
Well-suited for road and riverfront routes along the Elbe.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian soups, dumplings, and salads; ask for mushroom or bean dishes and consider dairy-free options or regional salads.