Things To Do
in Chrudim

Chrudim is a charming market town in the Czech Republic’s Pardubice Region, perched along the Chrudimka River. Its well-preserved historic center shines with Baroque and Gothic architecture, arcades, and a gentle riverside atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to the Bohemian highlands, offering cultural sights, friendly cafes, and easy access to nature.

In Chrudim, visitors can stroll cobbled lanes, admire ornate façades, and sample hearty Czech cuisine in contemporary settings.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration of Chrudim
morning
:

Arrive in Chrudim and check into your accommodation. Start your day with a stroll around the historical town center, absorbing the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Czech pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Chrudim Town Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Afterward, take a short walk to the unique wooden Holy Trinity Column, an impressive Baroque monument. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can try regional specialties.

evening
:

End your day with a leisurely walk along the Chrudim River, watching the sunset paint the sky. Enjoy dinner at a cozy tavern, where you can indulge in hearty Czech cuisine. Before heading back, take a moment to experience the local nightlife or enjoy a quiet drink in a pub.

day 2
Exploring Nature at Železné Hory
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then take a short trip to the Železné Hory (Iron Mountains) for a day of hiking. The morning air is crisp, perfect for a scenic trek through lush forests and breathtaking vistas.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and find a picturesque spot for lunch amidst nature. Afterward, continue exploring various trails, perhaps visiting one of the beautiful waterfalls or lookout points. The surrounding beauty offers ample opportunities for photography.

evening
:

Return to Chrudim and unwind at your accommodation. Dine at a local restaurant specializing in grilled meats, which are perfect after a day of hiking. Spend your evening reminiscing about your adventures over drinks with new friends.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$3-5
🚆Local transit ticket$2-4
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$70-120
🧀Groceries (basic groceries)$15-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact historic center ideal for walking
  • Easy access to nature and nearby castles
  • Friendly locals and relaxed pace
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger Czech cities
  • Some services may be tourist-oriented and slower in peak hours
  • "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
  • "Děkuji" - Thank you
  • "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Promiňte" - Excuse me / Sorry

Places to Visit in Chrudim

Visit one of these nice places.

Masaryk Square (Náměstí Masaryka)

Central square with Baroque and Renaissance façades, the Marian Column, and frequent street life.

Chrudim Town Hall and historic arcades

Facade and arcade-lined streets perfect for architectural photography, especially before sunset.

Church of the Assumption of Mary (Kostel Nanebevzetí Panny Marie)

Gothic church with a striking bell tower and interior details.

Chrudimka River and bridges

Scenic riverside views with reflections of old houses and trees.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chrudim

Chrudim sits in a region with hearty Czech cuisine; expect meat-rich dishes, dumplings, soups, and seasonal produce, with modern bistros and traditional taverns available in the town center.

Chrudim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Svíčková na smetaně

Classic Czech beef sirloin served with a creamy vegetable sauce, dumplings, and cranberry sauce.

Must-Try!

Guláš (Goulash) with knedlíky

Hearty beef goulash with soft dumplings, a staple Czech comfort dish.

Kulajda (mushroom-dill soup) or bramboráky (potato pancakes)

Creamy mushroom soup with dill and sour cream; bramboráky are crispy potato pancakes often found at markets.

Trdelník (chimney cake)

Sweet grilled dough rolled in sugar and cinnamon; common as street food near the square.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chrudim Farmers Market

Weekly market around Masaryk Square offering local produce, dairy, pastries; great for fresh bread and seasonal fruits.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chrudim experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average highs around 25-28°C; winters are cold with possible snowfall and average lows near -2 to 0°C; spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and changing scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and politeness

A handshake is common when meeting; address people with formal titles until invited to use first names.

Dining etiquette

It’s polite to say please (prosím) and thank you (děkuji); wait to be seated in restaurants; keep voices moderate in public spaces.

Punctuality and cleanliness

Be punctual for meetings or tours; maintain tidy public spaces and respect quiet hours in residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chrudim is generally safe for travelers; typical precautions include watching for petty theft in crowded areas and keeping valuables secure. Use well-lit streets at night, especially after events; follow local advisories for weather or river conditions.

Tipping in Chrudim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A tip of 5-10% is common if service charge is not included; rounds up the bill for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash in CZK is widely accepted, but debit/credit cards and contactless payments are common in most restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days, often 25-30°C; occasional showers; best time for outdoor cafés, riverside walks, and day trips to nearby reservoirs.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; comfortable for walking tours and countryside visits.

Winter

Cold spells with possible snowfall; some attractions indoors and cafés stay cozy; expect shorter daylight hours.

Spring

Mild temperatures; flowers bloom in parks and along the river; good for photography and exploring the old town.

Nightlife Guide

Chrudim at Night

Chrudim has a relaxed nightlife with cozy pubs, beer halls, and wine bars around the town center. Expect casual ambience, live acoustic sets in some venues, and riverside bars during warm evenings; there are no large clubs, but plenty of intimate spots for a laid-back night out.

Hiking in Chrudim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Seč Reservoir Loop

Scenic loop around Seč Reservoir with forest paths and lake views, suitable for a half-day hike.

Lichnice Castle Trail

Steep but rewarding hike to the medieval Lichnice Castle ruins with panoramic views.

Chrudimka River Edge Walk

Easy riverside hike along the Chrudimka with tranquil scenery just outside the town.

Airports

How to reach Chrudim by plane.

Pardubice Airport (Letiště Pardubice)

Small regional airport about 40 km east of Chrudim with domestic and limited international flights; easy transfer by car or taxi.

Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)

The largest international airport serving Prague; about 100-120 minutes by car or train from Chrudim.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chrudim’s historic center is compact and highly walkable, with major sights reachable on foot within 15-20 minutes. The town’s cobblestone streets add charm but may be uneven in places, so comfortable footwear is advised. Public transport is limited within the town, but nearby towns connect well by train and bus; parking can be challenging in peak hours around the square.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Steady family presence with parks, schools, and safe streets.

Students and young professionals

Close proximity to universities in Pardubice and Prague attracts students for weekend visits and internships.

Seniors

Historic center and slower pace appeal to long-term residents and retirees.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

A popular sport in the region with local matches and community clubs.

Cycling

Extensive scenic routes along rivers and countryside suitable for all levels.

Tennis

Community courts and clubs offering recreational play and lessons.

Transportation

Traffic

Chrudim experiences light traffic within the town center; parking can be limited near Masaryk Square. Public transport includes regional trains and buses to Pardubice and other towns. For day trips, driving or rental cars provide flexibility, though roads can be busy during peak tourist seasons.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chrudim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Czech cuisine leans meat-forward, but vegetarian options are common in Chrudim. Look for soups, dumplings with cheese, vegetable stews, and salads; ask for egg or cheese-based dishes and request no meat stock or pork.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Chrudim is part of the Czech public system; for emergencies call 112. Local clinics and pharmacies serve basic needs, with hospitals in Pardubice for more specialized care. Visitors should carry travel insurance and any necessary medical documents; EU residents can use EHIC for covered services in some cases.

Discover Czechia

Read more in our Czechia 2025 Travel Guide.

Czechia Travel Guide