Things To Do
in Domažlice

Domažlice is a historic market town in the Plzeň Region of the Czech Republic, perched along the Radbuza River near the Bavarian border. It serves as the cultural heart of the Chodsko region, home to traditional crafts, folklore, and colorful townhouses. The medieval core features remnants of walls, a grand square, and quaint streets that invite wandering.

Surrounded by forested hills and the Šumava foothills, it’s a convenient base for hikers, cyclists, and travelers seeking authentic Czech rural life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Charming Old Town Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Domažlice's old town, where brightly colored buildings and historical architecture surround you. Visit the Gothic-style Church of St. Lawrence, an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the town's rich history. Enjoy a breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee.

afternoon
:

After exploring the old town, head to the Domažlice Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the region's folklore and culture. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby park, where you can relax and soak in the serene atmosphere. For lunch, indulge in traditional Czech cuisine at a cozy restaurant, sampling dishes like goulash or svíčková.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a tranquil dinner at an outdoor restaurant, where you can taste local wines and delightful desserts. Stroll along the illuminated streets to appreciate the town's charm by night. Consider attending a folk music performance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

day 2
Historical Sites and Cultural Insights
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Domažlice Chod Tower, where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. After descending, explore the surrounding area, admiring the unique architecture and local shops. Grab a traditional Czech breakfast in a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Domažlice Historical Museum to uncover fascinating stories of the region's past, including its significant connection to the Chods. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Teplá River, enjoying the scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance. Find a charming spot for lunch, relishing hearty local dishes.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, head to a pub renowned for its craft beers, where you can engage with locals and learn about Czech brewing traditions. Enjoy a simple yet delicious meal, sampling a platter of Czech specialties. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk, taking in the town's charm as stars fill the sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🥗Two-course meal for two$20-40
🍺Beer in local pub$2-4
🚖Taxi short ride$6-15
🛏️Mid-range hotel night$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditional Chodská culture
  • Compact, walkable town with scenic surroundings
  • Strong local cuisine and nearby nature for outdoor activities
  • Easy day trips to Šumava foothills and castles
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger Czech cities
  • Some facilities and services may be basic outside the town center
  • Public transport options are good but less frequent on weekends
  • "Dobrý den" - Good day / Hello
  • "Děkuji" - Thank you
  • "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Můžu platit kartou?" - Can I pay by card?

Places to Visit in Domažlice

Visit one of these nice places.

Domažlice Old Town Square

A picturesque square framed by colorful historic facades, ideal for morning light and street photography.

Radbuza River Promenade

Scenic riverbanks with reflections of the town and distant hills; perfect for golden-hour photography.

Historic Town Hall and Street Corners

Architectural details and murals along narrow lanes offer charming urban compositions.

City Walls and Gate Remnants

Remnants of medieval fortifications provide a dramatic backdrop for moody, historic shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Domažlice

Domažlice sits in the Chodsko region, where hearty Czech cuisine meets regional specialties and rustic taverns. Expect robust soups, savory meats, dumplings, and sweet pastries, all paired with local beer or non-alcoholic beverages. Look for farm-to-table ingredients at markets and small eateries that emphasize local produce and smoked products.

Domažlice Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chodské koláče

Traditional sweet pastries from the Chodsko region, often featuring poppy seeds, curd, or fruit fillings; best found in local bakeries and markets.

Must-Try!

Goulash with dumplings

Hearty beef goulash served with classic Czech dumplings; a staple in many taverns around town.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, a quintessential Czech comfort dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Domažlice Market (weekends)

A traditional market offering fresh produce, cheeses, smoked meats, and regional goodies; great for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, winters are cold with possible snow, and spring and autumn offer mild days with changing colors. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly through the year, with occasional heavy showers or thunderstorms in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common when meeting someone; address people with titles and surnames unless invited to use first names.

Quiet in sacred places

Dress modestly and keep noise levels down in churches and religious sites.

Respect for local culture

Show interest in Chodská traditions and crafts; ask before photographing people, especially in traditional settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Domažlice is generally safe for travelers. Practice common-sense safety: watch valuables in crowded areas, especially at markets; be mindful of traffic when walking near intersections; carry a map or GPS, and have emergency numbers handy (112). Road conditions can become challenging in winter, so plan travel accordingly.

Tipping in Domažlice

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Czech pubs and restaurants is common but not mandatory. If service is good, leave about 5-10% (or round up). In larger restaurants, a 10-15% tip is appreciated if not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash in CZK is widely accepted, and credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in towns. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly popular; some small places may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional thunderstorms. Perfect for outdoor dining, river walks, and longer hillside hikes, but bring sun protection and a light rain layer.

Autumn

Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage. Great for scenic walks, photography, and harvest markets; layering is key.

Winter

Cold weather with icy days and possible snow. Town is atmospheric with twinkling lights; plan for warm layers and indoor pursuits like museums and cafes.

Spring

Rising temperatures and blooming landscapes. Ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying local markets as flora comes to life.

Nightlife Guide

Domažlice at Night

Domažlice offers a low-key nightlife scene centered on traditional pubs and small bars. Expect cozy environments, local beers, and live folk or acoustic performances in some venues, especially during festivals. Outside peak tourist seasons, venues tend to close earlier than in larger cities, so plan evenings accordingly.

Hiking in Domažlice

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rabí Castle area

Historic ruins with surrounding trails offering panoramic views and rural scenery.

Čerchov hill

A prominent summit in the region with forested slopes and wide viewpoints.

Šumava foothills

Extensive network of forest trails, lakes, and protected landscapes ideal for day hikes.

River valley trails along Radbuza

Gentle routes along the river suitable for easy day strolls and photography.

Airports

How to reach Domažlice by plane.

Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG)

Major international airport about 140-170 km northeast; frequent domestic and international connections; access by train or car to Domažlice.

Karlovy Vary Airport (KLV)

Nearby international airport with regional and some international flights; typically a shorter drive than Prague from Domažlice.

Munich Airport (MUC)

Major hub in Germany offering broad international connections; useful for travelers combining Czech and Bavarian itineraries; longer drive across the border.

Getting Around

Walkability

Domažlice is very walkable in the historic center, with most sights concentrated within a compact area. Side streets and river paths make for pleasant strolls, though some attractions are a short bus or taxi ride away. Parking can be available near the square, but walking is often the easiest way to explore the core area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Czechs

Predominant ethnic group and language speakers; mix of urban and rural residents.

Roma community

A visible minority in some parts of the region, contributing to diverse cultural heritage.

Tourists and day-trippers

Visitors from across the Czech Republic and abroad, particularly during festivals and warmer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across towns; matches and local clubs provide community gathering opportunities.

Cycling

Scenic rural routes and forest trails attract cyclists of all levels.

Cross-country skiing

In winter, nearby Šumava slopes offer cross-country trails for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

The town relies on a compact road network and regional rail lines. Public transport includes buses and a rail link to larger hubs like Plzeň and Prague. Traffic within the historic center is typically light, with parking available at designated areas; driving in winter requires caution on rural roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Domažlice.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many taverns offer vegetarian-friendly dishes such as mushroom stews, dumplings with butter or cheese, and pasta; ask for cheese, egg, or vegetable-forward options and request no meat or fish.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available via local clinics and a district hospital network. General practitioners and pharmacies serve day-to-day needs, while more specialized care can be found in larger nearby cities such as Plzeň. In an emergency, call 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. EU travelers should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable.

Discover Czechia

Read more in our Czechia 2025 Travel Guide.

Czechia Travel Guide