Things To Do
in Havířov

Havířov is a planned industrial city in the Moravian-Silesian Region of the Czech Republic, founded in the mid-20th century to support coal mining and steel production. Today it blends wide boulevards, modernist apartment blocks, and generous parks, making it a practical base for exploring the region. Though quieter in the evenings, it offers easy access to Ostrava's cultural attractions and the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can enjoy hearty Czech cuisine, friendly locals, and a compact city feel that invites day trips into Beskydy and the broader Silesian landscape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Welcome to Havířov
morning
:

Start your journey in Havířov by exploring the central park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among beautifully manicured gardens and tall trees. Make sure to visit the local café for a traditional Czech breakfast, complete with fresh pastries and strong coffee. As the morning sun rises, the vibrant atmosphere of the city truly begins to awaken.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, delve into the history of Havířov at the local museum, which showcases the town's rich industrial heritage. Afterward, grab a quick lunch at a nearby bistro, where you'll find delightful Czech dishes to satiate your appetite. You might then take a walk to the iconic Church of St. Andrew, marveling at its stunning architecture.

evening
:

As evening falls, head to one of Havířov's main squares, where you can enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, sampling local delicacies like svíčková or goulash. After your meal, take a leisurely walk to see the town illuminated as the sun sets, offering a magical ambiance. Lastly, consider catching a cultural performance at the city theater to conclude your first day.

day 2
Nature Excursion
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Šumbark nature reserve, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the Czech countryside. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Breathe in the fresh air while observing the local wildlife and enjoying the landscape.

afternoon
:

Return to Havířov for lunch and then head to the Aquacentrum, where you can unwind at the water park or indulge in a wellness treatment. Spend your afternoon enjoying the array of swimming pools and relaxation areas, making it a splendid break from the town's hustle and bustle. Be sure to savor a light snack at the on-site café.

evening
:

In the evening, explore local cafes that feature live music and vibrant atmospheres. Enjoy dinner at a charming eatery, followed by sampling local wines or beers. Conclude your night with a leisurely walk through the town square, enjoying the night lights and vibrant street life.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🚆Monthly public transit pass$25-40
🏨Hotel per night$60-100
🛒Groceries (basic weekly)$40-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Good value for money and solid regional cuisine
  • Excellent access to Ostrava's cultural and outdoor attractions
  • Well-connected public transport and walkable city centers
  • Limited nightlife within Havířov itself; more options in Ostrava
  • Industrial heritage areas may feel stark to some visitors
  • Smaller scale of attractions compared to bigger Czech cities
  • "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
  • "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Děkuji" - Thank you
  • "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Můžete mi pomoci?" - Can you help me?
  • "Na shledanou" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Havířov

Visit one of these nice places.

Dolní Vítkovice, Ostrava

Iconic industrial complex with steel arches, red brick structures, and photogenic angles; especially striking at dawn or with evening lighting.

Havířov City Park and Main Square

Green spaces and modernist housing blocks framed by green avenues; good for architectural and portrait photography in daylight.

Stodolní Street (Ostrava)

Vibrant nightlife street with neon signage and urban textures, ideal for atmospheric night photography and candid street shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Havířov

The local cuisine centers on hearty Czech dishes from Moravia and Silesia, with generous portions and rustic flavors. Expect comforting meat dishes, dumplings, sauces, and seasonal produce, along with regional pastries and coffeehouse culture.

Havířov Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Svíčková na smetaně

A tender beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with cranberry sauce and dumplings; a Czech classic often found on restaurant menus.

Must-Try!

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut; a staple of Moravian-Silesian home cooking.

Guláš

Rich beef or pork stew with paprika, onions, and bread or dumplings; a comforting dish commonly served in pubs and family restaurants.

Smažený sýr

Breaded fried cheese served with potatoes or salad; a beloved Czech comfort food and popular street-side option.

Koláče

A variety of traditional Czech pastries filled with fruit, poppy seeds, or cheese; a nice treat with coffee or tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Havířov Central Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and regional snacks; great for sampling everyday Czech flavors.

Ostrava City Market

Vibrant market area near Ostrava with stalls for local produce, street food, and casual bites like klobása (sausage) and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Havířov experiences a temperate continental climate with four seasons. Summers are warm to hot with occasional thunderstorms, winters are cold and windy with potential snowfall, and spring and autumn bring mild days and colorful foliage. Precipitation occurs throughout the year, with a tendency for more rain in late spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake and a friendly greeting (Dobrý den) are standard when meeting someone. Address people formally unless invited to use a first name.

Politeness and conversation

Avoid speaking loudly in public; maintain a courteous tone. When dining, wait to be seated and say please/thank you (prosím/děkuji).

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in both casual and business settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good, with typical urban precautions: be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and keep an eye on belongings in busy transit hubs. Well-lit streets and public transport are common, but use common sense at night in less busy areas. Emergency numbers in the Czech Republic are 112 (EU-wide) and 155 for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Havířov

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is common but not mandatory in Czechia. A 5-10% tip for good service in restaurants is typical; in casual venues rounding up the bill or leaving small change is fine.

Payment Methods

Cash (CZK) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common in shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with fresh greenery; great for parks, outdoor markets, and city walks. Pack a light jacket for cool mornings.

Summer

Warm to hot days with occasional showers; expect outdoor events and longer daylight hours. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and cooler temperatures; ideal for scenic walks and photography in parks and hills around the city.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; some outdoor activities may be limited, but city lights and indoor venues offer warmth and cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Havířov at Night

Havířov's nightlife centers on relaxed bars, cafés, and local pubs, with a broader array of clubs, live music venues, and late-night options in nearby Ostrava. Expect a friendly, low-key scene with occasional music events; a stroll through Stodolní Street in Ostrava offers a richer nightlife experience with neon-lit venues and a variety of music styles.

Hiking in Havířov

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beskydy Mountain Trails

Ridge and forest trails with panoramas of the surrounding countryside; suitable for day hikes and nature photography, within a reasonable drive from Havířov.

Ostravice River Valley Trails

Gentle to moderate paths along water and through woodlands; good for family hikes and relaxed outdoor time.

Airports

How to reach Havířov by plane.

Ostrava Leoš Janáček Airport (OSR)

Closest international airport serving the region; easy road/rail connections to Havířov and Ostrava.

Katowice International Airport (KTW)

Major nearby airport in Poland, about 100-150 km away; good option for low-cost carriers.

Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG)

Major national hub located several hours away; convenient for international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is designed for walking with grid-like streets and many sidewalks. Some outlying neighborhoods are best reached by tram or bus, but most sights, markets, and parks are reachable on foot within the core area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents of Havířov

A mix of families, retirees, and workers from the regional industrial history; predominantly Czech, with Polish and Slovak communities in the broader region.

Students and young professionals

Many commute to Ostrava for work or study, contributing to a youthful and active local scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice hockey

A popular sport across Czechia with local clubs and junior programs.

Football (soccer)

Widely followed, with local teams and community pitches in parks and schools.

Cycling

Urban bike lanes and nearby countryside offer scenic runs and day trips.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport in Havířov and the Ostrava region is well-developed with buses and trams. Road traffic can be heavier during rush hours, especially near Ostrava's ring roads and industrial corridors; trains provide efficient regional connections to nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Havířov.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available in most eateries; look for mushroom dishes, dumplings, salads, and cheese-based plates. When in doubt, ask for meat-free sauces or mushroom-based versions of classics.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Czechia provides universal healthcare; residents and visitors can access GP doctors and hospitals. In Havířov there are local clinics, while major specialized care and university hospitals are in Ostrava (Fakultní nemocnice Ostrava). Carry insurance information and an EU Health Insurance Card if applicable when visiting from abroad.

Discover Czechia

Read more in our Czechia 2025 Travel Guide.

Czechia Travel Guide