Things To Do
in Hradec Králové
Hradec Králové is a historic city in eastern Bohemia perched along the Labe (Elbe) river. Its skyline is defined by the White Tower and the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, which anchor the elegant squares of the Old Town. The city blends medieval charm with modern cafes, markets, and riverfront promenades that invite easy exploration on foot.
With a compact center and friendly locals, it is a great base for a relaxed Czech experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in the heart of the city. Afterward, take a stroll through Hradec Králové's historic center, marveling at the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. Don't forget to snap a few photos at the iconic White Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Czech dishes such as goulash or svíčková. Post-lunch, visit the Museum of Eastern Bohemia, where you can learn about the region's rich history and culture through fascinating exhibits. Wander through the adjacent park, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful greenery.
As the sun sets, head to the vibrant Masaryk Square, where you can find various shops and cafes. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of the local eateries, perhaps trying some Czech beer to accompany your meal. Cap off the night by attending a performance at the Klicperovo Theatre, immersing yourself in local arts and culture.
Begin your day with a visit to the Gallery of Modern Art, where you can explore contemporary works by Czech artists. Following your art experience, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and coffee. Take a leisurely walk around the gallery's serene surroundings, appreciating outdoor sculptures and installations.
After lunch at a bistro, head to the Czech Radio Hradec Králové building for a guided tour that highlights its architectural significance and rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's vibrant street art scene, discovering murals and installations that adorn various buildings. Consider stopping by local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.
In the evening, dine at a restaurant renowned for its modern twist on Czech cuisine, delighting in seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a post-dinner walk along the Elbe River, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon. If time permits, find a cozy bar to enjoy a nightcap while reflecting on your artistic exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🧾Basic lunch for two | $20-40 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $4-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city center easy to explore on foot
- Rich history with impressive architecture and river views
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger Czech cities
- Some attractions may require short drives outside the city for deeper nature experiences
- "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Můžete mi pomoci?" - Can you help me?
- "Na shledanou" - Goodbye
- "Promiňte" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Nerozumím" - I do not understand
- "Jmenuji se..." - My name is...
- "Rozumíte česky?" - Do you understand Czech?
Places to Visit in Hradec Králové
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic skyline feature offering sweeping views over the Old Town and the Labe river.
Grand Gothic cathedral with intricate facades and atmospheric interiors ideal for architectural photography.
Historic square framed by arcades and colorful facades perfect for street photography and people-watching.
Scenic walk along the Labe with bridges and riverside greenery for sunset shots.
Green spaces and historic streets that provide soft light and charming details for photos.
Food in Hradec Králové
Hradec Králové Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef tenderloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with dumplings and cranberry sauce; widely available in traditional Czech restaurants in the Old Town.
Must-Try!
Roast pork with bread dumplings and sauerkraut, a classic Czech comfort dish commonly found in local eateries.
Rich Czech beef goulash served with dumplings; a hearty staple at many pubs and taverns.
Potato pancakes fried to a crisp, often enjoyed as a snack or side at markets and casual bistros.
Traditional sweet pastries made with fruit or poppy seed fillings, perfect with coffee at local cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers markets on Velké náměstí with local produce, cheeses, pastries, and light street food.
Casual stalls along the river offering quick bites and regional snacks during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello with 'Dobrý den' is standard. Address people formally until invited to use first names; shake hands in formal meetings.
Be respectful in churches and quiet areas; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Speak in a calm voice in public spaces, especially indoors; smoking is restricted in many venues.
Safety
Tipping in Hradec Králové
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is satisfactory; crowds sometimes round up. Larger services or private tours may warrant higher tips.
Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; cash in CZK is still common for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, outdoor dining, and vibrant riverside scenes. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms and warm evenings.
Chilly with potential snow; festive lights and markets in December. Indoor venues and museums provide shelter from the cold.
Mild temperatures and budding trees; great for walking tours and outdoor cafes.
Cool days with colorful foliage; perfect for photography along the river and in park landscapes.
Hradec Králové at Night
Hiking in Hradec Králové
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range with various hiking trails, forests, and scenic viewpoints suitable for day trips from Hradec Králové.
Short hiking routes and garden paths around Nechanice Castle and nearby countryside.
Accessible for longer day trips; a range of well-marked trails and alpine scenery within a couple of hours' drive.
Airports
How to reach Hradec Králové by plane.
Nearest regional airport with domestic and limited international services; typically reachable by a short drive or train connection.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours away by road or rail; many international and back-to-back connections available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main demographic group with a sizable student population due to the local university and cultural institutions.
A visible community around the university and tech/startup scenes.
Frequent travelers from within the Czech Republic and neighboring countries exploring East Bohemia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and youth programs are common in the region.
Popular winter sport with local teams and indoor arenas.
Active outdoor options with public courts and riverine bike paths nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hradec Králové.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat or with vegetarian substitutes. Ask for vegetarian svíčková or mushroom-based sauces and request no lardons in soups.