Litomyšl
,Litomyšl is a charming town located in eastern Bohemia, Czechia. Its historic center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its well-preserved Renaissance architecture, including a beautiful castle and a stunning arcaded main square. The town is also known for being the birthplace of composer Bedřich Smetana. Visitors can enjoy exploring the picturesque streets, visiting museums, and soaking up the cultural atmosphere of Litomyšl.
Overall, Litomyšl offers a delightful blend of history, art, and architecture for visitors to enjoy.
- "Dobrý den" - Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ano" - Yes
- "Ne" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Litomyl
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Litomyšl Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a guided tour to explore its stunning Renaissance architecture and beautiful gardens.
afternoon
:Enjoy lunch at a local café and then stroll through the charming streets of the town. Don’t miss the vibrant painted houses and the unique historic architecture.
evening
:Have dinner at a traditional Czech restaurant. End your day with a relaxing walk around the castle grounds under the stars.
Culture and Art
morning
:Visit the Galerie Zdeněk Sklenář in the morning to admire contemporary Czech art. Engage with local artists and learn about their craft.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Smetana Park for a picnic and enjoy the outdoor sculptures. Relax on the grass and soak up the serene atmosphere.
evening
:Attend a performance at the Smetana Theatre for a taste of local culture. Enjoy the brilliant performances that highlight Czech art and music.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Beautiful historical architecture and charming town center.
- A vibrant local arts scene, with festivals and events held throughout the year.
- Pleasant community atmosphere with friendly residents.
- Access to nature, including parks and nearby countryside.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to outmigration.
- Somewhat limited public transportation options for reaching larger cities.
- Potentially lower availability of modern amenities compared to larger urban areas.
- colder winters can be challenging for some residents.
- There may be fewer entertainment options than in bigger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore Litomyšl Castle
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Litomyšl Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Hiking in Smetanova Park
Enjoy hiking or walking in Smetanova Park, which features manicured gardens, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Cycling along the Elbe River
Take a bike ride along the Elbe River trails, offering scenic views of the landscape and opportunities for picnicking.
Outdoor Art Walk
Participate in an outdoor art walk to discover various sculptures and artworks scattered throughout the town and its parks.
Attend Outdoor Festivals
Join the community during various outdoor festivals held in the town, showcasing local culture, food, and music.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Litomyšl with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Litomyšl Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the castle offers stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing excellent views and photo opportunities from various angles.
Smetana Square
The main square features charming historic buildings and a lovely fountain, making it a vibrant location for capturing the essence of Litomyšl.
The Church of St. John of Nepomuk
This Baroque church offers intricate architecture and a serene setting, perfect for photography, especially at sunset.
The Monastery Garden
A peaceful garden area offering lovely views of the surrounding landscape and a great place for capturing nature and historical architecture.
The Hill of the Cross
This elevated spot provides panoramic views of the town and its surroundings, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Piarist Church
Famous for its beautiful facade and interior, this church offers fantastic architectural shots and is surrounded by picturesque surroundings.
Pláňava Hill
A great hiking spot that rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Litomyšl and the countryside, perfect for capturing scenic landscapes.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Svíčková
A marinated sirloin steak with a creamy vegetable sauce, typically served with bread dumplings. It's a must-try traditional Czech dish in Litomyšl. You can savor this at Restaurace U Karla IV and Restaurace Pod Klášterem.
Must-Try!
Knedlíky
These are Czech dumplings that come in various forms and are often served as a side dish with meat or in soups. You can find delicious Knedlíky at Restaurace Černá Bouda and Restaurace U Karla IV.
Pražská Šunka
Litomyšl is also known for its version of Prague ham, a tender and flavorful cured ham often served with horseradish and pickles. Head to Restaurace Na Hradbách to sample this local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Litomyšl better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Litomyšl Farmers' Market
The farmers' market in Litomyšl, located in the main square, offers a wonderful array of fresh produce, local cheeses, bread, honey, and other artisanal products. It's a great place to taste and purchase local specialties.
Street Food Festival
During festivals and special events in Litomyšl, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of street foods, from grilled meats and sausages to sweet pastries and local desserts. Keep an eye out for these special occasions.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Local Customs
Be aware of and adhere to local customs, such as appropriate greetings, dress codes, and behavior in public places. For instance, it is polite to greet people with 'Dobrý den' (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants.
Dining Etiquette
When dining, it is customary to wait for the host to invite guests to start eating. It's also polite to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows, and to say 'Dobrou chuť' (Enjoy your meal) before meals.
Public Behavior
Maintain a moderate volume in public spaces and avoid loud conversations. Respect personal space, and do not engage in overly familiar behavior until you know people well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Litomyšl with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Litomyšl, as in the rest of the Czech Republic, tipping is customary but not obligatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% to 15% of the bill in restaurants and cafes. Tipping can be done in cash or by rounding up the total when paying by card. Bartenders and taxi drivers appreciate small tips as well.
Payment
Payment methods in Litomyšl generally include cash (Czech koruna) and credit/debit cards. Many establishments accept cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops or rural areas. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also becoming increasingly popular. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Litomyšl.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) in Litomyšl is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming nature. Expect pleasant weather, with flowers blooming in the parks and gardens. This is a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the town's historical sites.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is warm and often busy with tourists. You can expect sunny days and plenty of outdoor events, including music festivals and cultural activities. The long days are perfect for exploring Litomyšl's famous Renaissance castle and enjoying local cuisine at outdoor cafes.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Expect fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere. This is an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the scenic countryside around Litomyšl, with the added charm of harvest festivals.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with occasional snowfall. Expect a magical winter ambiance, especially during Christmas, when the town is beautifully decorated. Ideal for those who enjoy winter sports or cozy indoor activities. The historical sites provide a warm respite from the cold outdoors.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ružový vrch
A beautiful hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, located just a few kilometers from Litomyšl. Ideal for various hiking trails.
Kozlov
A scenic area with well-marked hiking trails that lead through forests and fields, providing a great outdoor experience for hikers of all levels.
Českomoravská Vrchovina
A picturesque region featuring numerous hiking paths that connect charming villages and beautiful nature, located within a reasonable distance from Litomyšl.
Žďárské vrchy
A protected landscape area with diverse trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, known for its stunning natural landscapes and tranquility.
Slavonice Nature Reserve
A wonderful area for hiking that offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites, perfect for those looking to explore both nature and culture.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Litomyšl through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Litomyšl by plane.
Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
The main international airport in the Czech Republic, located approximately 150 km from Litomyšl.
Brno-Tuřany Airport (BRQ)
An international airport situated around 90 km southwest of Litomyšl, serving flights primarily to European destinations.
Pardubice Airport (PED)
Located about 30 km from Litomyšl, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Ostrava Leos Janacek Airport (OSR)
An international airport located approximately 160 km northeast of Litomyšl, providing flights to various European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Czech Nationals
The majority demographic group consisting of ethnic Czechs.
Senior Citizens
Older adults, typically aged 65 and above, making up a significant portion of the population.
Young Adults
Individuals aged 18 to 34, often including university students and young professionals.
Children and Adolescents
Individuals aged 0 to 17, representing the younger population in the town.
Foreign Nationals
A smaller group consisting of expatriates and immigrants from various countries.
The Soul of Litomyšl
Discover the essence of Litomyšl through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A popular team sport played in Litomyšl, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.
Ice Hockey
A well-loved sport in Litomyšl, with a junior team that competes at various levels.
Athletics
Includes running, jumping, and throwing, with local events and training opportunities for all ages.
Volleyball
A popular sport among schools and communities, often played recreationally and competitively.
Tennis
Enjoyed by many residents, with several courts and clubs available for both casual and competitive play.
Cycling
A favored outdoor activity, with many scenic routes for mountain and road biking.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Czech cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Litomyšl offer vegetarian dishes like fried cheese, potato pancakes, and vegetable soups. Look for options at Restaurace Pod Klášterem and Restaurace U Karla IV.
Gluten-free Choices
Visitors with a gluten-free diet can find suitable options like grilled fish, salads, and some potato-based dishes at restaurants such as Restaurace Na Hradbách and Restaurace Černá Bouda.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Litomyšl with these cultural adventures.