Things To Do
in Nová Paka
Nová Paka is a small historic town in the Hradec Králové Region of Czechia, sitting at the edge of the Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) and the foothills of the Krkonoše mountains. It has a compact medieval centre with a market square, traditional architecture, and a relaxed small-town rhythm that makes it a good base for exploring nearby natural attractions. The town combines local craft and small manufacturing traditions with easy access to hiking, rock formations and castles in the surrounding countryside.
Nová Paka is popular with outdoor lovers and visitors seeking quieter Czech country life a short drive from larger regional centres.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Czech pastries. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Nová Paka, admiring the historical architecture and the picturesque landscapes. Stop by the Church of St. James, where you can explore the impressive interior and take in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the Nová Paka Museum to learn more about the town's history, culture, and the art of glassmaking. Enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant featuring authentic Czech cuisine, where you can sample local specialties. Spend the afternoon hiking in the nearby forests that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery to taste some craft beers brewed in the region. Experience a traditional Czech dinner at one of Nová Paka's rustic taverns, where you can interact with friendly locals. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated town square, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for an adventure in the nearby Krkonošsko-jesenická foothills. Rent a bicycle and ride through scenic trails that showcase stunning autumn foliage and picturesque landscapes. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views along the way.
After a morning of biking, take a break and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, perhaps near a tranquil lake or scenic overlook. Spend the afternoon exploring hiking trails, where you can discover hidden gems such as waterfalls and viewpoints. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a guided tour for insights into the local flora and fauna.
Return to Nová Paka to unwind after an active day, perhaps visiting a spa for some relaxation. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can try goulash or svíčková. End your evening at a local café, sipping hot chocolate and reflecting on your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.50-3 |
| 🍺Pint of beer (local) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus/train fare | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $50-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to outstanding natural areas like Prachov Rocks and Český ráj
- Charming small-town atmosphere with authentic local culture
- Good base for day trips to Krkonoše and regional castles
- Lower costs than major Czech cities and less crowded tourism spots
- Limited nightlife and cultural offerings compared to larger cities
- Fewer vegetarian/vegan dining options and specialty shops
- Public transport is regional and less frequent, making a car useful
- "Dobrý den" - Good day/Hello
- "Prosím" - Please / You’re welcome
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kde je...?" - Where is...?
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Jsem alergický/á na..." - I am allergic to...
Places to Visit in Nová Paka
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque historic centre with traditional houses, local life and architectural details — great for street and architectural photography at golden hour.
Spectacular sandstone towers and narrow pathways providing dramatic geological shapes, panoramic views and strong textures for landscape photography.
Iconic twin-towered castle ruins on volcanic plugs — a dramatic subject at sunrise or sunset and from several nearby vantage points.
Rolling hills with forests and farmland; on clear days you can capture expansive vistas and seasonal colours, especially in autumn and spring.
Quieter water scenes, reflections and village backdrops for intimate nature and rural life compositions.
Food in Nová Paka
Nová Paka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A marinated beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, usually served with dumplings — widely available in local restaurants and pubs.
Must-Try!
Roast pork with dumplings and braised cabbage, a Czech classic you’ll find in traditional hospody around town.
Sweet filled pastries sold in bakeries and at markets — perfect with coffee for breakfast or a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small markets and weekend stalls (when held) sell local cheese, sausages, seasonal fruit and baked goods — ideal for picnic supplies or tasting regional specialties.
During summer and holidays nearby villages host fairs with grilled meats, sausages, and sweet treats — excellent for casual street food sampling.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard in formal introductions; use polite titles when appropriate and a simple “Dobrý den” (good day) to open conversations.
Czechs can be reserved with strangers and appreciate modesty and quiet behavior in public spaces — be polite, avoid loud phone calls and respect personal space.
Treat churches, memorials and historic sites with respect — dress modestly when entering churches and observe any photography or access restrictions.
Punctuality for appointments, tours and trains is appreciated; arrive on time for scheduled activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nová Paka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; in restaurants rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common. For taxis, round up the fare or add a small tip; hotel porters and taxi drivers can receive modest tips for assistance.
The currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and larger shops; small vendors and local markets may prefer cash. ATMs are available in town; notify your bank before travel for card use.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make spring excellent for hiking and fewer crowds at popular rock formations; some trails can be muddy early on, so bring waterproof footwear.
Warm weather and long daylight hours are ideal for outdoor exploration, climbing trails and sightseeing; expect more visitors on weekends and occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage create beautiful landscapes for photography and hiking; cooler temperatures require layered clothing and earlier sunsets.
Cold with possible snow — nearby Krkonoše becomes a centre for winter sports; Nová Paka itself is quiet, with limited outdoor services on some trails and reduced public transport schedules.
Nová Paka at Night
Hiking in Nová Paka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the most famous sandstone rock complexes in Český ráj with marked trails, viewpoints and dramatic rock formations — routes suitable for families and experienced hikers alike.
Hike to the iconic Trosky ruins and explore nearby woodlands and fields with panoramic views of the Bohemian Paradise.
Access higher-elevation alpine trails, waterfalls and ridge walks in the Giant Mountains for day hikes or multi-day treks depending on season and fitness.
Numerous smaller marked routes around Nová Paka traverse meadows, streams and villages — great for gentle walks, trail running and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Nová Paka by plane.
Major international airport about 100–120 km away (roughly 1.5–2 hours by car or bus). Good flight connections worldwide; from Prague you can get buses, trains or car rentals to Nová Paka.
Smaller airport approximately 60–80 km away; limited commercial services but closer for regional access. Ground transport from Pardubice to Nová Paka is by regional bus or car.
Local airfields and general aviation facilities near Hradec Králové serve private and charter flights; full commercial services are limited and most travelers use Prague or Pardubice for scheduled flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of residents are ethnic Czechs, with family households, local tradespeople and small-business owners making up much of the population.
Like many small towns, there is a significant older population; community life often revolves around local associations and cultural events.
Some residents commute to larger nearby towns for work, and there are small numbers of workers connected to regional industry and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local and regional amateur football clubs are popular; matches and community teams are an important part of local life.
Ice hockey is widely followed across Czechia; local rinks and youth programs are common, especially in nearby larger towns.
Given the proximity to Český ráj and Krkonoše, hiking and trail running are popular recreational activities year-round.
In winter, cross-country skiing is common in the foothills and higher terrain when snow conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nová Paka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in big cities; many restaurants will adapt dishes (cheese dumplings, salads, potato-based dishes). Bring snacks and check menus ahead; larger towns nearby offer more vegetarian and vegan choices.
Traditional Czech cuisine features dumplings and bread, so gluten-free options can be sparse. Ask staff about alternatives and consider bringing gluten-free staples; bakeries and supermarkets sometimes carry GF products.
Restaurants may have limited allergy labeling. Learn key phrases to communicate allergies (e.g., “Jsem alergický/á na...”) and carry medication if needed.