Things To Do
in Nový Bor
Nový Bor is a small Liberec Region town famed for its glassmaking heritage and craft traditions. Its compact historic center features colorful, well-preserved buildings around a welcoming town square. Surrounded by the Lusatian Mountains and forested hills, it serves as a convenient base for outdoor adventures and cultural explorations.
The locals maintain a friendly, down-to-earth vibe that reflects the town’s long-standing artisanal identity in glass and studio crafts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Nový Bor Glass Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of glassmaking. Take your time to appreciate the stunning displays of glass artistry, showcasing both historical pieces and contemporary works. Don't forget to check out the informative exhibits that detail the craftsmanship behind this local trade.
After a morning of culture, have lunch at a nearby café and then take a stroll through the charming town center. Explore the local shops that offer beautiful glass souvenirs and artisanal crafts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you learn about the traditions of glassmaking from the knowledgeable shop owners.
As the sun begins to set, dine at a local restaurant known for its authentic Czech cuisine. Reflect on your day's discoveries while savoring traditional dishes paired with locally sourced wines. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the peaceful streets, soaking in the ambiance of this lovely town.
Set out early to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Choose a scenic hiking trail that suits your fitness level and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty, with towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests around every corner. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the tranquility of nature.
Continue your adventure with a leisurely hike to iconic spots, such as the Pravcicka Brana arch, where you can capture panoramic views of the park. Spend some time relaxing at the viewpoint, taking in the breathtaking surroundings. As you make your way back, stop by the visitor center to learn more about the region's unique geology and wildlife.
Return to Nový Bor and unwind at a cozy pub, sampling some renowned Czech beers. Share stories of your day's explorations with fellow travelers and locals alike, creating connections over shared experiences. End the night by enjoying live music or a cultural performance if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚎Public transport day pass | $3-6 |
| 🏛️Museum entry | $5-12 |
| 🏨Hostel or budget hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich glassmaking heritage and crafts
- Compact, walkable town with a pleasant historic center
- Close to scenic hills and nature in the Lusatian Mountains
- Good value for money and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife options within the town itself
- A bit off the main tourist trail compared to bigger Czech cities
- English commonly spoken in tourist areas may be less widespread in rural parts
- "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?
Places to Visit in Nový Bor
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful 19th-century facades and a charming square provide delightful street photography opportunities, especially around dawn or dusk.
Exposed glass factories, reflective surfaces, and tall chimneys create striking industrial photography and artistry contrasts.
A local church and its bell tower offer architectural details and elevated views over the town.
Ridgetop overlooks and forested landscapes just beyond town provide expansive natural imaging options.
Food in Nový Bor
Nový Bor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork roast with dumplings and sauerkraut, a Czech staple found on many traditional menus.
Must-Try!
Beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with dumplings, a classic Czech favorite.
Beef goulash served with dumplings, a hearty and flavorful option.
Crispy potato pancakes, a popular side dish or light meal in pubs and bistros.
Sweet chimney cake often found at markets and street stalls as a tasty treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center with fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and regional snacks.
Casual bites like langoš and other quick Czech street foods available near market areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Dobrý den' (Good day) or 'Dobrý večer' in the evening.
Direct, friendly conversation is common; maintain privacy and avoid overly personal questions at first meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Nový Bor
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 5-10% is common if service charge is not included in the bill.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash in CZK is preferred for small shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; expect some showers. Good for city strolls and garden photography.
Warm and pleasant, with outdoor markets and longer daylight hours; stay hydrated and plan hikes for cooler mornings.
Colorful foliage and harvest festivals; crisp air—great for landscape and street photography.
Cold and possibly snowy; shorter days but cozy cafés and museum visits make for a good indoor-outdoor mix.
Nový Bor at Night
Hiking in Nový Bor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridgeline hikes with forest scenery and scenic overlooks suitable for day trips from Nový Bor.
Airports
How to reach Nový Bor by plane.
Main international gateway to the Czech Republic; roughly 150 km from Nový Bor, reachable by train or car.
Major nearby German airport that can be convenient for some international flights; several hours’ drive or accessible by rail.
Smaller Czech airport with some international connections; farther from Nový Bor but an option for specific routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Czech residents with small communities of travelers and migrant workers; English is more common in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at local clubs and community levels.
Popular in the region during winter with local leagues and rink facilities.
Popular on country roads and forest trails around the town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nový Bor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for soups, dumplings with cheese, mushroom dishes, and ask for bez masa (no meat) or vegetarian versions.