Things To Do
in Ostrava
Ostrava is a vibrant city located in the northeast of the Czech Republic. It is known for its industrial history, with a strong focus on mining and steel production. The city has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, transforming into a hub of culture and innovation.
Ostrava offers a mix of modern architecture, historic landmarks, and beautiful green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
- "Dobrý den" - Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ano" - Yes
- "Ne" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the vibrant Stodolní Street, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the many cafés. Take a stroll through the nearby Silesian Ostrava Castle to soak up some history.
In the afternoon, head to the Lower Vitkovice area, a unique industrial heritage site. Explore the exhibitions and enjoy the panoramic views from the Bolt Tower.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a traditional Czech restaurant. Enjoy some local cuisine while sipping on a refreshing Pilsner beer.
Visit the Ostrava Museum to dive into the city's rich cultural history. Spend the morning marveling at the art and exhibitions that showcase Ostrava's heritage.
Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Komenského sady park. Relax in the greenery or enjoy a coffee at a local café.
Enjoy an evening at the Antonín Dvořák Theatre where you can catch a performance. Experience the charm of Ostrava's cultural scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Czech cities
- Rich industrial history and unique architecture
- Vibrant cultural scene with various festivals and events
- Proximity to natural parks and outdoor activities
- Diverse culinary scene with local and international options
- Pollution issues due to industrial activity
- Limited job opportunities outside of specific industries
- Public transportation can be less efficient than in larger cities
- Cold winters with significant snowfall
- Perception of being less attractive to tourists compared to Prague
Best Activities in Ostrava
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the industrial heritage site of Vítkovice, which includes the Ostrava Blast Furnace and other preserved industrial structures. It's a unique outdoor experience that offers insights into the city's industrial past.
Explore the Ostravice River, a popular spot for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and picnicking. The riverbank offers a scenic setting for relaxation and leisure.
Discover Landek Park, a nature reserve with hiking trails and beautiful landscapes. It's an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts interested in nature and outdoor exploration.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ostrava with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ostrava
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area, including the iconic Ostrava industrial landscape.
Art museum with a rooftop terrace boasting stunning views of the city and cultural attractions.
Provides a unique perspective of Ostrava from a former blast furnace, offering a mix of industrial and natural scenery.
Food in Ostrava
Ostrava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Czech dish consisting of deep-fried cheese, often served with tartar sauce and fries. Try it at Hostinec U Rudiho.
Must-Try!
A savory stew made with beef, onions, and plenty of paprika, typically served with bread or dumplings. Head to U Zlatého prstenu for an authentic version.
Fruit-filled dumplings served as a dessert, often accompanied by melted butter and a sprinkling of sugar. Enjoy these sweet treats at Restaurace U Jakuba.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ostrava better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stodolní Street is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and assorted street food options. Visitors can savor everything from traditional Czech snacks to global street food flavors in this bustling area.
The Brick House Market is a great spot to experience a variety of local and international street foods, creating an ideal setting for food enthusiasts to explore different flavors and culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ostrava, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when having conversations or waiting in queues.
Politeness is valued in Czech culture, so it's important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Using 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions is also appreciated.
Czechs take pride in their traditions and customs, so showing respect for cultural practices, such as removing your shoes when entering someone's home, is important.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ostrava with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ostrava
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ostrava, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, bars, and for services such as taxi rides. The standard tip is around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is widely accepted in Ostrava, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. It's advisable to check if a particular establishment accepts card payments before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ostrava.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ostrava, as the city comes alive with the blooming flowers and pleasant weather. You can expect mild temperatures and the chance to witness the city's parks and gardens in full bloom.
Summers in Ostrava are warm and sunny, making it a perfect time to explore outdoor attractions such as the Ostrava Zoo, or attend some of the city's vibrant festivals and events.
Autumn in Ostrava brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking in the surrounding countryside or visiting the city's museums and cultural sites.
Winter in Ostrava can be cold, but the city is known for its festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy the Christmas markets and various winter sports activities in the nearby mountains.
Ostrava at Night
Hiking in Ostrava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful mountain range offering numerous hiking trails with varying difficulties, stunning views, and rich flora and fauna.
A picturesque area with well-marked trails, ideal for both casual walkers and experienced hikers, showcasing local nature.
The highest peak in the Beskydy Mountains, featuring a challenging hike that rewards you with spectacular panoramic views.
Situated near the town of Hukvaldy, this area offers scenic trails with the ruins of a historic castle as a highlight.
A charming town with access to multiple hiking paths leading to the Radhošť mountain and its famous statue.
Aiports
How to reach Ostrava by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in the Czech Republic, located approximately 280 km from Ostrava.
An international airport in Poland, situated about 100 km from Ostrava.
The second largest airport in the Czech Republic, located around 160 km from Ostrava.
An international airport located in Poland, approximately 130 km from Ostrava.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ostrava, constituting a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority, often with historical ties to the region.
A small but established community, particularly in regions close to the Polish border.
A minority group with a long history in the area, facing various social challenges.
An emerging demographic, particularly following recent migration trends.
A growing community, primarily involved in business and trade.
Includes various expatriates and immigrant groups contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Ostrava, with local teams competing in the Czech ice hockey leagues and a strong fan base.
Another major sport in Ostrava, featuring local clubs that participate in national competitions and attract large crowds.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Ostrava with several local teams and a growing interest in youth leagues.
Athletics, including track and field events, has seen significant participation at schools and local clubs in Ostrava.
Volleyball is quite popular at both amateur and professional levels, with local teams competing in national leagues.
Handball has a notable following in Ostrava, with several teams and a dedicated fan base.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ostrava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available across Ostrava, with many restaurants offering flavorful meat-free dishes such as vegetarian goulash and fried cheese. Notable places include Restaurace Anarchie and Vegansky Svet.
Vegan visitors can explore a range of plant-based options in Ostrava, with restaurants like Veso Food and Kavarna Sladko providing delicious vegan meals and treats.
For those seeking gluten-free options, several eateries in Ostrava cater to this dietary requirement. Guests can enjoy gluten-free dishes at venues such as Zamek Zabreh and Laskonka.