Things To Do
in Rakovník
Rakovník is a charming town located in the central Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. Known for its well-preserved historic architecture, Rakovník offers visitors a glimpse into the country's past. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
With its welcoming atmosphere and cultural attractions, Rakovník is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Czech experience.
- "Dobrý den" - Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ano" - Yes
- "Ne" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Church of St. Barnabas, an impressive Gothic structure. Take some time to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the architecture.
Head to the Rakovník Museum to discover the rich history of the region. Afterward, stroll through the town square and grab lunch at a local café.
Enjoy a quiet evening at a traditional Czech restaurant, trying local dishes. Take a leisurely walk through the town center to soak in the atmosphere.
Visit the nearby castle of Nové Strašecí and enjoy its beautiful surroundings. Walk through the gardens and take in the views of the countryside.
Pack a picnic and head to the natural reserve of Křivoklátsko for a relaxing afternoon among nature. Hike the nearby trails and enjoy the fresh air.
Enjoy a quiet evening at a traditional Czech restaurant, trying local dishes. Take a leisurely walk through the town center to soak in the atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with well-preserved architecture and cultural sites.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and trails for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and local traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Czech cities.
- Good quality of life with a slower pace and less traffic.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to major urban centers.
- Public transportation can be less frequent, making travel less convenient.
- Possible language barrier for non-Czech speakers.
- Limited healthcare facilities and services.
Best Activities in Rakovník
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area, with its vast forests, hills, and diverse wildlife. There are marked trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Berounka River. The trail offers picturesque views and is perfect for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes.
Take a trip to the nearby Křivoklát Castle, a historical site set in a forested area. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Spend a relaxing day fishing in one of the many local ponds around Rakovník. The area is known for its rich aquatic life.
Discover the beautiful countryside of Rakovník on horseback. Local stables offer rentals and guided tours through the scenic trails.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in one of Rakovník’s public parks. Parks such as Smetanovy sady provide a great atmosphere with plenty of green space.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rakovník with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rakovník
Visit one of these nice places.
This castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for photography.
The chateau and its gardens provide picturesque settings for photography and capturing the town's historical charm.
This archaeological site offers a unique and atmospheric backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A popular spot to capture stunning views of Rakovník and the surrounding landscape, especially during clear weather.
Food in Rakovník
Rakovník Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender beef sirloin served with a creamy vegetable sauce, bread dumplings, and cranberry sauce. A must-try local dish often found on the menus of traditional Czech restaurants like U Srubu and Restaurace U Kuriště.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with mushrooms, potatoes, dill, and a poached egg, finished with a touch of cream. Look for this comforting dish at local eateries such as Restaurace Na Hradě and Restaurace U Ruštejnů.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rakovník better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and traditional snacks. Located in the heart of the city, visitors can browse the stalls for an authentic taste of Rakovník.
During the Zámecké Slavnosti (Castle Festivities), visitors can enjoy a variety of street food such as grilled sausages, langos, and sweet pastries while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere of this cultural event.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rakovník, a firm handshake is a common way to greet someone. It is polite to make eye contact while shaking hands. Using titles and surnames is also appreciated, particularly in formal situations.
When dining in Rakovník, it is customary to wait for the host to begin the meal. Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows). Remember to say 'Dobrou chuť' (Enjoy your meal) before starting and 'Děkuji' (Thank you) after the meal.
In public spaces, it is important to maintain a moderate volume level while speaking. Loud conversations can be deemed disrespectful. Additionally, personal space is valued, so try to keep a respectful distance when interacting with others.
Safety
Tipping in Rakovník
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rakovník, as in the rest of the Czech Republic, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants. Many locals will leave small change in cafes and bars as a gesture of gratitude for good service.
Payment methods in Rakovník include cash and card. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, smaller shops and markets may only take cash. The Czech koruna (CZK) is the official currency, and ATMs are readily available for withdrawals. It's common to pay with cash in smaller instances, such as street vendors or small local restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, Rakovník experiences mild temperatures and beautiful blossoming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic landscapes.
Summer in Rakovník brings warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, perfect for enjoying outdoor events, festivals, and outdoor dining while exploring the historical sites.
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage, making it an ideal time for hiking, enjoying the fall foliage, and experiencing the local harvest festivals.
During winter, Rakovník transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for snow-based activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the magical festive atmosphere.
Rakovník at Night
Hiking in Rakovník
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail around the historical Křivoklát Castle, offering picturesque views and nature.
A beautiful nature reserve featuring diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and exploring.
A tranquil area perfect for hiking, with trails through lush forests and along rivers.
An area with various marked trails that provide beautiful views and varied terrains for hikers.
A popular viewpoint accessible by hiking trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Aiports
How to reach Rakovník by plane.
The largest airport in the Czech Republic, located approximately 45 km from Rakovník.
An international airport serving Brno, located about 139 km from Rakovník.
A regional airport situated around 76 km from Rakovník, serving international flights.
Located approximately 116 km from Rakovník, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 280 km from Rakovník, this airport serves the eastern regions of the Czech Republic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Rakovník, consisting of citizens holding Czech nationality.
A significant minority group, mainly consisting of individuals from Slovakia living in Rakovník.
A smaller demographic group within Rakovník that contributes to the town's cultural diversity.
Includes individuals from various countries, contributing to a diverse population in Rakovník.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Rakovník, with local teams participating in various regional leagues and attracting a significant following.
Ice hockey has a strong presence in Rakovník, with local clubs and youth programs developing talent in the sport.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity and sport in Rakovník, with numerous cycling paths and events organized in the region.
Athletics is promoted in Rakovník through schools and local clubs, with events in running, jumping, and throwing.
Basketball enjoys a good following in Rakovník, with amateur leagues and youth programs encouraging participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rakovník.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Rakovník offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options such as stuffed bell peppers, vegetable risotto, and hearty salads. Restaurace Pod Strážní věží and U Slunce are known for their diverse vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options at cafes like Cukrářství U Anděla, which offers gluten-free pastries and desserts. Additionally, many restaurants are willing to adjust their dishes to cater to gluten-free dietary needs upon request.