Things To Do
in Šumperk
Šumperk is a historic town in the Olomouc region at the foothills of the Jeseníky mountains in northern Moravia. Its compact historic core blends timbered houses, a recognizable town square, and a castle complex with scenic views. The town smoothly combines cultural heritage with modern cafes, shops, and green spaces, making it a relaxed stopover for outdoor lovers and culture seekers.
As a convenient base for exploring the Jeseníky foothills, Šumperk offers easy access to hikes, spa towns, and local Moravian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic town square, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Church of St. John the Baptist. Grab a coffee at a local café and soak in the atmosphere, watching the town come to life. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Šumperk Castle for a glimpse into the region's history.
After lunch, head to the local museum to explore exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Šumperk. Wander through the quaint streets, stopping at artisan shops to purchase handmade souvenirs. As you roam, take time to appreciate the beautiful surroundings, including gardens and parks that reflect the charm of the town.
As dusk approaches, dine at a traditional Czech restaurant where you can savor local dishes and craft beers. Enjoy the ambiance of the town as the lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical evening atmosphere. Consider winding down with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, reflecting on a perfect day in this hidden gem of Czechia.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of outdoor activities. Take a short trip to the nearby Jeseníky Mountains, where fresh air and stunning landscapes await you. Hiking trails are easily accessible and offer a variety of levels for all skills.
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature after your hike, surrounded by breathtaking views and serene sounds of the forest. If you're feeling adventurous, try mountain biking along the designated trails that wind through lush greenery. Discover hidden waterfalls and lookout points that are perfect for capturing those memorable moments.
As dusk approaches, dine at a traditional Czech restaurant where you can savor local dishes and craft beers. Enjoy the ambiance of the town as the lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical evening atmosphere. Consider winding down with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, reflecting on a perfect day in this hidden gem of Czechia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $9-14 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (single ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-110 |
| 🍺Beer at a local pub | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with easy access to nature
- Gateway to Jeseníky with diverse outdoor options
- Warm Moravian hospitality and good value for money
- Rich cultural heritage and relaxed nightlife
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger cities
- Weather can be changeable in the mountains
- Limited peacetime parking in the old town center, especially during events
- Some attractions may have limited English-language information
- "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does it cost?
- "Můžete mi prosit účet, prosím?" - Could I have the bill, please?
- "Hovoříte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pomoc!" - Help!
- "Víte, kde je nádraží?" - Do you know where the station is?
Places to Visit in Šumperk
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful facades and the silhouette of old town features create appealing daytime and golden-hour shots.
Impressive grounds and the castle provide elegant backdrops for wide-angle and detail photography.
Relaxed riverbank with bridges, willows, and reflections—ideal for tranquil framing.
A vantage point offering panoramic views of Šumperk and the surrounding hills—great for sunset photography.
Food in Šumperk
Šumperk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef in a creamy vegetable sauce served with bread dumplings; a Czech classic widely available.
Must-Try!
Rich beef or pork guláš accompanied by dumplings or bread dumplings.
Creamy mushroom-dill soup with potatoes and a softly poached egg.
Crispy potato pancakes seasoned with marjoram; a popular street-food or side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with local produce, cheeses, honey, bread, and pastries; great for trying fresh treats.
Seasonal stalls offering fried cheese, langoš, sausages, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as ‘Dobrý den’ go a long way; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Toast with ‘Na zdraví’ when drinking with others.
Stand in line, wait your turn, and respect personal space in crowded areas.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Šumperk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common around 5-10% in restaurants when service is good; rounding up is acceptable. Not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in smaller venues. Contactless payments are increasingly standard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and budding trees make for pleasant walking; rain is possible, so bring a light layer and a compact umbrella.
Warm days with long daylight; perfect for outdoor dining and hill hikes. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Colorful forests and cooler temperatures; ideal for photography and quiet exploration. Pack a waterproof layer.
Cold with possible snow in the Jeseníky foothills; bring warm clothing and suitable footwear for icy paths.
Šumperk at Night
Hiking in Šumperk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Challenging day hike to Moravia’s highest peak with sweeping views; can be approached from the Jeseníky foothills region.
Scenic waterfall trail with forest surroundings and easy to moderate terrain.
Extensive network of forest paths offering varying difficulty and panoramic lookout points.
Airports
How to reach Šumperk by plane.
Major international hub about 180 km north of Šumperk; good options for international connections and onward travel by train or car.
Regional international airport about 150–180 km northeast; convenient for some European connections and hire cars.
Larger regional airport about 200 km southwest; robust domestic and European routes with rail connections to Šumperk.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Czech, with families and an aging population in the town center; a growing number of students and professionals in the surrounding area.
Presence of regional schools and educational facilities attracts younger residents and visitor workers.
Year-round visitors attracted by Jeseníky access, historic streets, and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; local clubs and amateur leagues are common.
Seasonal sport with local clubs and fan support in winter.
Common in community centers and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Šumperk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Czech dishes can be made vegetarian by omitting meat; look for dumplings, mushroom dishes, and egg or cheese toppings.
Vegan options are increasingly available—ask for plant-based sauces and dairy-free preparations, especially in modern bistros.