Things To Do
in Svitavy
Svitavy is a charming town in eastern Bohemia, perched along the Svitava River with a well-preserved historic center. Its pastel facades, arcaded houses, and leafy squares create a relaxed, postcard-worthy atmosphere. The town serves as a friendly base for exploring Moravia and the Bohemian highlands, with easy access to scenic countryside and nearby towns.
Visitors will find a mix of cultural heritage, cozy cafes, and welcoming locals that make day trips memorable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Svitavy and check into your cozy accommodation. Begin your day with a stroll through the town center, admiring the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Czech breakfast.
Visit the Svitavy Museum to learn about the local history and cultural heritage. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk through the surrounding parks, enjoying the serene environment. Explore boutique shops and artisan stores that showcase local crafts.
Dine at a charming restaurant offering authentic Czech cuisine, where you can savor dishes like svíčková and goulash. As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Morava River, and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the town. Familiarize yourself with the local nightlife by visiting a nearby pub to enjoy a fresh Pilsner.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before embarking on a historical tour of Svitavy. Visit the Church of St. James, an impressive Gothic structure that dates back to the 14th century. As you explore, pay close attention to the intricate details of its architecture.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the nearby Svojanov Castle, a medieval fortress with fascinating legends and history. Wander through its picturesque grounds and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the castle gardens, soaking in the medieval atmosphere.
Return to Svitavy for an evening of local entertainment at the Svitavy Theater. Check the schedule beforehand for performances ranging from traditional plays to contemporary dance. End your night with dessert at a local bakery, choosing from an array of delicious pastries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $3-5 |
| 🏡Rent for one-bedroom apartment (city center) | $600-900/mo |
| 🧀Milk, 1 liter | $1-2 |
| 🛒Groceries for one week | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center with a relaxed pace
- Good base for exploring Moravia and the Bohemian highlands
- Small nightlife scene
- Limited direct international flight options nearby
- "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Promiňte" - Excuse me
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Svitavy
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful Renaissance and Baroque façades create vibrant street photography backdrops.
Tranquil reflections and long exposures work well at dawn or dusk.
Architectural details and street life offer compelling subjects.
Elevated spots around the town give sweeping views over the roofs, especially at sunset.
Food in Svitavy
Svitavy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef in a creamy vegetable sauce with dumplings, a classic Czech favorite.
Must-Try!
Rich paprika-based beef stew served with soft dumplings.
Dill-infused mushroom soup with potatoes and a touch of sour cream.
Crispy potato pancakes, often enjoyed with sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Farmers’ market stalls offering cheese, bread, vegetables, and regional specialties.
Sweet treats and light snacks close to the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Dobrý den (Hello) and use Pan/Paní (Mr./Ms.) for first introductions; shake hands in formal settings.
Punctuality is valued; in churches or sacred sites speak softly and dress respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Svitavy
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good; check if a service charge applies.
Cash is widely used in addition to cards; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; great for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Warm, long days; lively streets, outdoor cafes, and river strolls.
Golden light and colorful foliage; ideal for landscapes and cityscapes.
Cold with occasional snow; charming in the evenings and inside cultural venues.
Svitavy at Night
Hiking in Svitavy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes in the nearby limestone hills.
Easy routes suitable for all ages with shaded areas.
Scenic countryside walks launching from the town.
Airports
How to reach Svitavy by plane.
The closest regional airport with domestic and some international connections; reachable by road or rail from Svitavy.
Major international airport serving the Czech Republic; about a 2-3 hour drive.
Major international hub; good flight options and rail connections to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community; mix of families, retirees, and students.
A small Roma community exists in the region as in many parts of the Czech Republic.
Tourists in the warmer months and people on business trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and community leagues.
Common in winter, with local teams and facilities.
Active outdoor communities; scenic routes around the town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Svitavy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer cheese, mushroom, or potato-based dishes; ask for vegetable sides and sauces to suit your preferences.