Things To Do
in Turnov
Turnov is a historic town at the edge of the Bohemian Paradise, where the Jizera River winds through a green valley of sandstone cliffs. It serves as a charming base for exploring the Český ráj region, with fairy-tale castles and dramatic rock formations just a short drive away. The town center features pastel façades, a welcoming café culture, and easy access to nature, making it perfect for a relaxed yet active escape.
Visitors come to soak up local history, scenic landscapes, and the region’s distinctive Czech charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Turnov, soaking in the local architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Turnov Castle, where you can learn about the region's rich history. Grab a traditional Czech breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the Český ráj (Czech Paradise) national park, where you can explore stunning rock formations and picturesque nature trails. Let the scenic views rejuvenate your spirit, and be sure to capture the beauty of the landscapes with your camera. Return to Turnov to enjoy some leisure time shopping for handmade jewelry, which the town is famous for.
As the day winds down, find a cozy restaurant to indulge in authentic Czech cuisine with a local beer. Post dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated town square, where the vibrant nightlife begins to awaken. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local pub to experience traditional music and Czech culture.
Visit the Museum of Czech Paradise to start the day with insights into the natural and cultural heritage of the region. The museum houses intriguing exhibitions that bring history to life in a captivating manner. After your visit, enjoy coffee at a nearby café while reflecting on what you've learned.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby castle ruins of Valdštejn, which offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval architecture along with breathtaking panoramic views. Spend some time hiking around the area, taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. As you make your way back, stop by the local market to pick up fresh produce or handmade crafts from the artisans.
Join locals at a nearby beer garden for dinner, tasting various regional dishes paired with some extraordinary Czech beers. Afterward, take a night walk along the Jizera River, where the stars reflect beautifully against the water. End your day with a relaxing moment in a quaint cocktail bar, enjoying a unique mix of drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Main course at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread / groceries (basic) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access to the Bohemian Paradise
- Compact town center with walkable streets and authentic Czech charm
- Can be crowded in peak season around popular rock formations
- Limited nightlife within Turnov itself; longer trips to Liberec for bigger events
- "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much is this?
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Turnov
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful historic façades and daily life provide classic street photography opportunities, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Elegant chateau with landscaped gardens and reflective water features for refined portraits.
Iconic sandstone towers and dramatic canyons offering dramatic landscape shots and cliffside viewpoints.
Imposing castle ruins perched on basalt towers with panoramic views over the Bohemian Paradise.
Food in Turnov
Turnov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef in a creamy vegetable sauce served with dumplings and a cranberry garnish; a Czech classic.
Must-Try!
Rich, paprika-spiced beef served with traditional dumplings.
Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, a Czech staple.
Deep-fried cheese typically served with potatoes and tartar sauce.
Crispy potato pancakes, often enjoyed with sour cream or applesauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Casual stalls offering sausages, fried cheese, and sweet pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common when meeting someone; address people with appropriate titles; a brief small-talk before business is typical.
Visit churches respectfully; modest dress is appreciated in religious sites.
In residential areas, keep noise down after late evening; pubs and markets are lively but respectful behavior is expected.
Safety
Tipping in Turnov
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and pubs, a tip of 5–10% is common if service is not included in the bill. Round up for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; euros are not commonly used in daily life, so local currency (Czech koruna) is preferred. Contactless payments are common in shops and cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming landscapes; great for hiking with fewer crowds and fresh produce at markets.
Warm days with long daylight hours; expect more visitors to Česky ráj and outdoor activities; carry water and sun protection.
Autumn foliage brings rich colors; ideal for photography and scenic walks.
Cold with occasional snow; the region is quiet, and some trails may be icy—dress warmly and check conditions.
Turnov at Night
Hiking in Turnov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
World-renowned sandstone rock formations offering dramatic hiking and climbing routes.
Highest point in the Cesky raj region with expansive views across the valley.
Accessible trails with panoramic viewpoints over the Bohemian Paradise.
Airports
How to reach Turnov by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Turnov, with rail links and road connections.
Regional airport serving several European destinations; reachable by road or rail with transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Czech nationals with a small mix of nearby commuters and families.
Year-round visitors drawn to the Bohemian Paradise, with peak seasons in spring and summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and local club activity in the region.
Common in the winter months, with regional teams and public skating.
Accessible in the nearby Jizera Mountains during snowy seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turnov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Czech meals can be adapted; look for dumplings, potatoes, legumes, and fresh vegetables. Ask for meatless goulash or mushroom dishes where available.
Dishes like meat with potatoes or dumplings can be prepared gluten-free; confirm dumplings contain no wheat and watch for cross-contamination.
Sauces and creams may contain dairy; request dairy-free options or substitutions when ordering.