Things To Do
in Žďár nad Sázavou
Žďár nad Sázavou is a historic market town in the Vysočina Region of the Czech Republic, renowned for its UNESCO-listed Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora by Jan Santini Aichel. The town combines Baroque and Renaissance architecture with a charming town square and a riverside backdrop along the Sázava. It serves as a gateway to the rolling Žďárské vrchy highlands, offering easy access to forest trails, quiet country lanes, and local cultural events.
Visitors can enjoy hearty Czech cuisine, artful architecture, and a sense of frontier calm away from the larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Žďár nad Sázavou and check into your hotel to settle in. After freshening up, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, admiring the beautiful architecture and quaint shops. Grab a local pastry and coffee at a café as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk, where you can enjoy its baroque architecture and serene surroundings. Following the church, explore the nearby Žďár nad Sázavou Castle, taking in the rich history and impressive artifacts. Take a moment to relax in the castle gardens, surrounded by lush greenery.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Czech restaurant, savoring local dishes such as svíčková or goulash. After your meal, take an evening walk along the Sázava River, where the setting sun casts a golden hue over the landscape. Embrace the tranquil evening with a visit to a local pub for a taste of Czech beer.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the Žďárské vrchy protected landscape area for a refreshing hike. The morning sun will guide you through lush trails, offering stunning views of the countryside and picturesque lakes. Breathe in the fresh air while observing the diverse flora and fauna native to the region.
Continue your hike towards the legendary Devět skal (Nine Rocks), a breathtaking rock formation surrounded by legends and folklore. Take a packed lunch with you to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints, relishing the panoramic views. As the afternoon softens, explore more trails leading you back through enchanting forests.
Return to town to unwind and grab dinner at a cozy bistro, sampling some homemade Czech specialties. After your meal, consider visiting a local gallery or cultural site to engage with the artistic spirit of Žďár nad Sázavou. As night falls, sip a warm drink at a local café, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way local transport (bus or taxi) | $1-3 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich UNESCO heritage site nearby and compact, walkable town center
- Access to natural areas and scenic countryside without long travel times
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger Czech cities
- Seasonal tourist crowds can peak near the UNESCO site during holidays
- "Dobrý den" - Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please / Excuse me
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Žďár nad Sázavou
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking Baroque-Santini landscape of geometry and symbolism; the exterior and surrounding terraces offer dramatic angles for architectural photography.
Pastel facades, arcades, and the compact layout provide a quintessential Czech townscape with opportunities for street and architectural photography.
Relaxed river views and reflections; ideal for landscape shots and sunset photography along the water.
Food in Žďár nad Sázavou
Žďár nad Sázavou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with cranberries, served with dumplings.
Must-Try!
Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, a Czech staple.
Mushroom-dill soup enriched with sour cream.
Crispy potato pancakes often served with sour cream or as a side dish.
Oven-roasted duck with dumplings and cabbage; a regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the town square offering fresh dairy, meats, breads, cheeses, and seasonal produce.
Casual stands around the square and near the UNESCO site offering sausages, pastries, and warm snacks, especially in warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Dobrý den' (Hello/Good day) and maintain a polite, reserved demeanor in public spaces. Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Use 'pane' (Mr.) or 'paní' (Mrs.) when addressing elders or staff. Photo restrictions may apply in sacred spaces; ask for permission when needed.
Safety
Tipping in Žďár nad Sázavou
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is customary if no service charge is included. Cash is widely accepted, though cards and contactless payments are common in most establishments. ATMs are readily available in town, and many places now accept cards or mobile payments. Always check if a service charge is included on the receipt.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; good for outdoor dining and riverside strolls. Expect greener landscapes and occasional showers.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; great for city and nature photos and harvest-time dishes in local eateries.
Cold, with possible snow; charming lights in the town center and tranquil landscapes; some walks may be icy, so wear warm layers and sturdy shoes.
Cooling evenings and blooming flora; ideal for outdoor walks, early-season markets, and cultural events resuming after winter.
Žďár nad Sázavou at Night
Hiking in Žďár nad Sázavou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible forested trails and scenic routes suitable for day hikes and nature walks.
A network of moderate trails with viewpoints, creeks, and cascading greenery.
Airports
How to reach Žďár nad Sázavou by plane.
Main international gateway about 170-190 km by road; reachable by train, bus, or car.
Regional airport about 140-170 km away; good for domestic and European flights.
Smaller international airport roughly 100-140 km away; limited but usable for some destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Czech nationals with older population in rural areas and a steady flow of visitors and seasonal workers.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to the UNESCO site, nature, and regional culture.
Some presence from regional education programs and university-affiliated courses in nearby towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular nationwide; local teams and casual play are common in community parks.
Winter pastime with local rinks and leagues in the region.
Road and mountain biking on country lanes and forest trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Žďár nad Sázavou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Czech dishes can be prepared vegetarian or with mushroom sauces; look for dumplings with veggie gravies, soups like kulajda, or vegetable-based sides. Ask for sauces and broths made without meat stock, and most places will accommodate with advance notice.