Hradec Králové Region: The Highest Mountain and the “Czech Woodstock”

Hradec Králové: A City of Modern Architecture

Our tip: Visit the Giant Aquarium, which will take you into an underwater world.
 
Hradec Králové, also known as the “Salon of the Republic”, is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Czechia, not just in East Bohemia. Its historic centre, with the dominant White Tower and the Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit, invites visitors to enjoy its unique atmosphere. The city is also known for its architecture, shaped in part by the architect Josef Gočár. Hradec Králové is the cultural hub of the region and hosts many events throughout the year: in addition to the popular Rock for People music festival, there’s also a jazz festival and various exhibitions.
 

Historical Landmarks and Architecture

The region is rich in historical treasures. One of the most significant is the Baroque Hospital Kuks, a former infirmary featuring a unique outdoor sculpture gallery by the sculptor Matthias Bernard Braun. Kuks is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque sites in Czechia. The entire complex is beautifully set in the landscape and makes for an exceptional day trip – we highly recommend it! Another fascinating stop is Veselý Kopec, an open-air museum showcasing traditional folk architecture and the way of life of our ancestors. You can see period cottages, mills and demonstrations of crafts that were once part of everyday rural life.

Broumov Region and Rock Cities

Our tip: The dominant feature is the Broumov Monastery, a Baroque masterpiece. You can relax there, stay overnight in monastic cells, or enjoy refreshments at the local bistro and restaurant.

The Broumov region is one of the most picturesque areas in East Bohemia. Its highlight is the unique sandstone formations of the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks, which form the largest rock city in Central Europe and have long attracted both tourists and filmmakers from around the world. Walking among these majestic rocks feels like stepping into another world: narrow gorges, towering spires and mysterious caves create a truly captivating landscape.

How to get there:

• Flight from Tokyo to Prague in Czechia

• Or flight to Wrocław in Poland

• Bus/Train from Prague to Hradec Králové (90 - 120 minutes, book via Czech Railways or Flixbus)

• Bus from Wrocław to Hradec Králové (3 - 4 hours, book via Flixbus)

Hiking: The Highest Mountain in Czechia

Our tip: A popular route is the Krkonoše Beer Trail, which combines hiking with sampling traditional beer at local breweries.
 
The Hradec Králové Region is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. One of the most exciting routes is the Czech-Polish ridge trail, which takes you into the highest parts of the Krkonoše Mountains and offers breathtaking panoramic views. One of the most stunning is from Sněžka, the queen of Czech mountains, standing at 1,603 metres above sea level. It is the highest mountain in the Czech Republic and a symbol of the Krkonoše range. There are several routes leading to the summit – and for a more comfortable journey, you can take the cable car all the way to the top. On the summit itself, you’ll find the Chapel of St. Lawrence and the Anežka Post Office, the highest-altitude building in Czechia, where you can send a postcard with a unique stamp.

Top Towns Worth Visiting:

• Trutnov: The gateway to the Krkonoše Mountains. Each year it hosts the popular Trutnov Open Air Festival, nicknamed the “Czech Woodstock”.

• Náchod: The town is dominated by a beautiful chateau.

• Jičín: The fairytale town of Jičín, where the beloved festival “Jičín – Town of Fairytales” takes place.

Wellness, Spas and Golf

If you’re looking for peace and relaxation, Janské Lázně, Lázně Bělohrad and Lázně Velichovky are ideal – specialising in musculoskeletal treatments and offering top-class wellness services. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the region’s golf courses. Grund Resort GOLF&SKI combines golf with the opportunity to ski in winter. Grosshof Golf Club offers a beautiful course surrounded by nature, and the Hrádek u Nechanic Golf Course delights with the atmosphere of an English castle park.

And Finally, a Bite to Eat

Among the popular regional specialities is Krkonoše kyselo – a hearty soup made from sauerkraut and potatoes. Another local treat is Krkonošské trubičky, delicate pastries filled with nuts and honey – a perfect sweet finish to a meal. In Trutnov and the surrounding area, don’t miss out on Trutnov gingerbread. Meat lovers can enjoy Krkonoše sausages, and the East Bohemian bramborák – a crispy potato pancake with garlic and marjoram – is also a favourite. A quick snack not only for vegetarians.

And where else to go?