One Day in Vrchlabi
Visit the town which lies in the centre of the highest Czech mountains. Come and see that Vrchlabi is alive!
Morning
Krkonossky National Park Visitor Centre
If you come by car, you can use the free car park near the monastery. You will certainly notice a rock-like structure attached to the historical monastery building. In 2023, a new Visitor Centre of the Krkonoše National Park - the Museum of the Krkonoše Mountains - was created here, an exhibition documenting the story of the Krkonoše Mountains, both with regard to the unique nature and in relation to the coexistence of nature and man.
Krkonose Centre for Environmental Education
The unique Krkonose Centre for Environmental Education, nicknamed KRTEK (“Mole”), is sunk two-thirds into the terrain and therefore almost invisible. You will pass by it on your way to the palace park.
Vrchlabi Palace
The park around Vrchlabi Palace is not that large but still rich in interesting tree species as well as benches to sit and rest. The palace, a picturesque 16th-century building, is mirrored in the lake. Today it is the seat of the Municipal Council, but the entrance hall is freely accessible.
The Krkonose Regional Tourist Information Centre
From the Palace, continue to TGM Square, the town’s symbolical centre. It features a Baroque town hall with the Krkonose Regional Tourist Information Centre on the groundfloor. If you are seeking advice, a map, brochure or a tourist card, this is the right place for you.
You can also try Botta Café on the main square, which is especially good for breakfasts due to their home-made desserts, renowned gingerbread pancakes and egg omelettes.
Miru Square, the Oldest Houses, Church and Poesiomat
Continue from TGM Square to Miru Square, which is easy to find if you follow the spire of the Church of St. Lawrence. A Poesiomat stands right in front of the church. It looks like an odd iron tube, but is in fact a jukebox offering a special sound experience, for instance, the sound of the River Labe (the Elbe) or The Four Seasons by Vivaldi. It is powered by electricity generated by turning the crank.
Historical Houses
Opposite the church, you will see four gabled houses with arcades. They are among the oldest items of original rural architecture in the Krkonose. They house the Krkonose Museum, offering, for instance, an exhibition of the town’s history.
Noon
Time for Lunch
The prestigious Farma restaurant run by chef Lukas Cizek, the 2022 Cook of the Year award holder, is located in the town centre. You can try their lunch menu, the range of dishes is broad and prices comparable with other restaurants in town.
Afternoon
Monastery Garden
On your way back to the car park, you can go via the monastery garden. You can see the orchard, herb beds, an exhibition on the geology of the mountains or try out the special barefoot multi-textured path.
To the Swimming Pool or Whirlpool
Don’t leave town yet. Drive to the area called Vejsplachy, where the new Aqua Centrum was inaugurated at the end of 2022. It offers a swimming pool and relaxation pool, a whirlpool and children’s attractions, including a water slide.
Vesplachy Leisure Time Park
If you prefer staying outside, or feel fit after your visit to the aqua park, take a walk around the lake in Vejsplachy, called Kacak by the locals. The park also includes the Medvedi Pumptrack and Skatepark.
Evening
A Movie in a Stylish Cinema or Outdoor Cinema
For a comfortable end to your day in Vrchlabi, we recommend the Kartonka cinema, and during the summer holidays the Tripsi summer cinema. Theatres and interesting music performances are offered in the Strelnice culture centre, famous from Milos Forman’s movie The Firemen’s Ball.