Things To Do
in Chotěboř

Chotěboř is a charming town in the Vysočina region of the Czech Republic, set among gentle hills and farmland. Its compact historic center displays traditional Czech architecture and a prominent church tower that anchors the town. The surrounding countryside invites relaxed walks, easy bike rides, and scenic viewpoints just a short distance from the town.

Visitors will find a welcoming, small-town atmosphere with opportunities for culture, cuisine, and outdoor exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Chotěboř's Charm
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in freshly baked pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Chotěboř, admiring the historic architecture and vibrant local shops. Don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful Church of St. Jacob the Greater, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Chotěboř Regional Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Take a relaxing walk along the nearby canal, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and watch the wildlife. Consider stopping for lunch at a traditional Czech restaurant, savoring local dishes made with fresh ingredients.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in one of the town’s quaint bars or restaurants for dinner. Experience the local nightlife, perhaps enjoying live music or cultural performances that showcase Czech traditions. End your day by wandering through the illuminated streets, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Chotěboř at night.

day 2
Nature Retreat in the Surroundings
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a day of exploration in the nearby nature reserves. Head out to the majestic Železné hory mountains for stunning views and fresh air while hiking along well-marked trails. The fresh morning air will invigorate your spirits and kickstart your outdoor adventures.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the heart of nature, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains and lush greenery. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or visiting the many small lakes in the area, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or a refreshing dip. Explore various viewpoints along the trails for breathtaking panoramas of the Czech landscape.

evening
:

Return to Chotěboř as the sun sets, creating magnificent colors in the sky. Savor a delicious dinner at a local tavern, complemented by traditional Czech beer. Share stories of your adventures over a warm meal, finishing your day with a relaxed evening stroll through the quiet streets of town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$9-15
Coffee or pastry$2-5
🚆Local transit ticket$1-3
🏨Budget hotel night$40-90
🛒Groceries for basic week$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact, walkable historic center with local charm
  • Peaceful countryside access and easy day trips
  • Friendly locals and affordable Czech cuisine
  • Nightlife is modest compared with bigger cities
  • Limited international dining options in some parts
  • Public transport outside town center can be infrequent
  • "Dobrý den" - Hello
  • "Děkuji" - Thank you
  • "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Můžete mi doporučit…?" - Can you recommend…?
  • "Na zdraví" - Cheers / Bless you

Places to Visit in Chotěboř

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Center Viewpoint

A picturesque angle of the town square with the church spire as a focal point, especially striking at dawn or dusk.

River and Orchard Walk

A tranquil riverside path framed by trees and seasonal blossoms, ideal for golden-hour shots.

Hilltop Ridge

A gentle climb to a lookout that offers sweeping views of the Vysočina countryside.

Historic Gate and Square

Cobbled lanes and pastel facades around a historic gate provide classic postcard scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chotěboř

Chotěboř sits in a traditional Czech culinary corridor where hearty, seasonal dishes shine. Expect comforting meat and dumpling plates, fresh bakery goods, and good local beer or cider in many eateries.

Chotěboř Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Svíčková na smetaně

Beef in a creamy vegetable sauce served with dumplings; a Czech classic available in most traditional restaurants.

Must-Try!

Guláš s knedlíky

Rich meat stew (often pork or beef) served with dumplings or bread; a hearty staple in many town bistros.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut; a common weekend favorite in regional kitchens.

Koláč

Sweet pastry cake filled with fruit, poppy seeds, or tvorog; a beloved Czech dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chotěboř Farmářský trh

Weekly farmers market offering local produce, cheeses, honey, breads, and small prepared foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chotěboř experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters, and mild springs and autumns. Precipitation is spread throughout the year, with occasional thunderstorms in summer and snow in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and a polite greeting such as Dobrý den are standard. Use titles and surnames unless invited to use first names.

Dining Etiquette

Be punctual, wait for others to be served before eating, and keep voices moderate in public places.

Religion and Respect

Show respect when visiting churches or sacred sites; dress modestly and remove hats where appropriate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for travelers. Take normal precautions against petty theft in crowded areas and ensure valuables are secure. Use licensed taxis or public transport at night when possible.

Tipping in Chotěboř

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Czech Republic, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 5-10% is common if service is good and not already included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in CZK is common in smaller shops; contactless payments are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days, long daylight hours, and frequent outdoor events; carry water, wear sunscreen, and be prepared for occasional showers.

Autumn

Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage; great for scenic walks and harvest-themed markets.

Winter

Cold conditions with potential snow; cozy pubs, hot beverages, and seasonal decorations are common.

Spring

Greening landscapes and blooming flowers; trails reopen and outdoor cafes start their season.

Nightlife Guide

Chotěboř at Night

The nightlife in Chotěboř is low-key, centered around local pubs and casual cafes. There are occasional live music events and small venues, especially on weekends, but the town is quieter after evening hours compared with larger cities.

Hiking in Chotěboř

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Vysočina Hills Loop

A scenic loop through gentle hills and woodlands offering panoramic countryside views and well-marked paths.

Chotěboř River Trail

A pleasant riverside walk with opportunities for birdwatching and photographs of seasonal scenery.

Forest Edge Trail

A shaded route along forest fringes, suitable for a half-day hike and nature study.

Airports

How to reach Chotěboř by plane.

Praha Václav Havel Airport (PRG)

Main international gateway to the Czech Republic, about a couple of hours by road/train from Chotěboř.

Brno–Tuřany Airport (BRQ)

Regional airport serving several European destinations; accessible by train or car from Vysočina.

Pardubice Airport (PED)

Smaller airport with regional connections; convenient for some Czech and Central European flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chotěboř is highly walkable in the core area, with pedestrian-friendly streets and a compact layout. Some surrounding hills and rural lanes may require a short drive or bike ride to access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families with children; family-friendly amenities are common.

Seniors

A significant older population; services and quiet neighborhoods reflect this demographic.

Students

Nearby towns and regional centers attract students; some cultural events focus on youth and education.

Tourists and day-trippers

Visitors from across the region contribute to seasonal tourism and local commerce.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played at local clubs and schools; matches may be seen in town during weekends.

Cycling

Popular on quiet country roads and gentle hills; bike rental is often available in nearby towns.

Ice hockey

Common winter pastime in regional arenas; local teams may host games during the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center is generally light with ample on-street parking. Regional buses and trains connect Chotěboř to Havlíčkův Brod and surrounding towns; highways are easy to navigate for day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chotěboř.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; look for mushroom dishes, cheese-filled dumplings, and hearty salads; ask staff about meat-free sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is available; you’ll find general practitioners and pharmacists in town, with hospitals in larger nearby towns such as Havlíčkův Brod. Carry your health insurance card and know emergency numbers (112).

Discover Czechia

Read more in our Czechia 2025 Travel Guide.

Czechia Travel Guide