Things To Do
in Kutná Hora
Kutná Hora is a UNESCO-listed town in central Bohemia, famed for its Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The town grew on silver mining and features impressive churches and stone buildings along narrow, centuries-old lanes. A highlight is the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and St. Barbara's Cathedral that dominate the skyline.
Today it offers a compact, walkable historic core perfect for a day trip from Prague.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Czech pastries. Afterward, stroll through the enchanting streets of Kutná Hora, admiring the well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit the Gothic masterpiece, St. Barbara's Church, and take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.
Enjoy lunch at a quaint restaurant, taste local dishes like svíčková or trdelník. Afterward, explore the Czech Museum of Silver, where you'll delve into the town's mining heritage and see exhibits related to silver extraction. Do not miss the chance to visit the stunning Italian Court, once the royal mint, learning its significance in the mining town.
As dusk falls, take a leisurely walk along the Vltava River, enjoying the sunset view over the shimmering waters. Dine at a cozy eatery offering regional specialties, perfect for ending your day on a high note. Cap off the evening with a performance at the local theater, immersing yourself in the rich cultural scene of Kutná Hora.
Start your day with breakfast at a café before heading to the Sedlec Ossuary, famous for its macabre yet fascinating decorations made from human bones. Take time to reflect on the unique artistry and history behind this spiritual site. Engage with the exhibits that explain the origins of this eerie chapel and its significance.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, soaking in the local ambiance. Afterward, visit the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady and Saint John the Baptist, located adjacent to the Ossuary, and appreciate its Baroque architecture. An optional guided tour could provide deeper insights into the intertwined histories of these remarkable sites.
Return to the town center for dinner at an atmospheric restaurant, enjoying traditional Czech beer to accompany your meal. After dinner, take a meditative walk to absorb the quiet beauty of the illuminated Ossuary, an unforgettable sight at night. You may also explore local bars for live music to enjoy a lively end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Small souvenir | $8-25 |
| 🎟️Museum or castle entrance | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich UNESCO-listed historic center with striking Gothic and Renaissance architecture
- Compact, walkable town ideal for a day trip from Prague
- Varied cultural sites, including Sedlec Ossuary and the Czech Museum of Silver
- Scenic countryside surrounding Kutná Hora offers good hiking possibilities
- Limited nightlife compared to larger Czech cities
- Some sites can be crowded in peak season
- Restaurant options tend to be traditional; vegetarian and other dietary options may require extra inquiries
- "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Můžete mi prosím ukázat cestu na…?" - Could you please show me the way to…?
Places to Visit in Kutná Hora
Visit one of these nice places.
A dominant Gothic masterpiece on the horizon of Kutná Hora; captures dramatic exteriors and soaring arches, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
The Bone Church with intricate bone arrangements; interior photography is atmospheric but check interior access times.
A historic palace complex with Renaissance hallways and courtyards—great for architectural detail shots.
Widespread medieval stone facades and arcades create classic street photography opportunities.
A limestone hill with panoramic views over Kutná Hora and the surrounding countryside; ideal for sunset shots.
Food in Kutná Hora
Kutná Hora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef sirloin in a creamyroot-vegetable sauce served with dumplings; a Czech classic often found on restaurant menus.
Must-Try!
Hearty beef stew with a rich paprika sauce served with bread or potato dumplings; a filling option after a day of sightseeing.
Sweet Czech pastries filled with fruit or sweet curd, great for a quick coffee break or a dessert.
Slow-roasted pork dish common in Czech pubs, often served with sauerkraut and dumplings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmer’s market near the historic center offering fresh bread, cheeses, produce, and regional snacks. Try freshly baked pastries and local sausages.
Casual spots around the square offering quick bites, pastries, and trdelník (chimney cake) for a sweet treat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting like Dobrý den (Good day) is standard. Handshakes are common when meeting someone formally.
Be patient in lines and avoid loud conversations in religious sites. Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred spaces.
Treat historic areas with care; avoid touching artifacts and keep to designated paths in museums and churches.
Safety
Tipping in Kutná Hora
Ensure a smooth experience
In Czechia, service is not always included; rounding up or leaving about 5–10% is common in restaurants and cafes.
Cash (CZK) and cards are widely accepted; some small cafés may prefer cash. ATMs are common in the town center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and long evenings; expect more visitors around the historic center. Shade is limited in narrow lanes, so bring water and sun protection.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; great for atmospheric photos around the cathedral precincts and quieter streets.
Cold with possible snow; festive decorations in December provide a magical backdrop. Some outdoor areas may be less accessible due to weather.
Moderate temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for walking tours and outdoor photography along countryside lanes.
Kutná Hora at Night
Hiking in Kutná Hora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular limestone hill just outside the town; climbs range from easy to moderate with viewpoints overlooking Kutná Hora.
Gentle rural paths weaving through farmland and light forested areas; suitable for a half- to full-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Kutná Hora by plane.
Main international gateway located about 1.5 hours by train or car from Kutná Hora; frequent connections to Prague and beyond.
Smaller regional airport about an hour away by train or car; useful for regional flights and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population with deep roots in mining, craftsmanship, and agriculture.
Visitors from Prague and other parts of the Czech Republic and abroad, especially in summer.
Presence of regional educational programs and cultural centers contributing to a dynamic youth scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and youth programs.
Winter sport with local teams and indoor arenas; common in Czech towns.
Flat to rolling rural routes around Kutná Hora suitable for day trips and photography rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kutná Hora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Czech dishes center on meat, but vegetarian soups, dumplings, and cheese dishes are common. Ask for bez masa (no meat) or smažený sýr (fried cheese) options; many cafés offer salads and veggie plates.