Things To Do
in Pardubice

Pardubice is a historic city located in eastern Czechia, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city is famous for its gingerbread and horse racing, attracting visitors from all over the world. With a charming old town, beautiful parks, and a rich history, Pardubice offers a delightful mix of urban and natural experiences.

It is also an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions in the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Pardubice Castle, a stunning Renaissance structure with beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Old Town Square, visit the Church of St. Bartolomew, and enjoy lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Czech restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the Elbe River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Pardubice City Gallery and explore contemporary art exhibits.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Kunětická Hora hill for breathtaking views and a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the Pardubice Theatre or enjoy a local beer at a pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$1.50
🚍Public transport ticket$0.90
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited English spoken in smaller establishments
  • Some attractions may have restricted hours
  • Public transportation can be less frequent on weekends
  • "Dobrý den" - Good day
  • "Děkuji" - Thank you
  • "Prosím" - Please
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Mluvím jen trochu česky" - I speak only a little Czech

Places to Visit in Pardubice

Visit one of these nice places.

Pardubice Castle

A beautiful Renaissance castle surrounded by scenic gardens, perfect for stunning photographs.

Elbe River Promenade

A picturesque riverside walkway ideal for capturing sunsets and the natural beauty of the area.

Old Town Square

The heart of Pardubice, featuring colorful buildings, the fountain, and the Church of St. Bartolomew.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pardubice

Pardubice offers a rich culinary experience, blending traditional Czech flavors with modern influences.

Pardubice Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pardubický perník

A renowned gingerbread that is beautifully decorated and has a unique taste.

Must-Try!

Svíčková

A traditional Czech dish made of marinated beef served with creamy sauce and bread dumplings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pardubice Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh local produce, artisan breads, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pardubice experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and can reach temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, often dropping below freezing, with occasional snow. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, followed by addressing people with their titles and last names.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and it is polite to say 'Dobrou chuť' (Enjoy your meal).

Personal Space

Czechs value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pardubice is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Pardubice

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 10% of the bill, and rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for festivals, outdoor dining, and exploring the city's parks.

Autumn

Autumn offers vibrant fall colors and a harvest season, ideal for enjoying local foods and wines.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snowfall, but the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas, offering festive markets.

Nightlife Guide

Pardubice at Night

Pardubice has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of pubs, bars, and clubs. The city offers a variety of venues catering to different tastes, from cozy pubs serving local beers to energetic clubs featuring live music and DJs. The Old Town is especially lively in the evenings, and you can often find events or performances happening throughout the week.

Hiking in Pardubice

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kunětická Hora

A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a historic castle at the summit.

Český Les

A picturesque trail through dense forests, suitable for various skill levels and perfect for a day trip.

Airports

How to reach Pardubice by plane.

Pardubice Airport

Located just a few kilometers from the city center, this small airport offers flights to several European destinations and is a convenient entry point.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pardubice is a highly walkable city, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The Old Town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches and green spaces for resting.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Pardubice has a significant student population due to the presence of universities, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Pardubice, attracted by the city's quality of life, parks, and educational facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Pardubice, with the local team HC Dynamo Pardubice having a strong following.

Horse Racing

Pardubice is famous for its horse racing events, particularly the Velká pardubická, one of the oldest horse races in Europe.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pardubice is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams, making it easy to navigate without a car. Biking is also common, and there are designated bike lanes throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pardubice.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's best to inquire about specific dishes.

Gluten-free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants and cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Pardubice is accessible and of good quality. The city has several hospitals and clinics, and emergency services are available. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical services, while others should consider travel insurance.

Discover Czechia

Read more in our Czechia 2025 Travel Guide.

Czechia Travel Guide