Hiking in Czech Republic 2024
Mountains, lakes, bogs and lush forests—there are plenty of places to immerse yourself in Czech nature
Best time: May–October
The Czech Republic is full of natural wonders—there are 38,000 km of hiking trails from Karlovy Vary in the northwest to the Ostrava River in the east. You can opt to start with a walk in Průhonice Park in Prague, one of the largest naturally landscaped parks in Europe.
Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) is definitely on Central Europe's best hiking list. Located about 100km northeast of Prague, this national park is known for the labyrinthine rock formations of Prachovské skály and wild blooming valleys. There are plenty of signs along the trails with maps that mark paths with different colours, making it easy to navigate. The Dneboh Loop is an easy 13km hike with multiple starting points such as Dneboh. It will take about 4 hours and will give you an idea of the nature and landscape of the Bohemian Paradise.
Krkonoše National Park is a great hiking destination which also gives visitors a chance to visit the highest peak in the Czech Republic. Sněžka offers breathtaking views at a height of 1603m. Overall, the north of the Czech Republic offers great natural sites.
Bohemian Switzerland, also known as Czech Switzerland, lies on both sides of the Elbe River and looks like a fairy-tale. Its highest peak is Děčínský Sněžník at 726m.
The best time for hiking in the Czech Republic is during the warm season, which is from May to October.
Practical info
What are some popular hiking destinations in Czech Republic?
Czech Republic boasts many scenic hiking destinations, one of which is Bohemian Paradise. It offers labyrinths of rock formations and blooming valleys. Another popular spot is Krkonoše National Park, where hikers can explore the country’s highest peak and enjoy spectacular views. Bohemian Switzerland presents fairy-tale-like surroundings on both sides of the Elbe River. These destinations are among the most frequently visited hiking spots in the country.
What are the unique features of Bohemian Paradise hiking trails?
Bohemian Paradise provides color-coded hiking trails, enabling visitors to navigate easily. The park’s most unique feature is the Prachovské skály rock formations, popular for the maze-like tunnels and cliffs to climb. Hikers can also enjoy the vast meadows and blooming valleys, displaying the park’s natural abundance. Overall, the park’s attractive geological formations and natural surroundings make it a great hiking destination.
How difficult is the Dneboh Loop trail?
Hiking the Dneboh Loop trail, which is around 13km and takes about 4 hours to complete, is rated as easy. The trail runs in a circular path from various starting points through rocky terrains, lush forests, and blooming meadows, all marked by guiding signs with maps and colour-coded routes. While walking the trail, hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of the Bohemian Paradise park.
What is the highest peak in the Czech Republic?
The Krkonoše Mountain range holds the highest peak in the Czech Republic, called Sněžka, which stands 1603m tall. Hikers can choose to conquer the mountain on foot or ride a cable car to the top and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The range also offers other picturesque surroundings, including lush valleys, picturesque glacial lakes, and scenic waterfalls.
When is the best time for hiking in Czech Republic?
The ideal time for hiking in the Czech Republic is the warm season from May through October. During these months, temperatures are moderate, providing pleasant hiking conditions for visitors to explore. October offers cool weather with colorful autumn leaves. However, winter is not the best season for hiking, as snow and inclement weather conditions could make it dangerous. To plan a hike, it's always wise to check weather forecasts beforehand.
