Krkonoše, Czechia Travel Guide

Discover the Giant Mountains of Krkonoše in Czechia, a captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural heritage.

Krkonoše, also known as the Giant Mountains, is a stunning mountain range located in the northern part of Czechia. It is home to the highest peak in the country, Sněžka, which towers at an impressive 1,603 meters. This picturesque region is renowned for its rich biodiversity, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs. The region is also a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering excellent skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing opportunities during the colder months. The charming towns of Špindlerův Mlýn and Pec pod Sněžkou serve as perfect bases for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Krkonoše. In addition to outdoor activities, Krkonoše boasts a rich cultural heritage. The area is dotted with traditional wooden cottages, historic churches, and fascinating museums that showcase the local history and folklore. Don't miss the chance to visit the Krkonoše National Park, where you can learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region and enjoy guided tours and educational programs.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Krkonoše.

Visit in late spring or early autumn for the best hiking conditions and fewer crowds.
Purchase a Krkonoše National Park visitor card for discounts on entrance fees and guided tours.
Try the local cuisine, including traditional Czech dishes like 'svíčková' and 'trdelník'.
Bring appropriate gear for changing weather conditions, especially if you plan to hike Sněžka.
Check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before setting out on your hikes.

Destinations in Krkonoše

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Krkonoše National Park

Cesky Raj (Bohemian Paradise)

Explore Krkonoše: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Krkonoše

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Kamieńczyk Waterfall

Experience the beauty of Kamieńczyk Waterfall, the highest waterfall in the Polish Sudetes, surrounded by breathtaking nature and scenic trails.

4.7

Karkonosze National Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Karkonosze National Park, where majestic mountains and rich biodiversity await every nature lover.

4.8

Krkonoše National Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Krkonoše National Park, a paradise of diverse landscapes, rich ecosystems, and thrilling outdoor adventures.

4.8

Mumlava Falls

Experience the enchanting beauty of Mumlava Falls in the Krkonoš mountains, a captivating destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.

4.8

Best landmarks in Krkonoše

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Prague Castle

Explore the grandeur and history of Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the heart of Czech culture, offering breathtaking views and rich heritage.

4.7

Petrin Tower

Discover stunning views and historical charm at Petrin Tower, a must-visit landmark in Prague's beautiful landscape.

4.5

Karkonosze National Park

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Karkonosze National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Poland's stunning mountains.

4.8

The Timber Trail, Krkonoše

Discover the breathtaking Timber Trail in Krkonoš, a hiking paradise offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a perfect escape into nature.

4.6

Best restaurants in Krkonoše

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Hostinec Na Kopečku

Experience authentic Czech cuisine with breathtaking views at Hostinec Na Kopečku in Horní Maršov.

4.8

Mountain Shed Růžohorky

Experience authentic Czech cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Mountain Shed Růžohorky in Krkonoš National Park.

4.6

Trautenberk Brewery

Discover Trautenberk Brewery: A delightful blend of traditional Czech cuisine and exquisite craft beers in scenic Malá Úpa.

4.7

Botta Caffé

Discover Botta Caffé in Vrchlabí: A cozy restaurant offering authentic Czech cuisine and delightful ambiance for every traveler.

4.6

Best bars in Krkonoše

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Hemingway Bar

Discover the literary charm of Hemingway Bar in Prague's Old Town, where exquisite cocktails meet a cozy, artistic atmosphere.

4.7

Hostinec Na Kopečku

Discover the essence of Czech cuisine at Hostinec Na Kopečku, a culinary gem in Horní Maršov, offering authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere.

4.8

Trautenberk Brewery

Experience the best of Czech brewing tradition at Trautenberk Brewery, where great food and craft beer meet breathtaking mountain views.

4.7

Botta Caffé

Savor the flavors of Vrchlabí at Botta Caffé, where delightful cuisine meets cozy ambiance.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Krkonoše

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Duplex

Unleash your night at Duplex, the premier nightclub in New Town, where music, dance, and vibrant energy collide for an unforgettable experience.

4.8

Karlovy Lazne - Nightclub

Dive into the exhilarating nightlife of Prague at Karlovy Lazne, a multi-level nightclub offering diverse music and vibrant energy.

4.3

M1 Lounge Bar & Club - RnB & Hip Hop

Discover the vibrant nightlife at M1 Lounge Bar & Club, Prague's hotspot for RnB and Hip Hop lovers, where every night is a memorable party.

3.7

One Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Prague at One Club, where music, drinks, and dancing create unforgettable memories.

3.5

Best shops in Krkonoše

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Westfield Chodov

Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at Westfield Chodov in Prague, where luxury meets variety in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

Nový Smíchov Shopping Centre

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Nový Smíchov Shopping Centre in the heart of Prague.

4.3

The Timber Trail, Krkonoše

Discover the Timber Trail in Krkonoše, where breathtaking hiking paths meet stunning natural landscapes and rich wildlife - a must-visit for all nature enthusiasts.

4.6

Fashion Arena Prague Outlet

Explore the Fashion Arena Prague Outlet, a unique shopping experience featuring top global brands at unbeatable prices in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Explore Krkonoše on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Krkonoše, mapped for you.

Krkonoše Essentials

Krkonoše is located in the northern part of Czechia, near the Polish border. The nearest international airports are Václav Havel Airport in Prague and Copernicus Airport in Wrocław, Poland. From Prague, you can take a train or bus to the towns of Vrchlabí, Špindlerův Mlýn, or Pec pod Sněžkou, which serve as gateways to the Krkonoše National Park. The journey by train from Prague to these towns typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car for more flexibility.
Within Krkonoše, public transportation options include buses and trains that connect the main towns and villages. Local buses are frequent and reliable, making it easy to explore different parts of the region. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. For those looking to explore the mountains, there are numerous hiking trails, and during the winter, ski lifts and slopes are well-maintained. Renting a car can provide greater flexibility, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas.
The official currency in Czechia is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in the Krkonoše region, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in the main towns, and currency exchange services can be found in larger hotels and some tourist centers.
Krkonoše is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended. In winter, be mindful of the weather conditions and potential risks associated with skiing and hiking in the mountains.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the EU-wide emergency number. Local medical facilities and pharmacies are available in the main towns such as Vrchlabí and Špindlerův Mlýn. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, over-the-counter medications can be purchased at local pharmacies.
Fashion: Do wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activities, including sturdy shoes for hiking. In winter, ensure you have warm, waterproof clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Dobrý den' (Good day). A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as 'Svíčková' and 'Krkonošské kyselo'. Don't forget to tip in restaurants, around 10% is customary.
To experience Krkonoše like a local, visit the traditional mountain huts known as 'Bouda'. These huts often serve local dishes and provide a cozy atmosphere. Engage with locals, who are typically friendly and proud of their heritage. Don't miss visiting the Sněžka mountain, the highest peak in Czechia, offering spectacular views. For a unique experience, take a ride on the historic cog railway from Tanvald to Kořenov, which passes through stunning landscapes. Additionally, attending local festivals and events can provide insight into the region's culture and traditions.

When is the best time to visit Krkonoše?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Krkonoše

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Krkonoše. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
- GoodbyeSbohem
  [sbohem]
- YesAno
  [ah-no]
- NoNe
  [neh]
- Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [pro-seem]
- Thank youDěkuji
  [dyeh-koo-yee]
- Excuse me/SorryOmlouvám se
  [om-loo-vam seh]
- How are you?Jak se máš?
  [yak seh maash]
- Fine. And you?Dobře. A ty?
  [dob-zheh. ah tee]
- Do you speak English?Mluvíš anglicky?
  [mloo-veesh ang-lits-kee]
- I don't understandNerozumím
  [neh-roh-zoo-meem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChtěl bych vidět menu, prosím
  [kht-yel bikh vid-yet meh-noo, pro-seem]
- I don't eat meatNejím maso
  [ney-eem mah-so]
- Cheers!Na zdraví!
  [nah zdrah-vee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChtěl bych zaplatit, prosím
  [kht-yel bikh zah-plah-teet, pro-seem]
- Help!Pomoc!
  [poh-mots]
- Go away!Jdi pryč!
  [yee preech]
- Call the Police!Zavolejte policii!
  [zah-vo-lay-teh poh-li-tsi-ee]
- Call a doctor!Zavolejte doktora!
  [zah-vo-lay-teh dok-toh-rah]
- I'm lostZtratil jsem se
  [ztra-til ysem seh]
- I'm illJsem nemocný
  [ysem neh-mots-nee]
- I'd like to buy...Chtěl bych koupit...
  [kht-yel bikh koh-pit...]
- I'm just lookingJen se dívám
  [yen seh dee-vahm]
- How much is it?Kolik to stojí?
  [koh-lik toh stoh-yee]
- That's too expensiveTo je příliš drahé
  [toh yeh pree-leesh drah-heh]
- Can you lower the price?Můžeš snížit cenu?
  [moo-zheesh snee-zit tseh-noo]
- What time is it?Kolik je hodin?
  [koh-lik yeh ho-deen]
- It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [ye yed-na ho-dee-na]
- Half past (10)Půl (10)
  [pool (10)]
- MorningRáno
  [rah-no]
- AfternoonOdpoledne
  [od-po-led-neh]
- EveningVečer
  [veh-cher]
- YesterdayVčera
  [v-cheh-rah]
- TodayDnes
  [dnes]
- TomorrowZítra
  [zee-trah]
- 11
  [one]
- 22
  [two]
- 33
  [three]
- 44
  [four]
- 55
  [five]
- 66
  [six]
- 77
  [seven]
- 88
  [eight]
- 99
  [nine]
- 1010
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Kde je...?
  [kde yeh...?]
- What's the address?Jaká je adresa?
  [ya-kah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Můžeš mi ukázat (na mapě)?
  [moo-zheesh mee oo-kah-zat (nah mah-peh)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kdy pojede další (autobus)?
  [kdee poh-yeh-deh dal-shi (ow-to-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Jeden lístek (do ...)
  [yeh-den lees-tek (doh ...)]

History of Krkonoše

The Krkonoše mountains, also known as the Giant Mountains, have a history that dates back to prehistoric times. Archaeological findings suggest that early human settlements existed in the region as far back as the Stone Age. The rugged terrain and dense forests provided natural resources and shelter for the early inhabitants.
During the medieval period, the Krkonoše region saw the development of mining activities. The mountains were rich in minerals, particularly silver and iron, which attracted various settlers, including German miners. This influx of miners and their families led to the establishment of several towns and villages in the region. The wealth generated from mining contributed significantly to the local economy and culture.
A central figure in the folklore of Krkonoše is Krakonoš, the mythical guardian of the mountains. Also known as Rübezahl in German, Krakonoš is depicted as a giant and protector of the natural environment. Many legends and stories revolve around his interactions with humans, often teaching moral lessons about respecting nature. Krakonoš remains a beloved cultural icon and is celebrated in various local festivals.
The 19th century brought significant changes to Krkonoše with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. Improved transportation networks, including railways, made the region more accessible. This period saw the rise of tourism, as people from urban areas began to visit Krkonoše for its natural beauty and fresh air. The construction of hotels, guesthouses, and hiking trails catered to the growing number of visitors.
Krkonoše, like much of Central Europe, experienced turbulent times during the 20th century. The region was affected by both World Wars, leading to significant political and social changes. After World War II, the expulsion of ethnic Germans and the establishment of Czechoslovakia reshaped the demographic landscape. The mountains also served as a strategic location during various military campaigns.
In 1963, the Krkonošský National Park was established to protect the unique flora and fauna of the region. The park covers a significant portion of the Krkonoše mountains and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It attracts nature enthusiasts, scientists, and tourists who come to explore its diverse ecosystems. The park plays a crucial role in preserving the natural heritage of Krkonoše.
Krkonoše is home to a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and festivals. One of the most notable is the Krakonoš Celebrations, held annually to honor the mountain spirit. The region also hosts various folk music and dance events, showcasing traditional Czech culture. Local crafts, such as wood carving and glass blowing, are integral to the cultural identity of Krkonoše.