Vysočina, Czechia Travel Guide

Discover Vysočina: A blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in the heart of Czechia, offering lush landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant local traditions.

Vysočina, situated in the heart of Czechia, is a region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages, Vysočina is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The region is dotted with charming towns like Telč, with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed town square, and Třebíč, known for its well-preserved Jewish Quarter and Basilica of St. Procopius. Outdoor activities are abundant in Vysočina. The region's numerous hiking and cycling trails provide breathtaking views of the countryside. In winter, Vysočina transforms into a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Žďárské vrchy (Žďár Hills) is a notable highlight, offering stunning landscapes and the chance to explore the unique granite formations of Devět skal. Cultural experiences in Vysočina are equally enriching. The region hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from traditional crafts to contemporary arts. Local cuisine, featuring hearty dishes made from fresh, local ingredients, is a must-try. Don't miss out on tasting regional specialties like potato pancakes and homemade cheeses.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Vysočina in autumn to witness the stunning fall foliage.
Rent a bike to explore the scenic cycling routes throughout the region.
Check out the local festivals for a taste of Vysočina's vibrant culture.
Sample traditional Vysočina cuisine, especially the regional cheeses.
Pack warm clothing if visiting in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly.

Top City Travel Guides in Vysočina

The cities of Vysočina, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Brno

Kutná Hora

Hradec Králové

Destinations in Vysočina

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

Moravian Karst

Eagle Mountains

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Vysočina

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Chateau Žleby

Explore the majestic Chateau Žleby, a captivating manor house surrounded by stunning nature, rich history, and picturesque hiking trails in the Czech Republic.

4.8

Světlá nad Sázavou Castle

Experience the enchanting Světlá nad Sázavou Castle, a historical manor house blending art, culture, and scenic beauty in the Czech Republic.

4.4

Strádovské Peklo

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Strádovské Peklo, a national forest offering serene trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes.

4.7

CHH Přibyslav Fire Museum

Explore the rich history of firefighting at the CHH Přibyslav Fire Museum, a captivating destination for all ages in the heart of the Czech Republic.

4.6

Best landmarks in Vysočina

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Zdarski Mountains

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Zdarski Mountains, a serene nature preserve in the heart of the Czech Republic.

4.7

Pernštejn Castle

Explore the stunning Pernštejn Castle, a historical gem of Czechia with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage, perfect for history lovers and adventurers.

4.7

Telč Chateau

Explore the stunning Renaissance architecture and lush gardens of Telč Chateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the Czech Republic.

4.6

Zámek Žďár nad Sázavou

Explore the historic Zámek Žďár nad Sázavou, a stunning manor house surrounded by nature and steeped in Czech cultural heritage.

4.6

Best restaurants in Vysočina

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Motorest Melikana

Experience authentic Czech cuisine at Motorest Melikana - your perfect roadside stop on the way to Prague.

4.4

Kolnička

Experience authentic Czech cuisine at Kolnička, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Luka nad Jihlavou.

4.8

Buena Vista - Restaurant

Savor authentic Cuban cuisine in Jihlava at Buena Vista – where vibrant flavors meet welcoming hospitality.

4.5

Restaurant Tři Věžičky se salonkem

Experience authentic Czech cuisine at Restaurant Tři Věžičky in Střítež - perfect for families and special occasions with a cozy atmosphere.

4.1

Best bars in Vysočina

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Zverimex BistroBar

Experience the unique blend of bistro dining and bar atmosphere at Zverimex BistroBar in Jihlava, where every meal is a delightful adventure.

4.7

Retro pub

Discover the charm of the Retro Pub in Jihlava, where vintage ambiance meets delightful dining and social experiences.

4.7

Rock Café Zeppelin

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rock Café Zeppelin, Jihlava's premier bar for cocktails, live music, and good times with friends.

4.4

Beertime

Experience the best of Czech beer culture at Beertime in Jihlava, where quality brews and friendly vibes come together.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Vysočina

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Roxy Club Třebíč

Experience Třebíč's vibrant nightlife at Roxy Club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.1

MAX MUSIC CLUB - Žďár nad Sázavou

Dive into the heart of Žďár nad Sázavou's nightlife at MAX MUSIC CLUB, where every night is a celebration of music, dance, and fun.

3.8

Disco Club Starr

Discover the pulsating energy of Disco Club Starr in Havlíčkův Brod, where unforgettable nights of music and dancing await every visitor.

3.8

Polenský klub

Discover Polenský klub, a vibrant bar and disco in Polná, where music, dance, and local culture come together for an unforgettable night out.

4.2

Best shops in Vysočina

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AVENTIN Shopping Jihlava

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at AVENTIN Shopping Jihlava, where style meets convenience in a vibrant setting.

4.3

COOP družstvo HB - Golčův Jeníkov TIP

Explore local flavors at COOP družstvo HB - your go-to grocery store in Golčův Jeníkov for fresh produce and Czech delicacies.

4.3

ARMY-STORE.net (Army shop Brno)

Discover top-notch military surplus, airsoft supplies, and outdoor gear at ARMORY-STORE.net in Brno, the ultimate shopping destination for adventurers.

4.4

MůjObchod Potraviny Vilémov

Explore the authentic flavors of Vilémov at MůjObchod Potraviny, your local grocery store offering fresh produce and traditional Czech products.

4.3

Explore Vysočina on the Map

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

Vysočina Essentials

Vysočina is located in the central part of the Czech Republic. The nearest major international airport is Václav Havel Airport in Prague, approximately 140 kilometers away. From Prague, you can take a train or bus directly to several towns in Vysočina, including Jihlava, the region's capital. The train journey takes about 2 hours, while bus travel can take approximately 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car for a more flexible travel schedule.
Vysočina is well-connected by public transport, with buses and trains linking its towns and villages. Local buses are the most common form of public transport within towns. For greater flexibility, renting a car is recommended, especially if you plan to explore rural areas and natural parks. Bicycles are also popular for exploring the scenic countryside. Taxis are available in larger towns, although they can be more expensive.
The official currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech Crown (CZK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in most towns and cities, so withdrawing money is convenient. It is recommended to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Vysočina is generally a safe region for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant. Emergency numbers are 112 for general emergencies and 158 for the police.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to all emergency services including police, fire brigade, and medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Major towns have hospitals and clinics, while pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be respectful in churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't be noisy or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A polite greeting in Czech, such as 'Dobrý den' (Good day), is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Accept food and drink offerings graciously, as refusing can be seen as impolite.
To experience Vysočina like a local, visit the regional markets where you can buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Take time to explore the picturesque villages and natural landscapes, including the Žďárské vrchy (Žďár Hills) and the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora. Participating in local festivals and events can also provide an authentic experience.

When is the best time to visit Vysočina?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Vysočina

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 Vysočina. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
- GoodbyeNashledanou
  [nashledanoh]
- YesAno
  [ahnoh]
- NoNe
  [neh]
- Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [proseem]
- Thank youDěkuji
  [dyekooee]
- Excuse me/SorryOmlouvám se
  [omlohvahm seh]
- How are you?Jak se máš?
  [yak seh mahsh]
- Fine. And you?Dobře. A ty?
  [dobzreh. ah tee]
- Do you speak English?Mluvíš anglicky?
  [mluveesh ahnglitskee]
- I don't understandNerozumím
  [nehrozeem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChtěl bych vidět menu, prosím
  [khtyel bikh veedyet menu, proseem]
- I don't eat meatNejím maso
  [neyim ma-so]
- Cheers!Na zdraví!
  [nah zdravyee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChtěl bych zaplatit, prosím
  [khtyel bikh zaplahtit, proseem]
- Help!Pomoc!
  [pohmots]
- Go away!Jdi pryč!
  [jdee prich]
- Call the Police!Zavolejte policii!
  [zah-vo-ley-teh poh-lits-yee]
- Call a doctor!Zavolejte doktora!
  [zah-vo-ley-teh dok-toh-ra]
- I'm lostZtratil jsem se
  [ztrah-til ysem seh]
- I'm illJsem nemocný
  [ysem ne-mots-nee]
- I'd like to buy...Chtěl bych koupit...
  [khtyel bikh koopit]
- I'm just lookingJen se dívám
  [yen seh dee-vahm]
- How much is it?Kolik to stojí?
  [kohlik toh stoyee]
- That's too expensiveTo je moc drahé
  [toh yeh mots drah-eh]
- Can you lower the price?Můžeš snížit cenu?
  [moozeesh sneezit tsenu]
- What time is it?Kolik je hodin?
  [koh-lik yeh ho-din]
- It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [yeh yed-na ho-dee-na]
- Half past (10)Půl (10)
  [pool (10)]
- MorningRáno
  [rah-no]
- AfternoonOdpoledne
  [od-po-lehd-neh]
- EveningVečer
  [veh-cher]
- YesterdayVčera
  [v-cheh-rah]
- TodayDnes
  [dnes]
- TomorrowZítra
  [zee-trah]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Kde je...?
  [kde yeh]
- What's the address?Jaká je adresa?
  [yah-kah yeh ah-dres-ah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Můžeš mi to ukázat (na mapě)?
  [moozeesh mee toh oo-kah-zat (nah mah-peh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kdy odjíždí další (autobus)?
  [kdee od-yees-djee dal-shi (au-to-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Jeden lístek (do ...)
  [ye-den leestek (do ...)]

History of Vysočina

The Vysočina region, nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic, has a rich and storied past that dates back to ancient times. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic era. The region's fertile land and strategic location between Bohemia and Moravia made it an attractive settlement for various tribes and early civilizations.
During the medieval period, Vysočina became an important center of trade and craftsmanship. The establishment of towns such as Jihlava, Třebíč, and Telč brought economic prosperity to the region. Jihlava, in particular, flourished due to its silver mines, which were among the richest in Europe. The wealth generated from mining led to the construction of beautiful Gothic and Renaissance buildings, many of which still stand today.
The early 15th century saw Vysočina embroiled in the Hussite Wars, a series of conflicts triggered by religious and political upheaval. The region witnessed several significant battles, including the Battle of Lipany in 1434, which marked the end of the Hussite movement. The war left a lasting impact on Vysočina, leading to a period of rebuilding and recovery.
The Renaissance and Baroque periods brought a cultural and architectural renaissance to Vysočina. The town of Telč, with its well-preserved Renaissance square and chateau, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that exemplifies this era. Třebíč also boasts remarkable historical sites, including the Basilica of St. Procopius and the Jewish Quarter, both of which reflect the region's rich multicultural heritage.
The 19th century Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Vysočina. The advent of new technologies and the expansion of the railway network transformed the region's economy. Traditional industries such as textile manufacturing, glassmaking, and woodworking flourished, leading to population growth and urbanization. Towns like Havlíčkův Brod and Žďár nad Sázavou became important industrial hubs.
World War II had a profound impact on Vysočina. The region experienced German occupation, and many of its towns and villages suffered destruction and hardship. The Jewish community, particularly in Třebíč, faced severe persecution. After the war, the region underwent reconstruction and became part of the newly established Czechoslovakia. The post-war period also saw significant political and social changes, culminating in the Velvet Revolution of 1989, which restored democracy to the country.
Today, Vysočina is known for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and cultural heritage. The region's rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque villages attract tourists from around the world. Vysočina continues to celebrate its rich history through numerous festivals, museums, and cultural events, making it a vibrant and dynamic destination for travelers.