Turnov, Czech Republic Guide
Turnov, nestled in the heart of Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj), is a charming town renowned for its rich history in gemstone cutting and jewelry making. Surrounded by stunning sandstone rock formations, lush forests, and picturesque valleys, Turnov offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region, with easy access to iconic landmarks like Trosky Castle and Hrubá Skála Chateau. Beyond its gemstone tradition, Turnov boasts a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and historical monuments. The town square, with its colorful buildings and inviting cafes, provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring the natural wonders of Bohemian Paradise, delving into the art of gemstone cutting, or simply enjoying the tranquility of a small Czech town, Turnov offers a memorable experience.
Food & Cuisine
Turnov and the surrounding Bohemian Paradise region offer a hearty and traditional Czech cuisine experience. Expect to find dishes featuring roasted meats like pork knuckle (koleno) and duck (kachna), often served with dumplings (knedlíky) and sauerkraut (zelí). Soups are also a staple, with potato soup (bramboračka) and garlic soup (česnečka) being popular choices. For a sweet treat, try trdelník, a grilled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon. While Turnov doesn't have Michelin-starred restaurants, you'll find several traditional Czech pubs (hospody) and restaurants offering delicious and affordable meals. "Restaurace U Košků" is a well-regarded local restaurant known for its traditional Czech dishes. Local markets, though not daily, often feature fresh produce and regional specialties.
Nightlife
Turnov's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The focus is more on relaxed evenings in pubs and restaurants. The town square and the streets surrounding it offer a selection of bars and pubs where you can enjoy local Czech beer and wine. Live music is occasionally available in some venues, particularly on weekends. For a more vibrant nightlife scene, visitors might consider traveling to nearby Liberec, which offers a wider range of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Turnov is during the spring (May-June) or autumn (September-October). The weather is generally pleasant, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring the Bohemian Paradise region. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while autumn provides stunning foliage colors. Summer (July-August) can be crowded and hot, while winter (November-April) can be cold and snowy, although the snow-covered landscapes can be beautiful.
Transportation
Turnov primarily relies on buses for public transportation within the town and to surrounding areas. While there are no trams or subways/metros, the bus network is relatively comprehensive and connects Turnov to nearby cities like Jičín and Liberec. The main bus station is located near the town center, making it easily accessible. Train services are also available, connecting Turnov to larger cities in the Czech Republic. For exploring the Bohemian Paradise region, renting a car or using local bus services is recommended.
Airport
The closest airport to Turnov is Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. From the airport, you can take a direct bus to Turnov, which takes around 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to Prague's main train station (Praha hlavní nádraží) and then take a train to Turnov, which takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. Renting a car at the airport is also an option for those who prefer to drive.
Attractions
Bohemian Paradise
Bohemian Paradise is a region of natural beauty and cultural heritage, featuring castles, rock formations, and charming villages. Visitors can hike through the sandstone cliffs of Prachov Rocks, explore the Gothic ruins of Trosky Castle, and admire the picturesque landscapes of the region. Bohemian Paradise is a popular destination for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Day Trips
Jičín, known as the "Gateway to Bohemian Paradise," is a charming historic town with a beautiful main square, a chateau, and the Valdštejn Loggia. Explore the town's architecture, enjoy the local cuisine, and soak in the atmosphere.
30 minutes by car Mladá Boleslav is the home of Škoda Auto. Visit the Škoda Museum to learn about the history of the car manufacturer and see a collection of vintage and modern vehicles. The town also has a charming old town square.
45 minutes by car Hrubá Skála Chateau is a romantic castle perched on sandstone cliffs in Bohemian Paradise. Explore the castle grounds, enjoy panoramic views, and hike through the surrounding rock formations. It's a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
20 minutes by car Trosky Castle, with its distinctive two basalt towers (Baba and Panna), is a symbol of the Bohemian Paradise. Climb the towers for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle ruins offer a glimpse into the region's history.
25 minutes by car Krkonoše National Park, home to the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic, offers stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and panoramic views. Hike to Sněžka, the highest peak, or explore the numerous trails through forests and meadows.
1 hour 30 minutes by car to Špindlerův Mlýn (a good base) Liberec is a vibrant city known for its Ještěd Tower, a unique architectural landmark, and its zoo, the oldest in the Czech Republic. Explore the city center, visit the zoo, and enjoy the views from Ještěd.
45 minutes by car The Prachov Rocks are part of the Bohemian Paradise and offer a different, but equally stunning, landscape compared to Hrubá Skála. Explore the narrow passages, climb to viewpoints, and enjoy the unique rock formations.
35 minutes by car Kutná Hora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and St. Barbara's Church. Explore the historic silver mining town, marvel at the unique architecture, and learn about its rich history.
1 hour 30 minutes by car The Adršpach-Teplice Rocks are a stunning natural wonder, featuring towering sandstone rock formations, narrow gorges, and hidden lakes. Hike through the rock city, take a boat ride on the lake, and marvel at the unique landscape.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is a city renowned for its art, architecture, and culture. Rebuilt after World War II, it boasts stunning Baroque buildings, world-class museums, and a vibrant atmosphere. Explore the Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and Semper Opera House.
2 hours 30 minutes by car Litoměřice is one of the oldest Czech towns, located at the confluence of the Elbe and Ohře rivers. It boasts a well-preserved historic center with colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings. Explore the town square, climb the town hall tower, and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Jičín
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Mladá Boleslav
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Hrubá Skála Chateau
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Trosky Castle
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Krkonoše National Park
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Liberec
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Český Ráj (Bohemian Paradise) - Prachov Rocks
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Kutná Hora
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Adršpach-Teplice Rocks
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Dresden
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Litoměřice
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