Dvůr Králové nad Labem

What to Do and See in Dvůr Králové nad Labem

Dvůr Králové nad Labem is a charming town in the Hradec Králové Region, offering not only historical landmarks but also natural beauty and unique experiences. If you’re planning a trip, here are the top places you shouldn’t miss:

Safari Park Dvůr Králové

The biggest and most famous attraction in Dvůr Králové nad Labem is the Safari Park – the only safari-style zoo in the Czech Republic, focused on African wildlife. It’s not just a traditional zoo but a real safari where you can observe animals in a more natural setting. One section of the safari can even be explored by car, which makes for a truly unique experience.

As someone who supports ethical treatment of animals, I’m often left feeling uneasy after visiting traditional zoos. That’s why I always look into the conditions in which animals live before supporting such attractions. Safari Park Dvůr Králové is involved in conservation efforts and works on reintroducing endangered species into the wild. So far, they’ve successfully returned hundreds of animals to Africa, including eight rhinos. They also support rhino conservation directly in their natural habitat.

Helpful Tips:

Safari Accommodation – You can stay overnight in the hotel or camp within the park. Entry to the walking area is included in the price.
Length of Visit – Plan for at least half a day, ideally a full day.
Stroller or Wagon? – Definitely yes, the park is quite large.
Playgrounds for Kids – There are playgrounds throughout the park to keep little ones happy.
Tickets – Buy online if you can; it’s often cheaper.
Vegan Food Options – At Safari Brewery (Safari Pivovar), some vegetarian meals can be made vegan upon request.

A woman in a black dress and a small child sit on a decorated stone bench with geometric patterns, near a thatched hut, under a bright blue sky.

A wooden sign compares elephant tusks from 1975 and 2021, highlighting poaching and the loss of natural habitat. The text is in Czech. The tone conveys urgency and nature conservation.

Two giraffes stand under a leafy tree in a zoo enclosure. A wooden fence and lush greenery set a serene, natural ambiance under a bright blue sky.

Les Království Dam

Just 5 km from Dvůr Králové nad Labem lies one of the most beautiful dams in the Czech Republic. With its stone walls and fairytale-like towers, it looks like something out of a storybook.

Tips for your visit:

Great for scenic walks and bike rides around the dam.
Štěrbova vila Restaurant – offers beautiful views of the dam, outdoor seating, and a playground for kids.
Check their events calendar – they often host concerts, talk shows, Oktoberfest, or seasonal events like a pumpkin festival.

Kuks – Hospital and Braun’s Nativity Scene

Only 6 km from Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Kuks is a stunning Baroque complex featuring a former hospital and sculptures by the famous artist Matyáš Bernard Braun.

What to see:

Braun’s Nativity Scene – a collection of Baroque sculptures carved into the rocks. MAP
Educational trail – a marked path connecting Kuks with Braun’s Nativity Scene.
Kuks complex – admire the frescoes, visit the old pharmacy, and stroll through the herb garden. MAP

A woman and child stand smiling on a stone bridge beneath a medieval arched bridge with towers topped with red roofs. The sky is overcast, creating a dramatic backdrop.

A woman and child sit on a terrace overlooking a picturesque river and a castle-like bridge, surrounded by dense green forest under a cloudy sky. A mug of beer rests on the table.

A man and child walk hand in hand across a stone bridge with red-roofed towers. The sky is dramatic with clouds, and lush greenery surrounds the scene, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Historic Center of Dvůr Králové nad Labem

The heart of the town is Staroměstské Square, surrounded by charming Renaissance and Baroque buildings. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking up the local atmosphere.

Don’t miss:

Old Town Hall from 1572 – MAP
Marian Column and the Fountain with the statue of Záboj in the center of the square – MAP
Church of St. John the Baptist – climb the tower for beautiful views – MAP
Town Museum – focused on the Rukopis královédvorský, a famous 19th-century literary hoax – MAP

A man and a child in a bright shirt walk along a cobblestone street lined with colorful buildings and trees. The overcast sky adds a calm, nostalgic feel.

A child in a bright green shirt sits on the edge of a decorated stone fountain, with historic buildings in the background under a cloudy sky.

A narrow cobblestone street lined with tall, worn buildings under a cloudy sky, evoking a somber yet tranquil atmosphere.

Tyršovo Pool and Sports Complex

In the summer, it’s the perfect place for swimming and relaxation. The sports complex offers tennis courts, playgrounds, and an outdoor fitness park. MAP

Cycling routes and hiking trails
For those who enjoy active movement, the area around Dvůr Králové nad Labem offers excellent routes:

To Les Království reservoir – a beautiful bike ride.
Towards Kuks – combining history and nature.
Krkonoše – for more experienced hikers.

Tambor Brewery

Beer lovers shouldn’t miss Tambor Brewery, which specializes in traditional Czech beers. You might even take a few bottles home as souvenirs. 🍻 MAP

A Unique Experience – Portrait, Family, and Themed Photography with Wolves

If you’re looking for an original memory, I highly recommend a photoshoot with Pechlatová Jana Photography. This experience isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s a story. For a few hours, you’ll transform into a warrior, travel back in time, unleash your imagination, and Jana will capture these moments.

What to Expect:

Photoshoot with wolves or horses in nature.
Historical costumes, makeup, and styling—all provided.
Option for solo photoshoots, family portraits, or even with a furry companion.
For an extra fee, you can also have a photoshoot with Jana’s horses or “wolves.”
The photoshoot takes place in the forest, so expect to walk there on foot. I recommend bringing a backpack, water, snacks, an umbrella (we were surprised by rain, which added an unexpected atmosphere to the photos), and mosquito repellent.

A woman in grey dress sits on a stone in the forest, holding a child in her arms. A wolf stands beside them. The scene radiates warmth and tranquility.

A woman in medieval attire kneels next to a wolf, holding a bow. She gazes intently ahead, creating a mysterious and adventurous atmosphere.

A family in medieval costumes stands in the forest. The father holds a child, the mother carries a bow, and two wolves are nearby. The scene is peaceful and adventurous.

A woman with long grey hair holds a small child dressed in medieval-style clothing. The scene is gentle and intimate, with a stone background.

A young boy in rustic clothing sits happily by a large stone, next to a wolf-like dog, in a forest setting. The atmosphere is adventurous and calm.

A couple embraces in a forest setting. The man in armor gazes into the woman's eyes. In the background, a wolf stands, enhancing the romantic, medieval atmosphere.

Pecka Castle – Trip Tip

A picturesque 14th-century castle offering stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into history. Explore the office of Kryštof Harant, the knight’s hall, the black kitchen, and historical cellars with interactive elements. MAP

Opening Hours:

April, October: Sat, Sun, and holidays: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
May–September: Tue–Sun: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and the day after a holiday

Admission: Full tour (A + B, approx. 60 min):

Adults: 125 CZK
Students, seniors: 80 CZK
Children (6–15), ZTP: 60 CZK
Family ticket: 350 CZK
Children under 5 years and ZTP/P guides: Free

Individual tours A or B:

Adults: 80 CZK
Students, seniors: 60 CZK
Children (6–15), ZTP: 45 CZK

Group Visits:

Groups of over 10 people: Recommended reservation
Groups of over 20 people: Reservation required

Parking: Free parking approximately 300 meters from the castle—either along the road toward Hořice/Dvůr Králové or at the Pecka town square.

A woman with a child poses on a cobblestone path leading to an ancient stone castle under an overcast sky. The atmosphere feels historic and calm.

A man and a young girl in historical clothing are engaged in traditional outdoor cooking. They stand by a stone shelter with stacks of firewood, surrounded by rustic cookware placed on wooden stumps. The entire scene radiates a historical and countryside atmosphere.

A medieval knight in full armor dozes on a wooden chair near ancient stone ruins. A canvas tent shelters worn tools. The scene feels historical and peaceful.

How to get to Dvůr Králové nad Labem?

Dvůr Králové nad Labem is easily accessible whether you are traveling by car or train. From Prague, it takes about two hours, and from Hradec Králové, it’s less than 40 minutes. If you’re taking the train, you’ll get off at the station, and it’s a short walk to both the Safari Park and the city center. We drove there and parked near the town square, making everything conveniently accessible.

Where to eat (including vegan options)?

For a fully vegan restaurant, you’ll need to take a short trip to Svoboda nad Úpou (about 20 km from Dvůr Králové), where you’ll find the great Vege Box. If you’re planning to stay in the area longer, I highly recommend the Veg Zion for all-you-can-eat vegan meals.

But if you don’t want to travel, you can’t go wrong with Asian cuisine. I found two Asian restaurants directly on the town square in Dvůr Králové, where they will gladly prepare tofu dishes for you—just remember to ask if they use fish sauce or eggs.

If Asian food is not available, I stick to the classic options—aglio olio, vegetable or mushroom risotto, or toast with salad. In a pinch, the side dishes save me! Fries, roasted potatoes, or sautéed vegetables often do the trick when there are no other options.

Why visit Dvůr Králové nad Labem?

Dvůr Králové nad Labem offers not only the famous Safari Park but also a charming historic center, the fairy-tale Les Království reservoir, and the baroque Kuks. Add in great cycling routes, good beer, and unique experiences like wolf photography, and you have a perfect getaway!

Explore more enchanting towns in Czech Republic – Insider’s Guide to Karlovy Vary

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