On Bartolomějské návrší, Kolín combines architectural history with green spaces and views over the city centre. There are also exhibitions, leisure activities and opportunities for excursions on the narrow-gauge railway. You can shape your stay around your interests: historic sites and collections offer a different experience from outdoor activities, swimming or a train excursion.
History and city views at Bartolomějské návrší
Several sites on Bartolomějské návrší offer insights into Kolín’s history. The ossuary is richly ornamented. The former parish school building houses an interactive exhibition. The bell tower contains the church treasury and a lapidarium; it also offers views over the city centre of Kolín. Together, ornate architecture, an exhibition and historic collection pieces sit alongside views across the city.
The green parkland on the hill is also part of this area. It invites visitors to stroll and relax by an herb garden and a rosarium. This makes it possible to combine visits to historic sites with time in green surroundings, rather than focusing exclusively on exhibitions and buildings.
The Veigertovský dům offers another perspective on architectural history. An exhibition in its Gothic cellar rooms traces the house’s historical and architectural development from the 13th to the 21st century. On display are numerous archaeological finds from 2014–2015, as well as a model illustrating the appearance of the house in the early 19th century. The broad time span and the model of a specific earlier state bring different aspects of the house’s history to life.
Concerts, occasional prayers and memorial services commemorating the victims of the Holocaust are held in Kolín Synagogue, which dates from 1422. As the event programme may vary, check the dates if a concert or service is part of your travel plans.
Green spaces, water and activity
Borky Forest Park offers opportunities for walking, cycling and inline skating along the flat banks of the Elbe. The easy-going terrain in Kolín is also suitable for recreational running. When planning your visit, start with the activity you have in mind: a walk, a bike ride, inline skating or a recreational run.
Vodní svět Kolín offers a different range of options, with an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, sports facilities, wellness services and a swimming school. The indoor and outdoor pools provide different swimming options alongside sports and wellness. Check the current facilities and access conditions before your visit.
Excursion railway and via ferrata
The Kolínská řepařská drážka combines a train ride with insights into the history of sugar beet railways. Attractions include excursion trains, a museum exhibition about sugar beet railways and a children’s park. The 4.5-kilometre narrow-gauge railway carries passengers from Kolín to Býchory station; the train journey takes about 50 minutes. Operating days vary by season, so it is advisable to check the timetable and dates before travelling.
Kolín is also home to Via ferrata Školka, a protected climbing route. It is 35 metres long and has a difficulty rating of B. Appropriate equipment and compliance with safety rules are required.
Discover more destinations: Nová Ves-Ohrada, Kbel, Pašinka, Tři Dvory, Lipec, Přišimasy, Svojšice, Hradešín.
For the wider travel overview: Okres Kolín.
