Romanesque wall paintings, Renaissance sgraffito and a protected floodplain forest represent different aspects of Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav. Local attractions range from church and castle history to a named landscape area and a natural swimming area.
Castle and Architectural History
Brandýs nad Labem Castle is an important Renaissance building with preserved sgraffito, and has been designated a national cultural monument since 2017. Its historical use is also part of its character: it was a popular summer residence of Emperor Rudolf II. Its architecture, decoration and connection to the emperor offer different ways to explore the castle’s history. Admission tickets include all-day access to the park with its mazes. If you plan to visit the park, check which ticket benefits apply to your visit before you go.
Another Renaissance building is Brandýská Katovna, probably built in the 16th century, which has preserved its sgraffito decoration. It houses an exhibition on criminal and torture law and the executioner’s trade. Katovna is partially open to the public; as access arrangements may change, check them before your visit.
Churches and Historical Sites
The churches of St. Wenceslas and St. Clement in Stará Boleslav are designated national cultural monuments. Inside St. Clement’s, Romanesque wall paintings depicting scenes from the legend of St. Clement have been preserved. For the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and its ambulatories, there is a specific timeframe to note: during the published 2026 operating period, they are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for visits and private prayer. Plan your visit according to the period applicable to your travel dates.
The free mobile escape game “Boleslav I – from murder to power” starts at the Basilica of St. Wenceslas. The offer may be withdrawn; check in advance whether it is still available during your visit. The Jewish Cemetery in Brandýs nad Labem offers a different perspective on local history: it contains 915 tombstones dating from 1572 to 1942. The cemetery was established in 1568 and expanded several times, most recently at the end of the 19th century.
The permanent exhibition at Arnoldinovský dům presents the Brandýs region in a mosaic-like way. If this regional theme interests you, you can consider it alongside the individual architectural and historical sites. Exhibition content may change; check what is currently on display before your visit.
Floodplain Forest, Water and Practical Planning
The Hluchov protected area was designated a natural monument in 1995 and is a fragment of floodplain forest between Brandýs nad Labem and Stará Boleslav. It preserves a remnant with the typical flora and fauna of floodplain forests, as well as typical communities found in the floodplains of large rivers. Alongside the architectural and cultural attractions, this clearly defined habitat is a focus in its own right.
Proboštský rybník offers a different kind of natural attraction: it is used as a natural swimming area. Swimming conditions and access may change, so check the latest information before your visit. The Svatý Václav boat carries bicycles and strollers; dogs are also allowed on board. If you plan a trip, check the rules for bringing items and pets in advance, as they may change. This lets you choose accommodation to suit the things that matter most to you, without combining castle history, a natural area and a swimming area into a single itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Stirin, Senohraby, Hlavenec, Pacov, Svojetice, Modletice, Kostelec Nad Cernými Lesy, Mochov
Back to the regional travel overview: Okres Praha-Východ.
