Trautnau (Trutnov) combines a historically protected town centre with cultural attractions and trails through the wooded foothills of the Krkonoše. The town’s history centres on arcades, Gothic cellars and buildings from several centuries. Outside the town, nature trails, viewpoints and mountain bike trails offer different ways to explore the area. When planning, it is worth keeping the length, route and seasonal conditions of each activity in mind.
City History in the Historic Centre
The historic centre of Trutnov has been a municipal conservation area since 1 November 1990. The buildings rebuilt after the fire of 1861 retain extensive arcades and several Gothic cellars. The Old Town Hall stands on Krakonošovo náměstí: it dates from the 16th century and was remodelled in the Historicist style in 1861. Renewed Historicist lighting and restored façades evoke Trutnov at the turn of the 20th century. The prominent Baroque Church of the Virgin Mary is also a defining feature of the historic architecture; it was built between 1756 and 1782.
The city’s cultural institutions offer a further way to explore its architectural history. The Muzeum Podkrkonoší presents permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as opening events, seminars and regular Thursday gatherings. Lectures cover a range of topics relating to the life and history of the city and its surroundings. The museum building stands on the foundations of a Gothic castle. At the Draka Gallery, the Trutnov dragon legend meets a mechanical marionette theatre, along with dragon-themed sound and visual effects.
Galleries and Changing Exhibitions
EPO1 showcases contemporary art in an industrial monument dating from 1914. The gallery has four exhibition halls and presents three exhibitions at the same time each season. Titles and dates change, and the accompanying programme also varies by season. It includes opening events, workshops and concerts. If you would like to combine your visit with a particular exhibition or event, check the current schedule.
Nature Trails on Foot or by Bike
Several nature trails explore a variety of landscapes and themes. The Nové Dvory–Babí trail passes through the school forest area of the Czech Forestry Academy in Trutnov and has 13 stops. It follows the Zámecký hřeben ridge and the southern and eastern slopes of the Baba summit. It then crosses open countryside with views of the Rýchory and the varied landscape of the Vlčice Rocks.
The nature trail about the 1866 Battle of Trutnov can be explored on foot or by bicycle along two circular routes. The first is 2.8 kilometres long and runs from Krakonošovo náměstí via Šibeník to the Chapel of St John the Baptist. There are twelve information panels along the way, and this route is accessible year-round. Another option is the five-kilometre circular route around Houska Hill above the Bojiště district. It connects to the existing 1866 nature trail and has information panels and benches. Before setting out, it is advisable to check the conditions and trail markings.
Another route in Trutnov Forest Park is the Podoby Rýbrcoula nature trail. It starts on Na Struze street and features seven statues depicting different forms of Rýbrcoul, a dragon, a play feature and a rest area. At the Trutnov Tourist Information Centre, you can pick up an unfilled map, mark the Rýbrcoul symbols at the stops and receive a magnet. Participation materials and the magnet may be available on site; ask about them if needed.
Views and Mountain Bike Trails
The Eliška lookout tower is 24.5 metres high, stands at an elevation of 632 metres above sea level and is located within the Stachelberg artillery fortress complex. In clear conditions, views extend to Libavské sedlo, the Vraní, Jestřebí and Orlické mountains, the foothills of the Krkonoše and the Stachelberg fortress complex. Visibility depends on the weather; check local access conditions before your visit as well.
Trutnov lies in the valley of the mountain river Úpa and on the adjoining slopes in the wooded foothills of the Krkonoše. For mountain biking, Trutnov Trails is a network of one-way trails in the Čížkovy kameny area and the Jestřebí Mountains, with the trailhead at Lhota u Trutnova. The easiest trails are intended for all visitors, including families with children. Access and conditions vary by season, and trail conditions can also change.
Getting There and Planning
If you arrive by train or bus, you’ll be right in the centre of Trutnov. Before travelling, check current connections and conditions at the station or stop. The differences between the activities can help you choose: a 2.8-kilometre circular route that is accessible year-round, a five-kilometre trail around Houska, or a route through woodland and open countryside. For gallery programmes and seasonal trail options, check the relevant dates and conditions.
Discover more destinations: Kocléřov, Dolníky, Chotevice, Velká Úpa, Pec Pod Snežkou, Čermná v Krkonoších, Hostinne, Nemojov.
View the regional travel guide: Okres Trutnov.
