Vrchlabí combines distinctive architectural history with educational trails on topics ranging from the Elbe to ponds and aquatic life. There is also an interactive look at nature and mountain life at the Muzeum Krkonoš, as well as an aquacentrum with several pools. This gives you different options for planning your visit: historic buildings and cultural monuments, trails focused on nature, or activities involving water.

Architectural history from the Gothic predecessor to the Baroque

The Church of St. Lawrence stands on the site of an originally Gothic, single-nave church dating from the 14th century. This connection to the 14th century gives the church’s history at this site a long past. The Renaissance castle was completed in 1546. Guided tours are offered in summer, opening up rooms and the chapel that are normally inaccessible. These tours add a seasonal aspect to visiting the castle: the otherwise inaccessible rooms and chapel are among the special insights they offer.

The Augustinian monastery and the monastery church form a Baroque building complex protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. Together, these buildings represent different periods: the Gothic predecessor church, the Renaissance castle and the Baroque monastery complex. Architecture enthusiasts will therefore find not just one architectural style in Vrchlabí, but several historical points of interest.

Two educational trails, two nature themes

The Naučná stezka Vrchlabím educational trail runs along the banks of the Elbe, passes two churches and two museums, and ends in a castle park with rare trees and views of Vrchlabí Castle. Cultural stops and views of plants in the park are part of the route, as is the riverside.

The Stezka vody, open to visitors since 2023, has a different focus. There are information stations at renovated ponds and pools; the route also offers the opportunity to observe living creatures above and below the water’s surface. The comparison helps you choose: Naučná stezka Vrchlabím follows the river and passes churches and museums, while Stezka vody focuses on ponds, pools and aquatic life.

Museums and orientation in the Krkonoše Mountains

Muzeum Krkonoš is the visitor center for Krkonoše National Park. Its modern interactive exhibition explores the nature of the mountains and the lives of the people who live there. As a visitor center, it also provides information about the national park and places to visit, including the Krkonoše Mountains’ attractions and natural beauty. Details of visitor services may change; check the latest information before your trip.

The Krkonošské muzeum – Čtyři historické domky is a separate attraction: an ensemble of four gabled houses, among the oldest examples of folk architecture in the Krkonoše Mountains. Its exhibition has been closed for two years since May 1, 2025, due to renovation work. Check the current status before visiting if you plan to include this museum in your itinerary.

Swimming and water activities

Aquacentrum Vrchlabí adds another activity to the cultural and scenic attractions. Its swimming pool is 25 meters long and has four lanes. There is also a 32 °C leisure pool with a current channel, massage loungers, bubbling features and underwater jets. Indoor and outdoor whirlpools and a steam sauna round out the facilities. The options differ in specific ways: one pool is defined by its length and lanes, the other by its temperature and water attractions.

Discover more destinations: Malé Svatoňovice, Nemojov, Borovnicka, Prosečné, Kohoutov, Krenov, Litíč, Nemojov U Dvora Králové Nad Labem

For the overview of the wider area: Okres Trutnov.