Founded in 1242, this Czech city sits between the Jizera and Krkonoše Mountains. With 100,000 residents, it's the largest urban center in the Liberec Region.
Liberec, the fifth-largest city in the Czech Republic, sits in a valley surrounded by the Jizera Mountains. This northern Bohemian city is known for its Neo-Renaissance town hall, the futuristic TV tower on Ještěd mountain, and one of the country's oldest zoos. You can explore historic buildings like the North Bohemian Museum, or visit modern facilities such as the IQLandia science center. Liberec offers a range of experiences for visitors looking to explore the Czech Republic beyond its capital.
Admire the Neo-Renaissance Town Hall
The ornate Liberec Town Hall dominates the city's main square with its grand facade and soaring clock tower. Built between 1888-1893, this building features elaborate stained glass windows and intricate stonework. You can climb the 187 steps to the viewing platform for wide-ranging views over Liberec's red rooftops and surrounding mountains.
Visit Ještěd Tower
The unique shape of Ještěd Tower rises from the peak of Ještěd mountain, visible from across Liberec. This futuristic structure, completed in 1973, functions as both a TV transmitter and a hotel. You can take the cable car to the summit and dine in the revolving restaurant while taking in views of the Czech countryside, Germany and Poland on clear days.
Explore the North Bohemian Museum
The North Bohemian Museum, housed in an elegant Neo-Renaissance building, showcases the region's natural and cultural heritage. Its collections include minerals, insects, historical artifacts, and decorative arts. The museum's collection includes a set of rare Flemish tapestries dating back to the 16th century.
See White Tigers at Liberec Zoo
Founded in 1919, Liberec Zoo spans 13 hectares of landscaped grounds and houses over 160 species of animals. The zoo's white tigers are part of a successful breeding program. You can also see elephants, red pandas, and Humboldt penguins. The zoo focuses on conservation and environmental education.
Get Hands-On at IQLandia
IQLandia science center offers over 400 interactive exhibits spread across four floors. You can test your skills in the Mars rover simulator, experience an earthquake, or try walking on the moon. The center also houses a planetarium where you can explore the night sky and learn about space exploration.
Visit the Botanical Garden
Dating back to 1876, Liberec's Botanical Garden is the oldest in the Czech Republic. Nine glass pavilions house plants from different climatic zones, including tropical and desert species. The garden has a large collection of carnivorous plants and orchids. Outside, you'll find an alpine garden and a rose garden with over 160 varieties.
Explore Centrum Babylon
For indoor entertainment, head to Centrum Babylon. This large complex includes an aquapark with water slides and pools, a laser game arena, a mirror maze, and a 4D cinema. There's also a wellness center where you can enjoy saunas, massages, and spa treatments after a day of sightseeing.
Hike in the Jizera Mountains
The Jizera Mountains surrounding Liberec offer numerous hiking and biking trails. In winter, the area transforms into a ski destination. The Bedřichov area is well-known for its cross-country skiing trails. During summer, you can cool off in the Harcov Reservoir, a spot for swimming and picnicking.
Sample Local Cuisine
Try traditional Czech dishes at local restaurants like Radniční Sklípek, located in the cellar of the town hall. You can order svíčková (roast beef in cream sauce) or smažený sýr (fried cheese). For dessert, try a trdelník, a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame. Pair your meal with a glass of locally brewed beer.
Getting to Liberec
Liberec is easily accessible from Prague, about 100 kilometers away. Regular buses run from Prague's Černý Most station, taking around 1.5 hours. If you prefer trains, the journey takes about 2.5 hours with a change in Turnov. Driving from Prague takes about an hour via the D10 motorway and Route 35.
