10 Things To Do in Liberec, The Czech Republic’s Secret Gem

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Last updated on December 5th, 2025 at 06:29 pm

This guide to the best things to do in Liberec aims to show you around one of the Czech Republic’s best-kept secrets.

When considering a trip to the Czech Republic, Prague is probably the first thing that comes to mind.

However, there’s so much more to see in this landlocked country in the heart of Europe than just its – undoubtedly – breathtaking capital, as this list of the best things to do in Liberec is about to show you.

Where Is Liberec?

The Liberec region is situated in the northernmost part of the historical region of Bohemia, in the northern part of the Czech Republic, near the German and Polish borders.

The capital of the Liberec region is also named Liberec. The latter is the fifth-largest city in the Czech Republic.

Is Liberec Worth Visiting?

Liberec is one of Czechia’s best-kept secrets, a destination not many know of. As such, it makes sense to wonder. Is Liberec worth visiting? Let’s try to answer this question before diving into what to do in Liberec.

The region of Liberec is among the least-known places to visit in the Czech Republic, yet one that showcases the culture and traditions of an entire country in the most eloquent way.

Whether you’ve heard of this Czech region before or not, reading this article about what to do in Liberec is the perfect introduction to a hidden gem nestled in Central Europe, patiently waiting to be discovered.

By checking out the best things to do in Liberec, you inevitably come closer to the very essence of the Czech Republic itself.

First of all, the city of Liberec is a great place to visit for its laid-back vibes and authentic ambience, either as a standalone city break or as part of a longer Central Europe itinerary.

Outside the city, the rest of the region is a land of wonders, where cultural treasures and untouched scenery compete for your attention.

The so-called Crystal Valley is an area of outstanding natural beauty with unique glassmaking traditions that go back centuries, making North Bohemia world-renowned for its unparalleled glass art.

The region is graced with spectacular scenery, where majestic mountains, incredible rock formations, dreamy meadows, and tranquil ponds create the perfect setting for nature lovers to engage in outdoor activities, including winter sports, amid a miraculously untouched landscape.

For us, one of the main reasons to visit Liberec is that it’s a fine example of responsible tourism.

Not only is Liberec an off-the-beaten-path destination, but it also strives for sustainability.

It does so by preserving its century-old traditions and crafts, keeping the production of handmade local items in the Czech Republic and encouraging younger generations to continue the area’s legacy.

How To Get To Liberec

If you plan to travel directly to Liberec, the closest international airport is Prague’s Vaclav Havel Airport. The best way to get from Prague to Liberec is by bus, which takes about one hour.

As much as we love a train ride, taking the train from Prague to Liberec isn’t recommended. That’s because the journey from Prague to Liberec by train takes three to four hours.

How Many Days in Liberec

You will need two to three full days to enjoy the city of Liberec and visit the region’s highlights.

Κeep in mind that you might need to rent a car to explore all the attractions outside the city centre that are mentioned in this travel guide.

Where To Stay in Liberec

The perfect place to use as a base to explore the region of Liberec is the city of Liberec itself.

During our trip to Liberec, we stayed at Pytloun Grand Hotel Imperial, conveniently located near the train and bus stations and within walking distance of the Old Town.

The 4-star Pytloun Grand Hotel Imperial is housed in a 1930s building that was designed as a hotel from the start. There are various room types available, all of which are utterly comfortable and impeccably clean.

Watch Our Liberec Travel Documentary

Travel Resources For Your Trip To Liberec

10 Amazing Things To Do in Liberec & The Crystal Valley

1. Marvel at The Liberec City Hall & The Main Square

The most striking attraction in the heart of the city is, without a doubt, the beautiful Town Hall. This 19th-century Neo-Renaissance masterpiece is known for its elaborate facade and gorgeous stained-glass windows.

It was designed by the Viennese architect Franz Neumann, who worked under the architect responsible for the famed Vienna City Hall. Hence, there is a resemblance between the two buildings.

You don’t want to miss a visit to the Liberec Town Hall for two reasons. First of all, for a glimpse at the glorious Ceremonial Hall, where weddings and other ceremonies take place.

Secondly, for the splendid panoramic views you can enjoy from the viewing platform on the building’s tower. To reach the latter, you have to climb 187 steps, but the views are absolutely rewarding.

There are specific dates and times that you can visit the City Hall, so check out the official website for more information.

However, even if you don’t manage to visit the interior of the Liberec City Hall, the square dominated by the magnificent building is worth a visit in its own right, whether you are an architecture lover or an avid Marvel fan.

The beautiful Benes Square with its colourful buildings and impressive Fountain of Neptune is where Spider-Man: Far From Home was set.

Liberec, in general, and the City Hall, in particular, are often used as the backdrop for local and international film productions.

2. See The Wallenstein Houses

A few steps from the City Hall, the oldest residential buildings in Liberec await. Dating back to the 17th century, the half-timbered Wallenstein Houses are the sole survivors of this architectural trend.

Back in the day, craftsmen lived in those historic buildings that now only their facades stand.

3. Learn about The City’s Past as a Textile Superpower

From the 18th century onwards, Liberec was home to a thriving textile industry. This is why Liberec is known as the Manchester of Bohemia. Kind of like Lodz, Poland’s Manchester.

In the 19th century, Liberec flourished. It was then that Johann Liebieg and his brother Franz founded a textile company there, turning Liberec from an unknown town into a modern, wealthy city.

Business for the Liebieg family was so successful that they built an entire town to house their textile factory’s employees and their families.

The so-called Liebieg Town still retains its old-fashioned charm and it’s one of the best places to visit in Liberec.

Apart from the town they built for the working class, the Liebieg family also constructed several villas for themselves.

These are now scattered across the city. One of the finest examples is the Villa of Theodor Liebieg Junior, Johann’s grandson. 

4. Discover The Quirkiest Bus Stop

David Cerny is a Czech sculptor, mostly known for the quirky works of art you’ll see if you visit Prague.

However, one of his most well-known creations is in Liberec. The Feast of Giants is a symbolic piece of public art and a fully functional bus stop.

5. Visit The North Bohemian Museum

One of the best museums in Liberec is the Museum of North Bohemia. The 19th-century museum houses several collections that range from natural science to history and the arts.

Probably the most striking of all of the museum’s exhibits is the world’s longest glass ladder.

This 26-meter ladder that looks as though it’s made of stainless steel is entirely made of glass and it adorns the museum’s tower. The latter offers the best view of Liberec and the surrounding mountains. 

6. Watch The Sunset From Jested Tower

The indisputable symbol of Liberec and North Bohemia is the futuristic and spaceship-like Jested Tower.

Inaugurated in 1973, this imposing building on the Jested Mountain is a TV tower, a hotel and a restaurant, all in one.

But, above all, Jested Tower is the region’s most spectacular viewpoint. The scenic views it offers know no borders and include the glorious landscapes shared by the Czech Republic, Germany and Poland.

The best time to visit Jested is sunset, when the tower and the surrounding scenery are dyed in all hues of pink and gold.

However, for a unique experience, consider spending the night in one of the on-site hotel’s rooms, and make sure you set your alarm just before sunrise. The spectacle is worth the early wake-up call.

7. Step Inside a World Made of Glass: Explore The Crystal Valley

Since the second half of the 17th century, glassmaking has been a thriving business in this part of the world. By the 18th century, the famed Bohemia crystal was exported to all corners of the globe.

Masters, designers, and artists have lived and worked in the Crystal Valley for centuries. Nowadays, the amazing crafts of glassblowing and costume jewellery live on.

Exploring the Crystal Valley means that you can visit several museums, shops, glass workshops and schools where you can learn everything about the traditions of glassmaking in the Czech Republic.

Pacinek Glass

One of the best introductions to the fascinating world of the Crystal Valley is a visit to Pacinek Glass in the village of Kunratice u Cvikova.

Jiri Pacinek, the owner, is a passionate glassmaker. It’s no overstatement to say that he has created his very own sparkling universe made of glass.

You can marvel at and buy unique handmade glass creations at the family-run glass workshop. Pacinek Glass is also home to a dreamy glass garden, ideal for a stroll that makes you feel as if you stepped into a fairy tale.

Last but not least, the nearby 19th-century Holy Cross Exaltation Church transformed into a mystical Crystal Temple after Jiri installed more than 300 of his glass masterpieces within its walls.

Lasvit Ajeto Glassworks

Glassmaking is a magical process that turns sand into art. Of course, it’s not as easy as it sounds.

A perfect way to learn everything about this century-old craft is to watch the process of glassmaking from start to finish on a guided tour of the Lasvit Ajeto Glassworks in the town of Lindava.

After the tour, stop by the Glassmaker’s Pub to enjoy your meal while watching glassblowers create small shiny wonders. At the pub, you can also taste the glassmaker’s beer.

This is a special type of low-alcohol beer that glassmakers are allowed to drink while working, as the minerals included in the brew protect them from the excessive heat and dehydration caused by working near the hot furnaces.

Lasvit

If Pacinek Glass and Lasvit Ajeto Glassworks offer a glimpse into traditional glassmaking methods and smaller-scale projects, the Lasvit company headquarters in Novy Bor looks towards the future.

Lasvit undertakes large-scale glass and lighting installation projects for high-end clients worldwide and sets the foundations for a sustainable business that boosts the local economy.

Crystal Paradise

Considered the kingdom of glass, beads and costume jewellery, Jablonec nad Nisou is a quaint town in the heart of the Crystal Valley.

While there, you can visit Crystal Paradise, where the works of small and large local companies are on display.

In Crystal Paradise, you can buy products made in Jablonec or attend a workshop and create your own jewellery.

Crystal Paradise safeguards the interests of the Union of Glass and Fashion Jewellery Producers.

The latter holds various events throughout the year in an effort to bring people closer to these century-old crafts and traditions.

One of the most prestigious events is the Crystal Valley Week, which takes place every August.

Museum of Glass & Jewellery

While in Jablonec nad Nisou, don’t miss the chance to visit the Museum of Glass & Jewellery.

The museum houses a vast collection of glass ornaments and fashion jewellery that narrates the rich history of both local and international glass art.

The museum is also home to the largest public collection of glass Christmas ornaments in the world, transporting visitors into a world where Christmas never ends.

If you’d like to know more, read the article we wrote about Bohemia glassware and the Crystal Valley.

8. Stand in Awe Before Nature’s Grandeur at Panska Skala

The Liberec region is home to natural landmarks of unfathomable beauty. Among them, Panska Skala stands out.

Panska Skala is a complex of basalt columns similar to the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This dramatic natural sculpture formed millions of years ago, as a result of volcanic activity.

Throughout the centuries, people damaged Panska Skala by using it as a quarry. Nowadays, this area is protected and never fails to stun visitors and passers-by.

9. Hike Amidst a Forest of Rocks in The Bohemian Paradise

Declared the first natural reserve in the Czech Republic, the Bohemian Paradise is a protected landscape park in the heart of Bohemia.

As its name suggests, the Bohemian Paradise is a place of utter beauty where valleys, meadows, and ponds compose a beyond words charming scenery.

However, what makes the Bohemian Paradise unique is its spectacular sandstone rock formations.

Walking among these tall rocks feels as though you’re suddenly in a stone forest of sorts, a place that could only exist in a myth.

A striking example of nature’s grandeur is the so-called Cold Passage. This impressive gorge has a total length of 125 metres.

The height of its walls reaches up to 15 metres, plunging the narrow passageway that runs between them into darkness. 

10. Wander Around Sychrov Castle

One of the many historical monuments that you can visit in the Bohemian Paradise is the gorgeous Sychrov Castle.

The 19th-century Neo-Gothic castle houses the most extensive collection of French paintings in Central Europe, features original furniture and boasts a splendid English garden.

You can visit the interior of the castle on a guided tour only. Do check the official website in advance and make a reservation. However, you can roam around the castle’s glorious gardens on your own. 

FAQs About Visiting Liberec

What’s the best time to visit Liberec?

The best time to visit Liberec is during the summer, when the weather is warm enough to enjoy the beautiful city and its surrounding areas.

Do I need a car to explore the Liberec Region?

Although you can visit some places by public transport, we recommend renting a car or hiring a driver to easily explore the Crystal Valley, the Bohemian Paradise, and all other points of interest listed in this guide.

Is Liberec vegetarian and vegan-friendly?

We found food in Liberec to be quite meat-focused, but there were veggie options at every restaurant we tried.

When in the Czech Republic, the most common vegetarian dish is fried or grilled cheese with a side of potatoes or salad.

If you, like us, are excited about uncovering the secrets of lesser-known destinations, trying authentic experiences, and helping local communities grow their economies, preserve their old traditions, and achieve sustainability, you will most definitely enjoy a trip to Liberec.

This guide to the most amazing things to do in Liberec is just the beginning of your journey.

The essence of your quest lies in the people you will meet along the way, the landscapes you will capture with the eyes of your soul and the feelings that this blessed land will evoke in your hearts.

WORDS & EDITING: Maria
IMAGES: Katerina

Disclosure: We compiled this list of the best things to do in Liberec and the Crystal Valley after visiting the region on a press trip organised by Visit Czech Republic, Liberec Region, Crystal Valley and Traverse Events. As media and marketing specialists, we often visit destinations on press tours or as part of marketing campaigns. Under no circumstances does this affect our opinions about the places we visit and the experiences we try. Rest assured that you will find nothing but honest reviews throughout our content.