Vysočina / Česko
Vysočina
Explore Tranquil Heritage in Vysočina
Nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic, Vysočina is a picturesque region defined by rolling highlands, dense forests, and charming historic towns. Home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Telč, the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk in Žďár nad Sázavou, and the Jewish Quarter in Třebíč—Vysočina offers a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Its landscape is dotted with tranquil lakes, meandering rivers, and traditional villages, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Vysočina’s serene countryside invites visitors to hike, cycle, and explore its protected areas, such as the Žďárské vrchy and Jihlavské vrchy. The region is equally renowned for its folk traditions, hearty cuisine, and vibrant festivals. Whether you’re wandering the pastel-colored squares of Telč or enjoying a quiet walk through beech forests, Vysočina embodies the authentic spirit of rural Czechia.
Safety
Vysočina is considered a very safe region for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. Basic precautions are advised in busy tourist areas, and outdoor activities should be undertaken with suitable preparation.
Visas
As part of Czechia, Vysočina follows Schengen Area regulations. EU citizens do not need a visa, while visitors from other countries should check Czechia’s entry requirements.
Customs regulations
It is customary to greet with a handshake and maintain polite conversation. When visiting churches or rural homes, dress modestly and remove hats. Tipping around 10% in restaurants is appreciated.
Prices
Vysočina is generally more affordable than Prague or major Czech cities. Accommodation, dining, and attractions offer excellent value, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
People and nationalities
The region is predominantly Czech, with a strong sense of local identity and pride in folk traditions. Residents are known for their hospitality and celebrate regional customs through music, festivals, and traditional crafts.
Weather
Vysočina experiences a temperate continental climate with cold, snowy winters and mild to warm summers. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the countryside is lush and outdoor activities are in full swing. Winters are ideal for cross-country skiing, though weather can be unpredictable.
Health
Vysočina is well-served by hospitals in Jihlava, Třebíč, and other larger towns, with pharmacies available in most settlements. Tap water is safe to drink.
Food
Ždárský řízek
A local take on the classic schnitzel, this breaded and fried pork or chicken cutlet is usually served with potato salad or boiled potatoes, popular in pubs and family kitchens.
Bramborové placky
Potato flatbreads made from grated potatoes, flour, and garlic, baked or fried until golden, often eaten as a snack or side dish.
Kyselica
A hearty sour soup made with sauerkraut, potatoes, smoked meat, and cream, reflecting the region's rustic culinary traditions.
Jemnická roláda
A sweet rolled sponge cake filled with jam or cream, originating from the town of Jemnice and enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Třebíčské pivo
Traditional regional beer brewed in Třebíč, known for its crisp flavor and local popularity.
Transport
Regional trains
Trains connect major towns like Jihlava, Třebíč, and Žďár nad Sázavou, providing a convenient way to travel across the region.
Bus network
An extensive bus system links smaller villages and towns, making it easy to access rural areas.
Car rental
Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring remote attractions and the scenic countryside at your own pace.
Cycling
Well-maintained cycling paths make biking a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Vysočina’s landscapes.
Regions
Jihočeský kraj
Region
Jihomoravský kraj
Region
Karlovarský kraj
Region
Královéhradecký kraj
Region
Liberecký kraj
Region
Moravskoslezský kraj
Region
Olomoucký kraj
Region
Pardubický kraj
Region
Plzeňský kraj
Region
Praha, Hlavní město
Capital City
Středočeský kraj
Region
Ústecký kraj
Region
Vysočina
Region
Zlínský kraj
Region
What to visit?
Telč Chateau
It is one of Moravia’s best-preserved Renaissance chateaux and a key part of the UNESCO site.
Historic Centre of Telč
Its picturesque square is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful in Central Europe.
Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora
Its unique five-pointed star design and spiritual significance make it an architectural masterpiece.
Jihlava Underground Tunnels
This is the second-largest underground labyrinth in the Czech Republic.
St. Procopius Basilica in Třebíč
It is a rare example of Western and Eastern architectural influences blending.
Třebíč Jewish Quarter and Cemetery
One of the best-preserved Jewish ghettos in Europe outside Israel.
Western Bohemian Highlands (Žďárské vrchy) - Devět skal
A popular hiking and climbing destination with stunning vistas.
Šiklův mlýn
It's the largest Western-style theme park in Central Europe.
Lipnice Castle
It’s one of the largest and oldest castles in Vysočina, offering wonderful views.
Pernštejn Castle
One of the best-preserved and most picturesque castles in the country.
Vír Reservoir and Dam
A tranquil spot for nature and recreation in the heart of Vysočina.
Museum of Vysočina Jihlava
It offers insight into the culture and history of the Vysočina region.
Červená Lhota Lookout Tower
It’s a peaceful spot for panoramic vistas and nature walks.
Velké Dářko Lake
A popular summer destination for outdoor activities.
Stvořidla Nature Reserve
It’s a hidden gem for hikers and kayakers seeking natural beauty.
Havlíčkovo náměstí (Havlíček Square)
A lively center for local life and architecture.
Museum of Book Culture (Žďár nad Sázavou)
It’s a unique attraction for book lovers and history enthusiasts.
Moučkův mlýn Waterfall
A peaceful spot and local favorite for a brief nature escape.
Telč Chateau
It is one of Moravia’s best-preserved Renaissance chateaux and a key part of the UNESCO site.
Historic Centre of Telč
Its picturesque square is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful in Central Europe.
Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora
Its unique five-pointed star design and spiritual significance make it an architectural masterpiece.
Jihlava Underground Tunnels
This is the second-largest underground labyrinth in the Czech Republic.
St. Procopius Basilica in Třebíč
It is a rare example of Western and Eastern architectural influences blending.
Třebíč Jewish Quarter and Cemetery
One of the best-preserved Jewish ghettos in Europe outside Israel.
Western Bohemian Highlands (Žďárské vrchy) - Devět skal
A popular hiking and climbing destination with stunning vistas.
Šiklův mlýn
It's the largest Western-style theme park in Central Europe.
Lipnice Castle
It’s one of the largest and oldest castles in Vysočina, offering wonderful views.
Pernštejn Castle
One of the best-preserved and most picturesque castles in the country.
Vír Reservoir and Dam
A tranquil spot for nature and recreation in the heart of Vysočina.
Museum of Vysočina Jihlava
It offers insight into the culture and history of the Vysočina region.
Červená Lhota Lookout Tower
It’s a peaceful spot for panoramic vistas and nature walks.
Velké Dářko Lake
A popular summer destination for outdoor activities.
Stvořidla Nature Reserve
It’s a hidden gem for hikers and kayakers seeking natural beauty.
Havlíčkovo náměstí (Havlíček Square)
A lively center for local life and architecture.
Museum of Book Culture (Žďár nad Sázavou)
It’s a unique attraction for book lovers and history enthusiasts.
Moučkův mlýn Waterfall
A peaceful spot and local favorite for a brief nature escape.
Telč Chateau
It is one of Moravia’s best-preserved Renaissance chateaux and a key part of the UNESCO site.
Historic Centre of Telč
Its picturesque square is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful in Central Europe.
Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelená Hora
Its unique five-pointed star design and spiritual significance make it an architectural masterpiece.
Jihlava Underground Tunnels
This is the second-largest underground labyrinth in the Czech Republic.
St. Procopius Basilica in Třebíč
It is a rare example of Western and Eastern architectural influences blending.
Třebíč Jewish Quarter and Cemetery
One of the best-preserved Jewish ghettos in Europe outside Israel.
Western Bohemian Highlands (Žďárské vrchy) - Devět skal
A popular hiking and climbing destination with stunning vistas.
Šiklův mlýn
It's the largest Western-style theme park in Central Europe.
Lipnice Castle
It’s one of the largest and oldest castles in Vysočina, offering wonderful views.
Pernštejn Castle
One of the best-preserved and most picturesque castles in the country.
Vír Reservoir and Dam
A tranquil spot for nature and recreation in the heart of Vysočina.
Museum of Vysočina Jihlava
It offers insight into the culture and history of the Vysočina region.
Červená Lhota Lookout Tower
It’s a peaceful spot for panoramic vistas and nature walks.
Velké Dářko Lake
A popular summer destination for outdoor activities.
Stvořidla Nature Reserve
It’s a hidden gem for hikers and kayakers seeking natural beauty.
Havlíčkovo náměstí (Havlíček Square)
A lively center for local life and architecture.
Museum of Book Culture (Žďár nad Sázavou)
It’s a unique attraction for book lovers and history enthusiasts.
Moučkův mlýn Waterfall
A peaceful spot and local favorite for a brief nature escape.
History
The founding of many Vysočina towns, including Jihlava, as mining centers for silver and other metals, boosting regional development.
Construction of the original Telč castle, laying the foundation for the town’s later Renaissance glory.
Jihlava was occupied by Swedish troops during the Thirty Years’ War, leading to significant local hardship.
Completion of the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk in Žďár nad Sázavou, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A major cholera outbreak struck Vysočina, impacting the population and leading to improved sanitation.
Liberation of Vysočina towns from German occupation at the end of World War II.
The historic center of Telč was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its unique Renaissance architecture.
Vysočina became an official administrative region, consolidating several historical districts.
Activities
Explore Telč Old Town
Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Renaissance square, admire pastel-colored facades, and visit Telč Castle.
Hiking in Žďárské vrchy
Trek scenic trails through rolling highlands, lush forests, and tranquil lakes in this protected landscape area.
Visit the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk
Marvel at the unique star-shaped Baroque church in Žďár nad Sázavou, a masterpiece of architect Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel.
Discover Třebíč's Jewish Quarter
Wander the atmospheric streets of Třebíč’s UNESCO-listed Jewish Quarter and visit the historic synagogue and cemetery.
Cycling the Vysočina Greenways
Follow well-marked cycling routes linking historic towns, rural villages, and scenic countryside.