Top spots for fall foliage in Prague and beyond

The best destinations for seeing the Czech Republic’s autumn colors ablaze

Elizabeth Zahradnicek-Haas

Written by Elizabeth Zahradnicek-Haas Published on 29.09.2015 11:28:00 (updated on 29.09.2020) Reading time: 2 minutes

Early October is prime time for relishing the coppers and golds of the Czech autumn. Petřín, Letná, Divoká Šárka, and Stromovka parks will not disappoint those seeking an eyeful of fall foliage, but what about these quieter spots?

In Prague

This nature preserve in Průhonice devoted to “tree species and garden art” will offer a tour of fall colors on October 24.

Photo: Wiki Commons/zzz-cz
Photo: Wiki Commons/zzz-cz

This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Czech National Historic Landmark is on every castle lover’s radar. Climb the Gloriette to admire the autumn views.

Photo: www.parkpruhonice.cz
Photo: www.parkpruhonice.cz

A densely wooded area with a star-shaped renaissance villa at its center, this former royal game preserve is ideal for fall frolics. Be sure to visit Café Letohrádek!

Photo: Wiki Commons/Aktron
Photo: Wiki Commons/Aktron

Home to a number of ancient heritage trees (including an oak which legend says was planted in 1410) and numerous wooden shelters for watching the leaves turn.

Photo: Wiki Commons/ŠJů
Photo: Wiki Commons/ŠJů

Explore this thickly forested area on the hillside between Velká Chuchle and Malá Chuchle via the Barrandov Rocks Nature Trail. Also has a mini-zoo.

Photo: Wiki Commons/Aktron
Photo: Wiki Commons/Aktron

The trails surrounding the banks of Hostivař Reservoir are ideal for hikers looking to appreciate the hues of the season and bikers who will find obstacles and jumps galore.

Photo: Wiki Commons/Packa
Photo: Wiki Commons/Packa

Locals swear by ancient Klánovický Les, Prague’s largest forest, as primo mushroom territory. It’s also a beautiful bet for enjoying the surrounding color show.

Photo: Wiki Commons/Aktron
Photo: Wiki Commons/Aktron

Out of Town

Fairytale Forests (Jizera Mountains, Javorina, Beskydy)

The glorious primeval forests (pralesy) mentioned in our article 5 Fairytale Czech Forests are best visited in early autumn for their magnificent foliage.

Jizerskohorské bučiny/Photo: Rihovaj via Wiki Commons
Jizerskohorské bučiny/Photo: Rihovaj via Wiki Commons

Autumn Foliage Walks (Sázava Pacific, Kralupy, Kokořínsko)

These day-trip destinations (see 3 Autumn Foliage Walks for details) promise vivid colors, serene countryside, and pleasant dining.

Sázava Pacific/Photo: www.pacifikem.cz
Sázava Pacific/Photo: www.pacifikem.cz

Lookout Towers (Vlašim, Lipno, Bohdaneč)

There is no better time than autumn to visit one of the Czech Republic’s 350+ lookout towers; see 5 Amazing Czech Lookout Towers for trip tips.

Lipno nad Vltavou/Photo: Lipensko.org
Lipno nad Vltavou/Photo: Lipensko.org

Fall Hikes through the Ruins (Trosky, Okoř, Svojšice)

These castle and fortress ruins provide plenty of opportunities for basking in copper and crimson. See more suggested ruins in 6 Ruins to Hike this Autumn.

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