Travel Highlights from 2025 You’ll Want to Catch Up On

Thrills Among the Rocks

Adventure seekers had plenty to get excited about in 2025. In the Kutnohorsko Kolínsko tourism area, a new via ferrata called Peklo opened. This climbing route, secured with cables and iron rungs, became the second ferrata in Central Bohemia (joining the popular Slánská hora route) and offered both a technical challenge and breathtaking views for those who climbed to the top.

New Walking Trails to Explore

Hiking enthusiasts were in for a treat. On the Beroun region’s landscape, a new paddler’s nature trail appeared, weaving scenic river views with sections perfect for walking and enjoying nature. Nearby, the aptly named Talich Trail leads through woods and valleys that the famous Czech conductor Václav Talich once cherished. In the Brdy and Podbrdsko area, the Brdy Ridge Trail and a scenic route to the Láz Reservoir lookout opened. The lookout sits at 643 meters above sea level and can be reached along a marked green hiking path, which continues toward Bílá skála and up to the peak of Brdce.

For those who seek something with a spiritual touch, the extended St. Günther trail, developed in part by the Saint Ludmila Association, added a cultural dimension to explorations through the countryside.

On Wheels, by Boat, and with the Train

Cyclists got a welcome upgrade in 2025 with a new asphalt section on the Elbe Cycle Path between Kozly and Tuhaň — a smooth-route dream for families and casual riders alike.

Recreational boaters found new opportunities too: boat landings opened in Kolín, Nymburk, and Brandýs nad Labem. The new pier in Brandýs is just steps from the town center, offering space for up to 12 leisure vessels, free docking for up to 48 hours, and paid services like fresh water and electricity connections.

One of the season’s biggest returns was the historic steamboat Král Jiří, restored and back on the water. Running year-round, this beloved vessel invites travelers to relax on the Elbe, from gentle Polabí routes up toward Mělník.

Rail enthusiasts and families also had something to look forward to: the much-loved tourist train Cyklohráček took to the tracks for the first time on winter routes, with rides toward Kutná Hora, Křivoklát, and Kácov via Český Šternberk. New for the season were the popular St. Nicholas rides, adding festive joy to rail travel.

Breathing New Life into Old Estates

Some castles and historic sites have long been fixtures on visitor maps, but 2025 saw Central Bohemia introduce entirely new attractions. The Neustupov Castle opened its doors to the public for the first time in its history. Located in the scenic area of the Knights of Blaník, this previously undiscovered gem is being lovingly restored under new owner Michal Farník. With roots stretching back to a Gothic fortress, its romantic charm and cultural events are already drawing curious explorers.

Similarly, the Birthplace of Antonín Dvořák strengthened its role as a must-visit destination. A new visitor center now welcomes music lovers and cultural travelers, while the nearby Nelahozeves Castle enhanced its tours with an audio guide narrated by the Lobkowicz family themselves, offering personal insights into the historic estate.

In 2025, an unexpected but delightful addition to Central Bohemia’s hospitality scene came from Načeradec. A former correctional facility there was transformed into an inviting boutique hotel, where history meets contemporary comfort. Quiet surroundings, thoughtfully restored interiors, and an atmosphere that invites relaxation make this spot a standout choice for exploration and getaway experiences in 2026.

Sedlec Ossuary: Time-Slot Access for a Calmer Visit

One of Central Bohemia’s most visited attractions, the Sedlec Ossuary, introduced a new entry system in 2025: tickets now must be purchased for specific time slots. This ensures visitors can fully appreciate the site’s atmosphere without crowds, while preserving its solemnity and historical significance.

When Medieval Worlds Come Alive: Kingdom Come

Fans of historical games found new inspiration last year with the continued success of Kingdom Come: Deliverance. Special themed trails and experience programs under the KCD: Live brand debuted in areas like Posázaví, Kutná Hora, and around Troskovice, bringing the medieval landscape to life. Whether you’re a gamer or a history buff, these routes make the region’s heritage feel immediate and interactive.

Architecture and Industrial Heritage Reimagined

Art lovers were drawn to Bauer Villa in Libodřice, a cubist masterpiece by Josef Gočár featuring an elegant exhibition of furniture and applied art — one of the most captivating cultural sites in Central Bohemia. Managed by the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague, it’s a vibrant example of architectural ingenuity.

Meanwhile, the Steam-Powered Brewery in Lobeč opened a brand-new engine house exhibition, showcasing steam technology of the 19th century. A painstakingly recreated carved wooden lion crest — inspired by original brewery architecture — punctuates this testament to industrial craftsmanship and history.

Savory Highlights: Bistro Skleník and Local Wineries

Food and drink also had a moment in 2025. In Kutná Hora, Bistro Skleník opened in the gardens of the GASK gallery, offering seasonal tapas, homemade kombucha, prosecco, coffee and cakes, all accompanied by a stunning view of St. Barbara’s Church and the former Jesuit College.

In the nearby Řepín area near Mělník, the Štěpánek family revived historic vineyards with new plantings and sustainable wine production, focusing on resistant grape varieties such as Solaris, Helios, and Hibernal. And in Jiviny, a new winery launched in 2025, adding contemporary approach and ambitious new wines to the region’s evolving viticulture scene.

A Museum Reimagined: 140 Years in a Modern Setting

The Mladá Boleslav Museum celebrated its 140th anniversary with a newly unveiled permanent exhibition titled Castle, Landscape, and People. Interactive, modern, and engaging for all ages, it brings history to life in ways both educational and memorable.

Michelin Stars on the Map: Gastronomy & Hospitality

One of Central Bohemia’s most sensational culinary breakthroughs in 2025 was Restaurant Papilio in Vysoký Újezd, awarded two Michelin Stars — the first in the Czech Republic to achieve this distinction. Under chef Jan Knedla, the restaurant has also garnered top recognition in the Gault & Millau guide for its innovative cuisine, technical mastery, and seasonal menus. Papilio stands among Europe’s elite culinary experiences.

Nearby, the luxurious Chateau Mcely hotel received the prestigious Michelin Key award — an honor recognizing top-tier service, unique character, and unmatched hospitality. While its restaurant doesn’t hold Michelin stars, its culinary offerings and overall guest experience reflect exceptional quality.

Travel Smarter with a Digital Card

Practical innovations also arrived in 2025 with the launch of a digital tourism card created by the Berounsko and Brdy & Podbrdsko tourism areas. This free compact travel tool lets visitors scan a QR code after a qualifying purchase or visit, download the app, and immediately unlock discounts and bonuses across hundreds of partners — from museums and restaurants to activities and attractions.

Available on both Android and iOS, the card shows how digital convenience can enhance discovery.

Tastes & Treasures of Central Bohemia in Prague

2025 was also a landmark year for the Central Bohemia Tourism Information Centre and Shop on Husova Street in Prague, which celebrated its first anniversary since renovation. During the year, it became a go‑to hub for travel tips, maps, and authentic local products brought together under one roof.

Local products

Visitors could find standout products like Agnes brand fruit spirits and juices from Dobrý kraj Bohdaneč, hand‑decorated gingerbread from Mnichovo Hradiště, lyophilized fruit from Dobroládovna, as well as regional honeys, syrups, chutneys and onion marmalades made by small local producers. The shelves also featured coffee from Central Bohemian roasteries in Kutná Hora and the Kokořín Valley, handcrafted jewellery, and premium glassware from Rückl and Artcrystal Bohemia. Lovers of wine and beer were not forgotten either — the offer included products from Klučov, Řepín and Válkovi family wineries, along with Kutná Hora beer.

Tourist information centre

The information centre also introduced new thematic maps during the year. An updated Kingdom Come: Deliverance map helps visitors connect the game world with real locations in the landscape, while a brand‑new music heritage map leads travellers along the footsteps of great composers and musicians linked to Central Bohemia — from Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana to lesser‑known yet equally important figures. Thanks to this, the centre has become not only a practical starting point for trips, but also a source of inspiration for anyone who wants to experience Central Bohemia with all their senses.