Great Pardubice Steeplechase (Velká pardubická)
One of Europe's oldest and toughest steeplechases, run annually since 1874 on the second Sunday in October at the Pardubice racecourse.
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The famous Pardubice gingerbread. You can find specialized, beautifully decorated gingerbread shops around Pernštýnské square.
A distinctively strong, dark, sweet local beer. Try it in traditional Czech pubs and restaurants in the city center.
A traditional Czech dish of marinated beef with a creamy root vegetable sauce, available in most classic restaurants near the castle.
Look for shops near the main square selling authentic 'Pardubický perník', which makes a well-suited, edible souvenir.
The lively main pedestrian boulevard connecting the newer parts of town to the historical center, lined with shops and cafes.
The old defensive ramparts are now a quiet green haven right next to the historic center, famous for its roaming peacocks.
A beautiful park situated directly beneath the castle, featuring water elements, quiet benches, and paved walking paths.
Take a walk along the riverbanks to the point where the two rivers meet; it's a peaceful spot popular with local walkers and cyclists.
Water temperature…
One of Europe's oldest and toughest steeplechases, run annually since 1874 on the second Sunday in October at the Pardubice racecourse.
Annual aviation days in June at Pardubice airfield, with aerobatics, historic and modern aircraft, commemorating pioneer Jan Kašpar.
Pardubice, a prominent city in East Bohemia on the banks of the Elbe River, is widely celebrated as the city of gingerbread and horse racing. Its historical development was shaped significantly by the Pernštejn noble family, who converted the local castle into a grand Renaissance residence during the 15th and 16th centuries. The city's historic core centers on Perštýn Square, which is lined with ornate burgher houses and dominated by the iconic Green Gate. Internationally, Pardubice is famous for hosting the Velká pardubická steeplechase, one of Europe's oldest and most challenging cross-country horse races, held annually since 1874. Industrially, the city grew as a chemical manufacturing hub in the 20th century, notably as the birthplace of the Semtex plastic explosive. The culinary tradition of gingerbread making dates back to the 16th century and is still protected as a traditional craft. Today, Pardubice serves as a vital railway junction and a regional center of education and industry.
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -2 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 14 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 51 | 41 | 45 | 38 | 77 | 80 | 86 | 80 | 62 | 49 | 45 | 47 |
See what it looks like near Pardubice right now.
Pardubice: Staré Město · 0.3 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Start your day in the bustling Pernštejn Square, the heart of Pardubice. After climbing the Green Gate for a bird's-eye view, find tranquility in St. Bartholomew's Church. The afternoon is dedicated to the magnificent Pardubice Castle and its museum, followed by a relaxing break in the green Tyrš Gardens. In the afternoon, explore the industrial heritage of the Winternitz Mills on the riverbank. Conclude your walking tour by admiring the elegant East Bohemian Theatre, and end the day with a traditional gingerbread treat.
Start your day under the protective arcades of Pernštejn Square. The Green Gate provides a dry vantage point over the city. Spend midday inside Pardubice Castle, where extensive exhibitions keep you dry. In the afternoon, explore the renovated Winternitz Mills, a perfect indoor cultural hub. The day ends cozily by the East Bohemian Theatre with a view of the illuminated facade.
Experience the winter silence on Pernštejn Square, perhaps with snow dusting the baroque gables. The Green Gate provides shelter from the cold wind. At noon, warm up in the historical halls of Pardubice Castle. A walk through Tyrš Gardens is particularly picturesque during frost. Before the early sunset, Winternitz Mills offer modern warmth and cultural highlights.
Hop on your bike and start from Pernštejn Square. The route quickly takes you to the Green Gate and on to the castle. After exploring the castle grounds and taking a break in Tyrš Gardens, follow the river to the industrial Winternitz Mills. The longest leg takes you to the famous racecourse, a must-see in Pardubice. On the way back to the center, stop at the elegant theatre and finish the tour at the Gothic St. Bartholomew's Church to gather your impressions of the day.
A bike tour in the rain requires good gear. Start at Pernštejn Square, taking advantage of the short distances between sights. Pardubice Castle offers covered bike racks. In the afternoon, ride to Winternitz Mills, where you can park safely while visiting the interior. A detour to the Racecourse shows the scale of the landscape even under grey skies.
A winter bike tour through Pardubice is refreshing. Bundle up and start at Pernštejn Square. The path to the castle is on solid ground. At noon, the ride to the Racecourse offers wide views of the frosty landscape. Winternitz Mills are a welcome warming station in the afternoon before you cross the illuminated city at dusk.
Start your day strategically at the racecourse on the outskirts, avoiding traffic. After exploring this famous site, drive to the center and park near the castle. Your walking tour begins here: explore the castle and its museum. Then, stroll to Pernštejn Square, the heart of the old town. Here you'll have time to climb the Green Gate and enjoy lunch at a restaurant. A final short walk in the afternoon takes you to the architecturally interesting Winternitz Mills before you return to your car.
By car, you can explore Pardubice comfortably even in the rain. Start at the Racecourse, where parking is straightforward. Then head to the castle parking lot, from where you can quickly reach cover. Spend the afternoon flexibly between Pernštejn Square and Winternitz Mills, always just a few steps from your car to the next indoor highlight.
Enjoy winter in Pardubice from the comfort of your heated car. Start at the Racecourse and admire the frosty grounds. The drive to the castle is short and leads directly to the parking lot at the entrance. Spend the afternoon in the festively decorated old town and the modern Winternitz Mills, warming up in the car between stops.
Museum of Railway and Urban Transport History in Pardubice, located in a historic railway depot.
Lumpárium, an adventure playground and family entertainment centre in Pardubice.
