Located at the junction of the Elbe and Chrudimka rivers, Pardubice is a regional capital east of Prague. It was first mentioned in 1295 and flourished in the late Middle Ages, with centuries-old buildings clustered in its historic core. Pardubice is famed for its annual steeplechase and the Golden Helmet motorcycle race.
Things to do in Pardubice
One of Pardubice’s most famous landmarks is the Green Gate, which is decorated with a relief designed by Mikolaš Aleš. Rising behind the Renaissance-style gate is a 60-metre-high tower with historical exhibits about the city. Nearby is the beautiful Church of Saint Bartholomew, which features an altar painting by the 17th-century German artist Michael Willmann.
Housed within Pardubice Castle is the Museum of East Bohemia where you can learn about the city’s glassmaking traditions. Get up close to antique weapons and coins, then browse the regional artwork on display. Peacocks patrol the surrounding gardens, which offer magnificent views across Pardubice. Also forming part of the Museum of East Bohemia is the House at Jonaš, which is decorated with a relief depicting the story of Jonah and the whale.
Hugging the Elbe River is Park na Špici, an attractive green space home to leafy walking trails and an outdoor gym. Overlooking the Chrudimka River is the Surrealist fountain of Bubeníkovy Sady and the Aquacentrum Pardubice leisure centre. In addition to its 50-metre swimming pool, the complex features a water slide, massage whirlpools and a wellness centre.
Getting around Pardubice
Pardubice Airport is around 10 minutes’ drive from the city centre and has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect from Prague to the Pardubice railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Pardubice is compact enough to explore on foot.