The year 2026 definitively closes the era of spontaneous, unplanned trips to our southern neighbors. If you are planning a trip abroad by car, you must know that the Czech Republic has undergone a fundamental transformation in its approach to tourism. What was, just a few years ago, a cheap weekend trip "for coffee and dumplings," has today become a precisely managed "experience economy."
As someone who has been observing the automotive and tourism market since 2006, I see a clear trend: the Czech Republic has turned attractions near the border into premium products. Digitization of access, dynamic ticket pricing depending on occupancy, and strict paid parking zones are the new reality. Is this bad? No, not if you are prepared. This guide is your roadmap to the Czech borderlands in 2026 – from the Giant Mountains (Krkonoše), through the Broumov region, all the way to Moravia.
Dolní Morava: Adrenaline and engineering in the clouds
The Dolní Morava resort in the Králický Sněžník massif is the absolute leader in the "high infrastructure tourism" category. This is where engineering meets nature, creating some of the most spectacular places of interest in the Czech Republic near the border. In the 2026 season, this complex functions as a year-round theme park that requires a strategic approach to logistics.
Sky Bridge 721: Logistics of the world's longest suspension bridge
The flagship attraction remains Sky Bridge 721. The bridge, 721 meters long and suspended 95 meters above the Mlýnský Stream valley, connects the Slamník and Chlum ridges. Key information for drivers and tourists is the traffic system. In the summer season, the bridge is a one-way attraction. After crossing to the other side, there is no possibility of returning the same way – tourists are directed to the educational nature trail "The Bridge of Time" (2 km), which leads them back to the starting point.
In winter, the situation looks different – a two-way mode has been introduced, which is a nod to skiers and pedestrians who do not want to trudge through the snow on the return trail.
Important for planning: The entrance to the bridge is located behind the upper station of the Sněžník cable car. You must account for the time to go up by lift or hike up (approx. 3.7 km, i.e., 90 minutes of walking). It is worth remembering that in strong winds, the attraction is immediately closed.
Sky Walk and availability
Right next to the bridge is the famous Sky Walk (Stezka v oblacích) – a 55-meter tower of irregular shape. Unlike the bridge, it is fully adapted for families with strollers and people with disabilities. This is a key point if you are wondering what is worth seeing in the Czech Republic near the Polish border with small children. Adults looking for thrills will find a "drop" (a net stretched at the top) and a 100-meter slide here.
Pricing strategy and reservation system
The pricing policy in 2026 is ruthless to the undecided. Ticket prices purchased at the ticket office are intentionally inflated to force digital registration. The price difference on a package (Bridge + Walk + Cable Car) can be as much as 300 CZK per person. Tourists who do not use the e-shop pay a so-called "spontaneity tax."
Sample prices (estimate based on the previous season):
- Sky Bridge 721 (online): approx. 650-700 CZK (requires reservation of a specific time slot).
- Sky Extra Package (online): approx. 1 100 CZK – the most profitable option for one-day tourists.
- Family Ticket 2+2 (online): approx. 1 790 CZK.
Where to park? (P1-P6)
The parking system in Dolní Morava is strictly categorized and paid (approx. 150-200 CZK/day).
- Parking lots P5 and P6: Dedicated to high-altitude attractions (closest to the cable car for Sky Bridge).
- Parking lots P1-P4: Serve the lower station "U Slona" (bobsleigh track, sleds).
Note for caravanning: Overnight stays in campers on main parking lots are prohibited. A special zone P5a and the square in front of P1 have been designated (cost approx. 300-350 CZK/day). If you are traveling in a rented camper or a large SUV from our offer, head directly there.
Rock Cities: How to avoid crowds in 2026?
The Broumov region offers unique sandstone formations but has become a victim of its own popularity. If you type "what to visit in the Czech Republic near the border" into a search engine, Rock Cities pop up first, which means giant tourist traffic.
Adršpach: The fortress of online reservations
Adršpach (Adršpach-Teplice Rocks) in the 2026 season is de facto inaccessible without prior planning. The management has introduced a strict system in which entrance tickets and parking spaces are limited for specific hours.
- Prices: Dynamic. Buying online costs approx. 180 CZK for a ticket and 180-200 CZK for parking. Payment on the spot (if there are free spaces, which is rare in season) is more expensive – parking then costs 250 CZK.
- Congestion: Even with a ticket, traffic jams form on the tourist route (3.5 km) at narrow passages ("Mouse Hole").
Teplice Rocks: An alternative for the active
Just a few kilometers away are the Teplice Rocks. They are higher, wilder, and require better physical condition, which naturally filters the crowd. This is an excellent answer to the question of what is worth seeing in the Czech Republic near the Polish border if you value space. In the winter season, online sales are sometimes suspended here, which indicates less tourist pressure. Admission is similar in price (180 CZK), but parking (150 CZK) is much more accessible.
Broumov Walls: Escape into silence
For connoisseurs looking for authentic contact with nature, the Broumov Walls (Broumovské stěny) are a strategic choice. The main starting points are the Hvězda parking lot (free, but small) and the Slavný parking lot (paid in cash, approx. 100 CZK/day). The trails here are less paved, and the Baroque chapel on Hvězda offers amazing views without having to squeeze through crowds.
Industrial Ostrava and technology: Not just for engineers
The Moravian-Silesian Region is successfully transforming its industrial heritage. A city in the Czech Republic near the Polish border, which Ostrava is, serves as a premium "technotourism" center in 2026.
Dolní Vítkovice (DOV)
The complex of the former ironworks is now the educational heart of the region.
- Bolt Tower: Superstructure of Blast Furnace No. 1 with a cafe. Admission (approx. 300 CZK) often includes a consumption voucher.
- Velký svět techniky (Big World of Technology): A modern science center (a 1+3 ticket costs approx. 780 CZK).
- Small World of Technology U6: Focused on the history of inventions in the style of Jules Verne.
Landek Park and new attractions
In Petřkovice, you will find Landek Park, combining a mining museum with recreation. Here you can descend in an authentic cage into the Anselm mine (280 CZK). A novelty that is fully operational in 2026 is the Lanové bludiště (rope maze). Opened in May 2024, it offers routes for children and adults, as well as "Big Swing" type attractions. Admission without a time limit costs approx. 420 CZK.
Silesian Ostrava Castle
A unique example of how industry affects monuments – this castle sank 16 meters into the ground as a result of coal mining. It is open all year round (except for the beginning of the year), and a ticket costs only 100 CZK. This is a mandatory point on the list of castles in the Czech Republic near the Polish border.
Family weekend: Liberec and Zoos
Northern Bohemia (Liberec Region) offers the best infrastructure for families. If you are wondering which Czech city near the Polish border near Kudowa-Zdrój or Jakuszyce to choose for a trip with children, Liberec is a strong player, although it lies a bit further west.
Battle of the Zoos: Ostrava, Dvůr Králové, or Liberec?
Choosing the right zoo is key. The table below will help you make a decision in the 2026 season:
| Feature | Zoo Ostrava | Safari Park Dvůr Králové | Zoo Liberec |
| Specialization | Botany, space, elephants, hippos | African Safari (entry by own car), rhinos | White tigers, mountain animals (Takin) |
| Character | Walking forest park (100 ha) | Adventure, safari style, accommodation option | Compact, city ZOO (14 ha) |
| Price (Adults) | ~160 CZK | ~290 CZK + surcharge for Safari entry | ~160 CZK |
| For whom? | Families who like long walks | Thrill seekers, Africa fans | Shorter trips with small children |
Conclusion: Safari Park Dvůr Králové is the most expensive but most unique option (you can drive in there with our SUV!). Zoo Ostrava wins in terms of price-to-quality ratio.
iQLANDIA in Liberec
Liberec is also a center of "smart fun." The complex is divided into iQLANDIA (for children 8+ and adults, with the Thespian robot and planetarium) and iQPARK (for toddlers). Online prices are lower (390 CZK vs 430 CZK on the spot). It is worth considering combined tickets with the Aquapark in the Babylon Center.
Czech Switzerland: Tourism after the great fire
The Bohemian Switzerland National Park is still healing its wounds after the catastrophic fire of 2022. In the 2026 season, the situation is stable but specific.
Partial opening of Edmund Gorge
The long-awaited opening of Edmund Gorge (Edmundova soutěska), tentatively scheduled for July 2025, functions in a strict control regime in 2026.
- Limit: Maximum 50 to 120 people per day.
- Access: Exclusively with a guide. Independent sightseeing is prohibited due to geological risks.
- Tickets: No online reservation! Tickets are sold only on the day of the visit at the information center in Hřensko.
If you don't want to risk it, choose the Wild Gorge (Divoká soutěska), which operates normally from April to October, offering boat rides. Pravčická brána (Pravčická Gate) is accessible, but the Gabriel Trail remains closed, forcing the use of more difficult access routes.
Historic routes: Castles and palaces of the borderlands
For history buffs, attractions in the Czech Republic near the border are also architectural gems.
Hradec nad Moravicí Palace
The complex, consisting of the White Palace and the Red Palace, once hosted Beethoven and Liszt. Visiting the representative route costs approx. 220 CZK. Even a walk in the park itself (symbolic entry fee of 60 CZK) makes an impression.
Frýdlant Castle
One of the largest complexes in Central Europe. Remember that this is a seasonal facility (closed in winter). Route prices range from 210 to 260 CZK.
Practical driver's guide 2026: Vignettes and regulations
When planning a trip, you must take into account changes in road tolls. In 2024, the Czechs introduced a revolutionary change, which in 2026 is already a standard much loved by tourists.
One-day vignette - a hit for tourists
If you are going for just one day (e.g., shopping in Ostrava or visiting the Rock City), the 1-day vignette is the perfect solution. It costs 210 CZK (approx. 8-9 EUR) and is available online.
Czech vignette price list (valid from March 2024):
| Vignette Type | Standard Price | Eco Price (CNG/Biomethane) | Hybrid (CO2 < 50g/km) | Electric Cars |
| 1-day | 210 CZK | 110 CZK | 50 CZK | 0 CZK |
| 10-day | 290 CZK | 140 CZK | 70 CZK | 0 CZK |
| 30-day | 460 CZK | 230 CZK | 110 CZK | 0 CZK |
Note that the difference between a 1-day and a 10-day vignette is only 80 CZK. If you plan to stay for the weekend, the 10-day one is more profitable.
Car equipment
Frequent question: do I need to have a fire extinguisher? In the Czech Republic, a fire extinguisher is not mandatory for passenger cars (unless registered in CZ). However, the police can be meticulous.
- First aid kit: Mandatory and must have valid expiration dates for the contents.
- Reflective vests: Mandatory for every passenger who gets out of the car in an undeveloped area. They must be located in the cabin, not in the trunk!
Car rental for a trip to the Czech Republic - what do you need to know?
Traveling by your own car gives freedom, but requires confidence in the technical condition of the vehicle - especially on mountain serpentines in the vicinity of Jeseníky or Krkonoše.
If you do not have a suitable car, use our fleet. We offer new, safe models, ideal for such routes. Remember that taking a rented car abroad requires the consent of the rental company. At BLS, this process is simplified - details can be found in our article on renting a car for a holiday abroad.
Why is it worth renting a car for a trip to the Czech Republic?
- Reliability: You don't worry about a breakdown on the Czech highway.
- Comfort: You choose a comfortable SUV or estate car that will fit shopping and sports equipment.
- Compliance with regulations: Our cars have the necessary equipment.
Familiarize yourself with the rental conditions and check availability for the selected date. The Czech borderlands in 2026 offer a world-class tourism product, but require being "smart" - conscious, digital, and logistically prepared. With the right car, this journey will be pure pleasure.