Jihlava Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and where to stay in Jihlava. Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Jihlava

Jihlava is a historic city located in the Highlands region of the Czech Republic, in Central Europe. It is the second-largest city in the Vysočina Region, known for its historical landmarks, outdoor adventure opportunities, and food and beverage scene. Jihlava is a perfect destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and history.

List of Places to Visit in Jihlava

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Jihlava Underground
  • The Comenius Museum
  • The Jihlava Castle
  • The Church of St. James
  • The Baroque Holy Trinity Column

Natural Attractions of Jihlava: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Jihlava River
  • The Hill of Havirov
  • The Vysocina Arena
  • The Havlickuv Brod Reservoir
  • The Old Town Square

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jihlava

Jihlava offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. The following are the best hiking/biking routes in Jihlava:

  • The Jihlava Greenway Trail
  • The Moravian Gate Trail
  • The Jihlava River Trail
  • The Havlickuv Brod Reservoir Trail

Best Things to Do in Jihlava: Activities and Tours

  • Take a guided tour of the Jihlava Underground.
  • Explore the Comenius Museum and learn about the history of Jihlava and Jan Amos Comenius.
  • Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and canoeing.
  • Watch a live performance at the Gustav Mahler Theater.
  • Attend the Havlickuv Brod Wine Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jihlava

Day 1: Explore the historical landmarks of the city, including the Jihlava Castle and the Church of St. James.

Day 2-3: Take a guided tour of the Jihlava Underground and explore the Comenius Museum.

Day 4-5: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and canoeing in the beautiful nature surrounding the city.

Day 6: Attend a live performance at the Gustav Mahler Theater and taste the local food and drink scene.

Day 7: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Havlickuv Brod and enjoy the Havlickuv Brod Wine Festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Jihlava

Must-Try Dishes

  • Czech Goulash
  • Moravian Sparrow
  • Roast Pork with Sauerkraut and Dumplings
  • Potato Pancakes

Local Beverages

  • Beers from local breweries like Pivovar Kocour, Pivovar Hostivar, and Pivovar TMS.
  • Moravian wines from nearby vineyards like Znovin Znojmo and Zamecky Vinarstvi.

Where to Stay in Jihlava: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Mahler
  • Hotel Gustav Mahler
  • Pension Willa
  • Pension Dena

What to Buy in Jihlava: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade crafts made by local artists
  • Hand-cut crystal and glassware
  • Honigovka – a traditional Moravian honey liquor

Local Culture and Customs of Jihlava

The people of Jihlava are proud of their town’s history and cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions. Czech is the main language spoken in Jihlava, but many people also speak English.

Best Time to Visit Jihlava

The best time to visit Jihlava is from May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. The Havlickuv Brod Wine Festival takes place in August, which is a great time to visit for wine lovers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jihlava

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local food and drink scene.
  • Take a guided tour of the Jihlava Underground and the Comenius Museum.
  • Attend a live performance at the Gustav Mahler Theater.
  • Explore the beautiful nature surrounding the city.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the city or natural areas.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals or their traditions.
  • Underestimate the importance of historical landmarks and museums.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jihlava

Jihlava is generally a safe city, but visitors should take the usual precautions by keeping an eye on their belongings and not leaving valuables unattended. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.

Health in Jihlava

There are medical facilities in Jihlava in case of emergency. Visitors should have valid travel medical insurance. Tap water in Jihlava is safe to drink.

Getting to Jihlava: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jihlava

The nearest airport to Jihlava is Vaclav Havel Airport Prague, which is approximately 120 km away. Visitors can take a bus or train from the airport to Jihlava.

Bus Stations Near Jihlava

There are several bus stations in Jihlava, including the Jihlava Bus Station, the Jihlava Train Station, and the Jihlava Masaryk Square.

Other Options

Visitors can also get to Jihlava by train or car.

How to Get Around in Jihlava

Jihlava is a small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. There are also taxis, Ubers, and public transportation options like buses and trams.

Where to Go Next from Jihlava: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Havlickuv Brod: Home to the Havlickuv Brod Wine Festival and a beautiful city to explore.
  • Telc: A UNESCO world heritage site known for its beautiful preserved Renaissance architecture.
  • Brno: The second-largest city in the Czech Republic and known for its cultural heritage and architecture.

Conclusion

Jihlava is a beautiful and historic city with plenty of things to do and see. Visitors can explore the city’s history, enjoy outdoor activities, and taste the local food and drink scene. With this comprehensive travel guide, planning a trip to Jihlava has never been easier.