Turnov
· CZ

Turnov

Turnov, Liberecky Kraj, Czechia

Turnov, located in the Liberecký Kraj region of Czechia, is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural attractions. Known as the "Gateway to Bohemian Paradise," …

#Turnov#Liberecký Kraj#Czechia#historical town#geological site
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Turnov.

Top Hotels in Turnov

Top Flights to Turnov

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Turnov.

Tours

Bohemian Paradise Geopark Exploration

Explore the stunning rock formations and natural beauty of the Bohemian Paradise Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark near Turnov.

Turnov Castle and Museum Visit

Discover the history and culture at Turnov Castle and its nearby museum.

Sychrov Castle Tour

Take a guided tour of the stunning Neo-Gothic Sychrov Castle and its beautiful park.

Museum of Czech Gemstones

Explore the dazzling collection of gemstones and jewelry at the Museum of Czech Gemstones in Turnov.

Shopping

Turnov Farmers Market

Visit the local farmers market in Turnov for fresh produce and regional specialties.

Granát Turnov Shopping

Shop for unique jewelry and garnet products at Granát, a renowned local jewelry store.

Czech Paradise Gallery

Browse local art and crafts at the Czech Paradise Gallery, featuring regional artists.

Outdoor

Hrubá Skála Climbing

Experience adventurous rock climbing at the Hrubá Skála rock formations.

Mácha's Trail Trekking

Embark on a trek along Mácha's Trail to experience serene landscapes and historical sites.

Canoeing on the Jizera River

Enjoy a relaxing canoe trip down the Jizera River, offering peaceful views and gentle rapids.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Turnov.

Currency
Kč | CZK | Czech Koruna
Population
Not Available
Languages
Czech, Czech
Average weather
Turnov
Jan
snow
1°-4°
Feb
snow
3°-3°
Mar
cloud
8°0°
Apr
rain
13°3°
May
rain
18°8°
Jun
sun
22°12°
Jul
sun
24°14°
Aug
sun
24°14°
Sep
cloud
19°10°
Oct
cloud
13°5°
Nov
rain
7°1°
Dec
snow
2°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Turnov.

What people love

Turnov, located in the Liberecký Kraj region of Czechia, is a charming town known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions. Here are some pros of traveling to Turnov:

  1. Bohemian Paradise: Turnov is situated in the heart of Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj), a region renowned for its stunning rock formations, lush forests, and medieval castles. Travelers can explore the unique sandstone rock cities, such as Hruboskalsko and Prachov Rocks, which offer excellent opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.

  2. Gemstone Capital: Turnov is often referred to as the "Gemstone Capital" of the Czech Republic due to its long tradition of gemstone cutting and jewelry making. Visitors can learn about the history of gemstone mining in the region and even try their hand at cutting and polishing gemstones at local workshops.

  3. Cultural Heritage: Turnov boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites like the Gothic Church of St. Catherine, the Renaissance-style Turnov Castle, and the Museum of Bohemian Paradise. Art enthusiasts can also explore local galleries and attend cultural events showcasing traditional Czech music and dance.

  4. Outdoor Activities: Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of outdoor activities available in Turnov, including cycling along scenic trails, kayaking on the Jizera River, and exploring the nearby Bohemian Switzerland National Park. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby ski resorts.

  5. Local Cuisine: Turnov offers a variety of dining options where travelers can sample traditional Czech cuisine, including hearty dishes like goulash, roast pork with dumplings, and koláče (fruit-filled pastries). Local breweries also serve up a selection of Czech beers for visitors to enjoy.

Overall, Turnov is a great destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures in the Czech Republic.

Enjoy your trip to Turnov!

What to know

Turnov, located in the Liberecký Kraj region of Czechia, is a charming town known for its beautiful nature and historical sites. However, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Turnov:

  1. Limited public transportation: Turnov is a smaller town, and as such, public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around the area if you don't have your own transportation.

  2. Language barrier: While many people in Turnov may speak some English, the primary language spoken is Czech. This could pose a challenge for English-speaking travelers who may have difficulty communicating with locals or navigating certain situations.

  3. Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Turnov is a quieter, more laid-back town, so if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a wide variety of entertainment options, you may be disappointed. The town is better suited for those seeking a more relaxed and nature-focused experience.

  4. Limited shopping and dining options: While Turnov does have some shops and restaurants, the selection may be more limited compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a wide range of shopping and dining experiences, you may find Turnov lacking in this regard.

Overall, while Turnov offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, travelers should be aware of these potential cons to ensure they have a realistic expectation of what the town has to offer.

Turnov, located in the Liberec Region of the Czech Republic, is a town with a rich history and cultural significance. Founded in the 13th century, it has long been an important center for trade, crafts, and, notably, the jewelry industry, especially known for its production and processing of Bohemian garnets.

Significant Historical Events:

  1. Foundation and Early Development (13th Century):

    • Turnov was founded in the mid-13th century by Jaroslav and Havel of Markvartice, members of a prominent noble family. Its strategic location made it a significant trading hub.
  2. Hussite Wars (Early 15th Century):

    • During the Hussite Wars, Turnov was influenced by the radical religious movements sweeping across Bohemia, and like many towns, it faced periods of conflict and upheaval.
  3. 30 Years' War (1618–1648):

    • The town suffered during the 30 Years' War with destruction and population decline, as was common in many parts of Central Europe.
  4. Development in the 19th Century:

    • The 19th century saw significant industrial development in Turnov, particularly with the establishment of jewelry and gem processing industries. The town became famous for its Bohemian garnets, attracting skilled craftsmen and boosting the local economy.

Historical Figures:

  • The Aichelburg Family:

    • This noble family played a role in the development of Turnov, particularly in the 19th century, when they invested in local industry and infrastructure.
  • Franz Josef Gerstner (1756–1832):

    • Though not born in Turnov, his work in the region on the construction of early railways had a significant impact on the town's connectivity and industrial growth.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Church of the Birth of the Virgin Mary:

    • A stunning example of Gothic architecture, this church is one of the most important religious buildings in Turnov.
  2. Hrubý Rohozec Castle:

    • Located near Turnov, this castle dates back to the 13th century and has been remodeled several times. It offers insights into the life of Bohemian nobility over the centuries.
  3. Museum of the Bohemian Paradise:

    • This museum in Turnov houses collections dedicated to the region's geological, archaeological, and historical heritage, with a significant focus on the local gemstone industry.
  4. Synagogue of Turnov:

    • The Jewish community in Turnov has a rich history, and the synagogue, restored after World War II, stands as a testament to this legacy.
  5. Dlask's Farm:

    • An example of a traditional rural farmhouse, this site is part of the local open-air museum and provides insights into historical rural life in the region.

Cultural Heritage:

  • Bohemian Paradise:
    • Turnov is often referred to as the gateway to the Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj), a protected area known for its unique rock formations, castles, and natural beauty, making it a significant destination for tourism and outdoor activities.

Turnov's history is marked by its strategic location, industrial development, particularly in gemstones, and its cultural and natural heritage, making it a significant town in the region of Liberec.