Your Travel Guide for Visiting Telc

If you’ve ever been to the Czech Republic, then it’s no secret to you that this country is full of fairytale towns and castles. Around every corner and over every hill, is another colorful village or castles that will transport you back in time, and perhaps into a Disney movie. Among these, Telč is one of the most beautiful. Many tourists won’t ever hear about it, but it’s well known by Czech people for this reason. Here is your travel guide for visiting Telc.

Introduction

Telč (pronounced like TELCH) is a small town located in the South Moravian region of the Czech Republic. It’s a historic settlement that dates back to the 11th century. Strategically located in the middle of 3 large ponds, that are a means of protection. It’s known for it’s well preserved original townhouses that line the Old Town, that are built in renaissance and baroque styles. In 1992, it became a UNESCO world heritage site.

Things to Do in Telč

Visit the Main Square

This is one of the main attractions of this small town, and what most people come to see. It is where you’ll find all the baroque style, homes lining the square. No two buildings are the same. I am not kidding when I say, each home is unique, in color, decor, and shape. Be sure to check them all out, and take plenty of photos. This is the most photogenic place in town.

Go up the Tower of St. James Church

From the square you will see the church towering over the skyline. Head over there and go up the church tower for the best views in town. Here, you’ll have 360 viewing opportunities of the town below, as well as the ponds and hills beyond.

Entrance fee: 50 CZK ($2.50 USD)

Walk Along the Surrounding Ponds

Telč itself is located between 3 large ponds. You can have a walk all around the town, along the water. From here, you’ll have beautiful views of the town reflected on the water, especially from the bridge. There are also benches under the willow trees and grassy areas, ideal for having a picnic or reading a book.

Go for a Boat Ride

On the Štěpnický Rybnik (pond), you can rent paddle boats. The pond is actually quite big, and you could easily spend some time going from one end to the other, soaking in the scenery on the way.

Rental Price: 50 CZK ($2.50 USD) for 30 minutes

Go for a Morning Hot Air Balloon Ride

If you are an early riser, you can opt to go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride. They offer rides during the afternoon as well, but I am told sunrise is the best time. Watch the sun come up over this fairytale landscape.

What to Eat

For Traditonal Czech Food

Švejk Restaurant Telč: Located right in the square, and in warm months offers outdoor seating. They serve traditionally prepared Czech cuisine and beer on tap.

For Western Food

Bistro Café Friends: This cafe offers amazing iced coffee and baked goods. During lunch hours they also offer organic, homemade soups, pastas and salads. The menu is seasonal, and uses super fresh ingredients.

Restaurant Amigo: The only place I could find that seemed to serve a proper breakfast that wasn’t sweet. At lunch they do amazing burgers.

Where to Stay

An overnight stay in Telč is not necessary. It’s compact enough that you can easily do it as a day trip, or half a day if you are in a hurry.

However, I truly believe the charm of a place can be really discovered at night. The square here has a quaint beauty to it at night. Plus, if you plan to do a sunrise hot air balloon ride, you may as well spend the night and enjoy yourself.

I stayed at Penzion Pizzeria. It’s a small hotel located above a restaurant. The restaurant is quite busy during the day, but at night it’s very quiet. The benefit of staying here is being right in the heart of the square.

And there you have it, your perfect travel guide to visiting Telc, a historic city that’s more picturesque than a postcard. If you find yourself in the Czech Republic, be sure not to miss out on this one!