Breathtaking Spots to Gaze at the Night Sky
1. Prague: new Planetarium, observatories in Petřín and Ďáblice
Finding a dark place to view the night sky is more challenging these days. Once, a simple change of position was all that was needed, but now, with pervasive light pollution from urban areas, it is essential to search for spots where the sky can be clearly seen. These locations are rare, much like saffron, particularly in Prague. You can enjoy the romantic view of the night sky at excellent sites like the Štefánik Observatory in Petřín or the Ďáblice Observatory. Both of these observatories provide opportunities for public stargazing with large telescopes throughout the year, as long as the weather permits. You can also explore the instruments at both sites and their permanent displays about astronomy. A notable new addition in 2025 is the Prague Planetarium, boasting the largest projection space in the Czech Republic. Its recent renovation has introduced state-of-the-art technology to provide a remarkable audio-visual experience.
2. Central Bohemia region and night sky observation from Brda
Brda has become nearly deserted due to unfavorable weather and its status as a heavily guarded military area. The surrounding forests have remained intact, offering fantastic spots for stargazing and observing the Milky Way or galaxies that are light-years away. The top spots include Plešivec and Tok, the highest mountain in Brda and Central Bohemia, along with the nearby Houpák. While the peaks themselves might not have much visibility, there are exceptional views of the night sky, especially from the famous infantry hut Benesak, which featured in the film General School.
3. The South Bohemian Region and the observatory on Mount Klet’
The most stunning vistas in South Bohemia can be enjoyed from Mount Klet’. This mountain features a stone lookout tower at its peak where you can stay at a nearby tourist hut. There’s also an interesting sundial close by. Star enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that this is home to the highest astronomical observatory in Bohemia. Thanks to minimal light pollution, this is one of the best places for stargazing in the country, where many planets and comets were initially discovered. The Klet’ Observatory welcomes visitors during the peak season.
4. Pilsen region and the dark sky area in Manětínská Nature Park
You can find another stunning area, far from city lights, along the border of the Pilsen and Karlovy Vary regions, in the Manětínská Nature Park, known for its dark sky area. Because this sparsely populated spot is shielded from the bright glows of urban centers, you can fully appreciate the untouched beauty of nature in silence and tranquility. Here, you can enjoy stargazing and even consider spending a night camping under the stars at a designated spot near the now-abandoned village of Umiř.
5. Karlovy Vary Region, modern observatory and historical observatory
For an evening of stargazing, you might want to visit the František Krejčí Observatory located in Karlovy Vary. They also provide interesting astronomy programs and lectures. If you’re interested in history, don’t miss the ruins of an astronomical observatory on Branišovský vrch, near the town of Toužim. This historical observatory was built by a priest, astronomer, and cartographer around the late 18th and early 19th centuries, named Alois Martin David. He was a monk from the Teplá monastery and a member of various scientific societies in Europe who greatly advanced scientific knowledge in his time. Since 1989, a planet named Planet 6385 Martindavid has been named in his honor, and it may very well be visible from where you are right now.
6. Ústí Region, Teplice Observatory and the highest table mountain in our country
The Ústí nad Labem region also has several observatories you can visit. If you decide to go to the Teplice Observatory, you will find it at Sand Hill, located below Doubravská hora. A pleasant walk through a forest park from the botanical garden will lead you there. The observatory is open for both daytime viewing of the Sun and for evening sessions where you can observe the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and many other celestial objects. Alternatively, you might choose the flat-topped Děčínský Sněžník, the highest table mountain in the country, for an evening stroll and sky watching. While the stone lookout tower may not be accessible at night, the magnificent views of the Lusatian Mountains and Czechoslovak Switzerland are still available. Most towns are nestled in deep valleys, which won’t disrupt this incredible scenery.
7. Liberec region, Jizera Mountains and Czech-Polish dark sky area
In the Liberec region, you’ll discover one of the darkest spots in the country. The Jizera Dark Sky Region was recognized as part of the International Year of Astronomy back in 2009. It became the first international dark sky area in Europe and the first of its kind in the world. This designation helps to protect the dark skies over both the Czech Republic and the Polish section of the Jizera Mountains. In contrast to cities, where only a handful of stars can usually be seen, up to two thousand stars are visible from Jizerka and its surroundings on clear nights.
8. Hradec Králové Region, Orlické Mountains and Planetary Trail in Hradec Králové
Outstanding panoramic views, towns and villages nestled in valleys, with mountains and the night sky surrounding you: this special experience is easy to find in the Hradec Králové region! Just head up to the crest of the Orlické Mountains to visit their highest peak, Velká Deštná (1115 m). From the lookout tower, which is open 24/7 and free to access, you can gaze even higher into the sky. If you prefer not to go too far from civilization, consider visiting the Observatory and Digital Planetarium in Hradec Králové, where fun programs for all ages are available. Additionally, you can stroll along the Galaxy and Planetary Trail there!
9. Pardubice Region, Pardubice and Baron Kraus
Baron Artur Kraus stands out as one of the most significant figures in Pardubice. He helped establish many organizations and was the first to introduce a bicycle path. Additionally, he translated tennis rules into Czech and was believed to have brought the first motorcycle to the city, as well as Norway’s first skis. He even practiced skiing secretly at night around the castle walls and supposedly on clear full moon nights at Kunětická hora. His lifelong interest in astronomy led him to establish an observatory in Pardubice. Although little remains of it, you can visit the new Baron Artur Kraus Observatory in the city, which continues the historical tradition of astronomical observation.
10. Vysočina, Třebíč, observatory and planetarium
Thanks to low light pollution, numerous areas in the Highlands are perfect for stargazing. To gain a better understanding of the cosmos, head to the Dr. Zdeněk Kvíz Observatory and Planetarium in Třebíč. Amateur astronomy has long been a cherished activity in this town, encouraged by the House of Children and Youth. A new planetarium opened here in November 2023, and the facility has also been renamed to honor the notable astronomer from Třebíč, who played a role in its setup back in 1957.
11. South Moravian Region and the observatory on Kraví hora in Brno
With its circular views, the largest 3D stereoscopic planetarium in Central Europe, an electronic observation tower, and a 2D digitarium, the Brno Observatory and Planetarium has it all! Located in the park on Kraví hora in the heart of Brno, it provides a year-round assortment of engaging public programs as well as romantic evening telescope observations of the stars, guided by expert astronomers. Furthermore, there’s a free science trail that you can follow, and you could also take a swim in the nearby sports complex on Kraví hora which features both an indoor and a summer swimming pool, both of which offer stunning views!
12. Zlín Region and the stars over the White Carpathians
The White Carpathian Mountains, which form a natural border between the Czech Republic and Slovakia, make for excellent stargazing, especially if you choose a location away from city lights and noise. Make your way to the hills above Valašské Klobouky, where you can enjoy outstanding views from Ploština or the Durch Observatory. This remarkable site also offers the chance to mix stargazing with a comfortable sleep indoors, as there’s accommodation that provides more starry views than even the finest hotels can offer.
13. The Olomouc Region and the Baroque Sky on the Cross Hill
If you’re looking to take stunning photographs of the starry sky or aurora borealis with a unique backdrop, consider visiting Křížový vrch near the village of Ruda in the Low Jeseník Mountains. There is a beautiful path leading up to the top of the nearby hill from the village. You’ll find the impressive Baroque Stations of the Cross at the end of this path, culminating with a striking Calvary sculpture. This energizing spot offers breathtaking views of the Jeseníky Mountains, the hills of Králický Sněžník, and the expansive Haná plains.
14. Moravian-Silesian Region, Beskydy Mountains and the Third Dark Sky Region
In the Czech Republic, there are three dark sky regions where true darkness still prevails at night, creating ideal conditions for observing the night sky. In addition to the Jizera and Manětín regions, the third dark sky region is found in the Beskydy Mountains within the Moravian-Silesian region. One of the darkest spots in the Beskydy is the Gruň ridge near Staré Hamry, where visibility is great due to the low population density, minimal light pollution, and pristine air quality. Visit this area to marvel at the Milky Way, the zodiacal light, the aurora borealis, and other celestial wonders that await you!
