Must-See Landmarks in Cheb

The heart of Cheb is its historic center. It is famous for well-preserved buildings that date back hundreds of years. Most sights are located around the main square. You can easily see these landmarks on foot in a single morning. Here are the top historic spots to include in your itinerary.

• Best overall: Cheb Castle
• Best for families: Retromuseum
• Best rainy-day: Museum of Cheb
• Best free: King George Square

1. Name: Cheb Castle (Chebský hrad) Type: sight Why go: It is one of the most important Romanesque monuments in Central Europe. The castle features a rare Black Tower built from volcanic rock. You can explore the unique double-layered chapel inside. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Castle District, northern edge of the old town. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Moderate; check Cheb Castle admission prices and hours for updates. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Climb the Black Tower for the best panoramic views of the town.
2. Name: Špalíček Type: sight Why go: This is a group of eleven half-timbered merchant houses from the 13th century. They are the symbol of the town and look like something from a fairy tale. The narrow Kramářská alley separates the two blocks. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: King George of Poděbrady Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from the outside. Getting there: Located directly in the main market square. Tip: Read more about historic Špalíček sightseeing in Cheb square before your visit.
3. Name: Church of St. Nicholas Type: sight Why go: This massive Gothic church has two tall twin towers. It was originally a Romanesque basilica from the 1200s. The interior is peaceful and filled with beautiful religious art. Best for: Quiet reflection and city views. Where: Kostelní Square, near the castle. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Walk north from the main square toward the castle. Tip: Look for the modern stained-glass windows that replaced those destroyed in WWII.
4. Name: King George of Poděbrady Square Type: neighborhood Why go: This is one of the most picturesque squares in the country. It is lined with colorful townhouses and outdoor cafes. It is the perfect place to start your Cheb medieval town guide exploration. Best for: People watching and atmosphere. Where: Central Cheb. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: The central hub for all local transport. Tip: Visit the tourist information office here for a free paper map of the town.

Immersive Museums and Cultural Sites

Cheb offers more than just old walls. Its museums provide a deep look into the complex history of the Bohemian borderlands. You can learn about medieval kings or life behind the Iron Curtain. These sites are perfect if the weather turns grey during your trip. Most museums are located within easy walking distance of each other.

1. Name: Museum of Cheb Type: museum Why go: It is housed in the building where the famous general Albrecht von Wallenstein was murdered. The museum covers the town's history from prehistoric times. You can see the actual room where the assassination happened. Best for: Deep historical context. Where: King George of Poděbrady Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located on the upper side of the main square. Tip: Don't miss the collection of rare medieval guild items in the basement.
2. Name: Retromuseum Cheb Type: museum Why go: This museum focuses on design and lifestyle from the 1960s to the 1980s. It shows what life was like in Czechoslovakia during the communist era. It is very interactive and nostalgic for many visitors. Best for: Families and fans of 20th-century history. Where: Next to the Museum of Cheb. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is through the same courtyard as the main museum. Tip: The museum often hosts temporary exhibits on vintage toys or fashion.
3. Name: Franciscan Monastery and Garden Type: experience Why go: This complex includes a beautiful cloister and a peaceful garden. It is a quiet escape from the busy market square. The monastery dates back to the 13th century. Best for: Relaxation and quiet. Where: Františkánské Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low for the cloister; garden is free. Getting there: A 5-minute walk west from the main square. Tip: The garden is a great spot for a picnic on a sunny afternoon.

Best Day Trips Near Cheb

If you have more than one day, explore the surrounding region. The area around Cheb is famous for its nature and healing springs. Many of these spots are reachable by a short train ride. You can combine a visit to Cheb with these nearby attractions. This makes the region a top choice for nature lovers.

1. Name: Soos Nature Reserve Type: day trip Why go: This is a unique "European Yellowstone" with bubbling mud pots. You walk on wooden boardwalks over peat bogs and mineral springs. It is a rare geological site that kids will love. Best for: Nature enthusiasts and families. Where: 15 minutes north of Cheb. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local train to Nový Drahov. Learn more about the Soos Nature Reserve trip here. Tip: Bring sturdy shoes as the boardwalks can be slippery when wet.
2. Name: Františkovy Lázně Type: day trip Why go: This is one of the three famous spa towns in West Bohemia. It is known for its yellow neoclassical buildings and healing parks. It is much smaller and quieter than Karlovy Vary. Best for: Wellness and relaxing walks. Where: 5 kilometers north of Cheb. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free to walk; pay for spa treatments. Getting there: A 10-minute train or bus ride from Cheb. Check our Frantiskovy Lazne spa day guide. Tip: Rub the toe of the statue of little František for good luck!
3. Name: Bismarck Tower Type: nature Why go: This stone observation tower sits on Zelená hora (Green Mountain). It offers views across the border into Germany. The hike through the forest is refreshing and not too difficult. Best for: Active travelers and hikers. Where: West of Cheb city center. Time: 2 hours including the hike. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green marked hiking trail from the edge of town. Tip: The tower is only open during the main tourist season from April to October.

Practical Tips for Your Cheb Medieval Town Guide

Planning your visit is simple with the right information. Cheb is a very walkable town, so you won't need a car once you arrive. Most locals speak some German or English in the tourist areas. It is a safe and welcoming destination for all types of travelers. Here is how to make your trip smooth.

The best way to reach Cheb is by train. The Karlovy Vary railway station offers frequent connections. The journey takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Trains are modern, clean, and offer great views of the countryside. You can buy tickets at the station or through the official app.

For food, look for traditional Bohemian dishes. Try the local dumplings or roast pork in one of the taverns near the square. Prices are generally lower than in Prague or Karlovy Vary. Many restaurants offer a "denní menu" (daily menu) for a fixed price at lunch. This is a great way to save money while eating like a local.

If you enjoy history, consider visiting in late summer. Cheb often hosts medieval festivals with knights and markets. These events bring the town's history to life for visitors of all ages. Check the Visit Czechia website for event dates in 2026. Always carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) for small shops and cafes.