Top Things to Do in Kutná Hora: From Bone Church to Gothic Cathedrals

Tucked away in the heart of Central Bohemia, Kutná Hora is one of the Czech Republic’s best-preserved medieval towns. Once richer than Prague due to its booming silver mines, Kutná Hora flourished in the 13th to 16th centuries as an economic and cultural hub. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its haunting Sedlec Ossuary, majestic St. Barbara’s Church, and enchanting old town streets.

Visiting Kutná Hora is like walking through the pages of a history book, filled with gothic grandeur, cobblestone alleys, and reminders of its prosperous past. Whether you’re interested in architecture, religion, or eerie attractions, Kutná Hora has something for every curious traveler.

🕰️ A Brief History of Kutná Hora

Founded in the 12th century, Kutná Hora gained fame in the late 13th century when large silver deposits were discovered in the area. The town soon became the economic engine of the Bohemian Kingdom. It even rivaled Prague in importance and was home to the Royal Mint, which produced the renowned Prague groschen coins.

The wealth attracted powerful families, artists, and architects, leading to the construction of awe-inspiring churches and palaces. But wars, plagues, and the exhaustion of silver mines led to a gradual decline. Still, its historical and architectural legacy remains well preserved, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

🏰 Top Attractions in Kutná Hora

1. 🦴 Sedlec Ossuary (The Bone Church)

Perhaps Kutná Hora’s most infamous site, this small chapel is decorated with the bones of 40,000+ individuals, artistically arranged into chandeliers, coats of arms, and altarpieces. It’s haunting, beautiful, and unlike anything else in the world.
 

📍 Location: Sedlec suburb
⏰ Time to visit: 30–45 minutes
🎫 Tip: Get a combo ticket with other attractions

2. ⛪ St. Barbara’s Church

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this soaring cathedral was built in honor of St. Barbara, the patron saint of miners. Construction began in 1388 and continued for centuries, resulting in a harmonious blend of Gothic and Baroque elements.

Highlights include:

Ornate flying buttresses

Frescoes depicting medieval mining life

A stunning vaulted ceiling

⏰ Time to visit: 1 hour
💡 Don’t miss: The panoramic view of the valley from the terrace

3. ⛪ Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and Saint John the Baptist

Located near the Sedlec Ossuary, this is one of the oldest examples of High Gothic architecture in Bohemia. Reconstructed after a fire in the 18th century, it beautifully merges Gothic and Baroque styles.

🎨 Highlights: Frescoes, ancient relics, and a peaceful atmosphere
📍 Tip: Visit right after the Bone Church – they’re walking distance apart

4. 🪙 Italian Court (Vlašský dvůr)

Once home to the Royal Mint and a royal palace, this site offers insight into the coin-making process and life during Kutná Hora’s golden age. The original minting equipment and regal chambers are open to explore.

🕰️ Time to visit: 45 minutes
🎟️ Includes: Guided tours in English

5. 🏘️ Historic Centre of Kutná Hora

Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafés await. This area is perfect for photography, people-watching, and absorbing the local atmosphere.

📷 Points of interest:

Stone House (Kamenný dům)

Gothic fountain on Rejskovo Square

Corpus Christi Chapel

🍽️ Where to Eat in Kutná Hora

Kutná Hora offers a delightful mix of Czech and European cuisine in atmospheric settings. Here are some top recommendations:

Restaurace Dačický – Medieval-style tavern serving hearty Czech meals

V Ruthardce – Great for local dishes and views of St. Barbara’s Church

Factory Bistro – Modern café with light bites and great coffee

Kavárna Střelnice – Cozy café perfect for desserts and tea

💡 Tip: Try local specialties like svíčková (marinated beef with cream sauce) and Czech beer.

🛍️ Local Souvenirs

Kutná Hora has several gift shops selling local crafts and unique souvenirs. Popular items include:

Silver-themed jewelry and coins

Handmade Bohemian glass

Miniature bone-church replicas

Books on Czech history and architecture

🛌 Where to Stay

If you decide to stay overnight, Kutná Hora offers charming accommodations:

Hotel U Kata – Centrally located, spa facilities, and medieval theme

Hotel Mědínek Old Town – Comfortable and steps from the main square

Penzion Barbora – Boutique-style guesthouse with views of St. Barbara’s

Havířská Bouda – Located on a hill, with panoramic views and peaceful surroundings

🧭 Getting to Kutná Hora

🚆 From Prague by Train

Take a direct train from Praha hl.n (main station) to Kutná Hora hlavní nádraží (≈ 1 hour)

Take local bus 1 or 7, or walk to the town center (≈ 20 minutes)

🚗 By Car

About 80 km east of Prague (1–1.5 hour drive)

Paid parking available near Sedlec and the historic center

🚐 By Tour

Many Prague-based operators offer day trips to Kutná Hora

Often include entrance to the Bone Church, St. Barbara’s, and a local lunch

📅 Best Time to Visit

Kutná Hora is charming year-round, but the best seasons are:

Spring (April–June): Mild weather and blooming gardens

Autumn (September–October): Fewer tourists and colorful foliage

Weekdays: Quieter than weekends, especially at the Sedlec Ossuary

🎆 Special Events:

Royal Silvering (Královské stříbření): A medieval-themed festival in June

Advent Markets: Held in December with crafts and traditional treats

📸 Photography Tips

The view from St. Barbara’s terrace is perfect for wide-angle shots

Capture golden hour light in the old town for atmospheric photos

Interior photography at the ossuary is restricted—check current rules on arrival

🧳 Essential Visitor Tips

Wear comfortable shoes – there’s a fair bit of walking and cobblestones

Combine your visit with Sedlec and central Kutná Hora in one day

Most sites offer English signage or audio guides

Public restrooms available near all major attractions

🗺️ Suggested 1-Day Itinerary

Morning

Arrive in Kutná Hora (via train or car)

Visit Sedlec Ossuary and Cathedral of the Assumption

Lunch

Eat at Restaurace Dačický or V Ruthardce

Afternoon

Explore St. Barbara’s Church

Walk through the Old Town and Italian Court

Enjoy coffee at Factory Bistro

Evening

Return to Prague or stay overnight for a quieter experience

🌍 Why Kutná Hora Should Be on Your Czech Itinerary

Kutná Hora combines stunning Gothic architecture, eerie religious art, and rich medieval history in a compact, walkable town. It's an easy day trip from Prague, but it offers a completely different atmosphere—less crowded, more intimate, and deeply historic.

Whether you're marveling at the human-bone art of Sedlec, gazing up at the vaulted ceilings of St. Barbara’s, or sipping coffee in a centuries-old café, Kutná Hora will leave a lasting impression.