Trips Around Zlín Region — What to Visit Near Luhačovice

The Zlín Region is one of the most diverse regions in the Czech Republic. Within a relatively small area, medieval castles meet Baroque châteaux, unique industrial architecture, vast nature reserves, UNESCO-listed folklore, and gastronomic traditions unparalleled in Central Europe. Luhačovice lies almost at the very heart of this region — in an ideal position for day trips around the Zlín Region, whether you’re drawn to the monuments of Zlín, the nature of the White Carpathians, or tastings of Vizovice slivovitz.

In this article, we’ve prepared a complete guide to the best that the Zlín Region has to offer. Each destination includes approximate distances from Luhačovice and recommendations for who it’s most suitable for. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with children, or in a group of friends, you’ll find inspiration for entire days full of experiences. Simply choose and set off — most destinations are reachable within an hour’s drive.

Castles and Châteaux — Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque Within Reach

The Zlín Region and adjacent areas of Moravia conceal a remarkable concentration of castles and châteaux that document hundreds of years of turbulent Moravian history. From the rawness of medieval fortifications to the refined elegance of Baroque residences — lovers of castles and châteaux in Moravia will find plenty to enjoy here. From Luhačovice, you can comfortably reach all the most important sites in a single day.

Buchlov Castle — Royal Fortress in the Chřiby Hills (40 km, approx. 40 min)

Royal castle Buchlov is one of the oldest and best-preserved castles in Moravia. It rises on a forested hill in the Chřiby mountain range at an altitude of 509 metres, with construction dating to the second half of the 13th century. The castle underwent significant Gothic reconstructions in the 15th century under the Lords of Cimburk, and the last noble family to manage it were the Berchtolds — who donated it to the state in 1945 along with all its furnishings.

The guided tours include representative halls with rich collections of weapons, paintings and furniture, the castle chapel, and a viewing tower with panoramic views over the South Moravian countryside. On clear days, you can see as far as Pálava. Buchlov makes for a full-day trip that combines excellently with a visit to the nearby Buchlovice château — the two sites are connected by a pleasant forest walk of approximately three kilometres.

Suitable for: History lovers, families with older children, hikers — the combination of castle and forest walk is ideal.

Buchlovice Château — Baroque Gem with Italian Gardens (38 km, approx. 35 min)

Buchlovice château was built at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries at the behest of Count Jan Dětřich Petřvaldský, who had it constructed as a wedding gift for his Italian wife Anna Eleonora Colonna-Felsová. The château’s architecture is inspired by Italian villas and appears almost exotic in the context of the Moravian landscape — two opposing pavilions converge towards the honour courtyard in a noble composition that has no parallel in Moravia.

The château interiors house valuable collections of furniture, porcelain and paintings. The greatest treasure, however, is the château gardens and park, which rank among the most beautiful in the Czech Republic. The extensive English park with numerous species of exotic trees, ponds and romantic nooks is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll. In May and June, the renowned collection of fuchsias blooms here, numbering hundreds of varieties.

Suitable for: Couples seeking a romantic trip, garden and park lovers, families with children — the park is spacious and pleasant for walks.

Archbishop’s Château and Gardens in Kroměříž — UNESCO (55 km, approx. 50 min)

The Archbishop’s château in Kroměříž is one of the most significant cultural monuments in Moravia and, together with the Castle Garden and Flower Garden, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The current Baroque appearance of the château dates from reconstruction after the Thirty Years’ War, when the Olomouc bishops transformed the older Renaissance residence into a representative seat worthy of their position.

The château picture gallery ranks among the most significant in all of Central Europe — among the exhibits you’ll find works by Titian, van Dyck, Cranach and other masters. The Mannerist hall in the château served as the backdrop for famous scenes from Miloš Forman’s film Amadeus. The Flower Garden, established by Bishop Karl von Liechtenstein-Castelcorn in the 17th century, is a masterpiece of garden architecture with geometric flowerbeds, covered colonnade and rotunda. The Castle Garden, an extensive English park with ponds and rare trees, offers pleasant relaxation in greenery.

Allow at least half a day for touring the château and both gardens. Kroměříž itself is a pleasant town with a historic square, cafés and an atmosphere that invites lingering.

Suitable for: Art lovers, history and garden architecture enthusiasts. Ideal for culturally oriented couples and groups.

Malenovice Castle — Guardian Above Zlín (25 km, approx. 25 min)

Malenovice Castle stands on a low hill above the River Dřevnice on the outskirts of Zlín, with history dating to the 14th century. The originally Gothic fortress was gradually reconstructed and expanded, and today offers tours of historical interiors with an exhibition on regional history. Part of the complex houses the Museum of South-Eastern Moravia with ethnographic collections and exhibitions.

Malenovice Castle is less touristy than Buchlov or Kroměříž, making it a pleasant tip for those seeking a quieter experience. The visit can easily be combined with a tour of Zlín — it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the castle to the city centre.

Suitable for: Families with children, lovers of quieter monuments. Ideal as a complement to touring Zlín.

Museums and Open-Air Museums — Living History of Moravia

The Zlín Region is home to several unique museums and open-air museums that offer glimpses into the region’s past — from prehistoric settlement through traditional life in the Moravian countryside to the 20th-century industrial revolution. These places aren’t just about display cases with exhibits — they’re living spaces where history can be experienced first-hand.

Wallachian Open-Air Museum — Rožnov pod Radhoštěm (65 km, approx. 55 min)

The Wallachian Open-Air Museum in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm is the largest open-air museum in Central Europe and one of the oldest skansens in the world — it was founded as early as 1925. The museum spreads across extensive grounds and includes three main areas: the Wooden Town, the Wallachian Village and the Mill Valley. In total, it comprises almost a hundred heritage buildings — from log cottages and barns through water mills to small religious buildings.

Each area illustrates a different aspect of traditional life in Wallachia. The Wooden Town represents urban development with town hall, church and craft workshops. The Wallachian Village shows agricultural life in a mountain environment. The Mill Valley documents wood and grain processing using water power. Throughout the year, over sixty cultural events are held here as part of the Wallachian Year festival — from carnival through spring and summer celebrations to Christmas markets.

A visit to the Rožnov skanzen is a full-day programme. Bear in mind that you’ll be walking outdoors, so comfortable footwear is advisable, and in summer, sun protection.

Suitable for: All age groups. Families with children, school groups, seniors and foreign visitors — the skanzen offers programmes for everyone.

Archeoskanzen Modrá — Journey to Great Moravian Empire (35 km, approx. 30 min)

Archeoskanzen Modrá near Velehrad is a unique archaeological open-air museum that brings to life the existence of the Slavic population during the Great Moravian Empire (9th-10th centuries). Based on actual archaeological finds, residential buildings, craft workshops, fortifications and religious buildings of Great Moravian settlement have been reconstructed here.

The archeoskanzen offers not only tours of reconstructed buildings but also interactive programmes — visitors can try period crafts, archery, pottery making or blacksmithing. Part of the complex is a natural garden with original crops cultivated by our ancestors, and an exhibition on the nature of the White Carpathians. Nearby is Velehrad with its basilica — an important pilgrimage site connected with the mission of Cyril and Methodius.

Suitable for: Families with children (interactive programmes are excellent), history and archaeology lovers. Easily combined with a visit to Velehrad.

Museums and Galleries in Zlín (25 km, approx. 25 min)

Zlín, as a city with rich industrial history, offers numerous museum and gallery institutions. The Regional Gallery of Fine Arts in Zlín, housed in building number 14 of the Baťa complex, presents a significant collection of Czech and international art from the 20th and 21st centuries. The Museum of South-Eastern Moravia with branches in Zlín and surrounding areas focuses on regional history, ethnography and natural sciences.

Special mention deserves the Zlín Film Hub — an exhibition dedicated to the famous Zlín film tradition that dates from the 1930s when Baťa’s factories began producing promotional and educational films. Thanks to this, Zlín became a centre of animated and children’s films — a tradition maintained today by the International Film Festival for Children and Youth.

Suitable for: Art, film and modern history lovers. Part of touring Zlín.

Nature and Hiking — From Meadow Orchids to Rock Cities

The Zlín Region is blessed with extraordinarily diverse nature. From steppe meadows with orchids through deep beech forests to dramatic rock formations — lovers of nature and hiking will find terrain for every fitness level and every season. Most natural destinations are accessible directly from Luhačovice or from its immediate surroundings.

White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area — UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (0-30 km)

The White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area begins practically on the outskirts of Luhačovice and stretches along the Czech-Slovak border to the southeast. In 1996, it was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, primarily thanks to its unique White Carpathian meadows — flowering grasslands that host Central Europe’s most significant orchid populations. Over forty species of orchids have been documented in the local meadows, many of which are critically endangered.

The White Carpathians aren’t just about orchids. Extensive beech and fir forests, quiet valleys with streams, traditional pastures with scattered fruit trees, and picturesque settlements create a landscape that feels as though time has stood still. There are hundreds of kilometres of marked hiking trails — from short family circuits to challenging ridge crossings. Cyclists will appreciate the network of cycle paths leading through the countryside.

The most beautiful period for visits is May and June, when orchids bloom and meadows transform into colourful carpets. But autumn with coloured leaves and winter with snow-covered hills have their own charm too.

Best routes from Luhačovice: Circuit via Komonec and Pradlisko (approx. 3 hours), ascent to Velký Lopeník (754 m above sea level, approx. 4 hours), walk to Čertoryje nature reserve (one of the most valuable orchid meadows).

Velká Javořina — On the Roof of the White Carpathians (30 km, approx. 35 min to base + hike)

Velká Javořina at 970 metres above sea level is the highest peak of the White Carpathians and simultaneously a symbolic place on the Czech-Slovak border. At the summit stands a transmitter and lookout tower, from which views open on both sides of the border in favourable weather — towards the Moravian side and into Slovak Považie.

Czech-Slovak brotherhood celebrations are held annually on Velká Javořina, commemorating the historical and cultural ties of both nations. The ascent to Javořina is a moderately challenging hike leading mainly through beech forests. From the village of Strání (approximately 30 km from Luhačovice), it’s about 6 km to the summit via marked path.

Suitable for: Hikers seeking views and the symbolism of a place on the border of two countries. Moderately challenging route suitable for fitter walkers.

Pulčín Rocks — Rock City Below Wallachia (45 km, approx. 45 min)

Pulčín Rocks are one of the most impressive rock formations in Moravia. Massive sandstone towers and blocks rising above the village of Pulčín in the Javorníky mountains create a dramatic scenery reminiscent of a rock city. The highest rock tower — Zámčisko — reaches over twenty metres in height and remnants of a medieval castle are preserved on its summit.

Several marked hiking trails lead to Pulčín Rocks. The most popular starting point is the village of Pulčín, from where it’s approximately half an hour’s walk through forest to the rocks. The route is undemanding and suitable for families with children. On site, you’ll find an educational trail with information panels about geology and nature. If you enjoy climbing, some rock blocks are popular practice grounds for climbers.

Suitable for: Families with children, lovers of unusual nature, photographers. Easily combinable with a visit to Rožnov pod Radhoštěm.

Hostýn Hills and Vizovice Hills — Green Lungs of the Region

The Hostýn Hills extend northwest of Luhačovice and offer extensive beech forests interwoven with networks of hiking and cycling trails. The highest point is Kelčský Javorník (865 m above sea level), but the most visited destination is undoubtedly Svatý Hostýn (more about this below). The Hostýn Hills are ideal for full-day hikes as well as shorter afternoon walks.

The Vizovice Hills lie immediately north of Luhačovice and form the town’s natural backdrop. These are lower, gentler hills covered with forests and pastures that offer pleasant walks with views over the surrounding countryside. From Luhačovice, you can set off on foot directly into the Vizovice Hills — marked trails begin on the town’s outskirts.

Zlín — City of Tomáš Baťa

Zlín is a unique city. No other city in the Czech Republic — and very few cities in Europe — has been so fundamentally shaped by the vision of one person and one company. Tomáš Baťa and his shoe enterprise transformed an insignificant Moravian town into a modern industrial metropolis with global ambitions in the first half of the 20th century. Today, Zlín is a fascinating destination for lovers of architecture, design and modern history. From Luhačovice, it’s just 25 km, approximately 25 minutes’ drive.

Baťa Architecture — Functionalist Unique

Baťa’s factory and adjacent residential districts represent one of the most complete ensembles of functionalist architecture in the world. The basic building module is the typical Baťa construction system — a reinforced concrete frame with brick infill of standardised dimensions 6.15 x 6.15 metres. This module was used to build factory buildings, schools, shops, cinemas and residential houses — the entire city is thus permeated by a unified architectural language that still appears surprisingly modern today.

A walk through the Baťa complex is like a journey through the history of industrial design. Brick buildings with large windows, regular street grids and thoughtful urban composition testify that Baťa thought not only about production but about the overall quality of life for his employees.

Baťa Skyscraper — Building 21

The dominant feature of Zlín is the famous Baťa Skyscraper, officially designated as building 21. At 77.5 metres high with seventeen above-ground floors, it was one of Europe’s tallest buildings when completed in 1938. The building served as the administrative centre of Baťa’s enterprise, and its most famous feature is the mobile office — an elevator cabin the size of an office, in which the company director travelled between floors and could thus be in contact with all departments.

Today, the Zlín Regional Authority is housed in the skyscraper, and an exhibition is accessible on the ground floor. The view from the upper floors over Zlín and surrounding hills is worth a visit.

Tomáš Baťa Memorial

The Tomáš Baťa Memorial is a multifunctional building designed by architect Vladimír Karfík in 1933 as a community house for Baťa enterprise employees. The monumental functionalist building became a symbol of the cultural ambitions of Baťa’s Zlín. Today it serves as a concert and conference hall — philharmonic concerts in its spaces have exceptional acoustics and atmosphere.

Zlín Film Hub

Zlín’s film tradition dates to the 1930s when film studios were established within Baťa’s enterprise. Zlín gradually became a centre of animated and children’s films, and this tradition continues today. The Film Hub offers an exhibition dedicated to the history of Zlín cinema, from Baťa factory promotional films through legendary animated films to contemporary works. For film enthusiasts, it’s a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere in Czechia.

Practical tip: Allow at least half a day for touring Zlín. Start at the skyscraper, walk through the factory complex, visit the Tomáš Baťa Memorial, and finish your walk in one of the cafés on Tomáš Baťa Avenue. Zlín also has a pleasant shopping centre and several good restaurants.

Zoo Zlín-Lešná — Journey Around the World in One Day

Zoo Zlín-Lešná ranks among the most visited and best-rated zoological gardens in the Czech Republic. It’s located in the grounds of the former château park of the Seilern family on the outskirts of Zlín, approximately 20 km from Luhačovice (about 20 minutes’ drive). Over half a million visitors come here annually, and it repeatedly ranks at the top in evaluations of Czech and European zoos.

The unique concept of Zoo Zlín lies in organising exhibitions by continents. During their walk through the grounds, visitors move from Africa to Asia, from South America to Australia — each zone is designed to simulate the animals’ natural environment as faithfully as possible. Part of the zoo is the château park with valuable trees, water areas and extensive forest sections that create a pleasant environment for a full-day walk.

Main attractions include the African elephant exhibit, gorilla pavilion, big cat enclosures, tropical pavilion with free-flying birds, and contact farm for the youngest visitors. The zoo regularly organises commented animal feeding, night tours in summer season, and themed weekends.

Practical tip: Allow a full day for visiting Zoo Lešná — the grounds are extensive and the offerings rich. In peak season (June-August), we recommend arriving early in the morning when animals are most active and parking spaces are still available. There are several refreshment stands and restaurants in the grounds.

Suitable for: Ideal for families with children of all ages. But adults without children will also enjoy a great day here — the beauty of the château park and quality of exhibitions will please everyone.

Baťa Canal — Boat Journey Through Moravian Countryside

Baťa Canal is a unique waterway on the River Morava that represents one of the most unusual tourist experiences in the entire Zlín Region. The approximately 50-kilometre canal was originally built in the 1930s to transport brown coal from mines near Ratíškovice to Baťa’s factories in Zlín. Today it serves exclusively recreational purposes and is a popular destination for boaters, cyclists and tourists.

From May to September, Baťa Canal offers several ways to enjoy a cruise. You can take a group recreational cruise with guide and gastronomic programme, rent your own motorboat (no licence required to operate), or set off on paddleboard or kayak. The cruise leads through peaceful South Moravian countryside — past meadows, forests and small villages. Along the way, you can stop at harbours where you’ll find refreshments, bike rentals and other services.

Main harbours are in the villages of Spytihněv, Staré Město, Veselí nad Moravou, Vnorovy, Strážnice and Skalica (on the Slovak side). The nearest starting point from Luhačovice is Staré Město near Uherské Hradiště, approximately 35 km away (about 30 minutes’ drive).

The cycle path along the canal is ideal for flat and comfortable cycling — the route is practically without elevation and leads through beautiful river countryside. You can combine a cruise in one direction with cycling back — some rental companies offer this option.

Suitable for: Couples seeking a romantic experience, families with children, groups of friends. A cruise on Baťa Canal is ideal for a warm summer day.

Gastronomic Experiences — Slivovitz, Wine and Moravian Hospitality

The Zlín Region is a region where gastronomy has become part of cultural identity. From world-famous slivovitz through excellent Moravian wines to authentic countryside cuisine — gastronomic trips from Luhačovice rank among the most pleasant experiences you’ll take away from Moravia. We cover the gastronomy of Luhačovice and surroundings in more detail in a separate article on gastronomy.

Rudolf Jelínek Vizovice — Mecca of Fruit Brandies (15 km, approx. 15 min)

Just fifteen minutes’ drive from Luhačovice lies Vizovice, home to the legendary Rudolf Jelínek distillery — the largest producer of fruit brandies in the Czech Republic and one of the most renowned in all of Europe. The company with tradition dating to the 19th century is synonymous with quality Czech slivovitz.

The visitor centre in Vizovice offers factory tours where you’ll see the entire brandy-making process — from fruit processing through distillation in copper stills to aging in oak barrels. Included is a small museum full of fragrant herbs and old advertisements, modern halls with tanks full of slivovitz, bottling line and warehouses where Gold Cock whisky ages in barrels. The tour lasts approximately 80 to 100 minutes and concludes with tasting of selected brandies.

In the company shop, you can purchase bottles directly from production — slivovitz or other fruit brandy from Jelínek is the most authentic souvenir from Moravia.

Practical tip: Tours run year-round; for groups over 15 people, reservation at least 14 days in advance is required. If driving, arrange for a driver who won’t be tasting.

Wine Cellars in Slovácko — Where Moravian Wine is Born (25-40 km)

The southwestern part of Zlín Region — the Slovácko area — ranks among the most significant wine regions in the Czech Republic. Wine cellars in villages like Bílovice, Boršice, Polešovice or Ostrožská Nová Ves preserve centuries-old traditions of viticulture and winemaking. Many of these cellars are family enterprises where you’ll meet the winemaker directly and taste wines that never reach regular shops.

Guided tastings in Moravian wine cellars are an experience that combines gastronomy with culture and hospitality. A typical tasting includes sampling six to twelve wines, accompanied by explanation of individual varieties and production methods. Wine is usually served with homemade bread, cheese and other Moravian delicacies. The atmosphere in a vaulted cellar by candlelight is unforgettable.

Among the most typical regional varieties are Riesling, Pálava, Pinot Blanc and Gris, Traminer and Blaufränkisch. In September and October, burčák is added to the selection — partially fermented grape must that’s literally a cultural event in Moravia.

Ostrožská Nová Ves — Folklore and Gastronomy (30 km, approx. 25 min)

The village of Ostrožská Nová Ves in Slovácko is an example of a place where gastronomy intertwines with folklore. Local wine cellars, traditional cuisine and living folk traditions create an authentic experience that isn’t staged for tourists but stems from the natural hospitality of Moravian countryside. During celebrations and harvest festivals, cellars open here, cimbalom music plays and tables groan under traditional dishes — sausages, lokše flatbreads, pastries and of course wine.

More about the folk traditions of the region can be found in our detailed article.

Svatý Hostýn — Pilgrimage Site with Views Across All of Moravia

Svatý Hostýn is Moravia’s most visited pilgrimage site and one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations in all of the Czech Republic. This spiritual centre atop the hill of the same name in the Hostýn Hills attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually. From Luhačovice, it’s approximately 45 km, about 45 minutes’ drive.

Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

Atop Svatý Hostýn at an altitude of 735 metres stands the Basilica minor of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary — a monumental church that has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. According to legend, it was precisely here that the Virgin Mary helped Moravian inhabitants repel a Tatar invasion in the 13th century. The current appearance of the basilica dates from reconstruction at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, and its interior is decorated with valuable stained glass and murals.

The basilica received the title Basilica minor from Pope Benedict XVI in 2006, placing it among the most significant religious buildings in the Czech Republic. The complex atop Hostýn includes, besides the basilica, also the Way of the Cross, chapel, water spring and several other spiritual sites.

Lookout Tower and Views

Beside the basilica stands a lookout tower, from which panoramic views open across much of Moravia in clear weather — from the Chřiby and Vizovice Hills through Haná to the Jeseníky and Beskydy mountains. It’s one of the most beautiful views in the entire Zlín Region and the reason why Svatý Hostýn attracts even those who aren’t seeking spiritual experience but simply want to see Moravia from above.

How to Get to Svatý Hostýn

You can reach Svatý Hostýn by car (parking below the summit, then about 20 minutes on foot uphill) or on foot via one of many marked hiking trails leading from surrounding villages. Popular is the ascent from Bystřice pod Hostýnem (about 5 km, 1.5 hours). Refreshments and restaurant are available at the summit.

Suitable for: Everyone — believers and non-believers, tourists and families with children. The combination of spiritual site, magnificent views and pleasant forest hike makes Svatý Hostýn a universal trip destination.

Practical Tips for Day-Trippers — How to Plan Your Days from Luhačovice

Luhačovice is an ideal base for exploring the entire Zlín Region. Thanks to its central location, you can comfortably reach all the trip destinations we’ve described. Here’s an overview of distances and recommendations on how to plan your trips.

Distance Overview from Luhačovice

• R. Jelínek Vizovice — 15 km / 15 min (nearest trip destination, ideal for afternoon)
• Zoo Zlín-Lešná — 20 km / 20 min (full-day programme)
• Zlín centre — 25 km / 25 min (half-day to full-day)
• Malenovice Castle — 25 km / 25 min (2-3 hours)
• Ostrožská Nová Ves — 30 km / 25 min (half-day)
• Velká Javořina — 30 km + hike / 35 min (full-day)
• Baťa Canal (Staré Město) — 35 km / 30 min (full-day)
• Archeoskanzen Modrá — 35 km / 30 min (half-day)
• Buchlovice Château — 38 km / 35 min (3-4 hours)
• Buchlov Castle — 40 km / 40 min (full-day with Buchlovice)
• Pulčín Rocks — 45 km / 45 min (half-day)
• Svatý Hostýn — 45 km / 45 min (half-day to full-day)
• Archbishop’s Château Kroměříž — 55 km / 50 min (full-day)
• Skanzen Rožnov pod Radhoštěm — 65 km / 55 min (full-day)

Recommended Trip Combinations

Full-day trip for families with children: Zoo Zlín-Lešná + short walk through Zlín centre. Alternatively: Skanzen Rožnov pod Radhoštěm (in season with folk programme) or Archeoskanzen Modrá with interactive craft workshops.

Romantic day for couples: Morning at Buchlovice château with gardens, afternoon walk to Buchlov castle through forest, evening wine tasting in a Moravian cellar. Alternatively: Cruise on Baťa Canal with gastronomic programme.

Cultural-historical trip: Archbishop’s château Kroměříž (UNESCO) — full day with picture gallery, Flower Garden and Castle Garden. Or: Zlín (Baťa architecture, skyscraper, Film Hub) + Malenovice castle.

Active day in nature: Ascent to Velká Javořina from Strání village. Alternatively: Hike to Svatý Hostýn from B