Car Hire Pardubice — Unlock the Heart of East Bohemia
Pardubice might be famous for its gingerbread and the grueling Velká pardubická steeplechase, but there’s a lot more to this city than sweet treats and horse racing. Sitting comfortably in the Elbe lowlands, it serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the quieter, underrated side of the Czech Republic. While the city centre is walkable and charming, the real magic of East Bohemia lies just beyond the city limits—hidden castles, rolling hills, and peaceful river valleys that the trains often miss. Renting a car here isn’t just about convenience; it’s about having the freedom to explore the region’s rich history and natural beauty without constantly checking a timetable.
What makes Pardubice special is its strategic location. You’re only an hour or so from Prague, yet it feels a world away from the capital’s tourist crowds. With your own vehicle, you can easily zigzag between the flat, cycling-friendly plains of Polabí and the more rugged terrain of the Iron Mountains (Železné hory). It’s a region defined by grand architecture and small-town charm, where you can spend the morning exploring a UNESCO-listed castle and the afternoon hiking through a nature reserve. Having a car allows you to experience the authentic rhythm of local life, stopping at roadside stands for fresh produce or detouring to a village pub for a proper Czech lunch.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Pardubice
Most visitors touch down at Pardubice Airport (PED), a small but efficient hub located just a few kilometres from the city centre. Because the airport is compact, picking up your rental car is usually a painless process. You won’t find the endless queues common in capital cities here; the desks are easy to spot, and the staff are generally helpful. It’s worth noting that while major brands are represented, availability can be tighter during peak seasons or when the airshow is in town, so booking ahead is always a smart move. If you’re arriving by train, most rental agencies have offices in the city centre or near the main railway station, making it easy to transition from rail to road.
Before you drive off, make sure you have your paperwork in order. You’ll need a valid driving licence (an International Driving Permit is recommended if your licence isn’t in the Roman alphabet) and a credit card in the main driver’s name. It’s always a good idea to do a quick walk-around of the vehicle with an agent to note any existing scratches or dents—smartphone photos are your best friend here. Also, double-check the fuel policy. Most rentals in the Czech Republic operate on a full-to-full basis, so you’ll want to locate the nearest petrol station to the airport before you return the car to avoid those hefty refuelling surcharges.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car in Pardubice
Once you have the keys, the options are wide open. A short 15-minute drive north will take you to Kunětická Hora Castle. Perched on a volcanic hill, this white castle looks like something out of a fairytale. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding flatlands and is a fantastic picnic spot. The drive itself is scenic, winding through small villages and farmland, giving you a taste of the local countryside.
For a slightly longer trip, drive about 40 minutes southeast to Litomyšl. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Central Europe. The town itself is incredibly picturesque, with a long square lined with colourful burgher houses. It’s a perfect half-day trip that combines history with a relaxing stroll. Parking is usually available just off the main square, making access easy.
If you prefer nature over architecture, head towards the Iron Mountains (Železné hory). It’s a protected landscape area with deep forests, rocky gorges, and clear streams. The drive takes you through winding roads that are a joy to handle, especially if you’ve rented something with a bit of power. It’s a great way to escape the summer heat and enjoy some peace and quiet. Finally, if you’re up for a longer drive, the stunning Adršpach-Teplice Rocks are about an hour and a half away. These massive sandstone rock formations are a hiker’s paradise and a must-see if you have a full day to spare.
Tips for Driving in Czech Republic
Driving in the Czech Republic is generally a pleasant experience, but there are a few rules to keep in mind. First, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are strictly enforced: 50 km/h in built-up areas (often dropping to 30 km/h in residential zones), 90 km/h outside towns, and 130 km/h on highways. Be aware that speed cameras are common, and the police are known to set up mobile traps, so stick to the limits.
One of the most important things to remember is the electronic vignette for highways. If you plan to use the D1 or other major motorways, you must purchase a vignette online before you hit the road. You can buy one for 10 days, a month, or a year, and it’s linked to your licence plate. Driving on a highway without one can result in a hefty fine. Also, keep your headlights on at all times, even during the day—it’s mandatory. Lastly, the Czech Republic has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Even a small amount of alcohol can land you in serious trouble, so it’s best to stick to the famous local mineral water or non-alcoholic beer if you’re behind the wheel.
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