Colours of Ostrava: a festival in an old ironworks

Colours of Ostrava is a multi-genre music festival held among the blast furnaces of Dolní Vítkovice, a former industrial complex in Ostrava. Its industrial scenery, varied line-up and talks programme make it one of the most original festivals in Central Europe.

Fun facts

• The festival was first held in 2002.
• It moved to the Dolní Vítkovice industrial area in 2012.
• Alongside concerts it runs Meltingpot, a programme of talks and debates.

What to see

• The blast furnaces and Bolt Tower in Dolní Vítkovice.
• The Gong, a former gas tank turned into a concert hall.
• Stodolní Street, Ostrava's lively nightlife street.

What to taste

• Czech beer from the local Ostravar brewery.
• Svíčková, beef in a creamy vegetable sauce.
• Langoš, fried dough with garlic and cheese.

What to do

• Climb Bolt Tower on top of a blast furnace for views over the city.
• Visit the Landek Park mining museum.
• Take a trip to the Beskydy mountains nearby.

💡 Tip: Buses link Ostrava Airport with the city, and from Katowice Airport you can travel on by bus or train to Ostrava; trams go to Dolní Vítkovice. Book tickets and accommodation early, as the city fills up during the festival.