České Budějovice

České Budějovice, the capital of South Bohemia, sits at the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers. The city's heart is Přemysl Otakar II Square, one of Europe's largest town squares, where you can admire the baroque town hall and Samson's Fountain. Climb the Black Tower for panoramic views, or take a tour of the Budweiser Budvar Brewery to learn about the city's brewing tradition. As you walk through the streets, you'll see well-preserved Renaissance and Baroque buildings. České Budějovice also serves as a convenient base for exploring other South Bohemian sites, such as the medieval town of Český Krumlov.

Exploring Přemysl Otakar II Square

Přemysl Otakar II Square forms the center of České Budějovice, measuring 133 meters on each side. Renaissance and Baroque facades of arcaded houses line the square. In the middle stands Samson's Fountain, a large Baroque structure built in the early 18th century. The square's most prominent building is the Baroque town hall, with its ornate facade and clock tower. You can relax on benches around the fountain or at cafe tables along the square's edges, watching the daily life of the city unfold.

Climbing the Black Tower

For a view over České Budějovice, climb the Black Tower next to St. Nicholas Cathedral. This 16th-century tower rises 72 meters and requires climbing 225 steps to reach the top. From there, you'll see the city's red rooftops, the Vltava River, and the South Bohemian landscape stretching into the distance. The tower houses several large bells, including the Bumerin, which weighs 3,500 kg.

Visiting the Budweiser Budvar Brewery

Beer production plays a crucial role in České Budějovice's identity. The Budweiser Budvar Brewery, established in 1895, produces the original Budweiser beer (distinct from the American brand). Take a tour of the brewery to learn about the beer-making process and taste unfiltered beer directly from the lagering tanks. After the tour, you can sample more beers at the brewery's restaurant or at Masné krámy, a historic beer hall in the city center that serves fresh Budvar.

Walking Through the Old Town

The Old Town of České Budějovice has many small streets and courtyards to explore beyond the main square. On Piaristické náměstí, you'll find the Church of the Sacrifice of the Virgin Mary and the Salt House, a Renaissance building once used for salt storage. Česká Street has well-preserved burgher houses with Gothic and Renaissance elements. Near the meeting point of the Vltava and Malše rivers, you can see the Iron Maiden Tower, a remnant of the city's old fortifications.

Trying South Bohemian Food

České Budějovice gives you many opportunities to taste local Czech dishes. Try svíčková, roast beef in cream sauce served with dumplings, or kulajda, a potato soup with mushrooms and dill. For dessert, look for jihočeské koláče, pastries filled with poppy seeds, quark, or fruit. Many Old Town restaurants serve these dishes alongside Budvar beer. For a unique dining experience, visit Masné krámy, a former meat market transformed into a beer hall serving traditional Czech food.

Taking Day Trips from České Budějovice

České Budějovice's location in South Bohemia makes it convenient for visiting other places in the region. Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a 30-minute drive away and boasts a large castle and medieval old town. Closer to České Budějovice is Hluboká Castle, a Neo-Gothic chateau reminiscent of Windsor Castle in England. For nature enthusiasts, Šumava National Park is about an hour's drive away, offering hiking trails and opportunities to observe wildlife in one of the Czech Republic's largest protected areas.