Last updated: 15 July 2023
Are you planning a visit to the Czech Republic soon? If so, I’m sure you have a few days in Prague planned but our suggestion is to make sure you leave a couple of days in your itinerary to go explore some lesser visited places in the Czech Republic, such as the incredibly beautiful Ceske Budejovice. There’s definitely more to Czechia than just Prague so taking the time to get out of the capital and explore other towns and cities is definitely an awesome decision! Plus there’s the added benefit of leaving all the crowds behind you in Prague!
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Where is Ceske Budejovice?
Ceske Budejovice is the capital of the South Bohemia region. Just 2 hours from Prague, it’s located in the south of Czechia, and has been considered an important seat of power and influence in the years after its founding in 1265.
How Do I Get There?
The good news is that if you’re planning a visit to Ceske Budejovice from Prague then it’s a direct Regiojet bus from the Prague Na Knížecí and will take approx 2 hours. This is exactly what I did during my trip to Ceske Budejovice and it was a really straightforward journey. Buses re equipped with in seat power, great for charging all your devices, and also a small entertainment screen in the seat back with free movies and TV shows.
One point to keep in mind, the bus seats are a little snug and if you’re a larger passenger then you’re likely to bump up against your seatmate so I’d recommend booking an aisle seat for a little extra space. And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want some extra room?
What To See in Ceske Budejovice?
Once you arrive in Ceske Budejovice, it’s time to get your sightseeing underway…but what should you go see first? And where are the Must See places?! Great questions, here’s my recommendations.
Přemysl Otakar II Square
I don’t want to overstate it BUT Přemysl Otakar II Square, named for the Czech King who founded the city over 750 years ago, could quite possibly be one of the most beautiful old market squares I’ve ever seen!
Dotted around the perimeter of the almost-a-perfect square (133m by 137m) are 48 historical buildings, including the 3-spired Town Hall. Not only is it incredibly serene and beautiful, I was also struck by how few people were out and about enjoying the open space. I visited in August so well within the peak summer period and fortunately I didn’t need to contend with the crowds to take photos, unlike standing on Charles Bridge in Prague. It was pure bliss.
Located in the centre of the market square is the beautiful Samson’s Fountain, a baroque-styled fountain built between 1721-1726 by Zachariáš Horn and the biblical sculptures were created by Josef Dietrich.
One of my favourite parts of my visit to Ceske Budejovice was taking my time and photographing the fountain – from as many angles as possible and with the different light from the afternoon sun. This still remains one of my fondest memories.
I have no doubt in my mind at all that I will return to Ceske Budejovice one day and spend the afternoon sitting on one of the benches situated around the Samson’s Fountain and just watch the world go by.
Russell’s Recommendation: When visiting Samson’s Fountain, make sure you go find the Erratic Boulder, the location of a former scaffold used for executions in the market Square!
The Erratic Boulder is a stone block in the footpath (which doesn’t look like the other stones) and is located not far from the fountain. Legend says that if you cross this boulder after 10pm then you’ll never find your way home and forced to wander the streets until morning. I guess that explains why I had such a late night during my visit….
I only found out about this stone once I left Ceske Budejovice so make sure you check it out!
The Black Tower
There is no missing the Black Tower, a city symbol of Ceske Budejovice and the best place to take panoramic views of the city (after climbing the 225 steps, of course). The 16th century tower was completed in 1577 and served as a watchtower, part of the town’s fortifications would have encircled the town, allowing entry and exit from 3 city gates.
The Old Town
Once you’ve finished enjoying (and photographing) Přemysl Otakar II Square, Samson’s Fountain, and the Black Tower, then I’d recommend taking a stroll through the rest of the Old Town and the surrounding areas. Simply pick a direction and start walking because no matter which direction you choose you’re going to experience something unique.
The Dominican Monastery
If you’re looking for a little more direction then I recommend taking a walk down Piaristicka until reach the enormous Dominican Monastery with Church of the Sacred Virgin Mary. If you’re interested in visiting historic churches and walking in the footsteps of those who came before you then you’ll be in heaven (pardon the pun).
However, if historic buildings aren’t your thing then you might find the sculptures which surround the church a little more interesting. I decided to visit early evening when the dusk sky just added a unique perspective to the overall experience.
Budweiser Brewery Tour
All this sightseeing can be thirsty work so why not head to the Budweiser Budvar Brewery for a deliciously refreshing tour.
Like beer? Did you know that Budweiser beer originated from from Ceske Budejovice? Don’t believe me? Well, it’s interesting to note that the German name for Ceske Budejovice was Budweis, sound familiar? Budějovický Budvar Brewery has been in operation since 1895
During a visit on the Budweiser Brewery Tour, you’ll learn all about the beer brewing process and visit the different sections of the brewery including the most refreshing part; the cellars for a sample of the good stuff!
Russell’s Recommendation: Don’t visit on a Sunday because bottling operation doesn’t run so all you’ll see is an empty factory. Also, make sure to arrive with enough time to finish the tour before 5pm when the visitor centre closes. Groups of 5 or more can have on demand tour but less than 5 visitors will need to join one of the two daily tours.
Where To Eat?
There are some excellent places to grab some lunch during your 24 hours in Ceske Budejovice and here are a couple of places I dined at during my visit;
Hotel a restaurace Klika
Located right by the river and only 3 min walk from the centre of the Old Town, Klika is a family-run restaurant which serves traditional fresh and filling hearty meals in an open and welcoming environment.
I opted for an appetiser of grilled slices of fresh farm cheese and tomatoes with basil pesto baguette (139 Kc = £4.75) and it was delicious!
And for my main mean I selected one of the most traditional and popular Czech dishes, Svíčková (185Kc = £6.30), a very hearty meal consisting of steak and vegetables in double cream and served with bread dumplings and cranberry sauce.
This meal was fantastic! Easily one of the best meals I had during my entire stay in Czechia. Absolutely recommended!
Masne Kramy
Masne Kramy restaurant is located in the heart of the Old Town, it’s present building dates back to second half of the 16th century in area known to the heart of the meat and butchering district. It is this rich history which influences all aspects of the Masne Kramy’s look, feel, and food.
The menu is large with plenty of choices available and of course there is fresh beer on tap drawn exclusively from the Budweiser Budvar Brewery. I opted for the chicken pieces with creamy bacon, mushrooms and onions, served with Basmati rice (199 Kc = £6.80). It was a perfect choice!
Where to Stay?
There are a few different hotel options available depending on your budget but the one I stayed at was Hotel Budweis, a 4 star hotel located a short 5 min walk to the centre of the Old Town. It was clean, modern, comfortable, and my favourite part was that it’s a converted 14th century mill!
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a visit to the Czech Republic and want to see more than just Prague then a visit to Ceske Budejovice is the perfect place to explore! A short 2 hour bus ride which provide you with a remarkably beautiful Czech town with historic buildings, wonderful architecture, and delicious food and beer!
If you’re looking for even more places to visit in the Czech Republic then check out our other post on some incredible places in the South Bohemia region. You won’t regret it.
Do. Not. Miss. Out.
