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Discover South Bohemia – A Weekend Trip from Prague

Russell

Last updated: 15 July 2023

If you’re planning a visit to the Czech Republic then I’m sure that you have a few days in Prague put aside to explore the capital city, one of the most photogenic cities in all of Europe. The historic Charles Bridge, fascinating Prague Castle, and the magnificent St Vitus Cathedral are all spectacular. But, the Czech Republic is more than just one incredible city, so why not make the most of your holiday and plan some weekend trips from Prague to experience the magic of the Czech Republic?!

I recently spent some time exploring the South Bohemia region located in the south of the Czech Republic and it opened my eyes to some honestly beautiful areas of the country that I wasn’t even aware of, and since returning I’ve been telling everyone (well, anyone who will listen) about beauty of the South Bohemia region, which is located just a mere 2 hours from Prague.

So, I COULD write thousands of words to describe just how much I enjoyed exploring South Bohemia but I think I would rather SHOW you. In no particular order, here’s some of my favourite places to visit on a weekend trip from Prague, all in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. 



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České Budějovice

Standing in České Budějovice’s main square, the Square of Přemysl Otakar II, right next to the magnificent Samson’s Fountain, and quietly admiring the beautiful colourful buildings which surrounded the relatively empty square (especially compared to Prague) was one of the highlights of my visit.

Roma and I have been fortunate to have visited various Old Towns and Market Squares across Europe and the one in České Budějovice would have to be one of my absolute favourites. It has everything that you’d expect from an Old Market Square but without the crowds of people.

All of the benefits and none of the downsides.

Isn’t this just magnificent? Samson’s Fountain, České Budějovice

 

The quintessential Old Market Square but without the crowds of tourists

 

Couldn’t you just take a seat and enjoy this view for hours?

 

Explore the Old Town during twilight when the night sky is perfect

If you loved some of these photos then be sure to have a read of our other post 24 hours in Ceske Budejovice to see even more PLUS discover the best places to explore, eat at, and sleep in during your visit.

Hluboká Castle

Did you know that hidden away in the town of Hluboká is one of the most beautiful and picturesque castles, not only in the Czech Republic, but in all of Europe?

Standing in front of Hluboká Castle and taking in the view is about as close as you can get to stepping into a fairytale and visiting the home of a Disney Princess. As I stood there with my phone in hand deciding how to best capture the castle’s splendour, I half expected to see Rupunzel open her window and let her blonde hair cascade towards the ground.

Seriously, how beautiful is Hluboká Castle??

I was surprised to find out that Hluboká Castle is one of the most popular monuments in the Czech Republic, perhaps amongst locals. I guess this is because all of the overseas visitors spend the majority of their time in Prague. If this magnificient castle doesn’t inspire you to visit the town of Hluboká on a weekend trip from Prague then I don’t know what will.

It’s worthwhile standing at the entrance to the castle to admire the view

 

Don’t forget to look up when exploring the courtyard of the castle

 

There are endless photo opportunities at Hluboká Castle

Cruising the Vltava River

Located next to Hluboká Castle is the Vltava River where you can board a river cruise and take in some of these views

If you time your cruise right then you’ll get the afternoon and evening sun

 

And reflections aplenty!

Welcome to Mitrowicz Castle

If you’re starting to believe that the Czech Republic is basically a real life Disney film then the below photo won’t dissuade you… welcome to Mitrowicz Castle.

The restored manor house is a popular location for weddings, and why wouldn’t it, it looks like a real-life fairytale! And there’s even a custom-built wedding chapel onsite too!

I’ll forgive you if you think Cinderella live heres…I thought so too

Holašovice

Ever wonder what traditional Czech architecture looks like?

Well, you can visit Holašovice, a world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk the historic streets and admire the traditional Czech architecture. Plus you can take photos of these really interesting wooden sculptures which I just loved.

Wooden sculptures in Holašovice

 

There are photo opportunities everywhere you look in Holašovice

Horní Chrášťany Ecofarm

Svíčková is one of the most popular traditional Czech dishes we had during our visit. Steak prepared with root vegetables mixed with double cream and served with bread dumplings and cranberry sauce. Yum!

It is delicious. Absolutely delicious. However, it is a hearty meal, actually it is a VERY hearty meal! There is no need for a starter and no chance for dessert. You have been forewarned.

I hope you’re ready for a hearty and delicious meal when you order Svíčková 💕

If you visit Horní Chrášťany Ecofarm during your visit to South Bohemia then you won’t only get a wonderful traditional Czech meal but you’ll also get the opportunity to take photos of a ridiculously cute dog 💕

He’s just so pretty…and photogenic

Český Krumlov

Did you know that Český Krumlov is the second most popular city in the Czech Republic after Prague? Located just 2 hours from Prague, it’s perfect for a weekend trip from the capital for both locals and visitors alike. After spending a little time there it’s easy to see why, it is like taking a walk through time. It’s absolutely beautiful.

There’s little wonder why Český Krumlov is so popular…

As you walk up to the castle you will come to a viewing plaform for the bears in the moat. And yes, whilst the bears are indeed awesome, don’t forget to look up…

Doesn’t this look like a painted backdrop for a movie?

 

Take a walk towards the castle for this remarkable view

Once you reach the top of the castle you will find a viewing platform, actually several places to take photos. It will likely be crowded but give it a couple of minutes and the groups will disperse and you will soon have a place to setup and take photos, just like this one.

One of my favourite shots from Český Krumlov

Lipno Treetop Walkway

The Treetop Walkway in Lipno is a real unique experience because it gives you the opportunity to experience the forest from various perspectives – from the ground, from amongst the trees, and the finally from the skies.

The Lipno Treetrop Walkway provides a view like none other

 

This is the view as you scooter your way from the sky to the ground

Svachovka Brewery & Distillery

What better way to wind up your visit to the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic than by stopping by local brewery and distillery, Svachovka.

Ask for a tour and learn about the beer brewing process and of course a tasty sample  🍻

Go behind the scenes and learn how the beer is brewed

 

If you visit Svachovka then don’t miss out on their selection of fruit liqueurs

One of the highlights of Svachovka was visiting their distillery and learning that their first batch of whiskey will soon be available, it’s currently near the end of the ageing process (in late 2018) which means that you should be in for a treat when you visit.

However, if whiskey isn’t your thing then there is some delicious fruit liqueurs which are available…and definitely worth tasting.

Skip Prague, make South Bohemia Your Next Czech Destination

Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far then I hope you’ve enjoyed just some of the photos captured during my visit to South Bohemia, it really is a fascinating part of the Czech Republic and it’s definitely worth visiting and spending some time during your holiday to the Czech Republic.

Prague remains one of the most popular cities in the world and it’s easy to see why but don’t forget that the Czech Republic is a big and beautiful country with some glorious places just waiting to be visited during your trip to Prague, most are easily accesible on a weekend trip from Prague.

Avatar for Russell

    Born and raised in Sydney Australia and currently based in London, I absolutely love exploring the UK and Europe at every opportunity. It still thrills me that all it takes is an hour flight to be in a new country with a completely different history, language, food, and culture that is just waiting to be experienced. We started our blog, Roaming Required, as a way to keep in contact with family and friends, and over the last 10 years, the blog has grown and evolved and it remains a real passion project. We've travelled a lot in the 10 years living in London and there's still plenty more to experience. So, why not join us for the adventure and come roam with us!

    Some of the links used on Roaming Required are affiliate links, which means that if you click on them and make a purchase then may earn a small commission, at absolutely no additional cost to you. This helps keep the lights on at Roaming Required HQ and the content being created. We sincerely thank you for your support.

    Comments (3)

    1. How glorious. I have pinned this for later. We are planning another European getaway next year which will include Prague, so this post was a great help. Thanks for showing us some other places to explore out of Prague. 🙂

    2. That was really great, pictures say a thousand words. Very entertaining Russell, I do feel the passion in the descriptions of your photos and gives the viewer a feeling of being in the photos with you.

    3. You become a idol for me and change my the way of thinking. Really amazing, thanks

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