České Budějovice is the largest city in the south Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, though I never had the feeling that I was in a big city while visiting. The city itself also boasts one of the largest squares in Europe surrounded by brightly painted houses, giving it all a very picturesque and fairytale feel.
If you only have one day to spend in this city, these are my top picks of things to see and do, before you move on to your next adventure in Český Krumlov.
Wander Around Přemsyl Otakar II Square
In the heart of České Budějovice’s old town lies the main square. Named after the cities founder, King Přemsyl Otakar II, you can wander around visiting shops or eating at one of the cafes sheltered by the covered walkways of the surrounding buildings.
The main building seen in the square is the town hall. Originally built in 1387, it has been rebuilt multiple times with the latest being 1730.
The centerpiece of this major pedestrian square is the Samson fountain. This fountain is the tallest fountain in the country and is beautifully illuminated at night. Surrounded by benches you can sit for hours enjoying the subtle beauty of the square and mingle with locals who come to the square from the city’s interior.
Climb up Black Tower
For a different perspective, climb up Black tower and you get an iconic view of the square and surrounding area. Once a belfry and a watchtower, dating back to 1577, it stands at 72 meters high. Depending on the time of year it may be closed, so make sure to check before heading there.
Enjoy a local festival
When I arrived in České Budějovice it was smack in the middle of a festival. There were medieval games and displays, people were dressed in medieval style clothing, and the local stands sold fresh, unpasteurized, unfiltered Budvar beer.
It is like stepping back in time and is a fun way to spend the day.
Eat the local food
Czech food is pretty amazing, if you like garlic and meat. Just outside of the square is a small restaurant serving pork knee (vepřové koleno) with a little flag in it telling you how many they sold that day. Along with fresh beer or a really nice wine, it’s one hearty meal.
Also, on the square you can get a garlic soup in a bread bowl. Perfect on a cold or rainy day. And after every meal follow it up with a shot of becherovka, an herbal infused liquor that is said to aid in digestion. If the waiter or waitress asks if you would like a shot, do it. I think it has a really nice taste, strong, but nice.
Heading outside the square make sure to check out Masne Kramy, a former meat market, for dinner. It is one of the most popular and well-known restaurants in the area. You will find plenty of locals there enjoying a beer and one of their intoxicating dishes.
Wander České Budějovice’s Old Town
With cobblestoned streets, small churches and little nooks and crannies to explore, you can spend the entire day just wanted the old town. Discover great food, beautiful churches and little hidden shops.
Take in a hockey game
Czechs like hockey as much as us Canadians do, though I would almost argue that they are crazier about the sport. They have their own team in the Czech Extraliga, the highest-level hockey league in the Czech Republic.
Grab a beer and a Czech sausage and be ready to be swept away with the enthusiasm of the crowd. The teams have a live band playing, riling up the crowd. It’s loud, it’s wild, and it is so much fun. The crowd is definitely passionate about their team and the sport and it spills over and is absolutely infectious.
Other sites in České Budějovice
There are lots of other things you can do in České Budějovice. This is definitely not an exhaustive list but I think the city gets overlooked by the more popular cities and nearby towns, such as Český Krumlov, Prague and Plzeň. But it’s definitely worth checking out and at the very least spending the day. For more ideas check out these suggestions by Travlinmad.
