Jindřichův Hradec is a town in South Bohemia, which is a real treasure Czech Canada. It is best known for its huge castle complex, one of the largest in the Czech Republic.. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re returning, we have 23 tips on what to do and see in Jindřichův Hradec + tips on cafes and restaurants.

Where to stay in Jindřichův Hradec

If you are lucky and it is free, you can try to book a very nice guesthouse at a nice price – Pension JH . It has very tasteful facilities, the rooms are clean and the staff attentive. The only thing we personally don’t like is that you have to pay cash. But it’s survivable. ☺️

Jindřichův Hradec Castle: history

Jindřichův Hradec and its castle, which has grown over the centuries to an area of three and a half hectares, is a place where you can breathe history. This majestic complex was built on the remains of an old Slavic hillfort, whose existence has been documented as early as 10. century.

The construction of the medieval castle, first mentioned in historical records in 1220 under the name “Novum castrum” (New Castle), is associated with the name of Henry Vítkovec. He is considered the founder of the independent Vítkov line of the Lords of Hradec, who used a coat of arms with a golden rose in a blue field. At that time, the round Black Tower and the adjacent palace were built and the wall system was strengthened.

Over the years, the castle has been home to many important families, such as the Vítkovs, the Slavs of Chlum and Košumberk and the Czernins of Chudenice. Each of them brought something unique to the development of the site, whether it was significant building alterations or political and cultural influences.

We also cannot forget that Jindřichův Hradec was home to the first known castle space in Bohemia, specially adapted for theatrical performances. This theatre hall in the Spanish Wing, which was created in the mid-17th century. century, is a testament to the cultural life of the time.

Jindřichův Hradec and White Lords

Jindřichův Hradec is famous for its legends and legends connected to its castle and chateau. One of the most famous is the story of the White Lady. This mysterious figure is usually depicted as a lady in a white dress and wearing a tall white hat called a hennin. In her hand she holds a large bunch of keys, which she rattles if anything disturbs her. However, in all the stories, the White Lady is regarded as a good spirit who uses the colour of her gloves to predict the future.

But there is more than one White Lady. Her identity changes depending on the version of the rumor. According to one of them, it is Margaret of Lichtenberg, who was married to Henry II. from a castle called Wild. After her husband’s death, she retreated to a monastery and visited Jindřichův Hradec only to see her children.

According to the second, nowadays more accepted version, the White Lady is Mrs. Perchta of Rožmberk, who was married against her will to the boorish alcoholic John of Liechtenstein. Eventually, however, she fled to her brother in Krumlov, where she spent the rest of her life in peace, dressing in white and helping the poor.

What to see in Jindřichův Hradec

Jindřichův Hradec is one of those places that is still quite neglected. People prefer to visit Český Krumlov, but in Jindřichův Hradec you will find beautiful cultural monuments, activities for children, as well as great tourist destinations in nature. This city combines history with modern trends to create a unique atmosphere. Let’s take a look at a few places you shouldn’t miss when you visit.

State Castle and Chateau Jindřichův Hradec

The monumental palace complex is one of the most important monuments of the city. Don’t miss at least one tour during your visit.

List of tours:

Adam’s building (basic circuit)

Bedroom in the Green Rooms on the 1st floor of Adam’s building. Sightseeing route A (basic tour) passes through the first floor of the Renaissance building of Adam’s building. It brings to life the representative lifestyle of the high officials of the Lords of Hradec, but also the period in which the Slavats and Czernins managed their vast estate from their magnificently built residence.

• Open: 9.00 – 16.30
• Price: 200 CZK (adults)
• Length: 50 minutes
• Capacity: max. 30 persons
• Reservation: reservation required for groups only

Gothic Palace (basic tour)

The sightseeing route through the Gothic Palace has been newly installed, enriched with a number of interesting exhibits, archaeological findings and equipped with new lighting.

• Open: 10.00 – 16.15
• Price: 140 CZK (adults)
• Length: 70 minutes
• Capacity: max. 25 persons
• Reservation: reservation required for groups only

Black Tower + Black Kitchen

The Black Tower can be visited independently without a guide.

• Open: 10.00 – 17.00
• Price: 80 CZK, without guide (adults)
• Capacity: max. 15 persons
• Reservation: no reservation required

Children’s tours

The sightseeing route for parents with children passes through part III. circuit.

• Open: 10.00 – 12.00, 13.00 – 15.00
• Price: 120 CZK (adults)
• Length: 30 minutes
• Capacity: max. 15 persons
• Reservation: reservation required for groups only

The Castle Museum and the “Cabinets of the Stuchlé”

The Blacks – ambassadors, travellers, collectors.

• Open: 10.00 – 16.00
• Price: 100 CZK (adults)
• Capacity: max. 40 persons
• Reservation: reservation required for groups only

City observation tower at the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

The lookout tower, which dominates the town and belongs to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, stands out for its height of 68.3 metres and the remarkable view it offers from a height of 35.3 metres and from 513 metres above sea level.

After climbing 153 steps, you can admire a panoramic view of the historic part of the town, the castle, the ancient square with the Marian column and the whole wide landscape. Under ideal conditions, you can even see the highest mountain in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, Javořice.

Today, the tower is managed by the Museum of Jindřichův Hradec Králové and in addition to regular tours, it also hosts various events such as festivals, happenings, and the sports and entertainment competition Run to the Tower.

15th meridian

In the very heart of the town of Jindřichův Hradec is one of the most important attractions, which at first glance may seem inconspicuous – namely 15. meridian. The line is depicted in the pavement at the Church of the Assumption.

Although accurate measurements showed that the actual 15. The meridian passes a few metres away at the Nežárecká Gate, the legend of its magical power remains unchanged. According to the legend, if a visitor crosses this line and makes a wish, his wish will come true within a year and a day.

Column of the Holy Trinity

The column with the sculpture of the Holy Trinity, often referred to as the plague column, is the dominant feature of the Peace Square in Jindřichův Hradec. This twenty-metre high Baroque gem, protected as a cultural monument since 1958, dates from the period 1764-1766 and was probably created by the Dačice sculptor Matouš Strachovský.

The construction was financed by Ondřej Josef Bayer, c. k. town administrator and postmaster. The triangular ground plan of the column refers to the divine trinity, while its top is decorated with a sculpture of the Holy Trinity with a dove of the Holy Spirit and God the Father and the Son crowning the Virgin Mary of the Assumption. The column thus also serves as a Marian column.

Other elements are statues of the Archangel Michael and two angels, figures of nine saints and three niches with statues of St. Rosalie, St. Anne with the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph and baby Jesus.

Kraffer’s Garden

Kraffer’s Garden is a historical gem full of life, where the Baroque gardening tradition, First Republic gardening and traces of the past regime intertwine. They have a wide range of perennials, herbs and cut flowers, grown locally and with love.

In addition, the garden offers space for cultural and environmental events, relaxation in the middle of the busy city, but it can also be a space for family celebrations. The garden is also complemented by a series of workshops for all age groups and the Za Mák landscape studio, which takes care of the design of Kraffer’s garden and other private gardens and parks across the Czech Republic.

Museum of Jindřichův Hradec

The building that houses most of the museum’s exhibitions today has its roots in a Jesuit seminary founded at the turn of the 16. and 17th century wife of Adam II. of Hradec, Catherine of Montfort.

Despite early fire damage in 1615, the building recovered quickly and thanks to the subsequent construction on a square plan with an arcaded courtyard and the completion of the seminary chapel of St. In 1642, it acquired its present late Renaissance appearance.

The building also served as an educational institution and was home to many students, including the young Bedřich Smetana.

After 1923, when the building was purchased by the town of Jindřichův Hradec, the premises were transformed into a museum, open to the public from May 1928. Visitors today can explore a number of exhibitions, including Gothic sculpture, the Landfras printing press, bourgeois and folk culture, picture galleries, history carved in stone and many more.

Monument of the narrow gauge local railway J.Hradec – Nová Bystřice

The history of the narrow gauge railway between Jindřichův Hradec and Nová Bystřice dates back to the end of the 19th century. century, when this line was built. The construction was not easy, especially due to the rugged terrain, which led to the extension of the line to 33 km and the limitation of travel speed. The track was a technical challenge, also due to the need to overcome a steep climb.

Nevertheless, thanks to the joint efforts of local notaries and industrialists, the line was completed and the operation was inaugurated on 1. November 1897. Trains on the line were mixed, carrying both passengers and freight.

The narrow-gauge railway played a key role in the development of the region and went through various periods during its existence, including the period 1. World War II, when the line was practically non-functional. After the war the line was nationalized under the ČSD. During 1. republic, interest in transport on the line increased, but in the 70s. a 80. years 20. century, the efficiency of the line began to be questioned.

Prof. František Nušl Observatory and Planetarium

The first stones of the Observatory were laid in 1956 on Šibenik Hill, and construction began in a powder magazine on the southern outskirts of the town. The opening ceremony took place in 1961, under the auspices of the Municipal Awareness Meeting, later renamed the Cultural and Social Centre.

Although in 1992 the Observatory threatened to close down and turn into a fitness centre, this crisis was successfully averted. Since 1994 the Observatory continued its work, this time under the wings of the Vítězslav Novák Gymnasium in Jindřichův Hradec. However, at the end of 1999, further complications arose regarding the renewal of the lease with the city.

Thanks to decisive negotiations, the Observatory was moved to the Children and Youth House in 2000, where it remained until July 2018. Even after this date, the Astro Club continued to disseminate knowledge about astronomy to the public. The turning point was 2018, when the extensive reconstruction of the observatory began, including the addition of a planetarium, the expansion of the main dome, the construction of a new small dome, and the improvement of space for clubs and other activities through a new clubhouse.

Bumblebee on the roundabout

In some towns you can find flowers on the roundabout, in Jindřichův Hradec they have a Z 37 Bumblebee powder plane. This unusual attraction is the work of the local aeroclub, which celebrated its 75th anniversary in this way. anniversary of aviatics in Jindřichův Hradec.

The statue of St. John of Nepomuk

John of Nepomuk, also known as John of Pomuk, is one of the most important figures of the Baroque sainthood and his iconography is firmly rooted in the Czech landscape and far beyond. His life and work, his significance as the patron saint of many professions and protector against many misfortunes, is reflected in the thousands of statues and churches found throughout Europe and even overseas.

His statues and monuments are so often seen throughout the Czech Republic because they are not only a symbol of faith and devotion, but also an important milestone in Czech history and culture. Jan Nepomucký is an indelible part of the Czech identity, his presence is an inseparable part of our landscape. That is also why his statue can be found in Jindřichův Hradec.

Rondel

The Rondel Music Pavilion, located in the castle in Jindřichův Hradec, is a unique monument with a rich history. Its construction dates back to the end of the 16th century. century, when Adam II. from Hradec wished to transform the old castle into a Renaissance chateau. Talented Italian architects Baltazare Maggi and Giovani Mario Faconi were called in to carry out the project. From the beginning, the Rondel was intended for noble entertainment and thus became a venue for balls, concerts and receptions for noble guests, especially in the summer months.

The architecture of the pavilion is unique not only for its mannerist style, but also for its specific acoustic design. The musicians played in the cellar under the floor, and their sound was transmitted to the main hall through a narrow opening covered by a bottomless vase. After a great fire in 1773, the pavilion was abandoned for a long time and later used as a warehouse or stable.

The Rondel was reconstructed in 1990 and then in 2012, when a rare find was discovered – a tin box full of historical documents and photographs. Today, this beautiful pavilion is back to its original purpose and serves as a cultural and representative space where weddings and other events are held. The Rondel is part of the tour routes of Jindřichův Hradec Castle and Chateau and is thus accessible to all those interested in discovering its fascinating history.

Karlov viewpoint

One of the most beautiful views of Jindřichův Hradec is from the Karlov lookout.

Nežárecká Gate

Nežárecká Gate, also known in the past as Linecká or Červená Gate, is an original medieval gate. Its construction is unique, with two Gothic and one Renaissance floor. In the nineteenth century the gate was supplemented with a clock. It is located in close proximity to the state castle and chateau, on Balbínov Square, just a few steps from the centre of Jindřichův Hradec.

The Nežárecká Gate, like the adjacent former Jesuit seminary, is part of the city fortifications. Of the original three city gates, only this one, also known as Linz Gate, has survived.. Originally, the gatehouse was a medieval structure with two Gothic floors, which was extended by an additional floor with keyed roofs and a gabled roof during the construction of the adjacent seminary building in the late Renaissance.

In the early 19. century, a triangular plate extension was added, into which the clock faces were placed. In 1879, a tower clock made by the Jindřichův Hradec clockmaker Martin Rezek was installed in the gate. On the west side, the gate is decorated with a stone relief of the town emblem in a Renaissance cartouche, while the inner side of the gate was decorated at the end of the 17th century. century with the painted coats of arms of Jan Jiří Jáchym Slavata and his wife Marie Markéta of Rappach.

Aquashow Jindřichův Hradec

Aquashow in the arcade of the St. Florian is one of the most popular attractions in Jindřichův Hradec. The Aquashow provides visitors with an unforgettable spectacle, where falling water droplets form various shapes, accompanied by a spectacular light show and video projections, all to the accompaniment of impressive music.

Aquashow takes place every day. From Monday to Friday, the program starts at 9:00 am and continues every full hour until 6:00 pm. On weekends, Saturdays and Sundays, you can visit the Aquashow from 10:00 to 17:00.

Artificial island – Vajgar pond

Vajgar Pond, one of the oldest Czech ponds, created in the 10th century. century, it has played many roles over the centuries – from defence to economic to recreational. It originally served as an important part of the castle and town fortifications, providing a source of fish, powering mills and a sawmill, and used for washing cloth. Today, the water surface of Vajgar is a mirror that doubles the magnificence of the Hradec Lords’ residence, creating a unique combination of nature and architecture.

With a depth of five metres and an area of 49 hectares , it serves not only as a reservoir for drinking water and fish farming, but also as a place for sports and recreation. It has become an unmissable fishing attraction, where fishing competitions are held and invites to rest and relax.

Museum of Photography and Modern Visual Media

This museum, located in a beautifully restored Jesuit college from the end of the 16th century. century, is blessed with extraordinary artistic gems, including rare ceiling and wall paintings. The main focus here is on photography, but the museum is expanding its scope to other visual media.

In the museum’s collections, you can see works by both local and foreign photographers, from important figures in the history of photography to contemporary artists. The museum also exhibits its own projects, which often focus on documenting the present, including abroad.

The price of admission for adults is 90 CZK, while for children and students it is 70 CZK. Family admission for two adults and 1-2 children is 180 CZK.

Jesuit Park

If you need a moment of peace, head to the neglected and very inconspicuous Jesuit Park. This park was founded in 1886 by the Vesna Association. It was originally much larger than it is today. The town council named it “Jablonský sady” in honour of the important personality of the Czech Revival, poet, Catholic priest and national awakener Boleslav Jablonský (1813-1881). In 1881, the Jablonski Foundation was established, which in 1886 initiated the unveiling of a memorial in the poet’s native Kardašova Řečica.

The three-metre-high sandstone statue of the poet was created by the renowned Czech sculptor Josef Strachovský, who at the end of the 1980s. years 19. century, he also worked in Jindřichův Hradec. In the museum collections in Jindřichův Hradec there is a model of Jablonský’s statue from 1886 by Strachovský. The author donated it to the Vesna Association in 1889 with the idea of building a monument in the park near the monastery. The pedestal for the model was created by local builder J. Kocáb according to the sculptor’s design.

The Vesna Society carried out this plan in the spring of 1891, when the monument was unveiled. However, already in the mid-20s. 20 years. century, the orchards were reduced to make way for the grammar school building and the remaining part of the park, including the monument, was abandoned. In 1934, the statue was in a state of disrepair, so it was rebuilt at the expense of K. Mert’s costs, an exact copy was made by local stonemason V. Neubauer. The same year Strachovský’s original was donated to the museum. After the Second World War, the park unfortunately continued to deteriorate until it was finally closed in 1976.

After another forty years, the upper part of the park was completely restored, including the repair of the original pedestal and the reinstallation of the statue. This is the second copy by V. Krninský. On this occasion, this author also restored the original in the museum collection.

Tapestry House

It is located in a sensitively reconstructed industrial monument, the former castle brewery of Jindřichův Hradec. Here you can watch the restoration of historical tapestries, explore exhibition materials about the history of weaving in Jindřichův Hradec and even try your hand at weaving on a loom.

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Where to stay in Jindřichův Hradec

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What to do in Jindřichův Hradec with children?

If you are not interested in the planetarium or the children’s circuit in the castle, we have more tips for you.

Zoological Garden in Jindřichův Hradec

If your kids love animals, head to the Zoo Na Hrádečku which boasts nearly 200 species of animals.

Visitors can actively participate and support the zoo, either by adopting an animal or by making a financial contribution. The garden relies on public support because it operates without subsidies.

The Obfuscator

If your children have ever dreamed of an experience like the book “Alice in Wonderland” or the movie “Labyrinth”, then it is Monsters near Jindřichův Hradec is just the place for them! This fascinating shrub maze is the largest of its kind in Central Europe and covers an area of 6,000 m2.

Obludiště is located in the picturesque village of Dolní Pěna, near Jindřichův Hradec. There is on-site parking and a refreshment kiosk where you can enjoy a small snack after the challenge of exploring the maze. For those who like to take pictures, there is a selfie point. And for the youngest visitors there is a playground.

The maze is open from April (from 30 April 2022) until June and in September on weekends from 9:00 to 19:00. In the summer season – July and August, the maze is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00.

Admission is free for children under 3 years, children under 155 cm pay 60 CZK and adults 110 CZK. There is a 10% discount for families (min. 2+1).

Hiking and tips for trips from Jindřichův Hradec

Would you like to know what to visit around Jindřichův Hradec? Let’s take a look at some tips for trips around Jindřichův Hradec.

Rýdův kopec – lookout tower near the village of Děbolín

About 6 km from Jindřichův Hradec you will find a 33 m high lookout tower, which is a great tip for a trip from Jindřichův Hradec. The tower’s architecture is unique – its construction is based on the idea of an equilateral triangle, which forms its ground plan. The spiral steel staircase has 102 steps, while the wooden staircase has 128 steps.

Jindřiš sandpit

In the summer you will definitely want to go to the Jindřiš Sandpit. This sandpit is one of the best places for swimming in South Bohemia. This picturesque lake covers an area of 5.5 hectares and is known for its clear water. On the shore, you can look for the ideal place to sunbathe or enjoy the tranquillity in the shade of the trees.

The natural surroundings offer options for everyone – whether you choose the gentle entry into the water on the eastern shore or prefer the deep water right at the shore. The western shore is more wild, with tall grass and reeds that sometimes restrict sunbathing areas, but at the same time it is a haven for nudists.

However, the natural beauty of the Jindřiška sandpit faces some challenges. Parking can sometimes be problematic, as can the fact that the site is sometimes used by people with varying degrees of decency. In addition, the absence of toilets and bank maintenance and litter can mean that after a sunny day the banks can look less inviting.

Devil’s Stone

Devil’s Stone, one of the local hills affectionately known as “Radouňské hory“, boasts a silhouette that evokes mountain ranges. Its top is decorated with a rock formation, which according to legend is a remnant of the devil’s castle.

However, it is not without interest that the German name “Feuerstein” reflects an even more captivating history. It is likely that in the Middle Ages a wooden Watchtower stood on this rock, from where messages warning of approaching danger were sent by fire.

This rock dominant is situated on the hiking trail from Kostelní Radouň to Lodhéřov and is accessible on foot from both directions. For mountain bike lovers, however, the route from Lodhéřov is more recommended. If you would like to climb to the top from the direction of Radoun, prepare for a demanding challenge.

30 minutes from Henryk Castle you will find for example Landštejn Castle . More tips for trips to the surroundings of Jindřichův hradec can be found in our article about Czech Canada .

Where to go for coffee in Jindřichův Hradec: The best cafes

Among the best cafés in Jindřichův Hradec are definitely Koloniálka or Agnes Café. The Agnes Café also has excellent food.

Where to eat in Jindřichův Hradec

• CANTINA MEXICANA: Excellent Mexican restaurant offering authentic cuisine and a great atmosphere.
• Bistro St. John’s: This small bistro offers fine food and a pleasant atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a get-together with friends.
• Restro: This friendly bistro is popular with locals. Their menu changes frequently, so you’ll always find something new to try.
• The Curry House Indian: If you love Indian cuisine, The Curry House Indian is a great choice.
• Smokehouse: do you love meat? Then supposedly you have to visit the Smokehouse. We don’t eat meat, but everyone recommended the smokehouse. 😁

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