If you’re planning a trip with a baby, Šumava with a stroller is an absolutely ideal choice. In this guide I will share with you Šumava, Czech Republic: 17 Best Places for Your Holiday, highlighting stroller-friendly routes. Since I’m from South Bohemia, it was clear that our first trip with Jonášek would be to Šumava. It’s close to home, and most of the most popular routes in Šumava are stroller-friendly.

Where to Stay in Šumava:

If you’re wondering where to stay in Šumava with a baby or older children, then we can highly recommend the following accommodations, where they also welcome dogs.

Accommodation in Kvilda

Kvilda is an excellent starting point, for example, for Jezerní slať, but it’s also a short distance to Modrava, Chalupská slať or a trip to Knížecí Pláně, which is why we came here first with the stroller.

We really like Apartments U Sjezdovky, but if they’re fully booked, check out Chata Kvilda accommodation.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Šumava

4 accommodations recommended for your holiday

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🏡 Pension/B&B

Apartmány U Sjezdovky

Accommodation in Kvilda, which is a great starting point for Jezerní slať, Modrava, Chalupská slať or a trip to Knížecí pláně. Ideal for families with children and dogs.

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Chata Kvilda

Alternative accommodation in Kvilda, if Apartmány U Sjezdovky is sold out. Excellent starting location for stroller-friendly trips in Šumava.

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Turnerova chata

Stylish restaurant with accommodation on the Povydří trail, reminiscent of early 20th century architecture. Includes an otter exhibition for children.

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Explore all available accommodation options in Šumava and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

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Šumava, Czech Republic: 17 Best Places for Your Holiday

Lukáš and I live in South Bohemia, so it was clear that our first trips with the stroller would be to Šumava. What are the best routes for stroller trips in Šumava? Let’s take a look.

Jezerní Slať from Kvilda (2-3 Hours)

You can park at the adjacent parking lot near Jezerní slať, but if you’re staying in Kvilda like us, there’s a pleasant 40-minute asphalt path leading here.

This way, you’ll have an ideal approximately 2-3 hour trip with a stroller, which is perfect for a baby’s nap. We went to Jezerní slať during Jonášek’s afternoon nap right after arriving in Kvilda.

This unique raised bog, located on a plateau between Kvilda and Horská Kvilda, is one of the coldest places in the Czech Republic, with an average temperature of only 2 °C and winter temperatures often dropping below -30°C.

When you reach the bog, you’ll find a seven-meter-high observation tower there. The tower offers breathtaking views of the entire bog and the surrounding forested peaks, including Sokol Hill. You can’t go up it with a stroller, but we took turns for those few minutes.

We were surprised that there was still snow along the path even now in May, even though there had already been several very hot summer days elsewhere in the Czech Republic.

The entire bog is home to many cold-loving plants and animals, including the common viper and the viviparous lizard.

Chalupská Slať – 1 Km Walk + Children’s Playground at the Start of the Route

Chalupská slať is a very short but beautiful route for strollers. You can park at the Svinná Lada parking lot, from where it’s about 200 meters to the Svinná Lada Information Center, where you’ll find a playground and a wooden boardwalk begins.

If you have a double stroller, you’ll have a bit of a problem and inconvenience others, because the path isn’t wide enough for a double stroller if you were to meet another stroller.

The entire route there and back is one kilometer long. So for us, it wasn’t entirely ideal, because it’s not long enough for a baby’s nap, but you can combine it with lunch at a restaurant, and then it’s fine.

Or, like us, come here before leaving Šumava and do the route only with the car seat (our car seat can be laid completely flat, though), and then just transfer the baby back to the car.

The entire trail is barrier-free, and at its end, a magnificent view opens up to the largest peat lake in the Czech Republic, spanning an area of 1.2 hectares. The landscape around the lake is dotted with peat islands, where a number of rare plants grow, such as sphagnum mosses, which occur here in about 20 species.

The formation of Chalupská slať began after the end of the Ice Age. It’s fascinating that the area of 137 hectares of bog stores approximately 2,340,000 m³ of peat. You’ll also find a number of information boards along the trail with information about the local flora and fauna.

From Borová Lada to Knížecí Pláně

Another great route for strollers is along the cycling path from Borová Lada to Knížecí Pláně. The path is pleasantly flat with occasional gentle ascents, so you won’t get too tired with a stroller.

Knížecí Pláně is a vanished village in Šumava, which today is only a reminder of tragic chapters in Czech history. It was founded in the 18th century by Prince Schwarzenberg, and more than 700 inhabitants lived here until World War II.

After the war, the original German population was expelled, and the village found itself in the border zone, through which the Iron Curtain later ran. All buildings, including St. John’s Church, were demolished. Today, you’ll only see remnants of buildings with a system of fields bordered by massive boulders.

Today, Knížecí Pláně is a relatively popular tourist destination, thanks to the restoration of the historic cemetery and a memorial site on the foundations of the destroyed church, where a cross with the Schwarzenberg family crest stands.

On a clear day, you can see as far as the Alpine peaks and the surrounding Šumava mountains from here, which adds even more charm to the place.

Additionally, there’s a pleasant restaurant in Knížecí Pláně, where the only downside is that they don’t have a changing table in the restrooms. But they pleased us by also having vegetarian dishes, and it’s not just fried cheese. 😁

The entire route there and back is 10 km long, so even with lunch, you can complete it in 3-4 hours, which is absolutely ideal with a baby.

Tříjezerní Slať from Modrava with a Stroller

From Modrava, you can also take a 7.4 km long route with a stroller along the cycling path to Tříjezerní slať. It’s a beautiful walk through the Vydra River valley, which will lead you to the fascinating Tříjezerní slať bog, where you’ll find an educational trail along a boardwalk with 11 stops.

Similar to Jezerní slať, there is also a tall observation tower at the entrance here, which offers nice views of almost the entire bog.

From Modrava to Březník with a Stroller

The trip from Modrava to Březník is a bit longer route (16 km total, approx. 4-5 hours), so it’s not an ideal first trip with a baby in a stroller. You’ll have to factor in stopping for feeding, changing diapers, and you won’t make it within one nap window if you follow a baby’s routine.

However, it’s a beautiful route, so if you have an older child who can stay in the stroller and even look around, definitely go.

You can park at the paid parking lot in Modrava (note: they don’t accept cards), and then continue along the blue tourist trail on an asphalt path, which is known as the “New Březník Road” and stretches through a beautiful valley along the Modravský Stream, offering not only a comfortable walk with a stroller but also breathtaking views of the Šumava nature.

After 7.5 kilometers, you’ll reach the Březník viewpoint, where you can rest, have a snack, feed the baby, change diapers, and enjoy other joys of life with a baby.

It’s usually colder in Březník than elsewhere, so dress appropriately. We like to escape tropical days there. Březník Gamekeeper’s Lodge, which serves as an info center in summer, also offers refreshments during the season, but the selection is limited and prices are higher.

For those who don’t have a stroller and want to try a different route, we recommend the return journey along the “Old Březník Road”, which is marked in green. We used to walk our dogs this way before we had a child.

Black Lake with a Stroller

The 7km loop to Black Lake is another great route in Šumava with a stroller. This glacial lake is the largest cirque glacial lake in Šumava and in the entire Czech Republic, making it a very popular destination. Therefore, if you go during peak season, set out early in the morning to have at least some peace.

You can park very conveniently at Špičácké sedlo, but the parking lot is paid, as is the case almost everywhere in Šumava. From the parking lot, a yellow-marked tourist trail leads, which will take you along a paved path directly to the lake.

The path is approximately 3.7 km long, and thanks to its gradual ascent, it’s ideal even for strollers, and we even saw small children on balance bikes who managed it without problems.

The lake got its name from its seemingly black surface, caused by a 9-meter-thick layer of sludge at the bottom of the lake. This sludge is formed by pine needles from surrounding trees that have accumulated over centuries.

Black Lake has no visible inflow and is fed by underground springs; from there, water flows out via the Černý Stream into the Úhlava River. The lake is up to 39.8 meters deep and lies at an altitude of 1008 meters.

It’s better to bring a snack with you, although there’s a buffet by the lake, the selection is quite limited.

To Poledník with a Stroller

Head to Poledník with a stroller from Prášily, from where it’s a nice uphill ride along the cycling path, and the route is approximately 8.5 km long.

Poledník, 1315 m above sea level, originally served military purposes, but after 1991, it was handed over to the administration of Šumava National Park, and only a 37 m high tower remained from the military facility, which was opened to the public in 1998.

Not only nature lovers but also history enthusiasts will find something to enjoy here. The observation tower offers several exhibitions, including one on the history of Poledník and radio communication equipment. There’s also a buffet, but if you go off-season (November-April), the observation tower, exhibitions, and buffet are usually closed.

Beware, the path is quite gravelly, so if you don’t have a suitable stroller for it, choose a different route instead.

Povydří with a Stroller

The Povydří educational trail is one of the most beautiful routes in Šumava, leading from the settlement of Antýgl to Čeňkova Pila. This path, which is also suitable for sports strollers, will take you into the picturesque deep valley of the Vydra stream.

The trail starts in Antýgl and continues along the Vydra, where you can enjoy views of its roaring canyon with dark reddish-brown water, fed by the surrounding bogs. Along the 7.5 km long route, you’ll encounter many calm and wild sections of the river with small waterfalls and rapids.

Along the way, you’ll come across Turner’s Chalet, where you can refresh yourself or even stay overnight, and where there’s an exhibition about river otters for children. The trail ends in Čeňkova Pila, where the Vydra merges with the Křemelná to form the Otava River. In Čeňkova Pila, you can visit the hydroelectric power plant or the remains of a historic glassworks.

The route is marked with a red tourist sign.

To Bučina with a Stroller

Bučina is another great tip for a trip in Šumava, because you can complete this 6km loop within four hours, which is absolutely “doable” (as Lukáš says) even with a small baby in a stroller.

The route starts in Kvilda and follows an asphalt road that is closed to car traffic, making it an absolutely ideal route for strollers.

The path will lead you through beautiful nature and a gentle ascent to the former settlement of Bučina, where only a few remnants of house foundations remain. Along the route, you’ll also see a replica of the Iron Curtain in front of Hotel Bučina, which is complemented by a watchtower and information boards.

Along the way, you’ll come across the Alpská Vyhlídka hotel, where you can relax on the terrace with views of the surrounding forests and hills. You can also rent scooters here, so if you don’t have a stroller and have older children, you can ride scooters back down to Kvilda.

To the Vltava Spring with a Stroller

If you’re also staying in Kvilda, head to the Vltava Spring. The route from Kvilda to the Vltava Spring is the shortest and measures approximately 7 kilometers, meaning you’ll walk a total of 14 kilometers there and back.

The path first leads through meadows, then plunges into the forest, and the final section passes through an area that was affected by bark beetle in the past. Be aware that the path is entirely uphill, but fortunately on an asphalt road, so you can manage it with a stroller without major difficulties.

During the summer months, the path can be somewhat more challenging due to a lack of shade, especially in the last third of the route. I therefore recommend setting out early in the morning or later in the afternoon and bringing plenty of water, as there are no refreshments along the way.

At the spring, you’ll find several benches and a shelter where you can sit, rest, have a snack with the children, and feed the baby. A small river called Teplá Vltava flows into the spring. From the settlement of Chlum, where the Teplá Vltava meets the Studená Vltava, the river officially bears the name Vltava.

To Lake Laka with a Stroller

You can also go to Lake Laka in Šumava with a stroller, but you must only take the route from the village of Nová Hůrka. The total length of the loop is 9.2 km with an elevation gain of 228 meters.

In Nová Hůrka, you’ll park at the parking lot, from where a well-maintained asphalt road leads, which later turns into a gravel path, but you can manage it even with a stroller. Only the last 600 meters might be more challenging for some strollers, as there are many stones and roots on the path.

The main attraction of this trip is, of course, Lake Laka, which is the smallest of the Šumava lakes, but also the highest situated. The area around the lake is ideal for a picnic; you’ll even find picnic tables right by the water.

Along the way, you’ll also see the place where the village of Stará Hůrka once stood. Today, only a chapel stands here, commemorating the victims of the communist regime, and the foundations of a former glassworks.

Olšina Educational Trail with a Stroller

A lesser-known route is the Olšina Educational Trail, where you’ll encounter typical Šumava nature: wetlands, bogs, and adjacent biotopes. This 7,322-meter-long route will take you approximately 2 to 2 and a half hours with a stroller.

However, go on a good day; even though most of the trail follows boardwalks, some sections are through natural terrain and parts are permanently waterlogged. It’s passable with a stroller, but it’s not as easy as on an asphalt road.

For my peace of mind, I recommend going here with a sports stroller, or if you’re not sure if you can manage it, check out the route video.

Velký Javor with a Stroller

Velký Javor, at 1456 m, is the highest mountain in Šumava and the Bavarian Forest, but you’ll find this peak already in Germany, even though it’s only 4 kilometers from our border. Why do I emphasize this? If you’re going on your first trip abroad with a baby, you should remember that they need a travel document, such as a passport.

Park at the parking lot right by Velké Javorské Lake; it will cost you 4 euros for the whole day, and you can pay both in cash and by card. We recommend arriving early, as the parking lot is often full later in the day.

From the parking lot, we followed the green tourist trail; at first it’s a sandy-gravel path, then there are larger stones on the way. After a few kilometers, you’ll reach the Arberschutzhaus hut, where you can rest and use the toilets. Next to the hut, there’s also a glass observation tower in the shape of a cross, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

From the hut, you can continue along the green mark to the viewpoint at Bodenmaiser Riegel rock, where you’ll switch to red and can head to another viewpoint at Kleiner Seeriegel rock. Finally, you’ll return to the hut, and from there, you can go to the lake along the same green trail.

Velké Javorské Lake is truly beautiful, and an educational trail runs around it, which is wide enough and equipped with wooden boardwalks to be accessible even for strollers. If you get hungry, you can stop at the nearby Arberseehaus restaurant.

Short Stroller Route to Kašperk Castle

With a stroller, you can explore the highest royal castle in the Czech Republic, known mainly from the fairy tale ‘Angel of the Lord’. The path to Kašperk Castle starts at the parking lot, which is about 1.5 km from the castle, on the road from Kašperské Hory towards Nezdice.

From the parking lot, follow the green tourist trail. The first part of the route is on an asphalt road, then you have to continue on a forest path, and the final section might be more challenging for strollers, but it’s manageable with a little effort.

From Horská Kvilda to Antýgl with a Sports Stroller

If you have a sports stroller and don’t mind a slightly longer route, you can set off from Horská Kvilda to Antýgl and to Turner’s Hut. This 14 km long route is slightly hilly, but even children on balance bikes can easily manage it.

The starting point is Hotel Rankl in Horská Kvilda, where you can also conveniently park. From there, follow the blue tourist trail, which leads along the Hamerský Stream towards Antýgl. The first section of the route starts with a steeper descent, but soon the terrain changes to a gentle downhill slope all the way to Antýgl.

The path follows a forest road, and what’s good is that bikes are not allowed here, so if you have dogs, you don’t have to worry.

Path to Turner’s Hut: From Antýgl, the route continues along the Vydra River on a paved path. This section is completely flat and runs parallel to the Povydří educational trail.

At the Antýgl – bridge crossroads, where the Hamerský Stream joins the Vydra River, follow the red tourist trail to Turner’s Hut. Turner’s Hut is a stylish restaurant reminiscent of early 20th-century architecture; if you don’t have a snack with you, you can enjoy something good here.

Srní and the Wolf Enclosure

The Srní Visitor Center in Šumava is very popular among children, as you can combine your visit with wolf watching.

Right next to the parking lot is the visitor center building, where you can see an exhibition focused on wolf life and observe what’s happening in the wolf enclosure via cameras. This allows you to see the wolves even when they are hiding in the enclosure.

Part of the visitor center is an educational trail with a raised viewing platform, from where you can observe the wolves. The trail is short – just under 2 km – but part of the route goes uphill, which can be more challenging with a stroller.

However, if you have dogs like us, you unfortunately have to leave them at home, as they are not allowed on the trail.

Hauswald Chapel

The spring near Hauswald Chapel, located near the village of Mechov by Srní, is known for its healing properties. You can easily reach it with a stroller. The route starts in the aforementioned village of Mechov by Srní, where you can still park for free.

From there, a short but steeper ascent awaits you to the hydroelectric power plant building. This is followed by a pleasant two-kilometer walk on an asphalt road that runs along the Vchynicko-Tetovský water canal. This historic water canal is still functional.

Although the original Hauswald Chapel no longer stands here, its foundations have been reconstructed as a memorial.

In this guide I will share with you České Budějovice, Czech Republic: 28 Best Things to Do and See. I’ve been going to České Budějovice since childhood, and in recent years, it always surprises me how it has become a modern and clean city full of great businesses and cafes. It has a beautifully maintained historic center where you can admire churches, colorful burgher houses, and see many interesting statues scattered throughout the city. České Budějovice is an ideal destination for anyone who loves beer, history, or wants an ideal starting point for trips around South Bohemia.

From České Budějovice, it’s just a short distance to Czech Canada, Český Krumlov, and even Jindřichův Hradec. If you’re planning a summer vacation in South Bohemia, you can easily get to Šumava from here. In our article, you’ll find out what to see and do in České Budějovice, as well as where to go for good food or coffee and where to find accommodation in České Budějovice.

History of České Budějovice

České Budějovice is located at the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers and has over 94 thousand inhabitants. Its historic center was declared a municipal heritage reserve in 1980.

The oldest finds from the city’s territory date back to the Early and Middle Stone Age (9000—6000 BC), when the area near the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers was densely populated. In the Early Bronze Age (approx. 2000—1500 BC), systematic colonization of South Bohemia began, including the České Budějovice Basin.

The city was founded by King Přemysl Otakar II in 1261 in a strategically advantageous location at the confluence of the Malše and Vltava rivers. The main reason for the city’s founding was to strengthen royal power in South Bohemia, and at the same time limit the influence of the powerful noble family of Vítkovci.

Where to Stay in České Budějovice

From our perspective, we can recommend the excellent apartments Residence Mariánská, which are right in the center and also offer parking. The apartments are suitable for couples and families with children, are equipped with a kitchen and you also have a washing machine available here. Additionally, pets are allowed here, so you can go with your dogs, just like us.

If you prefer hotel-style accommodation with breakfast, we recommend Boutique Hotel U Solné brány.

What to See and Do in České Budějovice: Top Landmarks

Let’s now look at what sights and attractions you shouldn’t miss in České Budějovice.

Přemysl Otakar II Square

Start your tour at Přemysl Otakar II Square, which is one of the largest square-shaped squares in the Czech Republic, with an area of more than one hectare. This square bears the name of the founder of České Budějovice, Czech King Přemysl Otakar II, who founded the city in 1265.

The main attractions of the square lie in its 48 Baroque and Renaissance houses with arcades. These houses belonged to the wealthiest citizens or nobles and stand on original medieval plots, with a Gothic core. Their current appearance dates from the Renaissance or Baroque period.

Přemysl Otakar II Square has served as a landmark since the city’s founding, a place for markets, secular and religious festivities, and executions. The Erratic Stone (Bludný kámen), the only remnant of the original paving, marks the exact location of the execution site and is located a few steps from Samson’s Fountain.

What you might not learn during your walk is the fact that České Budějovice used to have trams in the city center, and today you can only tell by the rounded corners of the square.

Samson’s Fountain

In the middle of Přemysl Otakar II Square in České Budějovice, you will find the impressive Samson’s Fountain. This Baroque masterpiece was built during the city’s reconstruction after the Thirty Years’ War between 1720 and 1727. The fountain’s purpose was to supply water to the city’s side streets.

The fountain is made of a stone basin with a diameter of 17 meters, making it one of the largest in the Czech Republic. In the center of the basin is a prismatic plinth with four gargoyles. On the plinth stand statues of four Atlantes, supporting a huge circular shell. On it is placed a statue of the biblical Samson taming a lion. Samson was known for his immense strength, which he lost due to the betrayal of his girlfriend Delilah.

Black Tower

The Black Tower is one of the most important landmarks in České Budějovice, this city landmark was built between 1550–1577 and symbolized the city’s economic boom. It is 72.25 meters high and served as a bell tower and watchtower.

If you visit the tower, you will see six bells, the largest of which is Bummerin, weighing 3.5 tons. 225 wooden steps lead to the top of the tower, and the view is definitely worth it.

White Tower

Since we’ve talked about the Black Tower, we must also mention the White Tower. You can find the White Tower in the monastery garden on Piarist Square, next to the former convent building. It was built in 1489 and has undergone numerous modifications and reconstructions over time.

Originally, the tower only had a ground floor and a first floor. The ground floor served as a chapel, while the first floor was used as a monastery prison. In later years, the tower was raised by another floor, which offers an unforgettable view of the surrounding city. The White Tower acquired its current appearance in 1772, when it underwent extensive reconstruction.

At the top of the tower, you will find a finial (also called a knob), which is a copper gilded sphere or ellipsoid. This finial served to store records and data about the object’s founding, construction, or repairs.

Rabenštejnská – Cultural Center and Design Shop

While walking through the city, be sure to visit Rabenštejnská Tower, where you will find a design shop and a small gallery. Rabenštejnská Tower is one of the few preserved defensive towers from the 14th century. Today, various workshops are held here (there is a printing press and a kiln for ceramics and porcelain).

Church of our Lady of the Rosary

In Budějovice, you will find several churches, one of them is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, which was founded in 1898 and is part of the Congregation of the Brothers of the Most Holy Sacrament, one of the few purely Czech male congregations.

The church is remarkable for its unusual artistic style, being an example of Beuron art in Bohemia, which was created by the brothers living in the monastery.

Church of the Holy Family

You can find the Church of the Holy Family in the complex of the former monastery of the Sisters of Mercy of St. Charles Borromeo. This single-nave church was designed by Gislene Béthun and is decorated with floral and geometric motifs. The main entrance to the church is from Charles IV Street.

In the 1970s, the Church was confiscated by the communist regime and converted into a state archive warehouse. After reconstruction in 2013, the church was returned to the church, specifically to the Deanery of St. Nicholas.

Cathedral of St. Nicholas

The history of the Cathedral of St. Nicholas dates back to the 13th century, when this church originated as a parish church for the royal city of České Budějovice. Over the years, the cathedral was rebuilt several times, first in the Late Gothic style (1518–1535), later in the Baroque style after a major fire in 1641.

Italian builders J. Cipriani and F. Canevalle were commissioned for the Baroque reconstruction, which was completed in 1649. Between 1686–1688, another reconstruction took place, this time of the church’s facade to its current form, under the direction of the Italian builder G. A. de Maggi.

The interior of the cathedral is adorned with rich stucco decoration by T. Zeisl and the main altar from 1791 by Z. Hueber, dominated by the painting of St. Nicholas by D. Bachmann.

Water Tower

The history of the Water Tower dates back to the Middle Ages, when the city was supplied with water from the wells of burgher houses and from adjacent rivers. In the 18th century, it was decided to build a fountain in the square and a tower waterworks to supply it. .

The original Baroque tower was completed in 1724 and drew water from the Vltava River. In 1882, it was rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style and its height was increased to 44 meters.

Otakarka (Otakar’s Bastion)

Otakarka, also known as Otakar’s Bastion, is a Gothic semi-cylindrical defensive bastion, part of the city’s fortifications, and is located in the Bishop’s Garden. The structure was founded in the 13th century and rebuilt at the turn of 15. the 16th century.

The bastion was created during the construction of the oldest main city wall, which reached a height of up to 7 meters and a base width of up to 1.6 meters.

City Fortifications

The city fortifications of České Budějovice date back to the 13th century. The first phase of the Gothic fortifications was completed around 1300, when the main wall with bastions and gates was built. In the 14th century, a lower zwinger wall was added, and huge defensive towers were built primarily in the 15th century.

The city was protected by natural barriers, such as the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers or the Mill Race. Thanks to these natural barriers, the city was protected especially from the western and southwestern sides.

The city walls were opened by three main gates – Prague, Svinenská, and Rožnovská. These gates provided important access to the city and were continuously reinforced during various phases of fortification. In the Renaissance phase (16th century), for example, they were equipped with barbicans to increase defensive capability.

• The Prague Gate, which closed the city from the north, was built at the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers, over which a drawbridge spanned. The first written mention of this gate dates back to 1335.
• The Svinenská Gate provided connection towards Trhové Sviny and Vienna. It was built at the western mouth of today’s Charles IV Street over the Mill Race and had a drawbridge.
• The Rožnovská Gate connected the city with Rožnov, Český Krumlov, and Linz. It was located at the southern mouth of today’s Dr. Stejskal Street on the embankment of the Malše River. The riverbed was partially spanned by a drawbridge and partially by the stable Golden Bridge.

South Bohemian Museum in České Budějovice

If it rains during your visit to České Budějovice, you can visit the South Bohemian Museum, which was founded back in 1877, the first collections were made accessible to the public in the House of the Three Crowns near the town hall, with the collections originating from donations by local citizens and compatriots from abroad.

The monumental building constructed between 1899 and 1901 was opened to the public only in 1903. Today, the museum is one of the main regional museums focused on natural and social sciences.

Horse-Drawn Railway Museum

This museum is located in Guardhouse No. 1 on Mánesova Street, where you will find an exhibition focused on guardhouses and railway guards who served on the horse-drawn railway between České Budějovice and Linz.

The horse-drawn line was built between 1825 and 1832 and later extended to Gmunden. It is the oldest railway on the European mainland, which was of great importance for the development of transport. Primitive wooden rails were previously used, for example, in mines in Germany and England.

The České Budějovice – Linz horse-drawn railway had a significant impact on transport infrastructure during its operation and is still considered the first international railway in the world. Of the 53 original guardhouses, only 22 objects have been preserved to this day, some of which are now just ruins.

The last horse-drawn train departed on December 15, 1872, thus ending the era of what was then the largest railway project.

Stromovka Park

Not only Prague has Stromovka! Stromovka is also in České Budějovice, locally also called Dlouhá louka (Long Meadow). Just like in Prague, in České Budějovice it is an ideal place for relaxation; people come here by bike, with strollers, and on inline skates. For children, there is a modern playground with climbing frames, a slide, and swings.

The park also features Bagr Pond with an island, where various smaller events are held throughout the year. You can play disc golf on an 18-hole course or try out the pétanque court and table tennis.

Sculpture of Flying Swans

In České Budějovice, you will likely be struck by the large number of statues. We will introduce some of them. The Sculpture of Flying Swans is located in a small pool in front of an apartment building at the intersection of Mánesova and Lidická streets in České Budějovice. This artwork, depicting swans, is made of laminate and attached with an iron plate to a concrete plinth with a kidney-shaped pool.

The swans are the work of České Budějovice sculptor František Mrázek, who created them in 1963. Concurrently with this sculpture, a housing estate was built on Lidická třída, dating from the turn of the 1950s and 1960s.

Lamezan Villa

Lamezan Villa was built in 1900 for Count and co-owner of the Koh-i-noor Hardtmuth pencil factory, Olivier Lamezan-Salins, and his wife Mathilde von Hardtmuth.

The villa was designed by local builder Josef Hauptvogel and its architecture refers to 19th-century English country estates and the Arts and Crafts movement.

The villa became the last residence of Count Olivier Lamezan-Salins before his suicide in February 1919. Mathilde von Hardtmuth then lived here as a widow until 1945, when the villa was nationalized by the Beneš Decrees.

Afterward, it briefly served as the residence of Edvard Beneš, a banking institution, and since 2015, as the headquarters of KOH-I-NOOR holding a.s.

Calvary and the Holy Trinity Column

Calvary and the Holy Trinity Column are part of the Dominican monastery with the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary and are the work of the prominent sculptor Josef Dietrich. An old entrance gate with a painting depicting the founding of the monastery stood at this site before 1809.

Lubas House

Lubas House will certainly catch your eye when walking through the historic center, even if you don’t know about it. It is a beautiful Late Gothic cultural monument from the early 16th century, one of the main architectural features of Lubas House is the Late Gothic profile of the entrance decorated with a stonemason’s mark.

Kende Villa

Kende Villa is located on Otakarova Street and dates back to 1920. This villa belonged to the Jewish Kende family. The interior of the house is very well preserved, with its original staircase, wooden paneling, and stucco decoration.

During World War II, Kende Villa was used by the Nazis. First, the Reich Security Main Office was located here, and later the German criminal police. Prison cells were built in the house, which have been preserved to this day.

After the war, the villa was bought and inhabited by the family of Dr. Vašátek. The city of České Budějovice then purchased the villa this year for 20 million Czech crowns from a private owner. In the future, an exhibition referring to the original Jewish owners could be created here.

Currently, Kende Villa is not accessible to the public. However, you can visit it on special occasions, such as European Heritage Days.

České Budějovice Observatory and Planetarium

If you’re wondering what to do in České Budějovice with kids, we recommend visiting the Observatory and Planetarium. It’s one of the oldest facilities of its kind in Bohemia, it was opened in 1937.

One of the main attractions is the digital planetarium. In the hall with an 8.5-meter diameter and 48 seats, you can enjoy a full-dome projection in 4K resolution. During the projection, you will observe the day and night sky and enjoy footage from space, images of constellations and other animations.

Don’t forget to visit the observatory dome as well, where you can observe the Sun and other solar system bodies and deep-space objects. The dome has a 5-meter diameter and features a Cassegrain-type reflecting telescope and two Merz Muenchen refracting telescopes.

The observatory is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

Ema Destinnová Memorial

A place dedicated to the remarkable Czech opera singer, Ema Destinnová, who died in České Budějovice in 1930. The memorial is located on the Malše embankment next to the South Bohemian Theatre.

The Ema Destinnová monument was unveiled in 1990 and designed by sculptor Marta Jirásková. Music was Ema Destinnová’s passion, and therefore, in her honor, the Ema Destinnová Music Festival has been held annually since 1990.

Niche Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk

You can find the Niche Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk by the wall of house no. 157 on Zátkovo Embankment by the blind arm of the Malše River. This religious building houses a Baroque statue of St. John of Nepomuk from 1708, depicting the saint in traditional canonical attire.

The statue of John of Nepomuk is complemented by his typical attributes – a halo with five stars, a cross with Christ, and a palm branch. The presence of the statue in the Neoclassical chapel testifies to the popularity of this saint in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Sculptural Group of Vltava and Malše

Few people, while strolling along the Vltava River near the Long Bridge, fail to notice the statues of two charming naked women. This is a sculptural group known as The Rivers, symbolizing the Vltava and Malše rivers. This work was created by the renowned sculptor František Mrázek.

The bronze statue is 204 centimeters tall. Its location is symbolic, as the confluence of the Vltava and Malše rivers is located near the center of České Budějovice.

Statue of Jan Valerián Jirsík

The statue of Jan Valerián Jirsík stands near the Black Tower and St. Nicholas Cathedral and was created by the famous Czech sculptor Josef Václav Myslbek. Jirsík was a České Budějovice bishop, a significant patriot, and a national revivalist.

Myslbek’s last statue was planned shortly after Jirsík’s death in 1883. The preparation process took 43 years, and thus the monument was finally unveiled in 1926. However, in 1939, during World War II, this original statue secretly disappeared. It was replaced by a plaster model, which was cast in bronze in 1993.

Today, visitors to the city can admire the bronze cast of the statue of Jan Valerián Jirsík in the same place as the original statue. It is a significant monument that commemorates the patriotic bishop and symbolizes the rich history of České Budějovice. You can find more information about this story here.

Statue of Přemysl Otakar II

In 2015, the to commemorate the 750th anniversary of the city’s founding, the statue of King Přemysl Otakar II, the city’s founder, was unveiled in the Na Sadech city park.

Interestingly, a suitable stone for the statue was sought for seven months. The statue was eventually made from Mrákotín granite and, including the pedestal, is 4.6 meters tall and weighs over 16 tons.

Equestrian Statue of Jan Žižka of Trocnov

The bronze equestrian statue of Jan Žižka of Trocnov is one of the significant monuments in České Budějovice. The author of the statue is Karel Dvořák and it was completed in 1951. The statue was originally placed in front of the town hall and later moved to its current location.

Statue of our Lady of České Budějovice

The statue of Our Lady of České Budějovice is a Baroque work that you can find on the west bank of the Malše River, near the courthouse building. This artwork dates back to 1715 and its author is the prominent South Bohemian sculptor Josef Dietrich.

T.G. Masaryk Memorial Plaque

You can find the T.G. Masaryk memorial plaque on the town hall in the square. As you might have guessed, it is dedicated to the life and legacy of the first Czechoslovak president, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk.

Various events commemorating the Day of the Establishment of the Independent Czechoslovak State are held in front of the memorial plaque. Representatives of the city, region, army, legionnaires, Sokols, and other organizations gather here to commemorate the significant statesman and his contribution to the Czech nation.

A portrait of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk is carved on the memorial plaque, along with his name and birth and death years.

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Where to stay in České Budějovice

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Residence Mariánská

Excellent apartments right in the center with parking. The apartments are equipped with a kitchen and washing machine, suitable for couples and families with children. Pets are also allowed.

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Boutique Hotel U Solné brány

Hotel-style accommodation with breakfast in the center of České Budějovice.

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Brewing – where to Go for a Beer in České Budějovice

The history of brewing in České Budějovice is linked to the city’s founding in the 13th century. Among the most significant breweries are Budějovický Budvar and the Samson municipal brewery, but if you’re wondering where to go for a beer in České Budějovice, here are a few tips:

For lovers of traditional brewing, probably the best choice is Minipivovar Beeranek , connected with a restaurant and the Singer pub hostel.

Another great option is Minipivovar a restaurace Krajinská 27, where the tradition of “brewing rights” continues.

We probably like the Solnice brewery and restaurant the most, where there’s not only excellent beer but also great food. You can also try Samson Brewery, which offers eight types of beer, including lagers and fruit beers.

For a classic Czech pub atmosphere, you can visit Restaurant U Tří sedláků.

Best Cafes in České Budějovice

There’s no shortage of good cafes in České Budějovice; probably the most sought-after is Cafe Datel, but it’s also very often crowded, and you might not get a seat. That’s why we much more often went to Praží Cafe, where they not only have excellent coffee but also great desserts and good food.

Also worth mentioning is Fér Cafe, where they also have good desserts, or the riverside cafe Lanna Café.

Where to Eat in České Budějovice

Our favorite establishment in České Budějovice is Paluba, where they not only cook well, but everything is also beautifully served, and vegetarians can find something to eat there too. Bistro Magdaléna is also very popular, but they don’t usually have anything for vegetarians. Other renowned establishments include Brio or Solnice.

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