Slavonice: 13 Things to See and Do (+ Accommodation & Family Tips)

I have to confess something that’s a bit embarrassing for someone who grew up in South Bohemia. I didn’t visit Slavonice until I was 27. 😅 I know, it sounds absurd — I grew up in the region, explored practically every small town from České Budějovice to Třeboň, but Slavonice Czech Republic somehow always slipped through the cracks. It wasn’t until Lukáš and I set off on a trip through Czech Canada that we finally stopped there — and I stood in the main square with my jaw on the floor, thinking: “Where has this been all my life?”

Imagine a small town at the very southern tip of Bohemia, just a few kilometres from the Austrian border, where time stopped somewhere in the 16th century. A square lined with Renaissance houses covered in sgraffito that look like they belong in an art history textbook. Narrow lanes where every corner reveals another stone detail that stops you in your tracks. Underground passages full of medieval tunnels where water reaches your ankles. And that special atmosphere of a place that sits well off the main tourist routes — no crowds, no queues, just you and centuries of history.

Slavonice immediately joined my list of TOP South Bohemian towns, right alongside Český Krumlov and Jindřichův Hradec. And honestly? In some ways, Slavonice surpassed them — with that authenticity and tranquillity that you can no longer find in the more famous towns.

In this article, you’ll find 13 things to see and do in Slavonice — from the Renaissance square and medieval underground to WWII-era bunkers and a fairy-tale forest for kids. I’ll tell you where to stay, where to eat well, where to go on day trips, and why Slavonice should be on your list, even if you’ve never heard of it before.

Slavonice Czech Republic things to see

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TL;DR

  • Slavonice is an urban heritage reserve in South Bohemia with some of the most beautiful Renaissance sgraffito facades in all of Europe — and yet there are no tourist crowds.
  • The Renaissance square is an absolute treasure — over 50 historic houses with Gothic cores and Renaissance facades, richly decorated gables and arcades.
  • The Slavonice underground is a unique experience — medieval passages from the 13th century where you wade through water (wellies and rain ponchos are provided). Admission from around €1.60.
  • The town tower has 176 steps and the reward is a panoramic view of the entire town and Czech Canada.
  • Slavonice is a great base for day tripsLandštejn Castle, the U Jakuba lookout tower, or swimming at Osika Pond.
  • With kids, there’s plenty to do — Fairy-Tale Forest Trail, mini zoo at Bejčkův mlýn, the giant hornbeam Labyrinth near Dolní Pěna, or ZOO Na Hrádečku.
  • Accommodation from around €14/person/night (Dobrohoř Castle!) to the luxurious Hotel U Růže with a wine bar in medieval cellars.
  • Food tip #1: Hospůdka v Mázhauzu — the best restaurant in town according to TripAdvisor and according to us.
  • You can see Slavonice itself in one day, but with day trips to the surrounding area, you can easily spend a long weekend.
  • Slavonice lies on the Greenway Prague–Vienna cycle route — a paradise for cyclists.
  • The best time to visit is May–September, but Slavonice has its charm even out of season.

When to visit Slavonice and how to get there

Slavonice lies at the very southern tip of Bohemia, literally a few kilometres from the Austrian border, in an area known as Czech Canada. Before we dive into what to see, let’s talk about the best time to visit and how to get to this hidden gem.

Best time to visit Slavonice

The ideal period is from May to September — the weather is pleasant, all attractions are open (underground, tower, castles), and you can swim in the surrounding ponds. July and August are of course the warmest and liveliest months, but be aware — it’s also peak season and some restaurants may be busier. Even so, Slavonice sees a fraction of the visitors compared to Český Krumlov, so no need to panic. 😉

If you don’t mind cooler weather and aren’t fussed about swimming, spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are absolutely beautiful — the town has a special melancholic atmosphere and the sgraffito on the facades looks stunning in the soft light. In winter, many things are closed, but the snow-covered square has its own charm too.

Tip: On the first Saturday in August, a military re-enactment called “Attack on the Bunkers 1938” takes place at the fortification site — if you time your visit right, it’s quite an experience.

What to see in Slavonice

How to get to Slavonice

By car is the most convenient option, especially if you want to explore the surrounding area:

  • From Prague: approx. 2.5–3 hours (180 km, via D1 motorway and Jihlava, or via Tábor and Jindřichův Hradec)
  • From Vienna: approx. 2 hours (170 km) — Slavonice sits right near the Austrian border
  • From Brno: approx. 2 hours

By train or bus, you can reach Slavonice, but it requires patience and a transfer — usually via Jindřichův Hradec or Dačice. It’s not the most convenient option, but it’s doable.

By bike is perhaps the most romantic way — Slavonice lies on the international Greenway Prague–Vienna cycle route (route no. 48), which I write more about below.

Parking in Slavonice

Parking here is stress-free. Right on Náměstí Míru (Peace Square), you can park for about €0.40/hour, which is a laughable amount compared to larger cities. On surrounding streets and peripheral car parks, you can park for free. We left our car a short walk from the square and did everything on foot — the centre is tiny and you can walk around it in no time.

Where to stay in Slavonice + how much it costs

Slavonice is a small town, but the selection of accommodation is surprisingly varied — from historic hotels right on the square to family guesthouses and even a château where you can sleep for the price of a single cappuccino in Prague. 😅 Prices are generally much lower than in the more touristic South Bohemian towns, which is another reason I love Slavonice.

Here’s an overview of the best places where we’ve either stayed or that have excellent reviews:

Accommodation in Slavonice town

Hotel U Růže ★★★★ — If you want the best Slavonice has to offer, this is the clear choice. A luxury hotel right on the square with wellness facilities and — wait for it — a wine bar in cellars dating from the 8th–12th century, connected to the Slavonice underground. So you can sip wine literally surrounded by history. From approx. €48/person/night.

Hotel Besídka ★★★ — A Renaissance house with 19 unique rooms, each in a different style. Rated 8.4/10 on Booking. Important practical tip: at weekends, Besídka is one of the few restaurants where you can get dinner, so if you stay here, you’re sorted. From approx. €46/person/night.

Hotel Pivonka ★★★ (formerly Hotel Arkada) — A historic 16th-century house with a restaurant serving both Bohemian and Austrian cuisine — the proximity to Austria definitely shows. They also have bike rental, so if you’re planning to ride the Greenway, it’s practical.

Vila Slavonice — Our number one recommendation for families with children. The highest-rated accommodation in Slavonice, with a playroom for kids and a fully equipped kitchen. From approx. €80/night for the entire villa (up to 6 people) — that’s about €13 per person if you come in a full group. Absolute bargain.

Penzion Secesní dům — Beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and from €20/person/night, the most affordable option right in town.

Accommodation near Slavonice (within 10 km)

Bejčkův mlýn (2 km from centre) — Idyllic accommodation in the Slavonice nature area with a mini zoo where kids can feed donkeys, sheep, and goats (more about that in the family section). Plus a tennis court and wine cellar. Ideal for families who want to be close to town but in nature.

Zámek Dobrohoř (Dobrohoř Château) (10 km) — Want to sleep in a château? From €14/person/night! That’s not a typo. Dobrohoř Château offers accommodation at a price that will take your breath away. We haven’t stayed there ourselves, but at that price, it’s worth trying.

Landštejnský dvůr (10 km) — Right below Landštejn Castle, with a children’s playground and fish specialities in the restaurant. If you’re planning to visit the castle, you won’t find a better base.

Landštejn Castle near Slavonice

How much does a weekend in Slavonice cost for two

Slavonice is delightfully affordable. Here’s a rough budget for a long weekend (3 nights) for two:

  • Accommodation: €120–290 (€20–48/person/night × 2 × 3)
  • Food and drink: €80–140 (lunches and dinners at restaurants, cafés)
  • Admission fees: approx. €20–32 (underground, tower, Landštejn Castle)
  • Petrol from Prague and back: approx. €32–40
  • Total: approx. €250–500 for two for 3 nights, depending on accommodation level

Compared to Český Krumlov, for example, it’s significantly cheaper — and yet the experience is comparable.

Slavonice: 8 places you must see and things to do

Now let’s get to the main part — what to see and experience in Slavonice. The town may be small (home to fewer than 2,500 residents), but the concentration of points of interest per square metre is incredible. I’ve put together 8 tips right in town, from the Renaissance square and mysterious underground to a cycle path that takes you all the way to Vienna. ☺️

Main square in Slavonice

1. Renaissance square and sgraffito — a walk through the historic centre

This is what made me stand in the square with my jaw on the floor. Náměstí Míru (Peace Square) and the adjoining Horní náměstí (Upper Square) are surrounded by more than 50 historic houses in Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Over 20 of them are decorated with figurative, ornamental, and architectural sgraffito from the 16th century — those delicate, etched images on facades that look like giant engravings carved into plaster.

Slavonice grew wealthy in the 16th century because it sat on an important postal route between Prague and Vienna. The burghers invested in rebuilding their homes and hired the finest artists. The result? One of the most complete collections of Renaissance sgraffito decoration in all of Europe. And that’s no exaggeration — the town has been an urban heritage reserve since 1961.

My recommendation: Don’t follow any itinerary. Just stroll around the square and lanes, look up, and admire the details. Every house is different, every gable tells a different story. Under the arcades, you can sit down for a coffee (more on cafés below) and simply soak up the atmosphere. It’s like an open-air museum, just without admission fees and without a no-photography rule. 😁

Practical tip: At the Tourist Information Centre on Náměstí Míru 476, you can pick up a map marking the most significant houses and sgraffito. It’s open during peak season (July–August) daily 9:00–17:00, and in June and September daily 8:00–17:00.

Underground tunnels in Slavonice

2. Slavonice underground — medieval tunnels where you wade through water

And now the best part — at least for me personally. The Slavonice underground is a network of medieval passages from the 13th century, hewn directly into the rock beneath the town. The total length is an incredible 1,375 metres and the tunnels lie 4–7 metres below the surface. They’ve been open to the public since 1998.

What makes the Slavonice underground so unique? Water. The passages have a constant level of groundwater that reaches up to about 20 cm. So you literally wade through medieval tunnels ankle-deep in water. 😅 Don’t worry — at the entrance you’ll receive a rain poncho and wellies included in the admission price — so even those who wore white trainers (like me) will be fine.

You can choose from two routes:

  • Long route: approx. 400 metres, 45–60 minutes, €2.80 adults / €1.60 reduced — I’d recommend this one if you have time. You’ll see most of the tunnels and the experience is more immersive.
  • Short route: approx. 150 metres, 20–25 minutes, €1.60 adults / €1.20 reduced — ideal if you’re visiting with smaller children or are short on time.

The entrance is from the mázhaus (great hall) of house no. 480 on Náměstí Míru — you’ll find it easily, it’s in a confectionery. Yes, you read that right — you enter the underground from a sweet shop. Slavonice knows how to surprise. ☺️

Honest warning: It’s cold underground (around 10°C year-round) and damp. Even in summer, bring a warm layer. And if you suffer from claustrophobia, some sections are quite narrow — consider the short route or skip it altogether.

View from the tower in Slavonice
View from the tower in Slavonice

3. Town tower — 176 steps and a panoramic view

If you love views (and who doesn’t), the town tower at the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is a must. The tower is 56 metres tall, was completed in 1549, and 176 steps lead to the viewing platform. The reward is a panoramic view of the entire town — sgraffito-decorated rooftops, red tiles, the surrounding hills of Czech Canada, and on a clear day, you can see far into Austria.

The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary itself is a late Gothic three-naved basilica from the 14th century with beautiful ribbed vaulting and is worth a peek inside, even if you don’t climb the tower.

Practical tip: The tower is mainly open during the summer season. Admission is symbolic (just a few euros). For current information, check the TIC on the square or the town’s website. With small children in a pushchair, it obviously won’t work — 176 steps are 176 steps. 😅

View from the tower in Slavonice
View from the tower in Slavonice

4. Fortification site and bunkers — a piece of the Iron Curtain

This one’s for all lovers of modern history and for anyone who wants a reminder of how close war once was. On the outskirts of Slavonice, you’ll find the Museum of Czechoslovak Fortification 1935–1938 — a site with 11 reconstructed Type 37 bunkers, colloquially known as “ropíky.”

Two of the bunkers are fully equipped and armed and open to the public. You can look inside, see what life was like for soldiers in these cramped spaces, and walk an educational trail with 13 stops that guides you through the entire fortification.

Slavonice sat right on the border of the Sudetenland, and the fortifications were meant to stop a potential invasion from Austria, which by 1938 had already been absorbed into Nazi Germany. When the Munich Agreement came, the fortifications were never used in battle — and yet (or perhaps because of that) walking among the bunkers is a powerful experience. You stand here and wonder what would have happened if…

Tip: Every year on the first Saturday in August, a military re-enactment called “Attack on the Bunkers 1938” takes place with period uniforms, equipment, and pyrotechnics. If your timing works out, it’s a great experience even for those who aren’t typically interested in military history.

Boys (and the boys inside grown men 😁) will love it. Lukáš and I spent more time there than I’d originally planned.

WWII bunkers near Slavonice

5. Keramika Maříž — paint your own mug

This is a tip that families with children will especially appreciate, but also adults who want to take home an original souvenir. Keramika Maříž has its main workshop in nearby Maříž (a few kilometres from Slavonice), but right on the square you’ll find their branch Ceramic Art & Salad — a café combined with a ceramics workshop.

Here’s how it works: you choose a mug, bowl, or plate and paint your own design on it. The ceramic is then fired and shipped to your home by post. It’s an absolutely brilliant activity, especially in bad weather when you don’t know what to do with yourself. Kids adore it, but I’ll admit I enjoy it just as much. 😅

In the Ceramic Art & Salad café, you can have a decent coffee and a light lunch — a salad or sandwich. So you combine something pleasant with something even more pleasant.

Practical tip: Allow about 1–2 hours for painting, and the price depends on the piece of ceramics you choose (roughly €8–20 per piece + postage). You’ll receive the finished product by post in 2–3 weeks.

Ceramic painting workshop in Slavonice

6. Where to eat in Slavonice — a food guide

Slavonice isn’t Prague or České Budějovice — the restaurant selection is limited, but the quality is surprisingly good. I do have to give you an honest heads-up though: outside peak season and at weekends, it can be tricky to find an open restaurant for dinner. We found this out the hard way. So plan ahead and make a reservation if possible.

Hospůdka v Mázhauzu — Our clear number one. It’s the top-rated restaurant in Slavonice on TripAdvisor and completely deservedly so. Hearty Czech cuisine, about 50 seats inside plus a terrace in summer. Portions are generous, prices reasonable, and the atmosphere is exactly what you’d expect in a South Bohemian town — no unnecessary pretension, just good food. I recommend booking, especially at weekends.

Restaurace Besídka (in Hotel Besídka) — Pizza and European cuisine. And here’s that important tip again: at weekends, this is one of the few restaurants that serves dinner. So if you’ve planned a romantic weekend and don’t want to eat bread rolls from your backpack for supper, keep Besídka as your backup.

Hotel U Růže — A restaurant right on the square with a summer terrace. Pleasant seating with a view of the sgraffito facades. Slightly pricier, but worth it.

Kavárna U nás doma — If you love speciality coffee, this is your place. Very good coffee in a cosy setting.

KAFE A HRNKY — Another café on the square, ideal for a quick stop.

Ceramic Art & Salad — I’ve already mentioned it above — a café combined with ceramics. Light lunches, salads, good coffee.

Honest warning: In Slavonice, you simply don’t have 50 restaurants to choose from like in Jindřichův Hradec. But the ones that are here do their job well. Just don’t count on walking into a restaurant at 9 PM without a reservation for dinner — this is a small town and restaurants close early.

Dining in Slavonice

7. Greenway Prague–Vienna — a cycle route through Slavonice

If you’re a cyclist (or even just a recreational pedaller like me), this will interest you. Slavonice lies on the international cycle route Greenway Prague–Vienna (marked as route no. 48), which stretches a total of 470 km, with 350 km on Czech territory.

The route passes through gorgeous corners of Bohemia and Moravia: Prague–Týnec nad Sázavou–Sedlčany–Tábor–Jindřichův Hradec–Slavonice–Vranov nad Dyjí–Znojmo–Mikulov–Vienna. You don’t have to ride the whole thing — many people just pick a section. And the section around Slavonice and Czech Canada is among the most beautiful. Rolling countryside, forests, ponds, and romantic little towns.

At Hotel Pivonka (mentioned above), you can hire bikes if you don’t have your own. And if you’re planning just a shorter ride, I recommend the route Slavonice–Landštejn–Staré Město pod Landštejnem — beautiful scenery, easy terrain, and a reward at the end in the form of Landštejn Castle.

8. Tripoint Bohemia–Moravia–Austria

To wrap up the walk around Slavonice, here’s a small but symbolically interesting trip. Just outside the town, you’ll find a tripoint boundary stone where the borders of Bohemia, Moravia, and Austria meet. It’s one of those spots where you can stand in three places at once — one foot in Bohemia, the other in Moravia, and your hand reaching into Austria. 😁

The boundary stone itself isn’t anything spectacular, let’s be honest — it’s simply a stone in the landscape. But the walk there is pleasant, and for kids it’s great fun (they can say they’ve been in three “countries” at once). And in the context of history — the Iron Curtain ran through here, this is where the world ended — it’s a place with a quiet gravity.

Landštejn Castle near Slavonice

Day trips from Slavonice: 3 ideas

You can see Slavonice itself in a day, but the surrounding area offers so many beautiful places that it would be a shame not to venture beyond the town. Czech Canada is an area full of forests, ponds, hills, and historic landmarks — and Slavonice is the ideal base for exploring it. Here are 3 tips for the best day trips.

9. Landštejn Castle — one of the oldest stone castles in Czechia

About 15 km from Slavonice stands Landštejn Castle — one of the oldest and most imposing early Gothic stone castles in the entire Czech Republic. And I have to say, it’s exactly the kind of castle you imagine when someone says “medieval castle” — massive towers, stone walls, and a view that takes your breath away.

What I loved about Landštejn: the tour is self-guided. You move freely around the entire site, climb stairs, peek into rooms, and nobody rushes you. For families with children, it’s ideal — no “don’t touch” and no “shush.” Kids can be kids here.

Admission: adults approx. €4, children 6–15 approx. €2.80, children under 6 free. For that price, you get an experience that easily rivals castles costing several times more.

Near the castle, you’ll also find the Landštejn adventure rope course, where both kids and adults can climb. And if you’re looking for accommodation nearby, Landštejnský dvůr right below the castle is an excellent choice.

I’ve written more about the castle in a separate article: Landštejn Castle: practical tips for your visit.

10. U Jakuba lookout tower — views of Czech Canada

If you want to see why this area is called Czech Canada, climb the U Jakuba lookout tower on Havlova hora hill near Valtínov. It’s a wooden tower built in 2013 that offers a 360° view of the hilly landscape full of forests and ponds, which truly resembles Canadian wilderness — just smaller and without the bears. 😁

The lookout tower is part of an educational trail leading to the bizarrely named Ďáblova prdel (Devil’s Bottom) — a rock formation that’s worth a detour. The trail is undemanding and manageable even for smaller children.

Tip: Combine the lookout tower trip with a visit to Landštejn Castle — they’re relatively close to each other and together make a lovely half-day outing.

11. Swimming nearby: Osika Pond and more

Czech Canada is laced with ponds and in summer, swimming is one of the main activities. Here are the best spots for a dip near Slavonice:

Osika Pond (near the village of Albeř) — This is our clear recommendation, especially for families with small children. The pond covers 68 hectares and has a sandy beach with a gentle slope into the water — ideal for toddlers and small kids whom you don’t need to worry about near the water. We spent a lovely afternoon here and the kids were over the moon.

Dědkův rybník — The nearest swimming spot to Slavonice, practical if you don’t want to drive far.

Šatlava Pond (near Stálkov) — Smaller, quieter, fewer people. Ideal for those seeking peace.

Dačice Swimming Pool — If you prefer a classic swimming pool with water slides, a flume, and a children’s pool, head to nearby Dačice. It’s about 20 minutes by car from Slavonice and it’s paradise for kids.

Honest warning: The ponds in Czech Canada are beautiful, but the water tends to be cooler than at other South Bohemian ponds (thanks to the altitude and forested surroundings). In July and August it’s pleasant, but at the start and end of the season, expect to feel like a cold-water swimmer. 😅

Slavonice with kids: 2 tips for families

We travel with Lukáš and our small children, so I know what it’s like searching for activities that entertain the whole family — and not just the parents while the kids get bored and whinge. 😅 The area around Slavonice is absolutely brilliant in this regard — there are several places that seem tailor-made for families. Here are two main tips, each of which contains multiple activities.

12. Fairy-Tale Forest Trail + mini zoo at Bejčkův mlýn

This is a combination that will keep small children entertained for an entire morning (and honestly, their parents too).

The Fairy-Tale Forest Trail winds through Strážný vrch forest, just about 2 km from Slavonice’s centre. And it’s brilliantly designed — it offers three difficulty levels:

  • Bronze trail: 1.8 km, 4 stations — ideal for small children and pushchairs (you can manage with an off-road buggy)
  • Silver trail: 2.5 km — for older children
  • Gold trail: 4 km — for little adventurers and more active families

At each station, you complete tasks, search for fairy-tale characters, and collect stamps. And now the best part: for completing the trail, you receive a reward and a diploma at the TIC in Slavonice on the square. For kids, that diploma is probably more important than the entire trip. 😁

The mini zoo at Bejčkův mlýn is just 2 km from the centre and makes a perfect stop on the way to or from the Fairy-Tale Forest. You’ll find donkeys, sheep, goats, piglets, chickens, and even an ostrich. Animals can be fed — you’ll get the feed at reception. And now the best news: admission is FREE. Yes, free. In a time when you pay for everything, this is a joyful exception.

If you’re also staying at Bejčkův mlýn (see the accommodation section above), it’s right on your doorstep and the kids will want to visit the animals every morning.

Practical tip for parents: The combination of Fairy-Tale Forest + zoo + ice cream on the square takes about 3–4 hours and the kids will be so tired after lunch that they’ll happily fall asleep in the car or pushchair. And you can then explore the sgraffito in peace. Strategy! 😉

13. Labyrinth near Dolní Pěna + ZOO Na Hrádečku

If you have time for a trip a bit further from Slavonice (towards Jindřichův Hradec, about 30 minutes by car), a double combo awaits that will send the kids absolutely wild with joy.

The Labyrinth in Dolní Pěna near Jindřichův Hradec is the largest hornbeam labyrinth in Central Europe — and the dimensions are truly impressive: 6,000 m² in area, 3 km of paths, and 12,000 hornbeam trees. Hidden inside the labyrinth are 6 wooden monster sculptures that you have to find. The hedges are taller than an adult, so you genuinely have no idea where you’re going — and yes, you will get lost. We wandered around for a good 45 minutes while Lukáš insisted he “had a system.” He didn’t. 😅

For the very small and the desperately lost, there are SOS benches scattered around — and anyone who truly can’t find the way out can call for help. 😁 There’s also a playground and refreshments near the labyrinth.

ZOO Na Hrádečku is just a short distance from the Labyrinth — a private zoo on 10 hectares with more than 200 animal species. It’s one of those pleasant, not-too-large zoos where you feel the animals are genuinely well cared for. Children under 3 get in free, children approx. €2.80, adults approx. €4.80.

Bonus tip for families: If you’re heading to Jindřichův Hradec, also stop by the historic narrow-gauge railway Jindřichův Hradec–Nová Bystřice — a ride on this historic narrow-gauge train is an experience for the whole family. More tips on Jindřichův Hradec can be found in our separate article.

And one more tip for your pocket: Ranch Veselíčko (about 10 km from Slavonice) offers pony rides for children. If you have horse lovers at home, you’ll be heroes.

For even more inspiration on trips around South Bohemia, check out our article South Bohemia: 8 tips for day trips or our round-up of 20 weekend trip ideas in the Czech Republic. And if Slavonice inspires you to explore the whole of Czech Canada, here’s our guide: Czech Canada: 6 tips for trips in South Bohemia.

Jindřichův Hradec near Slavonice

Tips and tricks to finish

A few practical pointers that will come in handy:

Booking accommodation

For accommodation in Slavonice and the surrounding area, I recommend the classic Booking.com — it’s our favourite accommodation search engine and you’ll find most hotels and guesthouses in Slavonice on it. During the peak summer season (July–August), I recommend booking in advance, especially at weekends — Slavonice may be lesser-known, but those who know it love coming back.

What to pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes — Slavonice’s lanes are beautiful, but the cobblestones can be tough on your feet
  • A warm layer even in summer — you’ll need a jumper for the underground, it’s around 10°C down there
  • A rain jacket — Czech Canada is hilly and showers are common
  • Insect repellent — you’ll appreciate it near the ponds and forests, especially in the evening
  • Wellies for the underground are provided on site, so no need to pack those ☺️

Offline map and navigation

Slavonice is small and you’ll get your bearings in no time. But if you want to explore the surrounding area (Landštejn, Osika, the Labyrinth), I recommend having Mapy.cz on your phone — it has excellent hiking and cycling routes for the Czech Canada area. Google Maps also works well for driving directions.

How many days to plan for Slavonice

For the town itself, one full day is enough. But if you want to visit the surrounding area — Landštejn Castle, the ponds, Fairy-Tale Forest, the Labyrinth — plan at least a long weekend (3 days / 2–3 nights). Slavonice is the ideal base for exploring the whole of Czech Canada.

Slavonice is proof that you don’t need to fly to the other side of the world to experience something exceptional. Sometimes you just need to get in the car and drive to the south of Bohemia — to a little town you may have never heard of, but one that will take your breath away. It took me nearly my whole life to get there. Hopefully it won’t take you quite as long. ☺️

And if you’re looking for more inspiration for trips around the Czech Republic, check out our guide to the 20 most beautiful places in the Czech Republic.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What to see in Slavonice?

Slavonice offers a Renaissance square with unique sgraffito facades, medieval underground tunnels, a town tower with panoramic views, a fortification site with bunkers from 1938, and a ceramics workshop where you can paint your own mug. Nearby, you’ll find Landštejn Castle, the U Jakuba lookout tower, and swimming at Osika Pond.

How to get to Slavonice?

By car from Prague it’s about 2.5–3 hours (180 km), from Vienna about 2 hours (170 km), and from Brno about 2 hours. By train or bus via Jindřichův Hradec or Dačice — but a car is more convenient, especially for exploring the surrounding area. You can also arrive by bike along the Greenway Prague–Vienna cycle route.

How much does entry to the Slavonice underground cost?

The long route (400 m, 45–60 min) costs about €2.80 for adults and €1.60 reduced. The short route (150 m, 20–25 min) costs about €1.60 for adults and €1.20 reduced. Wellies and a rain poncho are included in the price — the tunnels have a constant water level of about 20 cm.

Where to stay in Slavonice?

For luxury, I recommend Hotel U Růže with a wine bar in medieval cellars (from €48/person/night). For families, Vila Slavonice with a playroom and kitchen is ideal (from €80/night for the entire villa). The most affordable option is Penzion Secesní dům (from €20/person/night) or Dobrohoř Château 10 km from town (from €14/person/night).

What to do in Slavonice with kids?

With small children, head to the Fairy-Tale Forest Trail (3 difficulty levels, the Bronze trail of 1.8 km for the youngest) and the mini zoo at Bejčkův mlýn (free admission). Older kids will love the hornbeam Labyrinth near Dolní Pěna (the largest in Central Europe) and the private ZOO Na Hrádečku. For swimming, Osika Pond with its gentle slope is ideal.

Why is it called Czech Canada?

The area around Slavonice, Jindřichův Hradec, and Nová Bystřice is called Czech Canada because of its hilly, forested landscape with numerous ponds and lakes that resembles Canadian wilderness. It’s one of the least populated areas of South Bohemia with beautiful, wild nature.

How much time do I need to visit Slavonice?

To see the town itself (square, underground, tower, bunkers), one full day is enough. If you want to visit the surrounding area — Landštejn Castle, ponds, Fairy-Tale Forest, the Labyrinth — plan a long weekend (2–3 nights). Slavonice is the ideal base for exploring the whole Czech Canada region.

Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation

Don’t Overpay for Flights

Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.

Book Your Accommodation Smartly

The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.

Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).

Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.

Find the Best Experiences

Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!

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