South Bohemia, Czech Republic: 8 Best Places for Your Holiday

As a South Bohemian, I only began to truly appreciate the beauty of South Bohemia after exploring the rest of the country. Only then did I realize how unique South Bohemia is, how many trip opportunities we have here, and that we can boast about the most beautiful towns in our country. In this guide I will share with you South Bohemia, Czech Republic: 8 Best Places for Your Holiday.

South Bohemia is literally a treasure trove of historic towns. Although many only know Český Krumlov, Třeboň or Jindřichův Hradec, there are also other lesser-known towns that deserve your attention. Let’s take a look at the most beautiful towns South Bohemia has to offer for your trips.

Písek – the Oldest Bridge in Czechia

I grew up in Písek, but after ten years of living in Prague and several years living outside the Czech Republic, I was able to appreciate the beauty of this small town.

A bit of history: Písek boasts the oldest stone bridge in Central Europe, older than Charles Bridge in Prague. But Písek isn’t just about the bridge; definitely at least climb the church tower and walk along the river.

You’ll also find great restaurants, cafes, and even an excellent gallery with exhibitions for children. It’s an absolutely wonderful place to live and an even better town for a trip.

Slavonice – a Hidden Gem

Few people know this town, and that’s a real shame. Even I visited for the first time when I was about twenty-five, I can’t believe it! This small town on the border of South Bohemia and Moravia will charm you with its colorful Renaissance houses covered in sgraffito. It’s an ideal place if you want to escape the tourist crowds (unless you happen to go during Slavonice Fest).

Prachatice with its Postcard-Perfect Square

I couldn’t appreciate Prachatice for a long time; I remembered it from childhood, and as children, you focus on completely different things. Yet, the square in Prachatice is like something out of a postcard – beautiful houses, an old town hall, and a tranquility often missing in other tourist towns.

I also recommend it as a starting point for a trip to Šumava. And if you love history, the Golden Path Museum will take you on a journey back to the times when Prachatice was an important trade center.

Dačice – the Town of Sugar

Dačice may be small, but it holds great significance. It was here that the first sugar cube in the world was created! In the town center, you’ll find a monument that commemorates this sweet revolution.

But Dačice isn’t just about sugar. There’s a beautiful chateau with an English park where you can spend a peaceful afternoon . Stroll through the historic streets, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and let yourself be carried away by the past. Dačice is also an excellent starting point for exploring the surroundings, such as Telč Chateau or the Czech Canada Nature Park.

Český Krumlov – UNESCO Pearl

Český Krumlov is a classic that you simply must experience. Yes, there are a lot of tourists, but the town has such an atmosphere that you won’t even mind. Or come here in winter; that’s what we do most often.

Strolling through the winding streets, stumbling upon small galleries, old taverns, and then climbing up to the chateau, from where you have the whole town at your fingertips – that’s an experience worth having. And don’t forget to see the revolving auditorium in the chateau garden, where open-air theater performances are held.

Třeboň – Spa Town of Ponds

Třeboň is a small town you’ll fall in love with. Ponds, spas, a beautiful Renaissance center – all this makes Třeboň an ideal place for a long weekend!

Take a walk around Svět Pond, visit the Schwarzenberg Tomb, or enjoy a spa treatment.

Masaryk Square is full of cafes and restaurants, but we prefer to go to the local Indian restaurant.

What to see and do in Třeboň? Read our article.

Jindřichův Hradec – the Largest Chateau Complex

Jindřichův Hradec is the pearl of Czech Canada. The town will charm you with its monumental chateau complex, which is one of the largest in Czechia.

Don’t forget to find the famous 15th meridian , which passes directly through the town center – it’s said that if you cross it with the right wish, it might come true. If you’re looking for a unique view, definitely climb the town’s observation tower of the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

For families with children, there’s Obludiště, the largest hedge maze in Central Europe, which is guaranteed to entertain children.

What to see in Jindřichův Hradec? Read our article.

České Budějovice – a Town where Everyone Would Want to Live

It’s said that everyone would want to live in České Budějovice. I’m not sure about that, but you should definitely visit! Přemysl Otakar II Square is one of the largest square town squares in Europe.

And if you like beer, Budějovice is home to the famous Budvar, so don’t miss a brewery tour. Read our article with 28 tips on what to see in České Budějovice.