Getting Oriented in Southern Bohemia
Southern Bohemia is one of the most popular regions in the Czech Republic. Chock-full of castles and pretty cities with well-preserved squares, it’s a favorite weekend getaway for many Prague locals. Well-marked hiking and biking trails encourage lots of sporty times, and it’s easy for visitors to take part, since even some of the train stations rent bicycles. The towns themselves are active, too, and many hold a variety of festivals throughout the year.
Being so close to Prague, several of these cities can be done in a day trip; but to get a true flavor of the town and its inhabitants, it’s worth your time to stay over or spend a couple of days jumping between a few of the outer areas. The attractiveness of the landscape combined with cultural pursuits makes Southern Bohemia an amazing place to explore.
- Český Krumlov. A fanciful city with a stunning castle and gardens: Český Krumlov is the must-see in Southern Bohemia.
- Tábor. With streets designed to thwart invading armies, Tábor will lose you in its beauty and friendliness.
- Písek. Strung along the river, the city with the oldest Gothic bridge in the country is also home to some great museums.
- Třeboň. The spas of Southern Bohemia can be found in Třeboň. Peat-moss bath, anyone?
- Jindřichův Hradec. Authentic and attractive, Jindřichův Hradec is the perfect example of a true Southern Bohemian town: interesting castle, beautiful architecture, and real people.
- Hluboká nad Vltavou. A castle to die for. The fairy-tale hulk of turreted white can be seen for miles around.
- České Budějovice. Southern Bohemia’s largest city, with a beautiful medieval square and lots of outdoor activities.
