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České Budějovice (pronounced chesky bood-yo-vit-zah or simply 'Budweis') is the provincial capital of southern Bohemia and a natural base for exploring the region. Transport connections to nearby Český Krumlov are good, meaning you could easily take in both places on an overnight excursion from Prague. While České Budějovice lacks top sights, it does have one of Europe's largest main squares and a charming labyrinth of narrow lanes and winding alleyways, some of which hug a sleepy but atmospheric canal. It's also the home of 'Budvar' beer (aka Czech 'Budweiser'), and a brewery tour usually tops the 'must-do' list.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout České Budějovice.
Tower
The dominating, 72m Gothic-Renaissance Black Tower was built in 1553. Climb its 225 steps (yes, we counted them) for fine views. The tower's two bells ‒ the Marta (1723) and Budvar (1995; a gift from the brewery) ‒ are rung daily at noon.
Square
The attractive arcaded buildings grouped around Samson's Fountain (Samsonova kašna; 1727) constitute the biggest town square in the country, 133m on each side. Among the architectural treats is the 1555 Renaissance town hall (Radnice), which received a baroque facelift in 1731. The figures on the balustrade – Justice, Wisdom, Courage and Prudence – are matched by an exotic quartet of bronze gargoyles.
Brewery
One of the highlights of a trip to České Budějovice is a chance to see where original Budweiser beer was born. Brewery tours depart daily at 2pm (plus 11am July and August, less frequently from November to March). The tour highlights modern production methods, with the reward being a glass of Budvar in the brewery's chilly cellars. The brewery is 2km north of the main square.
Museum
There are dozens of historic bikes on display in this museum, housed in the unlikely setting of a 16th-century Gothic granary, later used as a salt warehouse. In addition to motorbikes, there are old-time bicycles and model aeroplanes.
Church
One of the oldest buildings in České Budějovice, this church and monastery complex goes back nearly to the founding of the city itself, dating from the mid-13th century. The overall style is Gothic, with baroque elements added later. Among the highlights of a peek inside are the many decorative elements and statues dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries.
Museum
This tower, part of the city's original fortifications dating back to the 15th century, is home to a small exhibition of historical weapons and body armour. If it's closed, ask at the handicrafts shop on the ground floor and they can let you in.
Museum
Founded in 1877, the revamped Museum of South Bohemia holds an enormous collection of historic books, coins, military objects, folk art and displays on natural history and archaeology, with a focus on the local region.
Tower
The 15th-century Iron Maiden Tower is a crumbling former prison (and, legend has it, a torture chamber) and one of the few remaining bits of the Old Town's Gothic fortifications.