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 ‒…

Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images
České Budějovice
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.
Explore České Budějovice
- BBlack 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 ‒…
- NNáměstí Přemysla Otakara II
The attractive arcaded buildings grouped around Samson's Fountain (Samsonova kašna; 1727) constitute the biggest town square in the country, 133m on each…
- BBudweiser Budvar 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…
- SSouth Bohemian Motorcycle 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…
- CChurch of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin
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…
- RRabenštejn Tower
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…
- MMuseum of South Bohemia
Founded in 1877, the revamped Museum of South Bohemia holds an enormous collection of historic books, coins, military objects, folk art and displays on…
- IIron Maiden 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…
Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout České Budějovice.
- See
Black 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 ‒…
- See
Náměstí Přemysla Otakara II
The attractive arcaded buildings grouped around Samson's Fountain (Samsonova kašna; 1727) constitute the biggest town square in the country, 133m on each…
- See
Budweiser Budvar 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…
- See
South Bohemian Motorcycle 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…
- See
Church of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin
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…
- See
Rabenštejn Tower
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…
- See
Museum of South Bohemia
Founded in 1877, the revamped Museum of South Bohemia holds an enormous collection of historic books, coins, military objects, folk art and displays on…
- See
Iron Maiden 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…
Guidebooks
Purchase our award-winning guidebooks
Get to the heart of České Budějovice with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.