České Budějovice Old Town
Explore the historic heart of South Bohemia, featuring a grand square, iconic brewery, and charming cobblestone streets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
České Budějovice Old Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic heart of South Bohemia, featuring a grand square, iconic brewery, and charming cobblestone streets.
"Really enjoyed this location and hotel overall. Definitely great to stay at for one night. Breakfast included!"
🍺 Brewery Tour Essential
Don't miss the Budweiser Budvar brewery tour! Beer tasting included. Book in advance if possible.
🚶♀️ Walkable City Center
Most of the old town is easily explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pivovar Budweiser Budvar Brewery
Near the Old Town
Discover the secrets of Budweiser beer production with an engaging tour and tasting. A must-visit for beer enthusiasts!

Přemysl Otakar II Square
City Center
The heart of the old town, this vast square boasts stunning architecture and the iconic Samson Fountain.

Black Tower (Černá věž)
Přemysl Otakar II Square
Climb this historic tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding South Bohemia region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Ceske Budejovice Old Town
Best Time for a Pleasant Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍺 Brewery Tour Essential
Don't miss the Budweiser Budvar brewery tour! Beer tasting included. Book in advance if possible.
🚶♀️ Walkable City Center
Most of the old town is easily explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
📸 Capture the Square
The main square is incredibly picturesque, especially with the Samson Fountain. Great for photos!
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Guesthouses offer good value, often with free breakfast. Look for places with easy access to the center.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍺 Brewery Tour Essential
Don't miss the Budweiser Budvar brewery tour! Beer tasting included. Book in advance if possible.
🚶♀️ Walkable City Center
Most of the old town is easily explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
📸 Capture the Square
The main square is incredibly picturesque, especially with the Samson Fountain. Great for photos!
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Guesthouses offer good value, often with free breakfast. Look for places with easy access to the center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Ceske Budejovice Old Town for its well-situated and clean accommodations, often highlighting the value for money and friendly service. The inclusion of free breakfast is a significant plus for many. However, some guests noted minor issues with room amenities like insufficient hangers or the need to purchase basic supplies.
"It was very difficult to find out the location."
JW Ko
"We had a realy pleasant stay at the Garni hotel in Ceske Budejovice over the new year. People were very friendly, overall great experience."
Andraz Dobaj
"Really enjoyed this location and hotel overall. I'm from the States and stayed one night. Definitely great to stay at for one night. Breakfast included!"
HxCChunky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ceske Budejovice is well-connected by train and bus from Prague and other major Czech cities. Once in Ceske Budejovice, the Old Town is easily accessible by foot from the main bus and train stations. Local trolleybuses also serve the area, with routes like the #2 often passing through the city center.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town can be challenging and is often restricted. It's recommended to use designated parking lots on the outskirts of the center or utilize public transport if arriving by car.
Yes, the Old Town is very walkable. The main attractions are concentrated around Přemysl Otakar II Square, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must for the cobblestone streets.
Guided tours are often available, especially during peak season. You can inquire at the local tourist information center for schedules and booking options. Some tours may focus on history, architecture, or even local legends.
For exploring the Old Town, walking is best. For reaching areas slightly further out, the local trolleybus system is efficient and affordable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Town itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. However, specific attractions within the Old Town, such as the Black Tower or the Budweiser Budvar Brewery, will have their own admission fees.
Opening hours vary for each attraction. The Black Tower typically opens daily from spring to autumn, while the Budweiser Budvar Brewery offers tours at scheduled times. It's best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, exploring Přemysl Otakar II Square, admiring the architecture, and walking through the charming streets are all free activities. The Samson Fountain is also a central free attraction.
It is highly recommended to book brewery tours online in advance, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
The main square, Přemysl Otakar II Square, is a public space and is free to enter and explore at any time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The absolute must-sees include Přemysl Otakar II Square with the Samson Fountain, the Black Tower for panoramic views, and the historic Budweiser Budvar Brewery for a taste of local heritage.
Absolutely! The Old Town offers numerous photogenic spots, from the grand square and its fountain to the colorful facades of the buildings and the Black Tower. Sunsets can be particularly beautiful.
Visiting the Budweiser Budvar Brewery is a unique experience, offering insight into a world-famous beer. Exploring the less crowded side streets can also reveal charming local spots.
The Old Town has a relaxed and historic atmosphere. It's a pleasant place to wander, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the Czech charm.
Ceske Budejovice hosts various events throughout the year, including Christmas markets and cultural festivals. Checking local event calendars before your visit is a good idea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old Town and its surroundings offer a variety of dining options, from traditional Czech pubs serving hearty meals to more modern cafes. Look for places around the main square for convenience.
Don't miss classic dishes like goulash, svíčková (marinated sirloin), or smažený sýr (fried cheese). Many pubs also offer excellent sausages and local specialties.
While traditional Czech cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for options.
Ceske Budejovice is famous for its beer, particularly Budweiser Budvar. You'll find excellent pilsners and other local brews in most pubs and restaurants.
Yes, numerous cafes are scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee and a pastry break while sightseeing.
📸 📸 Photography
Přemysl Otakar II Square is a prime spot, especially with the Samson Fountain. The Black Tower offers great cityscapes. Don't forget the colorful facades of the surrounding buildings and charming side streets.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the architecture. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of the buildings.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, some specific attractions or private establishments might have their own rules, so it's always good to be mindful.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban areas. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the Old Town.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide shots of the square and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive square.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a climb up the Black Tower for a sense of adventure and a rewarding view, but be mindful of the stairs. Many cafes offer kid-friendly snacks, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed, making it easy to manage with children. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as exploring the cobblestone streets can be tiring.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for local pubs and eateries for meals rather than tourist-trap restaurants. The Budweiser Budvar Brewery tour is reasonably priced for the experience and tasting it offers. Utilizing public transport like trolleybuses is also very economical for getting around.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Heart: Přemysl Otakar II Square
Adjacent to the square, the Black Tower (Černá věž) stands as a prominent landmark. Climbing its 225 steps rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city and the picturesque South Bohemian countryside. The tower also houses a bell that has chimed for centuries, adding to its historical significance.
Beyond the main square, the Old Town's charm extends to its network of cobblestone streets. Taking time to explore these smaller lanes can lead to delightful discoveries, from hidden courtyards to quaint local shops. The overall atmosphere is one of historical grandeur blended with a relaxed, lived-in feel, making it a pleasure to explore.
The Budweiser Budvar Brewery Experience
The highlight for many is the beer tasting session that concludes the tour, where you can savor the distinct taste of freshly brewed Budweiser Budvar. Tours are often available in multiple languages, including English, making it accessible for international visitors. It's advisable to book your tour tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Beyond the tour, the brewery complex often includes a visitor center and a restaurant where you can enjoy more of their beer and local cuisine. It’s a truly immersive experience that connects you with a significant part of Ceske Budejovice's identity and its contribution to global beverage culture.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit