At a Glance: 2-Day Itinerary Highlights

This itinerary focuses on the best cultural and culinary spots. You will see the city's main landmarks on the first day. The second day takes you to the outskirts for beer and castles. This plan is easy to follow on foot or by public transit.

• Day 1: Explore Přemysl Otakar II Square, climb the Black Tower, and visit the Cathedral.
• Day 2: Tour the Budweiser Budvar Brewery and visit the stunning Hluboká Castle.
• Optional: Add a sunset walk along the Malše and Vltava rivers.

South Bohemia is a very safe region. You can easily travel between towns using local trains or buses. Most sites are open year-round, but check 2026 schedules for castle interiors.

Day 1: Historic Center and Famous Squares

Start your morning at Přemysl Otakar II Square. This is one of the largest town squares in Europe. It forms a perfect square shape. Look for the Samson Fountain in the very center. It is a beautiful Baroque masterpiece from the 18th century. Around the square, you will see 48 historic houses with arcades.

Day 1: Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Walk the perimeter of the main square. Visit the Town Hall with its dragon-shaped gargoyles. Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Head to the Black Tower (Černá věž). Climb the 225 steps for a panoramic view of the city. Then, visit the nearby St. Nicholas Cathedral to see its ornate interior. Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Enjoy a traditional dinner at Masné krámy. This former meat market is now a famous restaurant. It serves the freshest local beer and hearty Czech dishes.

Logistics Tip: The historic center is mostly a pedestrian zone. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven. You do not need a car for this day. Everything is within a ten-minute walk. Most museums in the center close on Mondays.

Day 2: Beer Heritage and River Walks

No České Budějovice sightseeing guide is complete without beer. The city has brewed beer for over 700 years. The Budweiser Budvar Brewery is the most famous stop. It is located just north of the city center. You can reach it by a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk.

Day 2: Morning (10:00 AM - 12:30 PM): Take a guided tour of the Budweiser Budvar Brewery. You will see the brewing process and taste raw beer. Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Take a local bus or bike to Hluboká nad Vltavou. This is a top choice for Hluboká Castle day trip lovers. The castle looks like a fairy tale with its white towers. Evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Return to the city for a quiet walk. The confluence of the Malše and Vltava rivers is very peaceful. It is a great spot for photos at sunset.

Logistics Tip: Brewery tours fill up quickly in the summer. It is best to book your slot online at least two days early. For the castle, check the official landmark site for special 2026 events. Buses to Hluboká leave frequently from the main bus station roof.

Using This České Budějovice Sightseeing Guide

Choosing where to stay is important for your trip. The historic center offers charming boutique hotels. Staying near the square puts you close to all the nightlife. If you prefer a quiet stay, look for guesthouses near the Malše river. These areas are often more affordable for budget travelers.

Transportation in the city is very efficient. You can buy bus tickets using a contactless bank card on the bus. Most signs are in Czech and English. If you plan to explore more, consider the best castles near Český Krumlov as part of your route. The train station is a major hub for the whole region.

For a unique experience, visit during the Advent season. The main square hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the country. In 2026, expect local crafts and hot mead. Summer is also great for outdoor festivals and river activities. Always carry a small amount of Czech Koruna for small shops.

Best Day Trips from České Budějovice

České Budějovice is the perfect hub for regional travel. You can easily reach the Holašovice UNESCO village in 30 minutes. This village features unique "South Bohemian Baroque" architecture. It is a quiet and beautiful place for photography. Another great option is hiking Kleť Mountain for amazing views. You can take a chairlift to the top if you prefer.

Many people combine this city with a visit to Český Krumlov. The two cities are very close by train. You can enjoy the busy atmosphere of Krumlov and return to the calmer Budějovice at night. This allows you to see more of the region without moving hotels often. It is a smart way to travel through South Bohemia.