Things To Do
in Strakonice

Strakonice is a historic market town in southwestern Bohemia on the Otava River. Its skyline is shaped by the ruins of Strakonice Castle perched above the town and a picturesque old center with cobbled streets. The town blends centuries of history with a friendly, laid back Czech atmosphere.

It serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the Bohemian countryside and nearby villages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Strakonice
morning
:

Arrive in Strakonice and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the historical town center to soak in the picturesque views of the Strakonice Castle and the Otava River. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Czech breakfast of pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Explore the castle grounds and visit the museum to learn about the rich history of the region. Wander through the charming streets and visit local artisan shops, picking up unique souvenirs. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in Czech cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a spot along the riverbanks to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Dine at a local restaurant where you can savor authentic dishes such as svíčková or goulash paired with a Czech beer. End the evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, taking in the illuminated sights of the town.

day 2
Castle Exploration and Nature Walk
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery before returning to Strakonice Castle for a guided tour. Learn about the castle's transformation through the centuries and discover its architectural wonders. After the tour, take a peaceful walk through the adjacent gardens, enjoying the fresh morning air.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Otava River for a fun afternoon of outdoor activities like kayaking or fishing. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the riverside while soaking in the beautiful scenery. Alternatively, explore the tranquil hiking trails along the river banks.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, return to the town and consider dining at a riverside restaurant. Savor a delightful meal while listening to live music performances that often take place in the summer months. Conclude your day with an evening stroll through the beautiful illuminated streets of Strakonice.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🚌Public transport ticket (one-way)$1-3
💧Bottle of water (0.5L)$0.6-1.5
🍺Beer in a local pub$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small town atmosphere
  • Rich history with castle ruins
  • Limited nightlife
  • Can be quiet outside peak season
  • "Dobrý den" - Hello / Good day
  • "Prosím" - Please
  • "Děkuji" - Thank you
  • "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Strakonice

Visit one of these nice places.

Strakonice Castle Ruins

Historic castle ruins on a hill with views over the Otava River.

Otava River Promenade

Scenic riverside path perfect for golden hour photography.

Old Town Square and Church

Colorful facades and a historic church provide charming street photography.

Black Tower Viewpoint

Old tower offering panoramic views of the town and countryside.

Culinary Guide

Food in Strakonice

Strakonice sits in a region where hearty Bohemian cuisine meets simple seasonal ingredients.

Strakonice Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gulas

A hearty beef stew served with bread or dumplings.

Must-Try!

Svíčková na smetaně

Beef sirloin with a creamy vegetable sauce and dumplings.

Trdelník

Cinnamon sugar pastry baked on a spit and enjoyed warm.

Smažený sýr

Fried cheese served with potatoes or fries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Regional Market Strakonice

Local market with seasonal produce and regional specialties.

Otava River waterfront stalls

Seasonal stalls offering baked goods and snacks by the river.

Climate Guide

Weather

Strakonice has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons, warm summers, cold winters and moderate spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite handshake; address people by title and surname until invited to use first names.

Language

Czech is the local language; learning a few phrases helps; avoid loud public behavior.

Respect for history

Be respectful in churches and historical sites; follow signs and guidelines.

Safety Guide

Safety

Strakonice is generally safe for travelers. Take usual precautions: keep valuables secure, watch for traffic near the river, and be prepared for sudden weather changes in the hills.

Tipping in Strakonice

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping around 5-10 percent in restaurants if service is good; round up at cafes.

Payment Methods

Cash and card are widely accepted; small vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor walks.

Summer

Warm days; frequent outdoor markets and festivals; stay hydrated.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest time; softer light for photography.

Winter

Cool to cold; frost or snow possible; festive lights in town.

Nightlife Guide

Strakonice at Night

The nightlife in Strakonice is laid back, with cozy pubs and beer halls. Expect local brews and casual conversations rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Strakonice

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Otava River Trail

Scenic riverside hike with views of the town and countryside.

Hills surrounding Strakonice

Forest trails and gentle climbs suitable for most hikers.

Airports

How to reach Strakonice by plane.

Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG)

Main international gateway to the Czech Republic; rail or road connections to Strakonice.

Karlovy Vary International Airport (KVI)

Regional airport offering some international flights; farther from Strakonice but reachable by car or bus.

Getting Around

Walkability

Strakonice is very walkable in its compact town center, with most sights reachable on foot. A pleasant riverside promenade adds to walkability.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Czech locals

The majority population with diverse age groups.

Tourists

Visitors exploring the town's history and surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular sport in the region with local clubs and fans.

Ice Hockey

Common winter sport; Czech league games may be broadcast in bars.

Transportation

Traffic

Strakonice has light traffic; within town mostly local streets; connections to nearby towns via rail and bus. Parking in the town center can be limited during market days.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Strakonice.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Strakonice vegetarian options are common in most restaurants; look for dumplings, salads and mushroom dishes; ask for vegetable sauces and cheese based dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare system; travelers can access local clinics; carry international health insurance; emergency number is 112. Local hospitals and GP clinics serve the town and surrounding area.

Discover Czechia

Read more in our Czechia 2025 Travel Guide.

Czechia Travel Guide