South Bohemia Through Italian Eyes

Want to see how much South Bohemia can fit into a few days—without it ever feeling rushed? This itinerary brings together lively towns, storybook chateaux, time on the water and peaceful countryside into an easy-to-follow route with a different vibe each day.

That’s exactly the kind of trip Italian creators Francesca and Tommaso @takemyhearteverywhere went for. They combined the region’s must-see spots with slower moments—cruising on the water, stopping for viewpoints, and taking time to simply enjoy where they were—before finishing with an outdoorsy chapter at Lipno. You can follow their journey here.

Here’s their trip, day by day.

Day 1 - České Budějovice & Hluboká

Start in České Budějovice and enjoy an easy walk through the city. After your stroll, hop on a boat and travel along the Vltava River to Hluboká nad Vltavou—a calm, scenic ride that feels like part of the experience. Once you arrive, head to Hluboká Chateau, a true fairy-tale castle. Tour the interiors, then step outside for a walk through the gardens and park.
In the afternoon, swap sightseeing for fresh air at Hluboká Golf Club—a great place to practise a few swings and enjoy views towards the chateau.

The state castle Hluboka nad Vltavou
The trail of the Vltava river

Tourist destinations

The trail of the Vltava river
Budweiser Budvar Visitor Centre
Black Tower

Tourist destinations

Black Tower
Hluboká nad Vltavou Golf Club

Day 2 - Český Krumlov (UNESCO)

Spend the day in Český Krumlov, a town best explored on foot. Walk through the castle courtyards, then climb the castle tower for one of the best views over the rooftops and the Vltava’s river bends. Next, try a wooden raft cruise on the Vltava—a relaxed, fun way to see Krumlov from the water, with postcard views all around. Later, visit Port 1560 for a look into centuries of brewing, from historic technology and machinery to the final tasting.

Český Krumlov State Castle and Château
Castle Museum and Castle Tower
Rafting with Radek Šťovíček
Voroplavba Maleček Rafting

Tourist destinations

Voroplavba Maleček Rafting
Krumlov Brewery (Port 1560)

Tourist destinations

Krumlov Brewery (Port 1560)

Day 3 - Lipno & Rožmberk nad Vltavou

Today is all about nature. Start at Lipno and head to the Treetop Walkway—an easy walk high above the forest canopy with wide panoramic views.

Then continue to Rožmberk nad Vltavou, a peaceful small town right by the river. Above it sits one of South Bohemia’s oldest castles, and the whole place is perfect for a slow stroll through the streets and along the water.

Lipno Treetop Walkway

Tourist destinations

Lipno Treetop Walkway
The Longest Lake Pier in Central Europe
Rožmberk Castle

Tourist destinations

Rožmberk Castle

Day 4 - Holašovice

Finish in Holašovice, a tiny UNESCO-listed village where time seems to slow down. Pastel-coloured houses, quiet lanes, and flower-filled windows—it’s simple, beautiful, and the perfect calm finale to the trip.