Exploring parts of the Czech Republic...

Note to self: Nemluvím moc dobře česky - (translation: I don't speak Czech very well..)

After passing Prague on our way to Poland, we knew we had to make another trip just to see a bit of the Czech Republic. On the way to Prague we wandered through Český Krumlov, and on the way home we made another side trip to České Budějovice. These two cities are close to each other, the first is a half hour detour, and the second is just off the highway on the way.

Český Krumlov:

This place is incredible, and a must see if you ever pass through here. An old castle sits perched on a hilltop overlooking remnants of a medieval village, with a river meandering between.

The approach comes along cobblestone streets, through a couple of arches, and into the main courtyard.

This is the inside the courtyard, with a tower on one side.

A stroll up the castle lanes leads to beautiful views of the town below and across the river.

At the top of the hill you come to gardens with flowers, statues and fountains.

Another beautiful view of the river and the edge of the old-town below the castle hill.

We considered spending more time in this charming town on the way back because we did not have enough time to explore the old-town, but decided instead to check out another nearby gem.

České Budějovice:

On the way to Prague you pass by the edge of this town. To see it you need to exit the highway and make your way to the edge of the old-town. This used to be a walled village with a waterway around it. The main attractions are centered around the huge town square, which has a fountain in the middle.

Just outside the main square, on one corner, a bell tower called "Black Tower" overlooks the town.

For a small price you can walk up the 225 steps inside the tower to reach the balcony at the top, where you can view the entire town, as well as the surrounding countryside

The town square has a peaceful small town feel with its beautiful architecture.

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