Tábor Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Tábor, a South Bohemian town in Czech Republic, with this comprehensive guide. Explore the best things to do, places to visit, food scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Tábor

Tábor, a town located in South Bohemia, Czech Republic, is known for its rich history and cultural significance. Founded in 1420, the town played a vital role in the Hussite Wars and became a stronghold of the Hussite movement. Today, Tábor attracts tourists from all over the world for its historical sites, scenic views, and outdoor activities.

In this Tábor travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip and make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Tábor

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tábor Museum: The town’s main museum preserving the history and culture of the Hussite movement and Tábor itself. The exhibit includes various artifacts, documents, and paintings depicting the town’s past.
  • Kotnov Tower: A 15th-century tower with stunning views of the town and its surroundings. The tower was once a part of the town’s fortifications and was used as a prison in the past.
  • Husitské Museum: Another museum dedicated to the Hussite movement and its impact on Tábor. The museum showcases original Hussite weaponry and costumes, along with other artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Tábor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kotorád Forest: A dense forest located just outside the town, ideal for hiking, biking, and bird watching. The trails in the forest lead to several scenic spots, including lakes and waterfalls.
  • Žižka Hill: A hill named after the Hussite military leader Jan Žižka, who won several battles against the Catholic Church in the Hussite Wars. The hill provides excellent views of the town and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
  • Jordan Lake: A picturesque lake situated near the town, offering a variety of water sports and activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tábor

  • Tábor – Dub – Klokoty Trail: A scenic trail that starts from the town and ends at Klokoty Hill, passing through the Dub woodlands. The trail is ideal for hiking and mountain biking and offers breathtaking views of the countryside.
  • Tábor – Bechyně Trail: A picturesque trail that starts from the town’s center and ends in the famous spa town of Bechyně. The trail follows the Lužnice River and passes through lush green forests and meadows.

Best Things to Do in Tábor: Activities and Tours

  • Hussite Festivals: Tábor celebrates several Hussite festivals and events throughout the year, including the Hussite Kermesse and the Hussite Harvest Festival. These events offer a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • City Tour: A walking tour of the town’s historical sites, including the Hussite Museum, Kotnov Tower, and Žižka Hill. The tour showcases the town’s unique architecture and its rich history.
  • Brewery Tour: Tábor is known for its local breweries, and a brewery tour is an excellent way to taste authentic Czech beer and learn about the brewing process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tábor

Day Activities
1 City Tour, Tábor Museum, and Kotnov Tower
2 Kotorád Forest and Jordan Lake
3 Žižka Hill Hike and Dub Woodland Trail
4 Day Trip to Bechyně
5 Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting
6 Hussite Kermesse
7 Hussite Festival and Harvest Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Tábor

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chlebíčky: Open-faced sandwiches topped with various ingredients, such as ham, cheese, vegetables, and eggs. They are a popular snack in Tábor’s cafes and bakeries.
  • Knedlíky: A traditional Czech dumpling made with flour, eggs, and potatoes, usually served with gravy or roast meat.
  • Smažený sýr: Fried cheese served with tartar sauce, a popular Czech fast food.

Local Beverages

  • Czech Beer: Tábor is known for its local breweries, producing some of the finest lagers in the country. Don’t miss out on tasting a pint or two during your visit.
  • Becherovka: A herbal liquor made from 20 different herbs, spices, and roots. It’s a popular digestive drink in Czech Republic.

Where to Stay in Tábor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Palcát: An upscale hotel located in the town’s center, offering excellent facilities and services.
  • Hostel Bernard: A budget-friendly hostel situated near the train station, offering clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Penzion Kalina: A cozy guesthouse located near Jordan Lake, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Tábor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hussite Memorabilia: Various souvenirs, including t-shirts, mugs, and keychains, depicting the town’s Hussite heritage.
  • Czech Beer: Buy a bottle or two of the finest Czech beer to take back home.
  • Becherovka: A bottle of the famous herbal liquor, the perfect gift for friends and family who love to drink.

Local Culture and Customs of Tábor

Tábor has a rich history and cultural heritage, which is evident from its historical sites and museums. The town is known for its Hussite traditions, and several festivals and events are organized throughout the year to celebrate them.

The local culture also revolves around food and drink, with Czech beer and traditional Czech dishes playing an essential role in daily life. Czechs are known for their love of beer, and Tábor is no exception.

Best Time to Visit Tábor

The best time to visit Tábor is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, and there are several outdoor activities to enjoy. The town also celebrates several festivals during this time, providing a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tábor

Do:

  • Respect the town’s historical sites and museums.
  • Try the local Czech food and beer.
  • Attend the Hussite festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Disrespect the town’s culture and customs.
  • Drink and drive.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tábor

Tábor is a safe town, and tourists are unlikely to face any significant safety concerns. However, it’s always advisable to take general precautions while traveling, such as keeping an eye on belongings and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Tábor

Tábor has excellent healthcare facilities, including several hospitals and clinics, providing excellent medical services in case of emergencies.

Getting to Tábor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tábor

The closest international airports to Tábor are Prague International Airport and Vienna International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Tábor

Tábor has a central bus station, with several buses arriving and departing from neighboring cities and towns.

Other Options

The town is well connected by roads and can be easily accessed by car. Several car rental agencies operate in Tábor, making it easy for visitors to hire a car.

How to Get Around in Tábor

Tábor is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance from the town center. Visitors can also rent bicycles or cars to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Tábor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Český Krumlov: A UNESCO world heritage site located in South Bohemia, known for its well-preserved castle, historic center, and charming old-world ambiance.
  • Prague: The capital city of Czech Republic, known for its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Tábor is a unique Czech town with a rich history and cultural heritage. With its beautiful natural scenery, historical sites, and excellent food and drink, it’s an ideal destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Czech Republic. Use this Tábor travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this charming town in South Bohemia.

Castle tower Kotnov and Bechyne Gate Castle tower Kotnov and Bechyne Gate Renaissance Water Tower and Town Walls Renaissance Water Tower and Town Walls