Klatovy

A historic market town with a distinctive 16th-century Renaissance tower and well-maintained Old Town square, Klatovy serves as a good base for exploring southern West Bohemia. The town's proximity to the Šumava region and local Baroque architecture make it a worthwhile stop.

Things to do

• Climb the Black Tower — Scale the iconic 16th-century Renaissance tower dominating the Old Town Square for panoramic views of Klatovy and the surrounding countryside.
• Explore the Old Town Square — Wander the beautifully restored Renaissance and Baroque buildings surrounding the central plaza, including merchant houses and the town hall.
• Visit the Jesuit Church — Admire the ornate Baroque interior of the Church of the Assumption of Mary, featuring elaborate altars and frescoes typical of 17th-century Bohemian design.
• Tour the Underground Tunnels — Descend into the medieval cellar network beneath the Old Town to explore passages used historically for storage and refuge.
• Day trip to Šumava National Park — Hike through pristine forests, peat bogs, and mountain trails in this protected wilderness just south of Klatovy.
• Visit the Pharmaceutical Museum — Examine a fascinating collection of historical medical instruments, apothecary jars, and pharmaceutical artifacts housed in a Renaissance building.

Food to try

• Trdelník — A sweet spiral pastry rolled in cinnamon and sugar, baked on a rotating spit and sold warm at local markets—a beloved Czech street treat.
• Kulajda — A traditional Bohemian potato and mushroom soup with sour cream and dill, warming and hearty in the style of West Bohemian home cooking.
• Pilsner Urquell beer — Sample the world-famous lager brewed in nearby Plzeň, which pairs perfectly with local pub meals in Klatovy's traditional beer halls.
• Bramborák — A crispy potato pancake seasoned with garlic and caraway, typically served with sour cream as a savory appetizer or light main course.
• Šumava forest mushrooms — Local seasonal dishes featuring wild mushrooms foraged from nearby forests, prepared simply to highlight their earthy flavor.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect opening hours — Many smaller museums, churches, and attractions operate with limited hours and may close on Mondays or early in the evening, so plan visits accordingly.
• Learn basic Czech greetings — While English is spoken in tourist areas, locals appreciate visitors who attempt 'Dobrý den' (good day) and 'Děkuji' (thank you) as signs of respect.
• Cash is preferred — Although cards are increasingly accepted, many traditional pubs, smaller shops, and local eateries in Klatovy still operate primarily on cash transactions.
• Visit during summer markets — The Old Town Square hosts seasonal markets and festivals in warmer months, showcasing local crafts, food, and traditions that capture authentic Bohemian culture.

Nearby

• Domažlice — 28 km
• Plzeň — 38 km
• Písek (South Bohemia) — 63 km
• Šumava National Park (South Bohemia) — 75 km