3 Best Sights in Southern Bohemia, Czech Republic

Dating to the second half of the 14th century, this church and its tower are the other dominating features of the city's skyline besides the castle. It's a Gothic triple-nave church with some interesting elements, including a Gothic Madonna from the beginning of the 15th century. By coincidence, the church straddles the 15th meridian, and you'll see a line marking the point. The city tower is also open for those wishing to scale 157 steps for an extensive view of the surrounding area.

The Gothic style of Southern Bohemia is exemplified in this curious church. The unassuming exterior gives no clue to the vastness inside or the treasures it holds. Paintings in the Czech Gothic style can be found by the main altar, along with other artwork and frescoes dating as far back as the late 15th century.

Just off the main square, this church is the highlight of Bakaláře náměstí. You can't miss the 240-foot tower, which is open for a climb. Construction began in the late 1200s, about the time the bridge was built. The lone surviving tower was completed in 1487. On the inside, look for the Madonna of Písek, a 14th-century Gothic altar painting. On a middle pillar is a rare series of early-Gothic wall paintings dating from the end of the 13th century.

Ask about a tower visit at the Písek Tourist Information Center.