cesky krumlov travel guide

The Perfect One Day in Cesky Krumlov Itinerary

Last Updated on January 9, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a one day in Cesky Krumlov itinerary is something that is high on many people’s Central Europe itineraries – often right after exploring the beautiful old town of Prague.

Located in the South Bohemia region about 175 kilometres south of the capital of Prague , this charming town has often been a popular day trip destination for visitors to the Czech Republic.

However, Cesky Krumlov has also struggled under the pressure of overtourism in the years prior to 2020, often because tour groups rarely spend the time needed to really visit this town sustainably.

Cesky Krumlov is popular for a reason – it is absolutely beautiful – and there is a surprising amount to do that you can very much spend a day or two wandering around and getting the most out of this lovely destination.

So if you’re planning to visit this idyllic Czech town and are looking for the perfect itinerary, you’ve come to the right place.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Cesky Krumlov?

How many days should you spend in Cesky Krumlov? This may seem like a bit of a silly question when considering the fact that this town is the prime day trip destination from Prague, but if you’re interested in being a more conscious tourist and supporting the economy of the town, then planning to spend at least one night in Cesky Krumlov is a solid choice.

Cesky Krumlov is not a large place and the majority of the town and its sites certainly can be seen in just one day, but we highly recommend spending a night. For one, it will give you more time to, for lack of a better term, take your time in the town. You won’t need to rush and you can really just kick back and enjoy the scenery.

Secondly, you’ll have the time to support an array of local businesses. If you only have a few hours, you’re going to be able to patronise a lot of great places in the town. If you spend 24 hours or more, then you’ll be able to have breakfast, lunch and dinner along with hitting a pub or even a cafe or two.

If you happen to have 2 days in Cesky Krumlov, then you can use this lovely town as a base for exploring more of the South Bohemia region. You could opt to go to the nearby city of Ceske Budejovice, visit some castles or other sites close by or even go rafting down the Vltava River.

All in all, please plan to spend a night in Cesky Krumlov and avoid taking a day trip from Prague. You won’t regret it and it will also save you from having to travel 5-6 hours simply for a day trip.

Getting To and Around Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is located about 175 kilometres (roughly 100 miles) south of Prague and it is easy to reach the town from the Czech capital by several different methods.

If you want to get to Cesky Krumlov via public transfer, the most frequent, quickest and often most affordable option would be to go by bus.

There are direct buses that go between Prague and Cesky Krumlov each day operated by RegioJet. If you’re travelling in peak season or on a weekend, it can be a good idea to book your tickets in advance as they do tend to sell out quickly. The bus takes about 2.5 hours. You can view schedules here.

The train is another great option. Fewer direct trains leave for Cesky Krumlov from Prague daily than the bus, however, there are plenty of options that include a transfer in Ceske Budejovice. The direct train takes about 3 hours total. Again, it can be a good idea to book in advance as the route is popular.

If you’ve rented a car, then driving from Prague to Cesky Krumlov will take about 2.5 hours. Keep in mind that the centre of Cesky Krumlov is closed to the majority of vehicles so you will need to find a parking space outside of the old town.

As Cesky Krumlov is located very close to the Austrian border, you can also reach the city easily from cities like Linz, Vienna or Salzburg .

If you don’t happen to be driving yourself, generally the easiest way to get there is by booking a shuttle service. For instance, CK Shuttles offer affordable transfers from Cesky Krumlov to Salzburg , Vienna , Linz and Halstatt among other destinations.

One-Day Cesky Krumlov Itinerary

Though small in size, Cesky Krumlov definitely has enough to occupy visitors for an entire day. Follow this route to figure out what to do when you visit Cesky Krumlov.

Coffee at Non Solo Caffé

If you’ve arrived in Cesky Krumlov early or have spent the night, start your day with a caffeine boost at Non Solo Caffé .

This little Italian-style cafe is the perfect place to grab a coffee or tea before setting off and exploring Cesky Krumlov. There are a couple of seats outside and plenty of seating inside the shop.

If you’re looking for breakfast, a spot that comes recommended is Kolektiv Cafe & Wine Bar. Not a lot of places in Cesky Krumlov open before 10AM (due, largely, to the day-trippers that flock to the city) and these are two of the few that do.

Wander the Old Town

After you’re sufficiently fed and caffeinated, take the time to wander around the lovely old town before the hordes of tour groups descend upon the town. The centre of Cesky Krumlov is very small and you can walk from one end to another in about 10 minutes, however, there is a fair bit to see in this area and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Start by wandering in the Latran area below the castle and take in the beautiful buildings and winding streets.

Cross over the Lazenbnicky Most (one of the largest bridges over the Vltava) and meander over past the small island in the river to the Lávka pod Zámkem, where you can view the Cloak Bridge of the Cesky Krumlov castle.

Then, head deeper into the town and visit the main square of Cesky Krumlov. The square is also home to the tourist info centre where you can opt to purchase the Cesky Krumlov Card for 400 CZK.

This can be a good option if you plan to visit a few museums as it includes entry into five of the town’s most popular sites – the Castle Museum and Tower, the Regional Museum, the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, the Egon Schiele Art Centrum and the Cesky Krumlov Monasteries.

From the square you can head up one of the side streets to get to one of the best viewpoints of the town – in the gardens just across from the regional museum. From the viewpoint, you can also wander up and visit the beautiful St Vitus Church, another iconic piece of the Cesky Krumlov skyline.

Take in these sites, but let your feet lead you and plan to wander a bit on your own with no destination in mind. The town is so small it is virtually impossible to get lost and you’re sure to uncover a beautiful little side street if you’re simply bold enough to explore on your own.

If you want some insight into the culture and history of Cesky Krumlov, we recommend going on the Cesky Krumlov free walking tour run by Wiseman Free Tour . The tour runs daily, however, it is necessary to book in advance. If the free walking tour doesn’t suit your schedule, you can also opt for a paid walking tour of Cesky Krumlov .

Cesky Krumlov Castle Complex & Gardens

After wandering the town, it’s time to head to the main attraction – the Cesky Krumlov Castle! This is the second-largest castle in all of Czechia and it is only dwarfed by the one in Prague. The castle is massive and there is a lot to see here so make sure to set aside adequate time.

The first thing you will notice as soon as you cross the drawbridge to the castle is that the moat is home to some residents of the castle – three brown bears! There is a centuries-long history of keeping bears in the castle moat that still lasts to this day.

Of course, one of the main draws of visiting the castle is climbing up the tower to get an incredible view of the town. Entry into the castle tower is 240CZK per person and keep in mind there are a number of winding steps to get up.

The castle grounds are free to enter, but if you want to go inside the castle you do have to pay for that. There are multiple tours and routes you can take in the castle that include different things – including the staterooms and the iconic Baroque Theatre.

The castle does close during the winter, so if you are interested in visiting the interior of the castle, make sure that it is open during the time you’re there.

Make sure to also wander through the castle gardens, which are free to enter and open all year long. You can also get some spectacular views of the entire town on your way up to the gardens.

Lunch at Jelenka

After a morning of exploration, head down from the castle and have a delicious and hearty Czech lunch at Restaurant Jelenka .

Located in the car park just below the castle, this restaurant doesn’t fall into the same tourist pricing that many others in Cesky Krumlov do – so don’t be alarmed by its unconventional location!

This is a great place to sample hearty Czech cuisine and gulp down a frosty half-litre of beer before heading out again. The restaurant has extensive outdoor seating along with a cosy interior.

Cesky Krumlov Monasteries

Once you’ve eaten your fill at lunch, wander back into the old town and visit the Cesky Krumlov Monasteries. Located at the base of the castle, these monasteries were established in the 14th Century.

Today, they house several different exhibitions that can be interesting to visit including both art and interactive exhibits that can be entertaining for the whole family.

Walk to Křížová hora

If you’re up for a bit of a walk with a lovely view of the entirety of Cesky Krumlov at the end, put “Křížová hora” into your navigation app and get walking!

This hill is home to a small chapel and it will take about 25-30 minutes to walk there from the monasteries. When you’re there, you will be greeted with some of the best panoramic views for the entire town – including the castle and St Vitus Church.

If this walk is a bit too much for you, then consider taking a gentle stroll along the Vltava instead. There are plenty of places to stop and rest should you need it and the riverside ambience is unbeatable.

Pastry at Café Synagoga

Venture just a bit away from the photo museum and you will come to the edge of the Cesky Krumlov old town and also find the Synagogue.

Though this isn’t an active synagogue and there is not a Jewish community in the town today, it remains a great piece of history. The building itself houses an exhibition about the history of Jewish culture if that interests you.

Around the side of the synagogue lies a small cafe, aptly called Café Synagoga. This is not a Jewish bakery, but they do have several delightful local pastries and coffees to enjoy.

If you want to sample a Czech sweet speciality, grab a koláč from the cafe. This is an excellent alternative from the ubiquitous trdelnik stands that line the streets of the old town.

Museum Fotoatelier Seidel

We’re nearing the end of our time in Cesky Krumlov, but the day is not complete without making a stop at the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel.

Once the home of a famed photographer, the house and gardens have now been turned into a museum. Here you can see a number of photography exhibitions and also, if it interests you, get some old-timey style photos taken of you and your loved ones – complete with early 20th Century clothing!

Czech Craft Beer at Bistro 53

After a busy day of sightseeing, it’s time to do like the Czechs do and grab a beer. And contrary to the overpriced tourist-centric pubs and restaurants that line the Vltava where you will pay extortionate (for the Czech Republic, at least) prices for a half-litre of Pilsner, why not grab a local microbrew?

Bistro 53 is an excellent option to try some smaller breweries’ beer in a cosy setting. They have several beers on tap, including both Czech-style lagers along with locally brewed IPAs, APAs and other styles of beer. This is an excellent place to have a unique drink in Cesky Krumlov.

Dinner at My Saigon

While recommending a Vietnamese restaurant for dinner may seem a bit odd in such a “Czech” town, please bear with me.

There is a massive Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic and cuisine from this Southeast Asian country can be viewed as local in its own right. And if you want some of the best Vietnamese food in Cesky Krumlov (yes, there are multiple options!), head to My Saigon.

This place has a range of dishes and is absolutely delicious and reasonably priced, especially compared to some of the other nearby restaurants.

Have 2 Days in Cesky Krumlov?

If you are planning a 2-day Cesky Krumlov itinerary, there are a few things that you could do in the town to keep yourself occupied.

Head to the Museums

If you’re a history buff, then you can use your second day by taking in some of the museums situated in the town.

The Regional Museum is a popular option where you can learn about the history of the area and there is also the Egon Schiele Art Centrum that is of interest, as well.

Raft on the Vltava

If the weather allows for it and you want to spend some time on the river, it is a popular option to raft or kayak on the Vltava.

There are plenty of outfitters in the town where you can organise something independently. It’s worth noting that the Vltava is a very calm river and the rafting is definitely “beginner friendly.” If you prefer to let somebody else do the rafting, join a short cruise instead!

Enjoy some Czech Castles

Though the Cesky Krumlov Castle is the largest in the region, there are a number of other castles nearby that you can choose to explore should you have the time.

A bit along the Vltava, for instance, lies Rozemberk Castle which is striking and beautiful. Or, if you’re up for a hike, you could opt to go to Mount Klet’ and climb up to Josef’s Tower.

Visit Ceske Budejovice

Cesky Krumlov makes for a great base for exploring more places in the region, so you could opt to head to Ceske Budejovice if this interests you.

Ceske Budejovice is a major city in the South Bohemia region and deserves a bit of time to be explored in its own right, but it is only located about 30 minutes by bus, train or car from Cesky Krumlov so it is incredibly easy to reach.

Where to Stay in Cesky Krumlov

Pension Kristian – Located just steps from the castle, this luxury hotel has plush rooms on offer and there is also parking available for those who have arrived in Cesky Krumlov by car.

Pension Faber – An excellent mid-range option, this hotel is perfect for those looking for a central place to stay in Cesky Krumlov. They have a range of rooms and an apartment available along with a prime location in the centre of the Old Town perfect for exploring.

Luxury Apartments No. 91 – If you’d rather have your own place to stay rather than a hotel, then this apartment is a great option. It is spacious and equipped with a large, comfortable bed and modern furnishings.

Hostel Postel – Located in the centre of the old town, this hostel is an excellent choice for budget and solo travellers. They have a range of private and dorm rooms available along with great common areas that make meeting other travellers a breeze.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cesky Krumlov hotels!

Planning a trip to Cesky Krumlov can seem daunting considering, despite its popularity, there isn’t a lot of information about what to do in this idyllic Czech town. Though extremely popular with tourists, Cesky Krumlov still retains its charm and is absolutely worth visiting for a night or two!

Are you wondering about the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thank you, this is just what I wanted to know about Cesky Krumlov!

So glad you found this helpful, Peter!

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Best of Český Krumlov: Travel Guide & Secret Tips

Český Krumlov , the small Czech town with the hard-to-pronounce name, is picturesque beyond imagination. The city is comfortably nestled in the loops of the winding Vlatava river . The highlight of Český Krumlov is definitely the impressive castle, which towers over the Old Town on a rocky outcrop.

In this blog article, you will find lots of practical tips for your trip to Český Krumlov. We will share with you the most beautiful sights and highlights, as well as our personal travel tips for an unforgettable trip!

1. Český Krumlov: The Gem of the Vltava River

2. sights in český krumlov: things to do and see, 3. best cafes & restaurants in český krumlov, 4. our hotel recommendation in krumlov, 5. extra travel tips for český krumlov, 6. map: overview of all sights and tips.

Český Krumlov is small but enchantingly beautiful . The picturesque centre of Český Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and almost entirely a pedestrian zone. Český Krumlov makes you feel like you’re on a film set: each little house fits perfectly into the historic setting. In the centre, there are several hundred houses up to 500 years old and yet so beautifully renovated. You will also be blown away by the spectacular castle.

It seems, however, that we are not the only ones who think Český Krumlov is worth a visit. Countless travel agencies from Asia think so too. This would explain the large number of coach groups from China, Japan and other Asian countries. To be honest, we were quite surprised at how popular Krumau was.

Regardless of the Tour Groups, this beautiful South Bohemian city is definitely worth a visit . Personally we didn’t find the tourist groups too overbearing, but just be aware that Český Krumlov is not exactly a secret these days.

The town of Český Krumlov can easily be explored in just one day. Nevertheless, we would still recommend you to stay one night because we found the city was even more beautiful once the day tourists had left.

In Český Krumlov, you can easily reach all the attractions by foot and without the need for public transport. Most places of interest are quite close by to each other, so if you’re only looking to explore the highlights, then half a day is enough. Nevertheless, we can still recommend that you stay overnight in Český Krumlov (you will find out why that is and more information further down in this blog article).

Český Krumlov Castle

The first attraction you will probably spot and visit is Český Krumlov Castle. It towers over the Old Town on a rocky outcrop and is gigantic to behold. In fact, after the castle in Prague , this is the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic .

The castle you see today was built in the 13th century, initially as a Gothic castle complex. Later in the Renaissance and Baroque periods, it was expanded. Therefore, you’ll find the castle complex consists of innumerable courtyards and buildings.

The area also includes other attractions (including the Cloak Bridge and the castle tower), which we will describe in more detail soon. The castle area itself is accessible for free . Only certain attractions (like the castle museum and the tower) require admission fees.

If you walk through the castle area, you will probably find yourself back to certain spots where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Old Town . Probably the most popular viewing terrace is located at the western entrance (near the Castle Garden).

Cloak Bridge

This multi-storey Cloak Bridge is quite the eye-catcher. It belongs to the castle area and spans the entire moat. You can either go under the bridge or walk over it (for free).

From the centre, there is a short climb (roughly 10mins or less), before you reach the Cloak Bridge. The fastest way up to the Cloak Bridge from the square in the Old Town (where our photo was taken), is the winding forest path, which starts at the back of the bridge. Enjoy a magnificent view over Český Krumlov from the Cloak Bridge.  

Castle Tower

The Castle Tower is not only beautiful to look at from below, but it’s also incredibly worthwhile tackling the ascent and seeing the perspective from above. There are fewer steps than imagined – 162 to be exact – so you can get to the viewing platform fairly quickly.

Depending on the amount of people at the top, you might find the observation deck a bit of a squeeze. But it’s honestly so worth the short effort, especially when you get an amazing perspective in all four directions .

Information about the Castle Tower

Admission: 150 CZK Opening hours: November to March from 9am to 4pm (closed Mondays); April, May, September and October from 9am to 5pm (daily); June to August from 9am to 6pm (daily); closed on special days (ie. over Christmas, New Year)

Castle Garden

The castle area also includes a very extensive Castle Garden, on the west side of the castle (near the Cloak Bridge). So, if you’re planning to visit the Castle, consider strolling around the beautiful garden as well.

This Baroque style garden is very intricately designed: In addition to an open-air theatre and a small artificially created lake, you will find plenty of elaborate flower species here. The fact that the Castle Garden area is so spacious, means that everyone can enjoy it without feeling overcrowded.

Information about visiting the Castle Garden

Admission: free Opening hours: April and October from 8am to 5pm; May till September from 8 am to 7 pm, November to March – Closed.  

Old Town with Market Square (Náměstí Svornosti)

The historic town of Český Krumlov is located within the Vltava River at the foot of the castle. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992 . From today’s point of view, Český Krumlov was perhaps rather fortunate that in the years post-war, they lacked financial resources for renovations. Because now the town centre has several hundred century-old houses, some as old as 500 years – which have now been perfectly renovated.  

The centre of Český Krumlov is mostly car-free (apart from a few special exceptions), and for good reason. Countless alleyways and crossroads intersect each other in close proximity. The most spacious area in the town centre is the main square, often called Market Square or Náměstí Svornosti (in Czech)

In the Old Town, you will also find the famous Egon Schiele Art Centrum , which is an exhibition that displays some of the works by Egon Schiele. He spent several years of his life in Český Krumlov, the hometown of his mother, and imprinted the old city houses several times in his artworks. We only looked around in the (highly recommended) museum shop, however, we have read that the exhibition actually showcases fewer original pieces by Schiele than you would expect.

Incidentally, most Street Art in the centre can be found on the back of the Egon Schiele Art Centre, in the alley called Hradební. Don’t expect anything miraculous, but it’s still worthwhile to walk by and see.

Our tip for Sunset in Český Krumlov

Unfortunately, the Castle Tower is open only until the early hour of 6pm, otherwise that would have been the perfect place for sunset. In the end, we spent a long time researching for a place where you can actually see the sun go down and with the city in the foreground. We ended up choosing a small observation deck near the bus station – you’ll find the exact location pinned on the map at the end of the blog article.

This is a great spot to see both the city and the sun (if you’re lucky with the weather). There are only a few benches up here and consequently, very few people too. Apart from a few bus tourists, who wanted to take a quick picture before their bus left, we were basically the only ones here.

Our tip: You can find some chilled Pilsner at the gas station next to the bus stop, and then enjoy a lovely sunset. Try get there much earlier before the actual sunset, because the sun disappears behind the hill of Krumau a little earlier than the forecasts predict.

The Seminární zahrada View Point

A very popular and really nice view point is located next to the Regional Museum. This beautifully designed observation platform is slightly elevated, so you have a fantastic panoramic view of the entire castle area including the Castle Tower.

Little Tip: It might also be worthwhile to come by again in the evening when the castle is beautifully lit in the dark. Although there’s a gate to the observatory platform, it was still open at 9 pm (during our visit).

The owner of the hotel we were staying at (which we will tell you in the next section) was quick to shine light on the reality of the food situation here: since the restaurants in Český Krumlov are visited almost exclusively by tourists (and not locals), the quality is of variable standards. However, we have collated some great local tips for you:

Monastery Garden: Very pretty, French-style bistro that we discovered by chance. Unfortunately, they only serve breakfast and snacks such as: Eggs Florentine / Benedict, Pancakes and Granola. This also means they close rather early, around 2pm.

Nonna Gina: Solid Italian cuisine right in the centre (right next to the Monastery Garden Bistro) at fair prices. The interior spaces are very comfortable and there are also a few tables outside in the garden.

IDEAL Coffee: Very good coffee in a quiet location away from the tourist crowds.

Egon Schiele Café: Very cozy café with a living room atmosphere, located next to the Egon Schiele Art Centrum.

Must Try: Trdelník

At every corner in Český Krumlov, you will find street vendors selling Trdelník, which is a sweet pastry baked on a roll and then coated with various toppings.

Our personal favourite is the classic cinnamon and sugar coated Trdelník. But there are also some filled options that we have not (yet) tried out. A popular café that also offers takeaway Trdelník is the MLS Crêperie right in the centre of Krumlov.

Although most people visit Český Krumlov as a day trip, we can highly recommend that you spend a night there. First of all, it’s more comfortable and secondly, you can also explore the city in the evening, when the day tourists have left Český Krumlov.

We decided to stay at the Pension Kristian . Newly opened in 2019, this highly recommended hotel is situated in the middle of the historic Old Town. Pension Kristian is run by a young and super lovely couple. They were both very helpful and engaging hosts, who make you feel so welcomed.

There are only 8 rooms : four on the first floor and another four on the second floor. (Note: there are no lifts). We stayed in room No. 7, which was very comfortable and the sloping roof also added to the coziness. The bed is beautiful to sleep on and the interior decor was very nicely done.

You can view and book the hotel here: Pension Kristian

Getting to Český Krumlov

If you’re planning to go by car from Vienna, there are two different routes you can take: either via the motorway to Linz and then further to the north; or take the route over Krems and the Waldviertel. We opted for the second route without hesitation (via Krems and Waldviertel). The main reason being that we could take a break in Weitra without having to detour and eat delicious, freshly baked Mohnzelte (Poppy Seed Pastries) from the café on the main square.

From Weitra, the road then starts to become rather windy and twists through many villages. The border crossing was one of the most inconspicuous we have ever seen.

Parking in Český Krumlov

As beautiful as Krumau is, the parking situation does get a bit tedious. There is simply no space for cars in the Old Town and the town centre is mainly (with a few exceptions) car-free.

There are five major parking lots near the city centre (named P1 to P5). You can find a map to it here: Parking in Český Krumlov . We ourselves have parked our car in the parking lot P1 , which is located directly at the back of the castle grounds. From this parking, you can get to the town centre in just 2 minutes by foot. (If you want to set your navigation or GPS directly towards the car park, here is the address: Chvalšinská 138.)

Normally, one hour would cost 50 CZK (just under 2 Euros, the first 40 minutes are free). But there are special day tickets (24 hours for about 10 Euros), which you can get though your accommodation (best check in advance). Alternatively, you can also get the discounted day tickets from the tourist information.

So, if your hotel is in the Old Town , the best thing to do is to park your car in the car park closest to your hotel (which will most likely be P1). Then you’ll have to physically bring your luggage to the hotel (which gets a bit tedious with the cobbled streets, but luckily the route there is shorter than expected), get your day ticket from the hotel and take that back to the car park. By car, you’ll have to drive into the car park again, as you have to insert your day ticket when entering. If you stay longer than 24 hours, you can simply pay the extra amount at the machine upon exiting.

In order for you to get the bigger picture of where everything is, we have pinned all our tips in this interactive map below. It will really help you get a better orientation of the city. The red dots are places of interest or lookout points, and the green dots are our recommended locations for food and drinks. As you can see, the distances are really small.

Now the only thing we can do is wish you a wonderful time in Český Krumlov. Eat a trdelník for us and enjoy the flair of this beautiful little town. Have a great trip!

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through our links, then we will receive a small commission. For you, this does not change the price at all and we really appreciate the support! A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you been to Český Krumlov before? If so, what were some of your favourite places? Perhaps you have some more tips you’d like to share in the comments below? We look forward to reading your experiences!

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• 23 January 2023

Your Complete Cesky Krumlov Travel Guide: Czech’s Charm

This is your complete ceský krumlov travel guide.

• Last Modified: January 23, 2023

Ceský Krumlov is one of the best-known villages/cities in the Czech Republic and is known for the cute streets, houses, river and panoramic view of the city from the castle. It has been mentioned multiple times in “must-see locations” by for example Lonely Planet. It also had been on my list for quite some time and I was happy to finally head to Cesky Krumlov during my road trip to the Czech Republic in the 2022 summer. This Cesky Krumlov travel guide shows you the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov, including the best bars and restaurants and the nicest Cesky Krumlov accommodations.

Read more about a 10-day road trip through the Czech Republic here.

We stayed in Cesky for 2 nights, as we wanted to be able to get up early and explore the city when it was not yet completely packed with tourists. In the end, we could have done well with spending only one night here and just changing locations a little bit later during the day. 

Good to know: there aren’t too many sights, however, there are quite some nice bars and restaurants to relax at. So, that’s what we did. We made good use of the cafe culture and enjoyed different places while reading a book. 

Spending some time in Cesky Krumlov? There are several parking lots around Cesky Krumlov and often you get a discount on your accommodation. This means you have to drive in, head to the hotel, pick up your parking card and re-enter the parking lot. We paid 10 euros per night for parking in the P1 parking lot (which is next to the Cloak Bridge to enter the city centre). 

No transport? You can also visit Cesky Krumlov as a day trip from Prague

Cesky Krumlov Travel Guide - Summary

Things to do.

• Cloak Bridge
• Cesky Krumlov Castle
• Explore the old town
• St. Vitus Church
• Alley to Monestary of the Minorities
• Museum Fotoatelier Siedel

Bars & Restaurants

• Bar Apotheka
• Pappas Living
• Kafemlejnek
• Bistro 53 Beerpoint

Where to stay

Bellevue Hotel

Pension Galko

Monastery Garden Bistro and Rooms

Hostel Merlin

When you buy through links in this blogpost, I may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost. Thanks for your support.

The best things to do in Cesky Krumlov

|| cloak bridge.

The Cloak Bridge is one of the sights you can’t and won’t miss during your visit to Cesky Krumlov. When coming from for example the P1 parking lot, you have to pass the bridge to enter the city centre. The cloak bridge is part of the castle area. This means you are also able to walk on the cloak bridge when visiting the castle. Cloak B

|| The Cesky Krumlov Castle

The Czech Republic is known for all the castles to be found in the country. Of course, Cesky Krumlov has one as well. You can visit the castle property, the castle itself (entry fees apply) or do a castle tour. We chose to just walk around on the castle property and not enter the castle. If you would like to do this, also explore the opportunity of the Cesky Krumlov card in which multiple entry fees are combined. 

|| The panoramic views from the castle

Still part of the castle, but this should be a separate activity. You might know Cesky Krumlov from the famous panoramic images of the city. Well, you can see this view yourself from the castle or even more specifically from the Cloak Bridge. (Yes, the city is not that big the 3 main ‘sights’ in my opinion are connected and can be seen as one). 

|| Explore all little alleys of the city

It’s as simple as that. Just stroll around, take the different alleys and you will see most of Cesky Krumlov’s beauty. There are 3 main parts of the city. One part lies within the meandering river and the other main parts lie either above or below the bend. 

|| St. Vitus Church

Another place that can’t be missed, is the St. Vitus church is quite prominent in the skyline views on Cesky Krumlov. However, it is also worth getting a little bit closer. 

|| Alley to Monastery of the Minorites

Even though the Monastery of the Minorities is a sight by itself, looking back at the pictures I was completely distracted by the alley to get there. 

|| Museum Fotoatelier Seidel

I read quite some positive reviews on the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, however, it was unfortunately closed during the days we visited Seidel. The museum is closed on Mondays. If you are visiting on any other day, this could still be worth a visit! 

The best bars and restaurants in Cesky Krumlov

1 || have a cocktail at bar apotheka in cesky krumlov.

Apotheka is a hip cocktail bar, where they can mix every cocktail you like or you can order something from their creative menu. By day, you can sit on their terrace sipping a cup of coffee. 

2 || Enjoy some wine and cheese at Klika

We spend a great and chill afternoon at Kifka. They offer nice Foccacia for lunch or go with a great cheese platter and some wine. In the early afternoon, you can still catch some rays of sun in the lounge chairs. 

3 || Have a lovely dinner at Pappas Living

We saw many people walking in and out of this place and for a reason, the food was delicious. Make a reservation beforehand if you have the opportunity to make sure you have a table. 

4 || Enjoy breakfast at the river at Kafemlejnek

The location of this breakfast place makes it worth it. With relatively early opening hours (they open at 08:30, unlike some other places) and decent food, this is a great place to start your day. 

5 || Probably the best breakfast in town at Kolektiv

This place just has to be a part of this Cesky Krumlov City Guide as it might be the most popular place for breakfast in town. Enjoy some pancakes, toast with eggs, great coffee and/or some nice sweets. You are definitely in for a treat. 

6 || The best pizza in Cesky Krumlov at Nonna Gina

According to the lady at our hotel, this is the best pizza in town. We tried to go here on our first evening, however, they were fully booked. The next day, we went there slightly after noon for a table in the evening and they could fortunately still give us an early shift. The pizzas were great!

7 || Enjoy a craft beer at Bistro 53 Beerpoint

As I’m a huge craft beer fan, I visit a craft beer bar in almost every place I go. Little did I know that our hotel was connected to the best craft beer bar in town! 

More bars and restaurants in Cesky

At Drunken Coffee, you can start your day with coffee (surprise) at the waterfront or grab a beer, wine or cocktail later during the day. Egon Cafe serves several wines and plays live music at times (on the street or inside) and Hostinec Depo is another restaurant to put on your list, with a big terrace in the back. 

Best hotels and apartments in Cesky Krumlov

Bellevue hotel: high-end.

A place that is a bit more high-end in Cesky, is the  Bellevue Hotel . You can find rooms here for approximately 175 euros a night. The hotel is located in the historic centre, at a 2-minute walking distance from the castle.

Pension Galko - Top Pick

We stayed at Pension Galko, right in the city centre of Cesky Krumlov. The pension was nothing special, but perfect for the time we were there. Due to the tourist nature of the city, hotels are relatively more expensive, hence, this was a perfect option. You will pay around €75 in early July.  You can book pension Galko here.

Monestary Garden Rooms & Bistro: Mid-range

Another great option in Cesky is the  Monastery Garden Bistro and Rooms. The hotel is even rewarded with a 9.7 on booking.com. The location of the hotel is perfect and a great breakfast (also a la carte) is offered. You can book a room starting at €120 a night, however, in high season rooms get more expensive.

If you are looking for a place that is a low budget, you can check out  Hostel Merlin , where you can find a twin room for approximately 35 euros a night. All rooms have shared bathrooms.

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19 Things to do in Český Krumlov and Český Krumlov Travel Guide

December 14, 2023 | Posted in: Czech Republic

Český Krumlov, pronounced as “ches-kee krum-lov”, is a town in the Czech Republic known for its rich history and natural setting. This town, often referred to simply as “Krumlov”, carries a name rooted in the bend of the Vltava River, surrounded by the scenic Bohemian Forest Foothills. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages when it was founded by the noble Vítkovci family in the 13th century. The town's full name, Český Krumlov, was established in the 15th century to distinguish it from Moravský Krumlov in southern Moravia.

The primary language spoken in Český Krumlov is Czech, which is the official language of the Czech Republic. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, English and German are also commonly understood and spoken, especially in businesses catering to tourists. Its rich history is reflected in its well-preserved architecture, including the iconic Český Krumlov Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and numerous historical buildings lining its cobbled streets.

Český Krumlov is easily accessible by bus or car, with reliable bus services connecting it to major cities like Prague and České Budějovice. While the town does not have a metro system, its compact size makes it walkable and visitors often explore its attractions on foot. Travelers can also rent cars in Český Krumlov for greater flexibility in exploring the surrounding regions.

Listed below are the things to do in Cesky Krumlov.

• Český Krumlov Castle. Český Krumlov Castle is a sprawling 13th-century castle complex located in the center of the town of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic. Visitors can explore Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture across 40 buildings and five castle courtyards. Highlights include the unique Cloak Bridge, centuries-old bear keeping in the bear moat, guided interior tours of period rooms, the Baroque Castle Theatre, Castle Museum artifacts, Castle Tower panoramic views and 10+ hectare gardens.
• Castle Museum. Castle Museum is located inside Český Krumlov Castle in the Czech Republic. It opened in 2011 in the former Hrádek area and is spread across 29 rooms. The museum exhibits artifacts and recreations offering insight into the noble families that inhabited the castle over centuries, including the Rosenbergs, Eggenbergs and Schwarzenbergs. The museum highlights exhibits that feature the Hall of the Lords of the Rose tracing family lineage, office recreations, armor and weapons and a cinema showing early 20th-century footage of the Schwarzenbergs. Visitors can explore the rooms independently or via audio guides.
• Baroque Theater. Baroque Theater in Český Krumlov Castle is one of the world's best-preserved 18th-century theaters. It retains original stage machinery, scenery, costumes, props and lighting equipment, enabling historical theatrical productions. Visitors can take 45-minute guided tours to see the ornate auditorium, behind-the-scenes mechanics, royal box and examples of costumes. Tours provide insights into Baroque theater and stagecraft. Tickets should be purchased online or at the castle ticket office in advance.
• Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Egon Schiele Art Centrum in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic, is dedicated to Austrian Expressionist painter Egon Schiele. It features a permanent exhibition of Schiele’s life and work, including drawings, photographs, furniture and analysis of his paintings’ symbolism. Rotating shows display modern art by Gustav Klimt, Picasso, Dalí and others. The complex also serves as an art studios hosting resident artists. Visitors can view displays at their own pace or take guided group tours. There is a museum shop and café onsite.
• Old Town (Historic District). Old Town (Historic District) is located on a peninsula formed by the Vltava River in Český Krumlov and is known for well-preserved medieval Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Old Town attractions include the 16th-century Town Hall, St. Vitus Church and Český Krumlov Castle and Tower. Visitors can explore the colorful buildings, narrow streets, shops, bars and cafes. The town events are the Five-Petalled Rose Festival in June and the International Music Festival in July-August. Wandering to soak in the fairy tale atmosphere is the best way to experience it.
• St. Vitus Church. St. Vitus Church is the second most prominent landmark in Český Krumlov after the castle. Built 1407-1439 with Gothic architecture and Baroque additions, it has beautiful vaulted ceilings, a Baroque altar, 15th-century paintings and ornate Renaissance tombstones. Visitors can admire the architecture and interior, climb the tower for panoramic views and attend the occasional classical music concerts held here. There's no admission fee and it's open daily with some variations in hours.
• Czech Marionette Museum. The Czech Marionette Museum in Prague houses over 200 puppets and marionettes that showcase the country's centuries-long puppetry history. Visitors can view exhibits on Czech puppetry through the ages and also see performances at the onsite puppet theater. The museum sells traditional marionettes and holds special exhibits and events related to Czech puppetry.

1. Český Krumlov Castle

Český Krumlov Castle is a 13th-century castle located in the town of Český Krumlov in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. It is the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic after Prague Castle, spanning over 7 hectares. The castle consists of 40 buildings and five castle courtyards and features architecture from the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque eras.

Visitors to the castle can explore the grounds and gardens for free, including sights like the Cloak Bridge, a unique 5-story corridor connecting parts of the castle and the bear moat, where brown bears have been kept since 1707. Visitors can tour the interior of the castle on a guided walk to see period rooms of former noble residents, the Eggenberg Hall with a “golden carriage”, and the Baroque Castle Theatre, one of Europe's best preserved Baroque theaters still in its original location. Visitors can also pay to climb the Castle Tower for panoramic views over Český Krumlov. Other castle highlights include the Castle Museum, with artifacts from the castle's history and the castle gardens and park, spanning over 10 hectares behind the castle complex.

The castle is located in the center of Český Krumlov. Visitors can take public transportation or drive to the town and walk. The castle appeals to visitors of all ages interested in architecture, history, museums and parks. Certain interior tours may not allow very young children.

Admission ranges from free to enter the grounds to €10 ($11, £8) for tickets to see specific interiors.

2. Castle Museum

Castle Museum is located within Český Krumlov Castle in the Czech Republic. It opened in 2011 and is located in the former Hrádek area of the castle, the museum allows visitors to explore 29 rooms exhibiting artifacts and insights related to the castle's occupying families and history, including the Rosenbergs, Eggenbergs and Schwarzenbergs. The rooms contain furnishings in 19th-century style, such as historical lighting fixtures and tile stoves. Castle museum highlights include the Hall of the Lords of the Rose and Hall of the Dukes of Krumlov tracing the lineage of noble families, a recreation of the Schwarzenberg administrative director's office, exhibits on armor and weaponry and artifacts like the reliquary containing remains of St. Reparat. An AV cinema at the end shows early 20th-century footage of the Schwarzenbergs.

The museum allows visitors to directly explore rooms related to the castle's history and gain first-hand insights into the noble families that occupied the castle over centuries through artifacts and recreations. Visitors can explore the 29 individual exhibit rooms at their own pace, with audio guides available. There is also an AV cinema playing historical footage.

The museum is located inside Český Krumlov Castle, which visitors can reach via public transportation or driving to Český Krumlov town center and walking. It appeals to visitors interested in history, castles, architecture and museums. The self-guided format is suitable for most.

3. Baroque Theater

Baroque Theater is located in the Český Krumlov Castle complex in the town of Český Krumlov, Czech Republic. The full address is Zámek 59, Český Krumlov, Czech Republic. It is sometimes referred to as the Castle Theater or Castle Baroque Theater. The Baroque Theater is considered one of the most well-preserved Baroque theaters in the world. It retains its original 18th-century stage machinery, scenery, props, costumes, lighting equipment and even original musical scores and librettos from performances during that time.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the theater to see the historic auditorium, ornate stage sets, behind-the-scenes mechanics that enabled scene changes and special effects, examples of historical costumes and props and the royal box. Tours provide insights into Baroque theatrical productions and stagecraft. Visitors may also be able to attend an occasional performance in the space.

The theater is located in the fifth courtyard of Český Krumlov Castle. Guided tours are available from May through October. Tickets should be purchased in advance online or at the castle ticket office. Tours last 45 minutes and are limited to groups of 20 people. There is an admission fee to take a guided tour. Ticket prices start at €3 ($3, £2) depending on visitor type, with discounted rates available for youths, students, seniors and disabled visitors.

4. Egon Schiele Art Centrum

Egon Schiele Art Centrum is an art museum and gallery located at Široká 71, 381 01 Český Krumlov, Czech Republic. Sometimes referred to as the Egon Schiele Gallery, it is dedicated to the Austrian Expressionist painter Egon Schiele. The center features a permanent exhibition on Schiele's life and work. On display are his drawings, prints, furniture, letters, photographs and documentation of his time spent in Český Krumlov, which inspired some of his artworks. There is also a family tree and images analyzing the symbolism and figures portrayed in his most famous paintings.

Visitors can view the displays in the galleries at their own pace. Guided tours are available to book for groups. There is a museum shop selling art books, prints and souvenirs and an onsite café. The Egon Schiele Art Centrum is located in the town center of Český Krumlov, about a 10-minute walk from the bus and train stations. It is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. It appeals to fans of Schiele, art enthusiasts, tourists looking to learn about the town's history and anyone interested in Expressionism and modern art. There is an admission fee of €6 ($7, £5) for adults.

5. Old Town (Historic District)

Old Town (Historic District) of Český Krumlov is located in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. It is situated on a peninsula formed by a tight bend in the Vltava River and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The historic center contains buildings in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, many featuring valuable stucco decorations and paintings. Popular attractions include the 16th-century Town Hall on Svornosti Square, St. Vitus Church and Český Krumlov State Castle and Tower.

Visitors can explore the twisted, narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, shop for local crafts and souvenirs and enjoy the lively bars and riverside cafes. Key events held here include the Five-Petalled Rose Festival in June and the International Music Festival from July to August. The best way to experience the Old Town is simply by wandering around and soaking in the fairy tale atmosphere. There are no admission fees to walk around the historic district, but tickets are required for certain castle tours and events.

6. St. Vitus Church

St. Vitus Church (Kostel svatého Víta) is located at Horní street 156, 381 01 Český Krumlov, Czech Republic. After Český Krumlov Castle, it is the second most prominent architectural landmark in the town. The Gothic-style church was built between 1407 and 1439, with later Baroque and neo-Gothic modifications. It is known for its octagonal tower, ornate spire and beautiful interior featuring Gothic vaulted ceilings, a Baroque altar and 15th-century wall paintings.

Visitors to St. Vitus Church can admire the architecture and interior designs, including the elaborate Renaissance tombstones of Wilhelm von Rosenberg and his wife. They can also climb up the tower for panoramic views over Český Krumlov and take photos of the distinctive exterior. In addition to serving as an active Catholic church for masses and religious events, St. Vitus Church occasionally hosts classical music concerts. There is no admission fee to enter and view the church. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. It is open daily with some variations in hours depending on the day and season.

7. Czech Marionette Museum

The Czech Marionette Museum in Prague showcases the country's rich history and tradition of puppetry and marionette theater. Founded in 1912, the museum contains an extensive collection of over 200 marionettes, puppets and miniature theater sets that provide an overview of Czech puppetry through the centuries. Highlights include antique marionettes from famous 19th-century traveling puppeteer troupes, puppets depicting historical Czech figures like Jan Hus, puppets from beloved children's shows featuring characters like Spejbl and Hurvínek and contemporary experimental marionettes.

Visitors can view the exhibits depicting various eras and characters of Czech puppetry history. The museum also has a puppet theater where performances and workshops allow visitors to try operating historic marionettes themselves. Special exhibits and events are also held regularly. The museum gift shop sells traditional marionettes, puppet-making kits and books for those inspired to delve deeper into the history and craft of Czech puppetry. The Czech Marionette Museum is located at U Karlova 12, Prague 1, Czechia. It typically operates from 10 am to 6 pm daily.

8. Vltava River (for rafting or canoeing)

Vltava River offers a variety of recreational activities as it winds through the scenic medieval town of Cesky Krumlov in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. Rafting, canoeing and kayaking on the Vltava are popular warm-weather pursuits, ranging from relaxing sightseeing paddles to adrenaline-filled white water rafting.

Many local companies offer equipment rentals and organize multi-day trips down the river. From Cesky Krumlov, common routes include a leisurely 1-2 hour paddle floating by city landmarks like the Český Krumlov Castle and St. Vitus Church. Half-day trips reach nearby villages like Zlatá Koruna, passing small rapids and weirs along the way. Longer full-day routes extend as far as Vyšší Brod through peaceful forest and pastoral scenery. Companies can accommodate groups from solo travelers to parties of over 10, with options like inflatable kayaks and rafts in addition to traditional canoes. The river also offers swimming, riverside dining and extraordinary views of Cesky Krumlov's old town. The river effectively encircles the historic city center, making it a centerpiece of the town.

9. Free walking tour with Wiseman

Free Walking Tour with Wiseman is a 2-hour guided walking tour of the historic town of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic. It is run by local guides who share the history and stories of the town. The tour starts daily at 10:30 am and 2 pm (10:30 AM only from November-March) in front of the tourist information center in the main square.

The tour takes visitors to the key sights of the town, such as the St. Vitus Church, the Latrán district, views of the castle and ends at the castle grounds. Along the way, the guides provide information and legends about the noble families that lived in Český Krumlov over the centuries, notably the Rosenbergs. The tour works on a pay-what-you-wish system at the end.

The walking tour is best suited for adults and older children interested in learning about the history of Český Krumlov. It is a “free tour”, there is no admission cost, but tips for the guide are welcome. It is an affordable, entertaining way to get oriented in Český Krumlov and learn about its past.

10. Castle Tower

The Castle Tower is a 16th-century tower located within the Cesky Krumlov Castle complex in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic. Standing at 54 meters tall, the Renaissance-style tower offers spectacular views over the town and castle from its observation deck.

Visitors can enter the tower and climb the 162 steps to reach the top observation level. Visitors can see architectural and decorative details from the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque eras. The tower offers 360-degree views over the red-roofed buildings of Cesky Krumlov, located along the curves of the Vltava River.

The Castle Tower is open daily, except Mondays, from 9 am to 4:30 pm between November and March. The tower climb involves many steps and it is perfect for adults and older children who are interested in architecture, views and photography. Those with limited mobility can still view the tower from the exterior. Visiting the Cesky Krumlov Castle Tower makes for an unforgettable experience.

12. Rozmberk Castle (Day trip)

Rozmberk Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Rozmberk nad Vltavou in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, about 25 kilometers (25 miles) south of České Budějovice. It was built in the 13th century and consists of two parts, the Upper Gothic castle and the Lower Renaissance castle. Rozmberk Castle features Renaissance elements, containing well-preserved historic rooms that visitors can access on guided tours. It offers beautiful views of the Vltava River in a countryside setting.

The castle is known for its well-preserved interiors, including the Knights' Hall with a remarkable paneled ceiling, a picture gallery, an armory and a hangman's house. Visitors can take a tour to see these rooms. The castle is also situated in a picturesque location overlooking the river Vltava. The castle appeals most to adults and older children interested in medieval history and architecture. Guided tours are available in Czech, English and German. There are admission tickets, depending on if you want access to just the exteriors or the interiors of the castle.

13. Riverbank areas for relaxation

The riverbanks in Český Krumlov provide peaceful natural areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. They border the winding Vltava River as it curves through the town. The riverbank spots include the Town Park with its trees, sculptures and St. Martin's Chapel; the Monastery Gardens, which date back to 1350; and the Egon Schiele Garden Studio terraces stretching along the river. These gardens offer shade, river access, open fields and pedestrian pathways.

Visitors can stroll along the riverbanks, have a picnic, go for a swim on a hot day or simply find a spot to sit and take in views of the river and charming historic town center. The riverbanks appeal to all visitors looking to unwind amidst natural scenery. They can be easily accessed on foot for free from multiple points within central Cesky Krumlov.

14. Krumlov Mill

Krumlov Mill is a restaurant and cultural venue housed in a newly refurbished former water mill built at the end of the 15th century. The restaurant is located in the historical center of Cesky Krumlov, at the end of a pedestrianized cobblestone alley (Siroka Street). It can be accessed on foot easily from the central town square in just a few minutes. The restaurant has a capacity of up to 150 people and a unique atmosphere reminiscent of old mill times, with original machinery and artifacts on display. Krumlov Mill hosts cultural events, performances, exhibitions and special venues throughout the year in its role as a cultural center. Its riverside setting and historic ambiance make it a unique venue in Cesky Krumlov for dining, social events and performances.

Krumlov Mill's atmosphere and riverside location in a historic 15th-century mill building, along with its dual role as a restaurant and cultural venue hosting events and performances, makes this a must-try when visiting Cesky. It is best suited for adults and older teenagers, given its role more as an upscale restaurant and event venue, but families can also dine here. No admission tickets are needed for the restaurant or bar. Entry costs vary for cultural events held at the venue.

15. Wax Museum

The Wax Museum in Cesky Krumlov features wax figures representing famous personalities from Czech history, art, culture, religion, politics and royalty. The museum features 100 wax figures displayed in scenes from Czech history, visitors can see key figures like medieval King Charles IV through to modern celebrities like Kafka and music icons like Michael Jackson. The figures and accompanying sets are designed to accurately represent the relevant time period and environmental context for each historical scene. It is located near Cesky Krumlov's central square. The museum uses lighting, sound effects and imagery to enhance the immersive experience of Czech history brought to life through its wax exhibits. Visitors are allowed to take photos alongside their favorite wax figures. It is recommended for families and visitors of all ages interested in an engaging way to be introduced to Czech history. Interactive exhibits make it interesting for kids.

16. Local shops for souvenirs.

Cesky Krumlov has a variety of local shops for souvenirs, selling traditional handicrafts, artworks, clothing and souvenirs. Local hops selling traditional handicrafts, artworks and souvenirs can be found throughout Cesky Krumlov's historic pedestrian town center along the interwoven cobblestone streets and alleys.

The popular items visitors look for include the region's famous Bohemian crystal and garnet jewelry and the wooden marionettes reflecting the area's history of puppetry and woodcrafts. Local edible specialties like gingerbread cookies baked using medieval recipes are also top souvenir items. The winding cobblestone pedestrian streets of Cesky Krumlov's historic center are lined with small shops peddling these handicrafts, artworks and foods to visitors seeking authentic local mementos of the town. Families, kids and solo travelers can be occupied looking at workshops for products like wooden toys and ceramics.

17. Outdoor music and event venues in the town square

The main town square of Cesky Krumlov, called Namesti Svornosti, is a popular outdoor venue for music events and festivals. It is located in the center of Cesky Krumlov's pedestrian Old Town area, which makes it easily accessible on foot from anywhere in Cesky Krumlov's Old Town area.

The square dates back to medieval times and has witnessed many historic events over the centuries. Today, it is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike. On any given day, you may catch street performers entertaining small crowds. During festivals and events, stages are set up and the square comes alive with musicians, dancers, theater acts and throngs of spectators. Major festivals held include the Five-Petalled Rose Festival in June when the square transforms into a Renaissance fair with period costumes and entertainment and the Christmas Markets in December. Concerts are also sometimes held on a temporary revolving stage set up on the square. There are no admission fees to enter the square or view the street performances. Major events may have ticket fees for reserved seating areas. The entertainment and festive atmosphere are suitable for visitors of all ages.

18. Klet Hill

Klet Hill is located in the Blansky Forest, 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) north of Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic and is the highest mountain in the region at 1,084 meters above sea level. It offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic views, especially from the 19th-century stone observation tower on its summit. Visitors can hike up the well-marked trails from Cesky Krumlov or take the chairlift from the village of Krasetin. The 4.5 kilometers (2.7 miles) hike from Cesky Krumlov train station to the Klet Hill summit takes 2 hours and gains 443 meters in elevation along a paved forest path. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Blansky Forest, Lipno Lake and even the Austrian Alps on clear days. The observation tower and adjacent timbered cottage with a restaurant are popular spots to enjoy views from the peak. Klet Hill is suitable for hikers of most ability levels and has trails for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and sledding. It is a good half-day or full-day trip for nature and outdoor enthusiasts.

19. Cesky Krumlov Monasteries

The Cesky Krumlov Monasteries complex was founded in 1350 as a monastery of Minorites and Clares. It is located at Klášterní dvůr 97, 381 01 Český Krumlov, Czechia. The monastery complex, known as the Krumlov Monastery, occupies the second largest historical area in Cesky Krumlov after the castle. The monastery is a “double monastery” that housed both monks and nuns. It has been beautifully restored and now features modern exhibitions and workshops focused on medieval life, art and culture. Visitors can tour the original monastery architecture and art, visit the interactive exhibits to experience traditional skills and crafts and participate in workshops to make their own products.

The Cesky Krumlov Monastery is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm in the summer season. Visitors can purchase tickets to tour the monastery museum exhibitions, visit the workshops and craft demonstrations and explore the grounds. It is perfect for visitors of all ages interested in history, medieval art and hands-on cultural activities.

Where is Cesky Krumlov?

Český Krumlov, often referred to as Krumlov, is a town located in the Czech Republic. Its name, Krumlov, originally derived from the Middle High German term “Krumme Aue”, which means crooked meadow, due to its location along a bend of the Vltava river. To distinguish it from another town named Moravský Krumlov in southern Moravia, the adjective “Český”, meaning “Bohemian”, was added in the 15th century. Český Krumlov is situated approximately 20 kilometers southwest of České Budějovice and 134 kilometers south of Prague. The town straddles both banks of the Vltava River and lies in the Bohemian Forest Foothills, with its highest point being the hill Vyšný vrch, standing at 744 meters above sea level. The northern part of Český Krumlov's territory is within the Blanský les Protected Landscape Area.

What is the history of Cesky Krumlov?

The history of Český Krumlov dates back to ancient times, with evidence of continuous human habitation in the area since the Older Stone Age, around 70,000-50,000 BC. Bronze Age settlements emerged around 1,500 BC, followed by Celtic settlements around 400 BC and the first Slavic settlement in the 6th century AD. Trade routes along the Vltava River in the Early Middle Ages further developed the area. The foundation of Český Krumlov Castle, which still stands today, can be traced back to the local Vítkovci family shortly before 1250. The town was established in two stages, with Latrán below the castle and Old Town as a newly founded settlement. Czech and German nationalities were represented and a Jewish community existed from 1334.

The Rosenberg family took control of Český Krumlov in 1302, making it their main residence. Under their rule, the town prospered, with significant growth during the 15th century under Oldřich II of Rosenberg. The Rosenbergs promoted trade and crafts and German miners settled in the city after gold was discovered nearby, further shifting the ethnic balance. In the late 16th century, the Renaissance-style castle reconstruction took place. In 1602, the town was sold to Emperor Rudolf II and later became part of the Duchy of Krumlov. From 1719 to 1947, the castle belonged to the House of Schwarzenberg. During the 19th century, industrialisation led to the demolition of most of the town's fortifications.

In the early 20th century, Český Krumlov had a predominantly German population, but after World War I, it became part of Czechoslovakia. It was briefly annexed by Nazi Germany in 1938 but was returned to Czechoslovakia after World War II, resulting in the expulsion of the German population. The town suffered neglect during the Communist era but experienced restoration efforts after the Velvet Revolution in 1989. In 2002, Český Krumlov faced damage due to the European floods. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture.

What language is spoken in Cesky Krumlov?

The primary language spoken in Český Krumlov is Czech, as the town is located in the Czech Republic, where Czech is the official language. However, some residents may also understand and speak German due to its history and past influences, particularly the presence of a German-speaking population until the mid-20th century. Given the town's popularity as a tourist destination, English is commonly spoken in the tourism industry. Visitors can easily communicate in English when interacting with locals, especially in hotels, restaurants and other tourist-related establishments.

What timezone is Cesky Krumlov on?

Český Krumlov is located in the Czech Republic which operates on Central European Time (CET). During standard time, CET is UTC+1 (Coordinated Universal Time plus one hour). However, the Czech Republic also observes Daylight Saving Time (DST), typically starting on the last Sunday in March and ending on the last Sunday in October. During DST, the time zone shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2. Český Krumlov follows the standard time or DST to adjust its local time to CET or CEST accordingly.

How many people live in Cesky Krumlov?

Český Krumlov has a total population of 59,118 residents. This population is further divided into 29,757 males and 29,361 females. In terms of age distribution, there are 9,835 individuals aged 0-14 years, 37,773 individuals aged 15-64 years and 11,510 individuals aged 65 years and older living in Český Krumlov.

What are the neighborhoods to stay in Cesky Krumlov?

Listed below are the neighborhoods to stay in Cesky Krumlov.

• Latrán. Latrán is right next to the city center of Český Krumlov. It holds historical significance as one of the town's first areas to be developed. Latrán is known for housing the expansive Castle Complex, which ranks as one of the largest in Central Europe. Its cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic buildings make it an attractive tourist destination. Visitors can easily access Latrán on foot from the city center.
• Vnitřní Město (Inner Town). Vnitřní Město or the Inner Town, serves as the central hub of Český Krumlov. It features a diverse mix of historical buildings, shops and restaurants, making it the heart of the town's cultural and commercial activities. Key attractions in this area include the Main Square and the St. Vitus Church. Accessible by various modes of transportation, including buses, the Inner Town is a lively location known for hosting cultural events and festivals.
• Pohoří na Šumavě. Located to the south of the city center, Pohoří na Šumavě is predominantly a residential neighborhood with some green spaces. It tends to be less touristy compared to the central districts, offering a quieter living environment. Pohoří na Šumavě is accessible by local buses and taxis, making it convenient for residents and visitors seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Nádražní Předměstí (Railway Suburb). Situated to the north of the city center, Nádražní Předměstí is closely linked to the Český Krumlov railway station. This neighborhood provides an essential transportation link to other parts of the country and features residential areas along with local businesses. Regular local buses connect Nádražní Předměstí with the city center, making it a convenient place to live or visit.
• Všeměry. Located to the east of the city center, Všeměry is primarily a residential neighborhood with some local businesses serving the community. While it may have fewer historical landmarks than the core neighborhoods, it offers a more local experience of Český Krumlov. Všeměry is accessible by local transportation, although it tends to be less frequented by tourists, providing a glimpse into everyday life in the town.
• Flößberg. Flößberg is found to the southeast of the city center and is primarily a residential neighborhood with some green areas and local businesses. It offers a quieter and less touristy environment compared to the busy city center. Access to Flößberg is facilitated by local buses, making it reachable for both residents and visitors seeking a more peaceful atmosphere. Exploring this area can provide a sense of the everyday life of Český Krumlov's local residents.
• Holašovice. Holašovice is located considerably farther from Český Krumlov's city center but is well worth the journey. It is a historic village and a UNESCO World Heritage site, popular for its exceptionally well-preserved Baroque farmsteads and rural architecture. This village offers a unique opportunity to explore Czech history and traditional architecture. While it's not within the immediate city limits, Holašovice can be reached by car or through organised tours from Český Krumlov, making it a must-visit for those interested in cultural heritage and rural life.

What are the most interesting facts about Cesky Krumlov?

Listed below are the most interesting facts about Cesky Krumlov.

• Currency. The currency used in Český Krumlov is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Visitors should be aware of this and may need to exchange their money or withdraw Czech Koruna from local ATMs for transactions in the town.
• Timezone. Český Krumlov operates on Central European Time (CET) during standard time, which is UTC+1 (Coordinated Universal Time plus one hour). However, it observes Daylight Saving Time (DST), shifting to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2, during the summer months. Travelers should be mindful of this time difference when planning their visits.
• Language. The official language spoken in Český Krumlov and throughout the Czech Republic is Czech. While Czech is the primary language, many people in the tourism industry, especially in popular tourist areas like Český Krumlov, can communicate in English, making it relatively easy for English-speaking visitors to navigate and enjoy their stay.
• Power Plugs. Český Krumlov uses the Europlug Type C and Type E power outlets. These are standard European sockets with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from regions with different plug types (e.g., Type A or Type B) may need adapters to charge their electronic devices.

What is Český Krumlov famous for?

Český Krumlov is famous for its rich historical heritage and exceptionally well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly the iconic Český Krumlov Castle. It has earned international recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Renaissance” due to its historical significance and architectural beauty. Its historic center features a labyrinth of winding streets, squares and historic buildings that attract tourists worldwide.

What to do in Cesky Krumlov for a day?

Listed below are the best things to do for a day in Cesky Krumlov.

• Visit Český Krumlov Castle. The castle is the town's centerpiece and offers a fascinating journey into the region's history. With its mix of architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque, exploring the castle complex provides a comprehensive snapshot of Český Krumlov's historical importance.
• Stroll the Old Town. Wandering the cobblestone streets of the Old Town offers an immersion into the town's medieval charm. The Old Town is the heart of Český Krumlov's cultural and architectural heritage with its historic buildings, squares and the winding Vltava River.
• Relax in the Castle Gardens. The expansive gardens offer an escape with beautifully landscaped areas, fountains and panoramic town views. It's an ideal spot to unwind and appreciate the town's scenic beauty and architectural splendor.
• Join a Free Walking Tour. Participating in a guided walking tour provides deeper insights into the town's history, legends and hidden gems. A knowledgeable guide will offer valuable context and stories, enhancing the experience of exploring Český Krumlov.
• Dine at a Traditional Czech Restaurant. Sampling local dishes is a delightful way to immerse oneself in Czech culture and culinary traditions. With numerous eateries in town offering authentic Czech cuisine, enjoying a meal is a flavorful way to round off a day in Český Krumlov.

How many days to spend in Cesky Krumlov?

For most visitors, spending 1-2 days in Český Krumlov is ideal. Within this timeframe, tourists can explore the key attractions, including the Český Krumlov Castle, the Old Town and the scenic Castle Gardens. This duration provides a comprehensive overview of the town's rich history, architectural wonders and cultural highlights. If one's itinerary is tight, even a day trip can provide a memorable experience, although staying overnight allows for a more relaxed exploration and the opportunity to experience the town's ambience in the evening.

When considering how long to spend in any destination, factors like individual interests, travel pace and the broader travel itinerary come into play. For those deeply interested in history, architecture or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, extending the visit to two days in Český Krumlov can be rewarding. However, if it's part of a whirlwind city break or a multi-stop tour, one day can still offer a meaningful experience of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What to eat in Cesky Krumlov?

In Český Krumlov, visitors can savor a variety of traditional Czech food that offer a flavorful taste of the country's culinary heritage. One popular dish is “svíčková”, which consists of marinated beef served with a creamy sauce, dumplings and cranberry sauce. This hearty and savory meal reflects the Czech love for rich, comfort food and is a must-try for those seeking an authentic Czech dining experience. Additionally, “trdelník”, a sweet pastry made from rolled dough, sugar and walnuts, is a delightful treat commonly found in the town. Its sweet, crunchy exterior and soft interior make it a favorite snack or dessert among locals and tourists. Exploring the local cuisine in Český Krumlov is a way to connect with Czech culture and indulge in dishes that have been cherished for generations. Beyond these specific dishes, visitors can enjoy classic Czech cuisine staples such as goulash, schnitzel and hearty soups. Cesky Krumlov's restaurants and eateries often use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, enhancing the overall dining experience. While in Český Krumlov, dining at traditional Czech restaurants provides an opportunity to savor the flavors of the region, making it a delicious and culturally enriching part of any visit to this charming Czech town.

What are the top restaurants to eat and drink in Cesky Krumlov?

Listed below are the top restaurants to eat and drink in Cesky Krumlov.

• Papa's Living Restaurant. Located at Latrán 13, Český Krumlov, Papa's Living Restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring a fusion of Czech and international cuisine. Notable dishes to savor here include their delectable salmon steak and truffle pasta. It has a cozy and modern ambience suitable for various occasions, from casual dining to special events. On average, diners can expect to spend between €8 to €20 per person for a meal at Papa's.
• Krčma Šatlava. Situated at Horni Street 157, Český Krumlov, Krčma Šatlava is a medieval-themed tavern that specializes in traditional Czech fare. Guests can relish dishes often prepared on an open flame, with their beef steak being a standout option. Its historical setting provides a unique and immersive dining experience with prices ranging from €7 to €16 per person.
• Tavern of the Two Maries. Found at Barborská 66/8, Český Krumlov, the Tavern of the Two Maries is known for its focus on traditional Bohemian dishes made from homemade and organic ingredients. Noteworthy menu items include rabbit in cream sauce and a variety of Czech dumplings. The interior has rustic and authentically Czech vibes, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can anticipate spending approximately €6 to €18 per person for a meal here.
• Pivovarská restaurace (Historický pivovar Český Krumlov). Located at Pivovarská 27, Český Krumlov, Pivovarská restaurace is an integral part of the historic brewery and offers a blend of Czech cuisine paired with their in-house brewed beers. Goulash and schnitzel are among the signature dishes, harmonizing perfectly with their range of beers. The lively ambience makes it a favored choice for both locals and tourists. Prices for a meal generally fall within the range of €4 to €14 per person, excluding beverages.
• Švejk Restaurant. Positioned at Rooseveltova 35, Český Krumlov, Švejk Restaurant is themed after the iconic Czech literary character, Švejk. The menu predominantly features classic Czech dishes, with highlights including roast duck and traditional sausages. Its playful and light-hearted atmosphere reflects the character's adventures. Dining at Švejk Restaurant typically costs between €6 and €16 per person, offering an enjoyable and reasonably priced culinary experience.

What are the best hotels in Cesky Krumlov?

Listed below are the best hotels in Cesky Krumlov.

• Castle View Apartments. Castle View Apartments offers apartment-style accommodation right in the heart of Český Krumlov. Guests can enjoy immediate access to the city center, making it a convenient choice. The apartments provide stunning views of Český Krumlov Castle, equipped with kitchens, free Wi-Fi and comfortable living spaces. Prices for a night's stay typically start at around €80.
• Villa Beatika. Villa Beatika is a charming bed and breakfast in the historic center of Český Krumlov. It ensures easy access to the town's attractions and offers cosy rooms. Guests can start their day with breakfast service and relax on the garden terrace. A night's stay rates usually range from €70 to €100.
• Hotel Bellevue. Hotel Bellevue is a boutique hotel within walking distance of Český Krumlov's city center. It features elegant rooms, an on-site restaurant, a wellness center with a spa and river views. While prices vary, they generally start at around €120 per night.
• Hotel OLDINN. Hotel OLDINN is a historic hotel conveniently located in the town center. It offers comfortable rooms, an in-house restaurant and a terrace overlooking the scenic Vltava River. Rates for a night's stay typically start at €100.
• 1ST Republic Villa – Adults Only. 1ST Republic Villa, this adult-only villa is situated in the city center, providing easy access to Český Krumlov's attractions. It offers stylish rooms tailored for adult guests, free Wi-Fi and a relaxing garden. Prices for a night's stay usually begin at €90.

What is the transportation like in Cesky Krumlov?

Český Krumlov, given its compact and historic nature, does not have a metro system. Instead, the town is easily explored on foot due to its small size and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Buses serve the town and its outskirts effectively for longer distances or for those preferring not to walk, providing an economical way to navigate the area. While there's a limited need for cars within Český Krumlov itself, car rental options are available for those looking to explore the surrounding regions or who desire more flexibility in their travel plans.

The Český Krumlov Card is a beneficial tool for visitors. This card offers access to five significant museums in the town, allowing tourists to explore the region's rich history and culture at a reduced cost. Additionally, it provides discounts for other attractions and services, ensuring visitors get the best value during their stay. Investing in this card can lead to savings and a more enriched experience in Český Krumlov.

How to get from Cesky Krumlov airport to the city?

Český Krumlov does not have its own international airport. Most visitors arrive via the closest major airport, which is in České Budějovice, about 30 km away. Upon arrival at the České Budějovice airport, one can easily find bus services that run frequently between the airport and Český Krumlov. The bus station at the airport is well-signposted and tickets can be purchased in advance or directly from the bus driver. The journey by bus usually takes around 30 minutes, with the average fare being approximately €5. Taxis are also available directly outside the České Budějovice airport terminal. A taxi ride to Český Krumlov typically takes about 20-25 minutes. The average cost for a taxi journey from the airport to Český Krumlov is around €30 to €40, depending on traffic and specific drop-off locations. Moreover, car rental agencies at the České Budějovice airport allow visitors to rent a vehicle. After securing a rental car, exit the airport and follow the signposts for Český Krumlov. The drive is straightforward, taking roughly 20-25 minutes. The average cost of renting a car can vary widely based on the type of car and rental duration, but daily rates typically start at around €25.

How to get from Cesky Krumlov to Prague?

Travelers can take a direct bus from Český Krumlov to Prague. The main bus station in Český Krumlov is located near the town center. Tickets can be purchased at the bus station or online in advance. Buses typically depart regularly throughout the day and take 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route and stops. The average one-way ticket price ranges from €10 to €20, making it a budget-friendly option for Travelers. On the other hand, taxis are readily available in Český Krumlov and Travelers can easily arrange a taxi to take them to Prague. Booking a taxi in advance or through a reputable taxi service is advisable. The journey by taxi is relatively fast, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The average cost for a taxi ride from Český Krumlov to Prague falls within the range of €150 to €250, depending on factors such as the taxi company and vehicle type. Travelers who prefer flexibility and the opportunity to explore the route at their own pace can go for car rental services. Rental agencies are available in Český Krumlov. After securing a rental car, travelers can follow road signs for Prague . The drive takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route and road conditions. Rental car prices vary based on the type of vehicle, rental duration and additional services, but daily rates generally start at around €25.

How to get from Cesky Krumlov to Vienna?

Taking a bus from Český Krumlov to Vienna is straightforward and relatively economical. Buses depart from the main bus station in Český Krumlov and Travelers can purchase tickets on-site or online ahead of their journey. Several bus companies operate on this route and while the frequency of buses may vary, there are generally multiple departures throughout the day. The bus trip takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route and stops. Average prices for a one-way bus ticket from Český Krumlov to Vienna range from €15 to €30. Hiring a taxi from Český Krumlov to Vienna is a feasible option for those looking for a direct and hassle-free journey. It's recommended to book a taxi in advance through a reputable taxi service in Český Krumlov or by arranging it with accommodations. The taxi ride to Vienna usually takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, contingent on traffic conditions. The cost for a taxi journey between these two destinations can be higher, often ranging from €250 to €350, based on the taxi company and type of vehicle. Meanwhile, renting a car offers flexibility and allows Travelers to enjoy the scenic drive between Český Krumlov and Vienna at leisure. Car rental agencies are available in Český Krumlov, where one can procure a vehicle for the journey. After renting a car, Travelers can follow the road signs directing them to Vienna. The drive generally takes around 3 to 3.5 hours. The cost of renting a car can vary depending on the vehicle type, duration of the rental and additional services, but daily rates usually start at approximately €25.

Are Christmas markets crowded in Cesky Krumlov?

Yes, Christmas markets in Český Krumlov can be quite crowded during the holiday season. The primary reason for the crowds is the town's popularity as a tourist destination, especially during the festive period. Tourists and visitors are drawn to the town's beautifully decorated market squares, where they can shop for unique gifts, savor traditional Czech holiday treats and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Additionally, the town's compact size and limited space in the historic center can contribute to a sense of crowding during the Christmas market season, as many people gather to partake in the festivities.

What are the best Christmas markets in Czechia?

Listed below are the best Christmas markets in Czechia.

• Prague Christmas Markets. Prague's Christmas markets are among the most famous in Czechia, set against the background of the city's historic Old Town Square. Visitors will be amazed by the festive atmosphere, beautifully decorated stalls and the towering Christmas tree. It offers a variety of traditional Czech gifts, crafts and mouthwatering holiday treats like trdelník and mulled wine. Live music and cultural performances add to the festive spirit, making it a top destination during the holiday season.
• Český Krumlov Christmas Market. Český Krumlov is a beautiful town in South Bohemia that hosts a Christmas market in its historic Old Town Square. It gives a fairytale setting, with stalls offering traditional Czech crafts, ornaments and gastronomic delights. Visitors can explore the medieval town's narrow cobblestone streets while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Live music and cultural programs, including nativity scenes and carolers, enhance the holiday experience. The intimate and romantic setting of Český Krumlov's Christmas market makes it a unique and beloved destination.
• Kutná Hora Christmas Market. The Kutná Hora Christmas Market takes place in the UNESCO-listed historic center of this town. It offers a variety of artisanal goods, handcrafted decorations and delicious seasonal foods. Visitors can explore the town's stunning Gothic architecture and visit the famous Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church). Carolers and cultural performances add to the festive spirit, making it a memorable experience. The combination of history, culture and holiday cheer makes Kutná Hora's Christmas market a unique destination in Czechia.

What are the best music festivals in Czechia?

Listed below are the best music festivals in Czechia.

• Colours of Ostrava. Colours of Ostrava is known for its diverse music lineup, featuring a mix of international and local artists across various genres, including rock, pop, world music and electronic. Its unique charm lies in its industrial backdrop, with stages set amidst an old coal mine, creating a distinctive and immersive atmosphere.
• United Islands of Prague. This festival takes place in the heart of Prague, on the Vltava River's islands. It showcases an eclectic mix of music genres, including rock, indie, electronic and hip-hop. Its unique location, with stages along the riverbanks, offers stunning city views and creates a vibrant and accessible urban festival atmosphere.
• Pohoda Festival. Although located across the border in Slovakia, the Pohoda Festival is a favorite for many Czech music lovers. It's celebrated for its diverse lineup, combining music, arts and cultural activities. Its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere and its airport venue set it apart as a must-visit event.

What is the weather like in Cesky Krumlov?

The weather in Český Krumlov exhibits distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. During the winter months, which span from December to February, the town experiences cold and chilly conditions. Temperatures often hover around freezing, with occasional snowfall, creating a winter setting ideal for holiday celebrations, including Christmas markets. Spring from March to May ushers in milder and gradually warming weather. Daytime temperatures rise and the town's surroundings become lush with blooming flowers and greenery, making it a popular time for outdoor exploration. From June to August, summer brings warm and pleasant conditions to Český Krumlov. Daytime temperatures typically range from comfortable to moderately warm, making it an ideal season for tourists to explore the town's historic sites, gardens and outdoor activities. Finally, from September to November, autumn brings cooler temperatures as the town transitions to fall. The surroundings transform into a palette of vibrant autumn colors and tourists can experience the beauty of the changing seasons.

Is Czechia worth visiting?

Yes, Czechia is worth visiting. With its rich history, stunning architecture, landscapes and vibrant culture, Czechia offers Travelers a diverse range of attractions and experiences. Visitors can explore the historic streets of Prague, immerse themselves in the medieval charm of Český Krumlov, sample delicious Czech cuisine and enjoy outdoor adventures in the Bohemian and Moravian regions.

Is Cesky Krumlov expensive?

Yes, Cesky Krumlov is an affordable destination, especially when compared to Western European cities. Basic goods like milk, water and breakfast items are reasonably priced. A litre of milk may cost around €1, a bottle of water approximately €0.80 and a basic breakfast in a local café can be as low as €5 to €10. Beer is particularly economical, with a pint typically costing around €2 to €3 in local pubs or restaurants.

Is Cesky Krumlov safe?

Yes, Cesky Krumlov is a safe destination for tourists. It has a low crime rate and violent crimes are rare. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should exercise safety precautions, such as safeguarding their belongings in crowded areas and being aware of pickpockets, especially in popular tourist spots. It's also advisable to follow any local guidelines or advice provided by authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Is Cesky Krumlov easy to visit with kids?

Yes, Cesky Krumlov can be family-friendly and is generally easy to visit with kids. Its compact size makes it manageable to explore on foot and its streets, castles and gardens can captivate children's imaginations. Family-friendly accommodations and restaurants are offering a variety of cuisine options. Additionally, Cesky Krumlov hosts events and activities suitable for children, such as historical reenactments and cultural festivals. However, some attractions may have stairs and uneven terrain, so strollers or baby carriers might be necessary.

What are the most famous people of Czechia abroad?

Listed below are the most famous people in Czechia abroad:

• Franz Kafka. The famous author Franz Kafka is celebrated internationally for his influential works of literature, such as “The Metamorphosis” and “The Trial”. His writing often delves into themes of existentialism and the human condition.
• Antonín Dvořák. The Czech composer Antonín Dvořák is acclaimed worldwide for his contributions to classical music. His compositions, including the “New World Symphony” and the “Cello Concerto in B minor”, are widely performed and cherished for their melodic richness.
• Milos Forman. a Czech-born film director, Milos Forman achieved global recognition for his cinematic masterpieces like “One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest” and “Amadeus”. His work has left a lasting impact on the film industry.
• Václav Havel. Václav Havel was a prominent dissident, playwright and politician who played a pivotal role in the peaceful transition of Czechoslovakia to democracy in 1989. He became the first president of the Czech Republic and garnered international respect for his advocacy of human rights and democracy.
• Jaromír Jágr. Jaromír Jágr is a legendary Czech ice hockey player widely recognised for his exceptional skills and longevity in the sport. He has had a successful career in the NHL and has earned a place among the all-time greats in hockey history.

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Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov, in Bohemia’s deep south, is one of the most picturesque towns in Europe. It’s a little like Prague in miniature – a Unesco World Heritage Site with a stunning castle above the Vltava River, an old town square, Renaissance and baroque architecture, and hordes of tourists milling through the streets – but all on a smaller scale; you can walk from one side of town to the other in 20 minutes. There are plenty of lively bars and riverside picnic spots – in summer it’s a popular hang-out for backpackers. It can be a magical place in winter, though, when the crowds are gone and the castle is blanketed in snow.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Český Krumlov State Castle

Český Krumlov's striking Renaissance castle, occupying a promontory high above the town, began life in the 13th century. It acquired its present…

Egon Schiele Art Centrum

This excellent private gallery houses a small retro­spective of the celebrated and controversial Viennese painter Egon Schiele (1890–1918). Schiele's…

Castle Museum & Tower

Located within the castle complex, this small museum and adjoining tower is an ideal option if you don't have the time or energy for a full castle tour…

Náměstí Svornosti

The centre of the Old Town is defined by náměstí Svornosti, with its 16th-century Town Hall and Marian Plague Column, dating from 1716. Several buildings…

Graphite Mine

Don a hard hat and ride a clanking electric wagon through 2km of underground workings in Czechia's last graphite mine, only recently abandoned. Tours are…

Museum Fotoateliér Seidel

This photography museum presents a moving retrospective of the work of local photographers Josef Seidel and his son František. Especially poignant are the…

Marionette Museum

This is the better of two museums in town dedicated to puppetry and marionettes. It's a branch of the National Marionette Theatre in Prague and is housed…

Regional Museum

This small museum features folk art from the Šumava region, archaeology, history, fine arts, furnishings and weapons. The highlight is a room-sized model…

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Book popular activities in Český Krumlov

CESKY KRUMLOV TRAVEL GUIDE

Cesky Krumlov Czech Republic is a medieval fairytale. It’s become increasingly popular in recent years due to its beauty and unique vibe. In my opinion, Cesky Krumlov surpasses the hype; it’s absolutely stunning! There’s nothing like walking through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.

Český Krumlov is one of those towns that I was bound and determined to see! On my first trip, it took almost 7 hours to reach town. From Budapest, we took two trains and a bus to reach Cesky. It was hectic but beyond worth it. Max and I visited for a second time this past winter which was incredible!

Below I’ve put together a relatively quick guide to visiting this dreamy town. From how to get there and where to stay to the best things to do in town.

And don’t forget to pin this for later!

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. Meaning that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here .

LOCATION & GETTING THERE

Located in Southern Bohemia, Český Krumlov is a great addition on a trip to Central Europe. As a part of Southern Czech Republic, Cesky Krumlov a quick trip from cities such as Prague, Munich, and Salzburg. It takes approximately 2 hours to travel from Cesky Krumlov to Prague and Vienna to Cesky Krumlov is close to 3 hours.

There are a handful of ways to reach Cesky Krumlov by public transportation. The closest train station to Cesky Krumlov is approximately 30 minutes away in Cesky Budejovice. I’ve found the easiest way to reach Cesky Krumlov is by bus. I’ve used Regio Jet a few times and they’re great!

Another option is to book one of the Cesky Krumlov tours from Prague . The tour I’ve linked includes a guided tour, lunch, entrance fees in town, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. While I recommend staying the night, if you only have time for a day trip to Cesky Krumlov, it’s worth it!

Read More: Getting to Cesky Krumlov

Most people visit Cesky Krumlov on a day trip from Prague. While it’s easy to explore town in just a few hours, I recommend spending at least an evening in town. Since it’s a popular spot for day trippers, it’s quiet in the morning and evening. As a bonus, I’ve seen some excellent sunsets in Český Krumlov so it’s worth staying a night. With that said, if your itinerary only allows for a few hours, its worth the trek!

WHEN TO VISIT

As a small town in Central Europe, Cesky Krumlov can be visited year round. Europe tends to be busy during the summer so I recommend visiting during the shoulder season. The months of May-June and September-October are perfect for sight seeing! The first time I visited Cesky Krumlov was at the end of May. It was a little hot but comfortable to walk around. Max and I visited during Christmas this past year and loved seeing the town during the Holiday Season! There is nothing like a Cesky Krumlov winter, while it was cold, the sun came out and the weather wound up being great for exploring.

CESKY KRUMLOV HOTELS

There’s nothing like staying in the heart of Cesky Krumlov! I highly recommend staying in town if you can swing it. Since the town is small and walkable it’s nice not to rely on public transportation during your stay. There are a ton of boutique hotels at the center of town to choose from. One thing to be aware of is there are certain streets that are pedestrian only. The streets are cobblestone so it can be challenging to roll luggage through the streets.

On my first trip, we stayed at Pension Faber and absolutely loved it! The room was adorable and our window opened to the cobblestone streets. It’s honestly one of my favorite hotels!

Read More: Most Charming Hotels in Europe

WANDER THE STREETS

I know it sounds basic but, the best thing to do in Cesky Krumlov is simply wander the streets. The cobblestone streets are filled with small restuarants and shops. Walking around town is like walking into a medieval fairytale.

The best time to wander the streets of Cesky Krumlov is in the morning before tours arrive. It’s quiet and perfect for photo ops. One of my favorite viewpoints in town is the “ Classic Viewpoint “. I’ve linked walking directions to the location for a gorgeous view overlooking town. Another great view is from Lazebnický most , since the bridge overlooks the Vltava River. Since the town is small, it’s hard to miss either of these spots while wandering town.

I also recommend taking a walking tour of town to learn about the streets and history of Cesky Krumlov. There are a number of free walking tours you can book in town. If you prefer booking in advance, I’ve linked a tour .

SVORNOSTI SQUARE

As the heart of Cesky Krumlov, Svornosti Square cannot be missed. The buildings are colorful and lively but the most impressive building in the square is Town Hall. At the center of the square there’s a Statue of Virgin Mary with 8 Saints. The Renaissance and Baroque buildings give the square a unique charm. There are a number of events held in the main square throughout the year. During Christmas, the main market is set up here.

VIEWPOINT NEAR CASTLE

For the best view of town, head to toward the Cesky Krumlov Castle! To reach the viewing platform you’ll go through the Castle past the Castle Tower and Cloak Bridge . Shortly after walking over the Cloak Bridge, there will be a viewing platform on your left. It sounds confusing but it’s an easy walk from the center of town. This is easily the best photo op in Cesky Krumlov! As such, it’s usually pretty busy. With that said, if you wait a few minutes the crowd usually thins out. If you’re staying the night in Cesky, try to catch sunset here. We went to the platform during sunset and it was easily the most magical sunset I’ve ever seen!

CESKY KRUMLOV CASTLE

There are a few areas to explore at the grounds of the Castle. For a great view, visit the Castle Tower. The ticket to the Castle Tower is combined with the Castle Museum for 150 CZK per adult. There are also a few different tours you can do of the castle as well as the Baroque Castle Theatre. For pricing and details click here .

Also! Make sure you look for the bears when you visit the castle. The bears are kept in the Bear Moat between the 1st and 11nd couryards at the castle.

RESTAURANTS

The most popular restaurant in Cesky Krumlov is Krčma Šatlava . This Medieval Tavern is most well known for meats prepared over an open fire. As a hot spot in town, the restaurant books up quickly. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance. You can try to make a reservation the same day but your options will be limited.

If you’re into the beer scene, Eggenberg Brewery is another staple in Cesky Krumlov. The Brewery dates back to 1560. You can do a tour and tasting of the brewery to learn the secrets of beer production. You can also head there for something to eat and drink .

Another option is to try one of the restaurants along the Vltava River! Some of the restaurants have outdoor seating so you’ll have a great view of the river.

VLTAVA RIVER

If you have some free time in Cesky Krumlov, you can go rafting, kayaking, or canoeing on the river. You can either rent one of these water activities or go on a tour. There are a ton of options on Tripadvisor.

As I’m sure you can tell by now, I absolutely love Cesky Krumlov! I hope you have an opportunity to visit this one of a kind place. As I mentioned, it’s the perfect addition to a trip to Eastern Europe. I always love visiting the smaller towns in Europe since they have so much character.

Headed to the Czech Republic? Here are a few articles to help you plan your trip. 4 Days in Prague Day trip to Karlovy Vary Prague Christmas Market

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Cesky Krumlov // The Ultimate Guide to Czechia’s Magical Fairytale Town

In the deep South of Czechia (formerly known as the Czech Republic) there sits a magical little town nicknamed the Jewel of Bohemia. With it’s colorful streets, Baroque castle and snaking river, Cesky Krumlov appears to be straight out of a fairytale. I have never been more excited to photograph a destination and when our bus arrived 11pm, I couldn’t wait until morning to finally see it with my own eyes. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about visiting Cesky Krumlov including things to do, how to get here, and where to stay.

5 THINGS TO DO IN CESKY KRUMLOV

Cesky Krumlov is straight up travel porn. Down each alley and around every corner and delivers something new and even more picture perfect than the last. The town is small so you can’t really get lost, but it’s fun to try. We didn’t plan much of an itinerary for our day here, we just wandered around, popping in for a drink here, a snack there and simply looking for the best views we could find. 

EXPLORE CESKY KRUMLOV CASTLE, TOWER & GROUNDS

The Cesky Krumlov Castle is a national heritage site and the second largest castle in the Czech Republic. You have the option to tour the castle, gardens and tower separately, so there’s a lot of ground to cover, or you can pick and choose what interests you.

Stop in and see the Baroque Theater which is one of the most preserved and complete Baroque theaters left in Europe. Wander through the 17th century Baroque gardens, visit the 5 charming courtyards or climb 162 steps to the top of the tower for an incredible view.

SNACK ON A TRDELNIK

Trdelniks are one of the most common Bohemian street foods treats that you’ll find in Prague and Cesky Krumlov. They are made out of rolled dough which is baked over an open flame and topped with sugar or other toppings like nuts, jam, nutella or ice cream.

FLOAT AROUND THE CITY IN A RAFT

As you walk through the town and check out the Vltava River, you’ll see dozens of people floating downstream with a beer in hand.

Renting an inflatable raft and making the loop around the city is one of the most popular things to do in Cesky Krumlov during the warmer months. The journey takes between 30min to 1 hour depending on how slow you wanna go. Or, you can opt for a half day or full day adventure which takes you all the way to Rožmberk or Boršov. When we were driving to Austria on our way out of the Czech Republic, the scenery was breathtaking. We didn’t bring our swimsuits this time around but when I wind up here,  I am definitely going to plan a day rafting through through the country.

Prices for rafting range from 300 CZK to 750 CZK ($13.50 – $33).

For more information on rafting click here.

HAVE A BEER OVERLOOKING THE BEST VIEW OF THE CITY

As I mentioned before, we spent most our time in Cesky Krumlov looking for the best views, and one of my favorite panoramas was located from the viewing platform near the castle.

As an added bonus there is a little outdoor concession stand with cold drinks and beer. Surprisingly the beer was also the cheapest that we found anywhere in town. Venture up here in the afternoon to watch the sunset and grab a pre-dinner drink.

RELATED POST : 6 PLACES TO GO FOR THE BEST VIEWS OF PRAGUE

6 TIPS FOR VISITING CESKY KRUMLOV

STAY THE NIGHT

Most people visit Cesky Krumlov as a day trip from Prague. While you can definitely do it this way, I recommend staying at least one night. The town gets super crowded with day trippers from about 10am-6pm, and it starts to feel a little like Disneyland. Being there in the early morning and late afternoon gives you a chance to have the town all to yourself. It was really magical walking the streets alone.

There are tons of penzions (guest houses) within and right outside the city center. Before getting here, I was nervous to stay outside because I wasn’t sure how far away we’d be. I booked a guesthouse on the outskirts and we ended up being only a 2 minute walk away. Rooms within the center are significantly more expensive, so save money by booking a guesthouse outside the center limits.

IS ONE DAY ENOUGH TIME?  I was worried that one full day (+ two nights) wouldn’t be enough time, but Cesky Krumlov was a lot smaller than I expected. We spent the morning winding our way through it’s narrow streets, getting lost and eating trdelniks. After about an hour and a half, we had successfully seen the entire town.

With not much distance to cover, you can relax and take it all in without rushing.. even if you’re just visiting as a day trip.

BE PREPARED TO CLIMB 

There is a lot of elevated terrain in Cesky Krumlov, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Inclines and declines are sprinkled throughout the town and if you want to go to the castle (which you should because it has the best view), be prepared for a climb. It’s not a difficult walk, but some parts do get steep. My Apple Health app reported that I climbed about 320 feet (97 meters) just by walking around.

BRING A SWIMSUIT (SUMMER)

It was rookie move not packing a swimsuit on this trip but in my mind, swimming and the Czech Republic don’t exactly seem to go hand in hand. I found myself wishing I had one though as rafting is one of the most popular things to do in Cesky Krumlov and it looked really fun.

THE CESKY KRUMLOV CARD

City cards are usually hit or miss for me, but the Cesky Krumlov Card is cool because it’s valid for 12 months after your first visit. For 300 CZK (about $13.50USD) you gain entrance into the castle and castle tower, plus 4 other museums in town including the Regional Museum, Seidel Photographic Studio Museum, Egon Schiele Art Centrum and the Monasteries.

For more information about the Cesky Krumlov card, click here. 

THINGS CLOSE EARLY 

Between 5-6pm, when the tour busses head back to Prague, all the stores and food stands start closing up shop. At exactly 5pm, we were in line for a trdelnik and the girl actually refused to sell us one because it was time for her to go home. Every restaurant in stayed open into the night though, and they were very busy.

HOW TO GET TO CESKY KRUMLOV FROM PRAGUE OR SALZBURG

How to get from prague to cesky krumlov.

BUS If you don’t have a car, the quickest and easiest way to get from Prague to Cesky Krumlov is by bus. We went with the popular company called Student Agency because they were cheap and had the most departure times. It was $8 USD per person, one way. Prices vary slightly depending on what time you leave and where you depart from.

It takes 3 hours to get from Prauge to Cesky Krumlov and the bus drops you off close to the city center. It was only a 8-10 minute walk to our guest house.

The Student Agency bus was fantastic. There were televisions on the back of the seat and complimentary hot drinks. Free wifi was available on board,  there was 1 outlet per 2 seats for charging electronics.

MAKE A RESERVATION:  If you are heading to Cesky Krumlov during peak season or on a weekend, make sure to have a reservation. We missed our first bus and almost were stuck in Prague for another night as all of the other busses were not only full, but had waiting lists. Luckily, we were able to get a spot on the last bus leaving Prague at 9pm.

TRAIN Until recently, you only used be able to access Cesky Krumlov via train by stopping in Cesky Budejovice first. There is now a direct route leaving at 8:01 am from the main train station in Prague. The journey takes 2 hours 54 minutes and costs around 199 CZK ($9 USD). The direct train back to Prague leaves at 2:07pm which could put a damper on day trip plans as it only give you a few short hours to explore.

The train station is about 10 minutes from the town center, and there are taxis waiting to take you there for around 100-150 CZK ($5-$7USD).

To book train tickets or view departure times, click here. 

SHUTTLE There are multiple shuttle companies traveling from Prague to Cesky Krumlov, and most have several departures times per day. Prices are 800CZK ($35) per person and they will drop you off at directly at your hotel.

RELATED POST: 11 PRAGUE TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

HOW TO GET FROM SALZBURG TO CESKY KRUMLOV

SHUTTLE Taking a shuttle is the easiest and quickest way to get from Salzburg to Cesky Krumlov. There are multiple shuttle companies that will take you door to door for around 800 CZK ($35). We used Bean Shuttle and I would recommend them. The journey takes 3 hours.

BUS The LEO Express bus is the most popular option to get from Salzburg to Cesky Krumlov however there is only 1 departure time per day. The journey time is about 3hours and 10minutes and costs around 12 euro ($13.50USD).

For bus times and tickets click here. 

TRAIN There are no direct trains between Salzburg and Cesky Krumlov. You must either connect in Cesky Budejovice or Linz, and journey times range from 4hr 30min to 8hours.

RELATED POST : 10 THINGS TO DO IN SALZBURG

WHERE TO STAY IN CESKY KRUMLOV

 luxury.

5 BEDROOM HOUSE  This guesthouse doesn’t have a name but it’s an adorable 5 bedroom house located only 900ft (274 meters) from the main square. It features a full kitchen, dishwasher, hot tub, terrance and even a playground. Rates start at $430/night

For more information or booking click here.

    MODERATE 

APARTMAN ATELIER PARAL  This gorgeously decorated apartment is located only 350 feet from the Cesky Krumlov Castle. It offers river views, a fully equipped kitchenette and continental breakfast served daily. Rooms start at $220/night.

For more information or booking click here. 

GUESTHOUSE LARGO Located in the heart of the city center, Guesthouse Largo is a chic, affordable option for those wanting to spend the night in Cesky Krumlov. Rates start at $80/night

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48 Hours in Cesky Krumlov – 2 Day Itinerary

Nestled in the picturesque South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, the enchanting town of Cesky Krumlov attracts travellers with its timeless charm and rich history.

With its UNESCO World Heritage status and a maze of cobblestone streets, this beautiful little town is a true gem waiting to be discovered. Although this medieval marvel may be quite a small destination, there are plenty of attractions to fill up 2 days in Cesky Krumlov.

The summer months of June, July and August are considered the peak tourist season here, with warm, pleasant weather and longer daylight hours.

The town comes alive with festivals during the summer, with outdoor events and vibrant street performances, offering a fun and lively atmosphere that will make your trip all the more memorable.

If you can’t plan a trip during this time, or prefer to come when there are fewer crowds, the months of April, May and September are amazing times to visit as well. There are plenty of wonderful and cosy Cesky Krumlov hotels close to all of the main attractions, such as Hotel Arcadie , Hotel Ebersbach and Monastery Garden .

Once you arrive, it’s worth picking up a Cesky Krumlov Card for 400 Czech Koruna, which will grant you entry into five of the main museums in town: the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, the Castle Museum and Tower, the Monastery Museum, Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, and the Regional Museum. Even if you don’t end up seeing them all, it will save you some time waiting in line. 

If you have the opportunity to visit Cesky Krumlov, a well-planned itinerary is essential to make the most of your time.

The following Cesky Krumlov itinerary will guide you through the must-see attractions , hidden treasures and immersive experiences that the charming town has to offer. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Bohemia.

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Table of Contents

Overview Of 2 Days In Cesky Krumlov Itinerary

Day 1 in Cesky Krumlov:

State Castle and Chateau Cesky Krumlov

The castle gardens.

• The Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• The Regional Museum of Cesky Krumlov

The Museum of Torture Instruments

• A dinner of traditional Czech cuisine

Day 2 in Cesky Krumlov:

• The Old Town

The Church of St Vitus

• Canoeing or rafting along the Vltava River
• The City Park
• A classical music performance at the Baroque Theatre

Day 1 in Cesky Krumlov

Your first priority when visiting Cesky Krumlov will be to explore the stunning castle complex, which is one of the most popular attractions in the Czech Republic.

More commonly known as simply Cesky Krumlov Castle, the complex dates back to the 13th century and overlooks the Vltava River.

With a unique layout featuring five courtyards and 40 buildings interconnected by a series of corridors and passageways, it is a truly incredible example of mediaeval architecture with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements.

One of the main highlights of the Cesky Krumlov Castle is the Baroque Theatre, which is considered one of the best-preserved theatres of its kind in the world.

The theatre dates back to the 17th century and features original stage machinery, costumes and props. If you wish, you can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the theatre and see its stunning interior.

Another major feature of the complex and a must-see during your visit is the Castle Museum, found in the upper castle.

The museum houses a large collection of historical artefacts, including weapons, armour, artwork and period furniture, all of which provide insights into the rich history of Cesky Krumlov and the surrounding regions.

Don’t forget to climb the Castle Tower too, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the town and its iconic red-roofed houses.

You’ll also get a chance to stop and admire the Cloak Bridge here, which crosses the moat by the western side of the Upper Castle.

Lastly, designate some time to explore outside of the castle and wander around the beautiful and expansive gardens. Dating back to the 17th century, the gardens feature numerous sections, including:

The Baroque Garden: The central part of the gardens is designed in the Baroque style, featuring neatly manicured lawns, geometrically shaped flower beds and symmetrically arranged hedges. This section showcases the influence of Italian Renaissance gardens.

The Rococo Garden: At the northern end of the gardens, you’ll find the Rococo Garden, which was added in the 18th century. This section features more quirky and ornate designs, including statues, decorative vases and a charming pavilion.

The Orangery: Next to the Baroque Garden is the Orangery, a greenhouse that was originally used for growing citrus fruits and exotic plants. Today, it serves as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions and concerts.

The Cascade Fountain: One of the main attractions in the gardens is the Cascade Fountain. This tiered fountain is adorned with statues and water flows down the steps, creating a picturesque sight. It serves as a focal point of the gardens and is often used as a backdrop for photographs.

The Bellaria Summer House: A delightful structure built in Renaissance style, the summer house is a peaceful retreat and a beautiful spot to enjoy panoramic views of Cesky Krumlov and the surrounding countryside.

The Theatre: The Castle Gardens also house an open-air theatre, which hosts performances during the summer. It provides a stunning setting for theatrical productions, concerts and other cultural events.

Egon Schiele Art Centrum

This wonderful art museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Austrian painter Egon Schiele, and is an important cultural institution within Cesky Krumlov.

During his short life, Schiele was one of the most prominent figures of Austrian Expressionism in the early 1900s. The museum was established in 1992 and is housed in a historic building known as the former Brewery House.

The collection here includes a significant number of Schiele’s artworks, including paintings and drawings. Whether you are familiar with his work already, you’ll have the opportunity to explore his distinctive art style, which often portrayed provocative and psychologically charged subjects.

The museum also frequently hosts smaller, temporary exhibitions featuring works by other artists who are inspired by Schiele or share similar artistic styles.

The Regional Museum

The Regional Museum of Cesky Krumlov is a cultural institution that aims to preserve and showcase the history, art and culture of the region.

Housed in a newly-constructed Baroque building, the collections cover everything from local history and archaeology to architecture and crafts.

The large, highly-detailed ceramic model of the Old Town in the 1800s is one of the museum’s must-sees.

One of the more unique places to visit in town is the exhibition on torture instruments in the basement of the Town Hall in Unity Square.

Housed within reconstructed cellars that take up a total of 400 square metres, you’ll discover around 100 exhibits that include engravings, wax figures and eerie audio-visual effects.

It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re interested in the Middle Ages and aren’t easily spooked, you’ll certainly want to check this museum out.

Taste traditional Czech cuisine

End your first day in Cesky Krumlov by indulging in the local cuisine. As you may have already learned if you’re coming from Prague, Czech cuisine is known for its hearty dishes that often feature meat, potatoes and bread.

Some popular dishes include goulash, roast pork, sauerkraut, and a variety of flavourful soups. Dumplings are a staple too, though they are often served as a side dish to soak up the delicious sauces in many Czech dishes.

You’ll also find plenty of sweet treats and pastries, such as trdelnik (which is made from rolled dough, sugar and walnuts) and kolace (sweet pastries typically filled with fruit or cheese).

Some of the best places to get a bite to eat in Cesky Krumlov are Švejk Restaurant, Papa’s Living Restaurant, Krčma Šatlava and Gotika. Beer culture is deeply ingrained in Czech cuisine, so don’t forget to order a cold one with your meal (if you’re a drinker).

Day 2 in Cesky Krumlov

Wander the old town.

Start your second day in Cesky Krumlov by leisurely walking around the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. This central area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture and its charming atmosphere.

While wandering around the Old Town, you will be able to spot countless architectural gems that feature a mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The Town Square, Náměstí Svornosti, is considered the focal point of the area, with its colourful facades and the iconic Samson’s Fountain.

Depending on when you are visiting, you may stumble onto one of the many festivals and cultural events hosted by the town throughout the year.

If you want to learn as much as possible about the history and architecture, a walking tour with a private guide is recommended.

Old Town Walking Tour

• Private tour
• Local Guide

The Church of St Vitus is one of the most prominent and historic landmarks in Cesky Krumlov. Located next to the river in the Old Town, it is known for its tall Gothic tower which stands at a height of 86 metres.

Known as Kostel svatého Víta in Czech, the church was originally built in Gothic style in the 15th century, though it has undergone several renovations and additions in the centuries since.

The interiors are even more stunning, with the 17th-century altar beautifully decorated and the nave and the aisles adorned with Gothic vaulting. The church houses several valuable works of art, including altarpieces, statues and paintings from different periods.

Notably, there is an altarpiece dedicated to St Vitus, the patron saint of the church. While as tourists we can simply admire the beauty of the church, it continues to play an essential role in the spiritual and social life of the local community.

Explore the Vltava River

Rafting or canoeing on the Vltava River is a popular outdoor activity in Český Krumlov and an exhilarating way to experience the natural beauty of the town. There are two main options available to you.

You can either join a guided tour, or rent equipment to explore the river at your own pace. Guided tours are recommended for beginners and those who prefer more structure, as they offer instruction and equipment, and often include transportation to and from the starting and ending points.

Evening Boat Trip

• Private Tour

If you choose to rent equipment, you can find several rental agencies in Cesky Krumlov that offer rafts, canoes and kayaks, as well as all necessary gear.

The rental companies will typically provide you with safety equipment, including life jackets and paddles, as well as information on the river conditions and recommended routes.

The most popular stretch for rafting and canoeing is the section known as Cesky Krumlov – Zlata Koruna.

This 11-kilometre route takes you through both gentle rapids and calm stretches, offering some adrenaline as well as some time for relaxation and sightseeing. This usually takes a few hours, depending on your pace and the river’s current.

Relax at the city park

The main park in Cesky Krumlov (Městský Park) is a lovely place to spend a quiet moment in the afternoon, particularly after a long day or two of walking.

Relax by the river in this serene oasis for a little while, watching the boats go past, having a chat with your travel companion, or reading a book by yourself.

If you’re travelling with kids, there’s a playground here for them to enjoy. This park will have a completely different vibe depending on the season, and is even worth walking through after it’s been snowing. 

Attend a classical music concert

Finish off your Cesky Krumlov 2 day itinerary by attending a classical music concert, which can be a magical and truly memorable experience. You can expect to hear masterpieces by composers from various eras, including Mozart, Beethoven, Bach and Dvorak.

One of the most renowned venues in the town is the Baroque Theatre , offering an intimate and authentic atmosphere. Here you will be able to appreciate both the acoustics and the historical significance of the venue simultaneously. You can also occasionally find classical music performances in churches like St Vitus or St Jošt. 

You can easily check the event schedules and purchase tickets online. Keep in mind that some concerts may have limited seating, so it’s best to book your tickets early to avoid missing out.

FAQs About visit Cesky Krumlov in two days

How much time do you need in cesky krumlov.

Wondering how long to spend in Cesky Krumlov? In general, most visitors will find that spending one or two days there is enough to experience the main attractions and get a good sense of the vibe and culture of the town.

If you have more time to spare and want to delve deeper into the town’s history and culture, or if you simply prefer a slower travel pace, staying for an additional day or two would allow you to visit smaller museums, take a relaxing boat ride on the river, or even go on a hiking or cycling trip in the surrounding countryside.

Is Cesky Krumlov worth visiting?

Yes, Cesky Krumlov is definitely worth visiting. This picturesque town in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic is known for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, charming cobblestone streets and stunning views of the Vltava River.

The town is compact and easily explored on foot, allowing you to soak in its unique atmosphere and architectural beauty. 

Cesky Krumlov also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Five-Petalled Rose Celebrations and the International Music Festival. These events add an extra charm to the town and provide an opportunity to experience its vibrant cultural scene.

Even more, if you’re a lover of the outdoors, Cesky Krumlov offers opportunities for outdoor activities like rafting or kayaking on the Vltava River, hiking in the surrounding countryside, or cycling along the scenic paths.

How far is Cesky Krumlov from Prague?

The distance between Cesky Krumlov and Prague is approximately 180 kilometres by road. The most common mode of transportation between the two cities is by car or bus, which usually takes around two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.

It’s also possible to get to Cesky Krumlov from Prague by train, but the journey typically takes a bit longer.

Final Thoughts: 2 days itinerary for cesky krumlov 2023

Cesky Krumlov is a stunning destination that will have you eagerly coming back for more. With its cobbled streets, winding river and captivating castle, it’s not hard to see why it attracts so many travelers.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a romantic getaway or even just some rest and relaxation, Cesky Krumlov has something for everyone.

With two days of exploration, you can mix and match the itineraries we’ve mentioned here to create the perfect holiday tailored to your needs. So make sure to pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city!

Recommended tours in Cesky Krumlov

• One day trips in the surroundings of Cesky Krumlov
• Private day trip to Hallstatt from Český Krumlov
• Český Krumlov Private Walking Tour
• Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area
• Cesky Krumlov Tour 4 hours
• Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour
• Private one way Sightseeing transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic: Ultimate Travel Guide

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Cesky Krumlov is one of the fairytale towns in Europe that makes you feel like you are in a Disney movie. From the massive castle to the delicious food, this UNESCO site is undoubtedly worth a visit. 

A lot of people will go from Cesky Krumlov to Prague or vice-versa. Or, you can make it a day trip from Prague and see the highlights of this unique town.

Below is everything you need to know about the town, including what to do, where to stay, and how to get there. 

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Table of Contents

Things to do in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Cesky Krumlov is a small town, and the main attractions are the castle and seeing the fairytale town itself. 

If you are only spending one day in here, I would start with a walking tour, a visit to the castle, and   lunch at one of the restaurants below .

If you have multiple days here, add some museums or spend some time at a local tea shop or bar, meeting new people or experiencing Czech culture (hint, it’s all about drinking beer).

Here are all the best Cesky Krumlov attractions and the order I recommend you do them in if you are limited on time.

Go to Cesky Krumlov Castle

If you are only going to do or see one of the Cesky Krumlov attractions, it has to be the castle. Even if you are just driving through the town, you must make a quick stop here.

It is the second-largest castle in the Czech Republic, and it was built in 1240 by the Rosenbergs. 

Here are some of the main things to see within the Cesky Krumlov Castle:

• Český Krumlov bears: Certainly, the most unique feature of the castle is the bears that live in what used to be the moat. I only saw one bear when I was here, but a family of four bears lives here. 
• Castle Tower: The castle tower is one of the main points of the castle, and you can see it from all over the town. It dates back to the 13th century, and you can climb up it for a great 360-degree view of Cesky Krumlov. 
• Castle Garden: The gardens are the biggest part of the castle, and they are at one of the highest points in Cesky Krumlov. The garden is home to the Revolving Theater . The garden closes in the winter when there is bad weather, so visit in summer if it is something you definitely want to see. 
• Cloak Bridge: If you come with a tour or drive to Cesky Krumlov and start your day in the northern part of the city, the bridge will be the first site you come across. It is a five-story bridge that connects the castle to the gardens. There is an outside walkway where you can get a great view of the town and an inside part above it, which is where royalty would walk to be protected.
• Baroque Theatre – The baroque theater dates back to 1767 and is one of the most beautiful in the world, still in its original style. You can take a tour of the theater in the summer from May to October, but buy your tickets in advance as tours have limited space and will sell out.

Take a Walking Tour

A walking tour is the best way to see Cesky Krumlov, and since the historical center is relatively small, you can see it all in a few hours on a tour.

I booked my walking tour in Cesky Krumlov with  Wiseman Free Tour . They run tours twice per day (except during the winter months), and it was a very informative, fun tour. 

If you are visiting with a group on a day trip, you might have a walking tour included in your booking, so check with your tour provider. 

Admire the Church of St. Vitus

St. Vitus Church is nothing too special, especially compared to the big cathedrals you’ll find scattered across Europe. But it’s worth popping in to see it, and it’s in the center of town.

There are two things you should note when you visit the church. 

First, there are multiple organs. There is the usual one in the back, then another above the entryway. The second organ is from a church in town that closed since there are so few religious Czech people. Even though the church closed, they wanted to keep the organ (they are expensive), so they moved it to this church.

The other is the art on the left-hand wall of the chapel. The art is from medieval times, and you can tell as it is two-dimensional instead of 3D, like a lot of the religious art you see today.

Address:  Kostelní, 381 01 Český Krumlov, Czechia

Visit the Museums

There are plenty of museums to visit if you are looking for things to do in Cesky Krumlov. No matter what you are interested in learning about, you will find a museum to see here. 

• Museum Fotoatelier Seidel – Photography museum
• Egon Schiele Art Centrum – Art museum
• Moldavite Museum – Geology museum
• Film Legends Museum Český Krumlov
• Muzeum obchodu – History museum
• Regionalni Muzeum v Ceskem Krumlove – History museum
• Miroslav Paral Art Gallery
• Fairytale House – Puppet museum

See a Show at the Revolving Theater

The revolving theater is exactly what it sounds like, a revolving theater. It is outdoors in the castle gardens, and the seats rotate throughout the show for different scenes. 

The shows are all in Czech, but you can get a tablet to see subtitles in English to help you understand what is going on.

It is closed in the winter, as the weather is too cold to enjoy a show, but you should certainly see one here in the summer if you can. But buy your tickets as far in advance as you can since they do sell out. 

More Fun Things to do in Cesky Krumlov

Where to stay in cesky krumlov, czech republic.

Cesky Krumlov has a lot of great places to stay. There are plenty of boutique hotels throughout the town. 

Or, you can book a home rental from Vrbo . There aren’t too many options for hostels in the town, but you can find a couple of options on Hostelworld .

And, there is not a bad location for where you can stay, as you can get anywhere in town within ten minutes on foot. 

Here are some of the hotels I recommend:

Budget: Castle View Apartments

Castle View Apartments is the perfect place to stay in Cesky Krumlov if you want to be in the heart of the town, just a few steps away from the main square. 

The apartments have kitchenettes, which are perfect for a longer stay or for someone who wants to cook their own meals. 

Or, you can head right across the narrow street to Krčma Šatlava, which has traditional Czech dishes. 

Budget: Hotel OLDINN

Another great, budget-friendly option in the heart of the town is the Hotel OLDINN. They have traditional hotel rooms, and you can add on breakfast.

You can get to any of the attractions in town in just a few minutes, and dogs are allowed here.

Mid-Range: Bellevue hotel Český Krumlov

The Bellevue Hotel is a four-star hotel just a block from the Red Gate, where you enter the castle grounds. 

There is a bar and restaurant at the hotel, and you are also within a few minutes of a few of the best places to eat in the town. 

Mid-Range: Hotel Grand

Hotel Grand is another four-star hotel that offers traditional hotel rooms and suites, some of which have a view of the castle.

The location is perfect as it is right off the main square and has a cafe and bar.

Luxury: Krumlov Mill Apartments

If you are looking for one of the nicest places to stay in Cesky Krumlov, and want a large, apartment-style room, check out the Krumlov Mill Apartments. 

They have very nice rooms, and there is a restaurant where you can get lunch and dinner. 

Luxury: Hotel Villa Beatika

Another high-end option is the Hotel Villa Beatika, which is close to the bus station, slightly outside the main town center. 

The hotel offers complimentary breakfast, and the rooms are spacious.

How many days should I spend in Cesky Krumlov?

Most people take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov, usually from Prague, and I think that is enough time to see the main sights in Cesky Krumlov. But spending a night here is a good idea if you don’t want to be rushed or want to see some of the museums. 

I spent two nights here. It gave me a full day to explore the town and castle, try a few different restaurants, and rest in a hotel instead of a hostel dorm.

Two nights here was enough here, but even if you can only take a day trip, I would highly recommend it, and you will have time to see the town and castle and enjoy a local meal. 

How to Get to Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

You have a few options for getting to Cesky Krumlov, including by bus, car, and train. 

Most people go to Cesky Krumlov from Prague, either as a day trip or for a couple of nights. 

The best way to get to Cesky Krumlov is by bus. You can take a bus from Prague to Cesky Krumlov or from Austria. 

Bus to Cesky Krumlov

Taking a bus is the easiest and fastest way to get to Cesky Krumlov. 

If you are going to Cesky Krumlov from Austria, you will likely have to catch a train and a bus. The train will take you to Linz, and then you can take a bus from there.

Getting to Prague from places like Salzburg or Hallstatt also requires a train and a bus, so you might as well make a stop in Cesky Krumlov on the way 🙂 

I went after visiting Hallstatt, Austria , so I had to take a train to Linz, Austria, then catch a bus to Cesky Krumlov from there. 

The bus from Prague to Cesky Krumlov takes around two and a half to three hours. 

If you are going from Linz to Cesky Krumlov, the bus takes around an hour and a half. 

Once you arrive in Cesky Krumlov at the bus station, you can walk to the center of the town in less than ten minutes.

Train to Cesky Krumlov

Another option to get to Cesky Krumlov is to take a train. Taking a direct train is an option from cities like Prague and Vienna. 

A direct train from Prague to Český Krumlov takes two and a half hours. But it only runs once per day in each direction. 

If you are taking a day trip to Cesky Krumlov from Prague, a train is not a good option, as you will be limited on time based on the train schedule. You are better off taking a bus or booking a day tour that will get you to Cesky Krumlov earlier. 

You should know that the Cesky Krumlov train station is a 15 to 20-minute walk from the town, which is not ideal if you are limited on time or have bags to carry. The bus station is much closer, which is why I recommend taking a bus. 

Get to Cesky Krumlov by Car

You can also opt to drive to Cesky Krumlov if you have a car. Cars are restricted in the town center, so you will have to park your car in one of the lots outside of town, then walk to your hotel or activities from there. 

Or, you can get a  permit for the pedestrian zone , but you are not allowed to enter between 10:30 AM and 3 PM.

Here are the Cesky Krumlov parking lots and the address you can put into your maps/GPS to get you to each one.

• P1 – North of castle (Chvalšinská 138)
• P2 – North of town (U Poráků 510, Horní Brána)
• P3 – South of town (Linecká 277, Plešivec)
• P4 – Near castle garden (Zámecká zahrada 62, Latrán)
• P5 – Bus station (Nemocniční 586, Horní Brána)

You will self-pay for your parking at all lots except P4, and you have to use a cashless payment method. P4 has a parking attendant.

Day Trips from Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Prague day trips to Cesky Krumlov:

Places to Eat in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

I like the restaurants in Cesky Krumlov as you find less touristy traps, many of which have a mix of tourists and locals. 

Here are a few of the places I recommend, but you will find many good food and bars around the city. 

The last list in this section has a list of restaurants where you can see the castle from some of the tables. 

Hostinec Depo

My favorite place that I went to when I was in Cesky Krumlov was the Depo. It is a pub and restaurant where you can get traditional Czech beer that is brewed in tanks at the depo.

And they also have traditional Czech dishes that you can get for a reasonable price with your beer. 

Address:  Latrán 74

Krčma Šatlava

Krčma Šatlava is one of the most popular restaurants in Cesky Krumlov. It is a medieval-style restaurant where you can get a lot of meat dishes that are grilled on an open flame. The place can get pretty busy on weekends, so try to visit during off-peak times.

Address:  Šatlavská 157

Kolektiv Cafe & Wine Bar

Kolektiv is a good place to start your day. It is conveniently located by the castle, and you can grab breakfast and a coffee here. 

Or, when you need a break from exploring this cute town, stop in for a glass of wine. 

Address:  Latrán 13

Hospoda Na Louži

Hospoda Na Louži is a bar and restaurant where you can get one of the most authentic Czech experiences without leaving the city. They have a lot of traditional Czech dishes and, of course, beer, which is crucial to any Czech meal. 

It is best enjoyed at night, so consider booking a late bus out or staying overnight so you can enjoy it here. 

Address:  Kájovská 66

Authentic Cafe

A great place to grab coffee and breakfast is the Authentic Cafe which has pastries, coffee, and classic breakfast foods like eggs benedict and English breakfast. 

They also have coffee and espresso to-go, which is why I loved it. 

Address:  nám. Svornosti 8

Dinner with a View

There are some restaurants on the river where you can eat with a view of the castle. I’m not saying the food or service is great… but the view is good. 

• Krumlovska picka (Dlouhá 97)
• Restaurace ZDROJ (Na Ostrově 86)
• Terasa u Řeky (Široká 85)
• Restaurant Na Ostrově (Na Ostrově 171)
• Penzion Parkán (Parkán 102)

Remember, go for the view, not necessarily the food 🙂 

Best Views in Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is a hilly town which gives it some beautiful viewpoints. Many of them are part of the castle, as it is at the highest point in the town (obv, that’s how castles work). 

• The Cesky Krumlov viewpoint, where you can see most of the castle without being in the castle, is from Vyhlídková Terasa. It is a little viewing plaza where you can see the castle and the northern part of the town. 
• Castle Tower – You can pay to go inside the castle and climb up the tower for a great view of Cesky Krumlov. You will have to walk up some old stairs, but if you can make it, you will get 360-degree views of the town and surrounding landscapes. 
• Cloak Bridge – The view from the Cloak Bridge is great, too, and it overlooks the town to the south. You can also look north at some parking lots if you want 🙂 
• Gardens and Cloak Bridge – If you keep walking west/upwards from the cloak bridge towards the gardens, there is another beautiful viewpoint where you can see the whole castle and the town from a high spot. This is my favorite viewpoint in the city and is well worth the climb.

Cesky Krumlov Weather

Cesky Krumlov has the best weather in the summer, although that is also when most people visit the town. If you can visit during Europe’s shoulder season in the spring or fall, you can enjoy good weather in Cesky Krumlov without dealing with massive crowds. 

Or, visit in December when crowds are low, but the Christmas Market is open. After December, a lot of the attractions in the town have limited hours or close until March or April when tourists start coming back. 

Here are the average temperatures in Cesky Krumlov throughout the year (High/Low):

• January: 35° / 24°F (2° / -5°C)
• February: 37° / 24°F (3° / -5°C)
• March: 47° / 31°F (9° / -1°C)
• April: 55° / 35°F (13° / 2°C)
• May: 65° / 44°F (18° / 7°C)
• June: 70° / 49°F (21° / 10°C)
• July: 73° / 53°F (23° / 11°C)
• August: 74° / 52°F (23° / 11°C)
• September: 66° / 46°F (19° / 8°C)
• October: 54° / 38°F (12° / 3°C)
• November: 43° / 31°F (6° / -1°C)
• December: 37° / 26°F (3° / -3°C)

Český Krumlov Christmas Market

Every December, there is a Christmas market in Cesky Krumlov’s main square. The market is not huge, but it fills up the square. You will find plenty to eat and drink, including delicious mulled wine. And there is a massive Christmas tree and some booths with gifts and handmade goods. 

FAQs about traveling to Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Cesky Krumlov. If you have a question that is not answered below, leave a comment, and I’ll help you out 🙂

Is Cesky Krumlov worth visiting?

Cesky Krumlov is ABSOLUTELY worth visiting! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the second-largest castle in Czechia. The town gives off fairytale vibes and has some of the best food and beer in the country. 

How much time do you need in Cesky Krumlov?

You can visit Cesky Krumlov in one day and see most of the town. It is an easy day trip from Prague. But, if you have the time, I highly recommend spending a night or two here, as there is plenty to do and see.

Is Cesky Krumlov safe?

Cesky Krumlov is a safe place to visit. As a solo female staying there multiple nights, I never felt unsafe, and the locals were friendly and willing to help when I needed it.

Do people live in Český Krumlov?

People live in Cesky Krumlov, and it is not just a place made for tourists. Around 12,000 people live here, and you will encounter some of them at restaurants, bars, attractions, and tours. 

Can you drive in Cesky Krumlov?

You can drive in the town center of Cesky Krumlov  if you have a permit , and you will only be able to enter during certain times of the day. Without a permit or during peak times of the day, you will have to park outside the town.

What is there to do in Cesky Krumlov in the winter?

During a winter visit to Cesky Krumlov, you can visit the castle, eat and shop in the town, and visit the museums. However, some attractions and restaurants have limited hours between January and March when there are fewer visitors. 

Why is there a bear at Cesky Krumlov castle?

The bears were first brought to Cesky Krumlov castle in the 16th century by the Rosenbergs since the family liked and idolized bears. The bears started living in the moat in the early 18th century and have lived there since.

Have fun in Cesky Krumlov!

Cesky Krumlov is everything you expect a fairytale town to be and more. From the huge castle to the cobblestone streets, you will love it here. 

Whether you are taking a day trip from Prague or spending a night or two, I hope you have a great visit. 

If you have any questions about visiting Cesky Krumlov or the Czech Republic, drop a comment below or  send me a DM on Instagram .

Planning a trip soon? Here are some of my favorite sites to use to plan every trip:

• Top travel credit cards
• SafetyWing for travel insurance
• Daily Drop for daily travel tips and tricks in one fun, short newsletter
• Booking.com for a huge variety of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more
• HostelWorld for the best hostels around the world
• Vrbo for vacation homes and rentals
• FareDrop and Going for cheap flight alerts
• Skyscanner for the cheapest flights
• Amazon for travel and packing must-haves
• Priority Pass for airport lounge access
• TripAdvisor for the top hotels around the world

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Cesky Krumlov Itinerary: What to Do in Cesky Krumlov in One Day

Looking for one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Czech Republic that isn’t Prague, then how about the fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov in South Bohemia? And if you’re wondering what to do in Cesky Krumlov in one day, this article is for you. 

There are so many things to see In Cesky Krumlov. The visually stunning town is sprawled across the meandering banks of the Vltava River, dispersed with colourful houses lining cobblestone streets, a gigantic multi-arched bridge and a castle perched on top of a rock. 

This is the second most visited place in Czechia outside of Prague, and for good reason plus the city is compact enough that you can easily see all the best things in Cesky Krumlov in one day. 

Discover how to make the most out of your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Czech destination, and add all these things to your Cesky Krumlov itinerary.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Things To Do In Cesky Krumlov In One Day

No time to read this Cesky Krumlov guide right now? no worries.

Whether you plan to visit Český Krumlov in a day from a different city or plan to stop overnight, here’s a list of all the things to put on your checklist.

What To See Cesky Krumlov

• Cesky Krumlov Castle
• The Castle Gardens
• Walk Over & Under Cloak Bridge
• Climb The Castle Tower
• Explore The Photogenic Cobblestone Alleys
• Discover The Viewpoints From Seminární Zahrada
• Ride On A Traditional Raft
• Visit The Museums
• See The Church Of St Vitus
• Muse At The Quirky Artwork

If you’re exploring more of the country, then download this free Czech Republic bucket list guide for more travel inspiration.

Your download is on its way to your inbox 🙂

I’ve partnered with South Bohemia Tourism to bring you this travel guide. This article is based on the destinations and experiences I took part in. All views and opinions are my own .

Organised Cesky Krumlov Things To Do

Where is cesky krumlov.

Cesky Krumlov is located in South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic, not far from the Austrian border.

If you’re looking for beautiful places to visit in Czech Republic other than Prague , this is it.

If you’re planning on visiting Cesky Krumlov as a day trip from a nearby city, the closest one is Ceske Budejovice , just 25km away. You can also visit from the nation’s second capital, and ask in the tourist information for the best Brno day trips to Cesky Krumlov.

However, if you’re visiting from Prague, the journey will take you around 2.5 hours. If you’re travelling around Europe, and you’re in Vienna, then Ceske Krumlov could be a convenient stop-off for a night as it’s also around a 2.5hrs drive from the Austrian capital.

Map of Places to Visit in Cesky Krumlov

Here are the top Cesky Krumlov places to visit places. Use this map to help plan your itinerary, or use the outline I give below.

Things To Add To Your Cesky Krumlov Itinerary

Here are my recommendations on the top ten things to do on your Cesky Krumlov one day trip. You’ll find information on the locations and tips for visiting to help you plan your Cesky Krumlov itinerary.

1. Cesky Krumlov Castle

Topping the list, and the number one must see in Cesky Krumlov is the 13th-century castle. 

It’s nestled on top of a rocky slope and dominates the skyline of the town, you can’t miss it and it’s visible from pretty much everywhere in the Old Town. 

I already mentioned at the start that Cesky Krumlov is the second most visited place in the Czech Republic outside of Prague. Cesky Krumlov Castle is also the second-largest castle in the Czech Republic, once again, trumped by Prague which has the country’s largest castle complex.

What you’ll see, in terms of architecture, is a whole smorgasbord of styles. The original Gothic castle was founded in the mid-13th century by a Czech noble family. Over the years, it was handed down to various families, each adding bits and renovating to leave their mark. 

Some parts of the castle date to the second half of the 16th century and are built in the Renaissance style with later additions being in a Baroque design. Two of the most striking elements that make up the castle complex are the ornate rotund bell tower and the multi-arched Cloak Bridge. 

📍 Insider Tips: There are various parts of the castle that you can get access to. Tickets are available for just certain parts right up to an access-all-areas style pass. If you’re interested in finding out more about the castle, then I recommend booking the Cesky Krumlov castle tour for an inside peek.

🗺️ Address: Zámek 59, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1, Czechia

⏰ Opening Hours : Tuesday to Sunday 09.00 – 17.00

Read Also: 30+ Places For You Czechia Bucket List

2. The Castle Gardens

If you’re looking for free stuff to do during your one day in Cesky Krumlov, then explore the Castle Gardens. They are located on top of the rock and from the Old Town is a steep 15-minute walk to get up there, but it’s worth it!

During the summer, if the crowds of the Old Town are getting too much, this is a nice escape to find a quiet spot and relax. 

📍 Insider Tips: The Baroque-style, well-manicured gardens are free to enter. They are filled with outbuildings, including a rather extravagant summer house as well as fountains. Towards the back of the gardens is the revolving theatre, for events throughout the year.

🗺️ Address: 381 01 Český Krumlov 1, Czechia

⏰ Opening Hours : 24 Hours

3. Walk Over & Under The Cloak Bridge

Between the Gardens and the Castle, you’ll find another of the most recognisable Cesky Krumlov sights. Spanning the gap between the rock, which would have once been the moat, is the mighty Cloak Bridge.

The Cloak Bridge at Cesky Krumlov dates back to the 15th century, although it was thought to be made of wood and more like a drawbridge back then. Between then and 1777 various iterations of the impressive, multi-arched bridge were built. It’s changed very little since that date. 

As part of your Cesky Krumlov day trip itinerary, plan to walk across it, as well as under it. Looking at the bridge from below, you’ll be able to get a sense of scale, it’s huge.

📍 Insider Tips: You’ll also notice two levels of enclosed corridors above the bridge which contain rooms and hallways. If you stand on the bridge, get great views of the castle & the Old Town.

Related Article:  12 Things To Do In České Budějovice

4. Climb The Castle Tower

If you don’t want to do a full castle tour, and only want to enter one part, then make sure it’s this. Climbing the iconic Castle Tower should be on everyone’s Cesky Krumlov bucket list. The pinky-coloured Renaissance-style tower can be seen from most places across town, so it’s no surprise that it’s a great vantage point to look down from.

There are 162 rickety steps going up the tower, some of them have low overhanging beams so watch out for your head. Although the climb to the top of the tower is steep, it’s worth it.

At the top you can walk around the whole tower, so you’ll get a full 360 view of the Old Town below.

📍 Insider Tips: The ticket for the tower also grants you access to the Castle Museum where you’ll find various rooms filled with different artefacts from a bygone era ranging from textiles, furniture, tableware etc, you name it, it’s in there. There’s quite a bit to see inside the museum, so if you’re pushed for time on your Cesky Krumlov one day itinerary you might want to breeze over a lot of the contents. 

One of the things I found most fascinating was the painted boards that were used for target practice. These were hung up alongside other regular paintings, however, the ones used for target practice still had bullets lodged inside them!

🗺️ Address: Latrán 3, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1-Latrán, Czechia

⏰ Opening Hours : Daily 09.00 to 18.00

5. Explore The Photogenic Cobblestoned Alleys

Like many other Medieval cities, Cesky Krumlov is a criss-cross network of streets going off in all directions. Although it’s easy to lose your bearing here, part of the fun is getting lost in the colourful building-lined cobbled alleys. You join a walking guided tour of Cesky Krumlov or explore by yourself.

You’ll stumble across pretty courtyards, stairs, lanes and beautiful old buildings. If you want to find out more about the town, then do a Cesky Krumlov walking tour which will take you around all the important places such as the Cesky Krumlov castle theatre, music school and various lookout points.

📍 Insider Tips: To get the best photos without the crowds, set out early. I also recommend allowing at least an hour just to wander around and explore the lanes – there are so many cute and quaint little places you’ll stumble across.

🗺️ Address: Anywhere in the main historical town

6. Discover The Viewpoints

Because this is such a photogenic town , you’ll probably want to know where the best Cesky Krumlov viewpoints are.

For the best photos of the city, try to arrive either late in the day or early in the morning when the sun is less harsh. Annoyingly, the day I visited, the morning was cloudy. However, even with the clouds, the city still looks beautiful.

One of the prettiest spots in Cesky Krumlov to photograph from is at a courtyard called Seminární Zahrada. From here you’ll be able to get a great shot of the castle, a bit of the cloak bridge, the towers and the terracotta rooftops.

This is one of the most iconic Cesky Krumlov photos, and the best bit, it’s free.

If you don’t mind paying a small fee, then another great view of Cesky Krumlov view is from the Castle Tower. This gives a much closer bird’s eye view of the Old Town, this is also the view where you’ll get a 360 view of the city.

📍 Insider Tips: Another free viewpoint with a totally different perspective is from the lane that connects the castle to the gardens. This viewpoint looks down on the river, and the Old Town and is framed on one side by the castle and the tower in the centre.

It gives a more panoramic view compared to the one at Seminární Zahrada. Also just off this lane is a terrace, with a small cafe, which is another great free place to take photos from.

Visiting Brno? Discover These Best Panoramic Photo Spots In Brno, Czech Republic

7. Ride On A Traditional Raft

Because the town is intertwined with the Vltava River, rafting in Cesky Krumlov is one of the best ways to see the city. Although there are kayaks for hire, the most fun way is by going on one of the traditional wooden rafts. 

The rafts don’t look much more than a load of logs tied together and a few benches put on top to sit on. You’re not wrong. The rafts also come with a guide who will point out various things along the way and also do the paddling for you. 

You might have noticed there are a couple of weirs along the river, and to the side of them, there are channels pretty much the same width as the rafts. This is how the rafts get down the river, going down them is a lot of fun, and always attracts quite a few spectators from the banks.

📍 Insider Tips: The Cesky Krumlov rafting experience is a pretty unique thing to do here. Also, like in a log flume at a theme park, the people sitting at the front get a bit wet as the raft hits the water. This is a really fun way to see the city, and certainly worth adding to your Cesky Krumlov 1 day itinerary.

🗺️ Address: Book ticket in advance for docking point

8. Visit The Museums

If you’re visiting the city and the weather isn’t great, then you might be wondering what Cesky Krumlov attractions are indoors.

I’ve already mentioned the obvious one earlier, the Cesky Krumlov Castle Museum which you get entry to with the Castle Tower ticket. However, there are several other great museums worth checking out. Here are three great options.

• Ceský Krumlov Regional Museum : Covers the history of the city and its residents. It features a mix of folk art and objects.
• The Museum of Torture : It seems that every major town in the Czech Republic has a torture museum. It’s located in the cellars of the Town Hall and goes into quite some depth, with examples of the torture device, about how criminals were treated. 
• Museum Fotoatelier Seidel: A great museum if you’re an avid photographer. You find examples of early photos along with equipment dating back to the 19th century.

📍 Ceský Krumlov Tower Museum : Latrán 3, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1-Latrán, Czechia | 09.00 – 18.00 Daily

📍 Ceský Krumlov Regional Museum : Horní 152, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1, Czechia | Tuesday to Sunday from 09.00 – 12.00 then 12.30 – 17.00

📍 The Museum of Torture : Náměstí Svornosti No. 1 381 01 Český Krumlov | 09.00- 20.00 Daily

📍 Museum Fotoatelier Seidel : Linecká 272, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1-Plešivec, Czechia | Tuesday to Sunday from 09.00 – 12.00 then 13.00 – 16.00

Related Article:  Best Things To Do In South Bohemia, Czech Republic

9. See The Church Of St Vitus

The Church of St Vitus is one of the oldest buildings in the city as well as it is one of the most recognisable. This is a Roman Catholic Church built in a Gothic style. It took more than 30 years to complete the building. 

The church holds historical importance and is the resting place of numerous members of the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families which were two of the main families that resided in the castle. 

📍 Insider Tips: If you’re a fan of classical music, something to add to your Cesky Krumlov to-do list is to listen to a concert inside the church.

🗺️ Address: Kostelní, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1, Czechia

⏰ Opening Hours : Mon, Weds, Thurs, Fri from 09.00 – 16.40 | Tuesday 09.00 – 17.00 | Saturday 09.00 – 17.00 | Sunday 11.00 – 17.00

10. Muse At The Quirky Artwork

If you’re near the town centre and looking for something a little bit quirky to add to your Cesky Krumlov itinerary, then take a look at some of the unusual street installations and artwork on show. There’s a nice little collection down an alleyway, look for an archway (it’s number 16) leading to a cobbled lane just off Latrán.

Along this alley, there is a house that belonged to a local artist. On the ground, there are cobblestones with the names and dates of people who visited the artist, and the whole facade of the house is covered in unusual, but quite fun-looking sculptures.

Keep following the lane around, and you’ll find more quirky art installations, including a bench with two giant feet on it.

Although not typically included on the walking Cesky Krumlov tour, it was a fun and modern addition to the Medieval streets. This lane often gets overlooked, so you’ll probably have the street to yourself.    

🗺️ Address: Latrán 56, 381 01 Český Krumlov 1-Latrán, Czechia

Restaurant Suggestion in Český Krumlov – Topinka

There’s no shortage of restaurants in Cesky Krumlov, the majority will be serving traditional food. If you’re after something with a modern twist, then check out this adorable little bistro-style restaurant called Topinka. It’s located a few streets away from the main tourist trap places in the city.

The decor inside is stunning, and wouldn’t look out of place on a chic Instagram feed. The food is just as well presented.

It’s not just about the presentation, the food here is delicious too. Topinka specialises in little open-topped sandwiches. They don’t have an extensive menu, but what they do offer are locally sourced ingredients and thoughtfully prepared platters. They also have a very good selection of Czech wines to accompany the food.

I ate the Mediterranean-inspired Topinka and had a slice of their cheesecake for dessert. This is one of the best cheesecakes I’ve ever tasted. I was in heaven for a few moments here as I savoured every mouthful of it!!

Best český krumlov Tours

Whether you’re stopping in the city for a couple of days, as part of a southern Czech Republic tour, or planning to do a Prague to Cesky Krumlov day trip, check out these organised tours.

How Far Is Cesky Krumlov From Prague?

In terms of distance, it’s just over 170km. It’s a reasonable distance, but still doable as a day trip. You could drive your own vehicle, alternatively, there are dozens of tours each day from Prague to Cesky Krumlov. If you don’t have a car but don’t want to go on an organised tour, there are also public transport options. For public transport, use Omio App to compare prices .

Prague Day Trips To Cesky Krumlov

If you want the stress of making your own way there, then you might be interested in this Cesky Krumlov day tour from Prague.  Take a look at these day tours to Cesky Krumlov.

Getting To Cesky Krumlov from Prague (By Public Transport)

If you want to do your own independent day trip from Prague to Cesky Krumlov, then trains and buses go several times a day. Use Omio to check and compare prices .

There are several trains from Prague to Cesky Krumlov departing from the main stations in each. On average, the journey takes 2 hours and 45 minutes. 

An alternative option is going by bus from Prague to Cesky Krumlov. Several companies run this route, including FlixBus which does 5 direct buses per day. The journey takes on average 2 hours and 30 minutes. 

From Ceske Budejovice To Cesky Krumlov (By Public Transport)

The nearest city to Cesky Krumlov is Ceske Budejovice , which is less than 30 km away. You could stay in Ceske Budejovice and make the easy journey to Cesky Krumlov with much less travel time and therefore more sightseeing time, than if you were coming from Prague. 

The bus to Cesky Krumlov from Ceske Budejovice goes up to 20 times a day and takes on average half an hour. Going by bus is the better option. The train to Cesky Krumlov from Ceske Budejovice takes an average of 45 minutes.    

Related Article:  What To Do In České Budějovice

Cesky Krumlov Travel Guide: FAQs

Now you’ve discovered the best things to do in Český Krumlov, here are some useful tips and answers to questions to help you plan your Cesky Krumlov itinerary.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Cesky Krumlov?

Cesky Krumlov looks beautiful all year round. However, the peak time for visitors is during the summer, and also during the European school holidays around Easter and Christmas. These times will see an influx of crowds.

Because it’s a relatively small town, at these peak times, it can feel a bit crazy. If you’re visiting during peak times make the most of the early mornings to get out and see things. Tour buses from other cities arrive from about 11 am onwards.

How Long To Spend In Cesky Krumlov

If you’re not sure how many days in Cesky Krumlov, you can see all of the highlights in one full-on day. However, it can feel rushed, especially if you want to spend time taking photos, enjoying the castle gardens, or having time for a leisurely lunch. 

If you want to enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace then stay one night. Plan for 2 days in Cesky Krumlov based on everything listed in this 1 day in Cesky Krumlov guide, but add in more time at each landmark instead of dashing from place to place 

Cesky Krumlov Card – Is It Worth It?

This depends on what you want to see, so may or may not be of any benefit. It costs 400 CZK (around €16) and gives you access to five different attractions. These are the Castle Museum and Castle Tower, Regional Museum in Český Krumlov, Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, Egon Schiele Art Centrum and Monastery Museum.

Ready to visit Cesky Krumlov?

So, now you know what to do in Cesky Krumlov. Whether you’re on a weekend break, or you’re limited to seeing the highlights of Cesky Krumlov in one day, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. It truly is one of the most beautiful places in the whole of central Europe 

If you’re travelling around the Czech Republic, then take a look at these other inspirational articles.

• Czech Republic Bucket List, 30+ Great Places To Visit
• Best Things To Do In South Bohemia
• Complete One Day in Brno Itinerary
• 12 Things To Do In České Budějovice

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Have a question about what to do in Cesky Krumlov in one day? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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A Guide to Cesky Krumlov: South Bohemia’s Real Life Fairytale

Last Updated: March 31, 2021

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If you’ve ever been on Instagram or Pinterest, odds are you’ve locked eyes with the glory of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic.

I mean dayum , who knew towns could be this “swipe right” cute?

Built into a beautiful bend along the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is famed for its scenic vistas and orange rooftops, enchanting travelers daily who have stopped in search of fairytale vibes, hearty food and… new profile pictures. Obviously .

With its giant castle, amazing views and endless parade of charming streets, Cesky Krumlov has a well-earned reputation as one of the best gems in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic . After spending some time there, I can confirm: Cesky Krumlov’s magic levels are off the charts . In this guide, I want to walk you through some of the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov, alongside practical nuggets of info like how to get there, where to stay and important must-knows before you visit.

Things to do in Cesky Krumlov

Whether you have only a day or three, there are plenty of things to do in Cesky Krumlov to fill your time. Here are a few highlights:

1. Visit Cesky Krumlov Castle

If you only do one thing in Cesky Krumlov, this is it. With its picture-perfect Renaissance tower commanding attention from every angle in town, this giant castle is one of Cesky Krumlov’s most well-loved landmarks (and among the largest castles in the entire world). Don’t miss the uniquely ornate and well-preserved Baroque Castle Theatre or the sprawling castle gardens which go on for over 10 hectares… yes, that’s a ton of space for activities 😉

NOTE: Unfortunately, there is one attraction at Cesky Krumlov Castle that I strongly disagree with. Right at the entrance of the castle is where you’ll find a “bear moat” that houses a resident bear. Seeing that poor animal in captivity like that really did put a damper on my experience, and while bear keeping is a longstanding tradition of the castle, it’s one I definitely can’t support.

2. Take a walk through Latrán

Latrán is the charming area just below Cesky Krumlov castle, packed to the brim with beautiful sights like Medieval burger houses, perfect for photographing incessantly. Found on the left bank of the Vltava River, this gorgeously preserved part of the Old Town becomes even more of a time warp at night, when the day trip crowds have scattered and it’s just you becoming one with the cobblestones.

3. Stuff yourself with amazing food

Okay, I’ll be real with you: Czech cuisine is not for the faint of heart (or stomach). Imagine gluttonous heapings of meat, gut-busting dumplings and all sorts of decadent sauces and gravy to really fatten the deal… but hey, when you’re in Český Krumlov, do calories even count?

(Well yes, yes they do, but I’m a blogger, not a dietician, soooo here are some traditional dishes you need to make sure you try when you’re in Cesky Krumlov):

Svíčková na smetaně (marinated sirloin): Marinated sirloin served in a sour cream sauce with a side of cranberry

Vepřo knedlo zelo (roasted pork): Roasted pork served with hearty helpings of dumpling and sauerkraut

Guláš (goulash):  A tasty, savoury stew usually made of pork and served with dumplings

And if you can feel your arteries clogging just by reading those descriptions, a lighter option is to enjoy some fish! South Bohemia has a lot of fish thanks to its abundance of ponds and zander was a popular feature on every menu we saw. After testing it twice, I can confirm, it’s delicious (and won’t leave you hating yourself).

Feeling hungry already? You can scroll down further for my Cesky Krumlov restaurant recommendations.

4. Marvel at Cesky Krumlov’s last remaining town gate, Budějovická (Budweiser) Gate

Once upon a time, nine gates were part of Cesky Krumlov’s fortifications. Today, there is only one remaining, and yes (as you’d expect), it’s a very pretty place to stop and stare.

5. Go on a Cesky Krumlov Tour

I know I keep talking about how pretty Cesky Krumlov is. Sorry, I’m shallow. I have to say though, Cesky Krumlov is way more than a pretty face. If you want to get some historical context for all the sights that you’re taking in, make sure to book a Cesky Krumlov tour. You have two options here, either…

Book a private Cesky Krumlov Tour: Click here to look at options for a private tour

Try out a free (tip-based) Cesky Krumlov Tour: Click here for details on the daily free walking tours offered by Wiseman Free Tour

6. Enjoy one of Cesky Krumlov’s museums

While in my opinion, the beauty of Cesky Krumlov is best appreciated through exploring its picture-perfect streets, there are also several museums in Cesky Krumlov to try out in case you’re seeking refuge from the rain, or just in search of some culture 😉

Highlights include…

The Castle Museum and Castle Tower: The view from the tower was definitely one of the best parts of my visit

Museum Fotoatelier Seidel: A beautiful photo studio turned photography museum

PRO TIP: If you plan on visiting a lot of different museums or attractions during your time in Cesky Krumlov, consider getting yourself a Cesky Krumlov card, which grants you access to 5 museums for a single price. It works out to be much cheaper than buying separate admissions, plus it’s valid for a year and is transferrable.

7. Treat yourself to a Trdelník

After my visit to Transylvania last year , I’ve kept up an ongoing love affair with Trdelník, a traditionally Slovak treat that is now happily consumed in many Eastern European countries, including of course the Czech Republic. Trdelnik is a sweet pastry that is essentially a tube of grilled dough that is topped with sugar/a ground walnut mix. Of course, in the age of Instagram, new variations have taken hold, creating new hybrid desserts like trdelnik ice cream cones. While a bit overpriced, I couldn’t resist grabbing one of these cones for myself just under the castle at an MLS Bistro stand , and let me tell you: they are out of this world. So worth the (relatively) high price tag.

8. Catch a performance at Cesky Krumlov’s revolving auditorium

The revolving auditorium (an open-air theatre housed in Cesky Krumlov’s castle gardens) is hands down one of the most unique places to watch a play or opera. If you happen to be in town during the summer, try to get a ticket to one of the theatre’s operas, plays or fairytale performances. More info on that here .

9. Enjoy one of Cesky Krumlov’s (many) insane viewpoints

With every hilly city comes a surplus of excellent viewpoints, and Cesky Krumlov is no exception.

I spent more time than I’d like to admit scouring the streets for the perfect viewpoint, and here are a few of my favourites:

Seminární zahrada: A peaceful little courtyard with the ideal perching spot for a perfect photo with the Cesky Krumlov skyline (see photo below)

Cesky Krumlov Castle Tower: This is the highest viewpoint you can get, and the best way to really see how bendy the Vltava river is

Cesky Krumlov Castle Gardens/Cloak Bridge: Amazing views AND they’re free

10. Enjoy some Cesky Krumlov rafting on the Vltava River

Yes, you can actually go rafting in Cesky Krumlov! If you wanted to (and don’t fear death), you can even go at night ! Wild stuff. I didn’t have time to try this during my recent visit, but it’s definitely one for the to do list next time. The rentals are based out of Havana Hostel, and they have options for rafting within Cesky Krumlov and longer trips that go to other places in South Bohemia. More details here.

The Best Cesky Krumlov Restaurants

There are plenty of Cesky Krumlov restaurants to choose from, and while I didn’t have time to sample them all, here are two places I can definitely vouch for:

Krčma Šatlava: Super unique environment, and delicious food too. This little tavern will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, as you rip into a Medieval feast in a cave, with an actual burly man cooking up meat in a roaring fire. Not the best choice for vegetarians, but a total carnivore’s paradise. Better for dinner as the ambiance is nice at night.

DEPO:  Tasty food served in a more contemporary/industrial atmosphere. I had lunch here and it tasted awesome, although the service really leaves a lot to be desired. If you don’t mind slow service (and mean muggin’ waiters), definitely stop here for a meal. The beef tartar and pork neck steak are delicious.

How to Get to Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov:  The best and easiest way to reach Cesky Krumlov from Prague is by bus. Both Flixbus and RegioJet offer this route, so I would use GoEuro (it’s free!) to check for the fastest/cheapest option.

NOTE: The easiest and most convenient way to get from Prague to Cesky Krumlov would be to book your own private tour though. This takes any stress out of it and many tours even come with lunch and a guided tour!  Click here to browse the options.

From České Budějovice to Cesky Krumlov: There are frequent and cheap bus connections that link České Budějovice with Cesky Krumlov. Both Flixbus and RegioJet offer this route, so I would use GoEuro (it’s free!) to check for the fastest/cheapest option.

Cesky Krumlov Accommodation: Where to Stay

When it comes to where to stay in Cesky Krumlov, there are a ton of different options, whether you’re more into a luxury feel or something cozier and simpler. Here’s a quick rundown of your choices.

Click here to browse the best deals on all accommodation options for Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov Hotels

Cesky Krumlov hotel options are actually quite scarce compared to the abundance of pensions and guesthouses in the town, but if you do want the comfort/amenities of a typical hotel, here are a few Cesky Krumlov hotels for you to consider:

LUXURY – Hotel Ruze: A 5* hotel with a killer view and widely recognized as the best hotel in Cesky Krumlov. Click here to browse availability and rates.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Konvice : A super centrally located hotel that is pretty, but a little on the older side. Reviews rave that the rooms are super spacious. Click here to browse availability and rates.

BUDGET – If you’re on a budget, I recommend booking a pension or hostel instead of a hotel. See some recommendations below:

Cesky Krumlov Pensions

Pensions are a popular accommodations option in Cesky Krumlov. Basically pensions are like guesthouses that provide a room, maybe breakfast/food but otherwise lack hotel amenities like pools, spas, etc.

Many of these have sprung up in Cesky Krumlov to accommodate demands in tourism, so they’re basically reconverted houses/apartments. In my opinion, these are perfect because they’re homey, comfortable, and not too expensive either. Plus, who’s really going to hang out in a hotel pool when there’s so much to see?

A few Cesky Krumlov pensions for you to consider:

Penzion Delanta : A top-rated pension with free WiFi, free parking & a quieter location about 10min from the main sights in Cesky Krumlov. Click here to browse availability and rates.

Penzion Weber: This is where we stayed! Really affordable rates and in a nice quiet neighbourhood (which required stairs/uphill walking from the center). It’s definitely not a luxury place but decent enough, especially considering the low price. Click here to browse availability and rates. 

Cesky Krumlov Hostel Options

Of course, hostels are the ultimate option for a budget traveler, and certainly those who are looking for a more social vibe. In a country where beer culture is so alive and thriving, it makes sense to ensure you have some beer buddies with you 😉

A few Cesky Krumlov hostel options for you to consider:

Hostel Krumlov House: A homey (non-party) hostel with glowing reviews, housed in a former bakery. Free WiFi, free coffee/tea, free kitchens, etc, all a short walk from the town center. Click here to browse availability and rates .

Hostel99: Quirky and cute hostel within the walls of Old Town with their own deli, restaurant and bar. Click here to browse availability and rates.

Hostel Postel: Bright hostel with a dreamy riverside location a short walk from the town center and a fully-equipped kitchen with free coffee/tea. Click here to browse availability and rates.

Camping in Cesky Krumlov

If you want to be one with nature and plan to do a fair share of naturey activities instead of simple city exploration, consider camping in Cesky Krumlov! While driving around the city, I noticed a lot of campsites which piqued my curiosity, and while (obviously) it’s not possible to camp in Cesky Krumlov’s city center, there are plenty of campsites relatively nearby. Here are some options for you (but you can scope out a more comprehensive list here ):

Kemp Český Krumlov: Super cheap prices and only 500m away from Cesky Krumlov’s center

Camping Paradjis: Located 6km away from Cesky Krumlov, found right along the river

Important Tips to Know Before Visiting Cesky Krumlov

Peak season is like tourism Hunger Games

If you’re not a fan of crowds, I highly recommend visiting in the Fall or Winter. I’ve had numerous friends who visited during these times and were shocked to see how many people there were from my Instagram stories! I went in early June, which is not yet the height of peak season and even then, by mid-afternoon, the crowds were insane. Do note that many of visitors come in large tour groups for the day, which makes their presence all the more obvious and impossible to ignore.

The early bird gets the photo opp 

If you do plan to visit during peak season though, my main hack and tip for you is to wake up early. I woke up around 7:30 and got to explore the city a little bit before the crowds settled in. I hit up all the main spots and visited the Castle right as it opened. Even then, there were big groups arriving in the gardens so definitely get up early and do your must-dos first. I would avoid visiting the castle after noon because it just gets so busy.

Get yourself a Cesky Krumlov card

As I previously mentioned, if you plan on visiting multiple attractions or museums, the best way to save money is by getting yourself a Cesky Krumlov card , which gets you admission into 5 attractions for a single price (and ends up saving you about 50% off if you go to them all).

Cash is king

While some places will take card, it’s infinitely easier to have local Czech currency on you, especially coins. Plus, you should know that many basic things such as parking and peeing come at a small fee, so cash is essential. (Even public restrooms here cost 5-7 Kč!)

There’s no parking in the very city center

Cesky Krumlov is small and easily navigable by foot, but you should know that the very center of the town has no parking. I highly recommend searching up parking lots in advance because street parking isn’t a thing here, and you definitely don’t want to circling around cobblestoned Old Town like a blind rat looking for parking (like we did) – it’s like Grand Theft Auto: Tourist Edition.

Learn a few words of Czech beforehand 

Unfortunately, like in many touristy places, frosty service in Cesky Krumlov is common (after all, they’re probably sick of tourists at this point). That said, learning a bit of Czech (even simple please and thank you) will go a long way to ensure that locals warm up to you a little 😉

And so, I hope you enjoyed that guide to Cesky Krumlov! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask away in the comments 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

9 thoughts on “A Guide to Cesky Krumlov: South Bohemia’s Real Life Fairytale”

Swipe right cute it is! Cesky Krumlov looks like a town I’d only see in a fantasy show or a movie. Very cute, a must-visit for sure! 🙂 – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

It really does look like a fairytale! I did not imagine there was so much to do in this city, so thank you for the detailed guide 🙂

I’ve seen the photos and agree that Cesky Krumlov looks like a place I’d love to photograph and explore. I love that you put in the side note about the bear. But now when I visit I have your handy-dandy guide! Great post with fab pics, Christina!

I need to go there – anywhere with rafting in a city gets put on my list lol! Great note about needing cash – that is one thing that usually never occurs to me until I’m in the place and already in trouble and sans cash 😀

I love that pensions are an option in Cesky Krumlov—they just add to the charm! Thanks for sharing so many great travel tips on this destination.

Wow this really is such a cute place! That castle is so beautiful and really looks like something out of a fairy tale!

Fairytale for sure! What an adorable place.Too bad the people don’t sound super friendly, though.

Wow! Sure looks like a fairy tale. Will now put it on my list to visit one day.

P.S. You write the best travel guide. My recent trip to Munich, Germany (Neuschwanstein & Salzburg, Austria) was a success because of your step by step guide. I enjoy reading your blogs.

Beautiful post….and totally agree with you about this place…me too put my thoughts about this place in a video..check details on https://littlethingssnehal.blogspot.com/2019/06/cesky-krumlov-is-small-little-town.html

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Little Holidays

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Český Krumlov travel guide – the Czech Republic’s beautiful fairytale town

Czech Republic , Europe , Travel Guides / July 17, 2020 by littleholidays / 3 Comments

From the moment you step into Český Krumlov’s old town, it’s easy to forget you’re in 2020.

The narrow, twisted streets with its cobblestones – each polished and naturally worn by the millions of footsteps it has weathered through the centuries – are designed to conform to the whims and meanders of the Vltava river, adding to the town’s mystery. You cannot see far beyond, making each turn a surprise.

One moment, you’re treated to a row of colorful Gothic houses. Another, a flash of light leads your eyes to a window display of Bohemian garnets and moldavites. One of the most impressive views, however, is when the narrow street of Radniční suddenly opens to the Lazebnický most, the bridge crossing the Vltava on the way to the castle. Suddenly, you are treated to a view of the Vltava river sparkling under the morning sun, the towering state castle preserved from the 14th century, and street musicians giving life to a place seemingly frozen in time.

Just  walking around the old town  can take up a whole day, and most day-trippers from Prague leave the town regretting that they didn’t plan to stay at least a day more. While the town is indeed compact, Český Krumlov is not a place you can blitz through on your way through Central Europe.

Český Krumlov deserves at least two or three days – and the early start you get from staying in the town allows you to beat the day-tripping crowd to the town’s most popular sites.

Český Krumlov is also a great base and gateway to South Bohemia’s charming small villages and hiking spots. Exploring the region gives you a more intimate experience of Central Europe – acquainting you with its well-preserved historical towns, the art, cuisine, and philosophies it has inspired, and the old castles and ruins that tell the story of Europe’s majestic past.

Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery from Prague’s busy streets, planning a weekend of hikes around the Blanský forest, or maybe you just want to kick back and relax with a glass of beer in a picturesque town, this comprehensive and easy-to-follow travel guide will help you plan your little holiday in Český Krumlov.

Little Holidays Travel Guide to Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

• How to spend 2 days (or more) in Český Krumlov
• Map – landmarks in Český Krumlov

Best things to do in and around Český Krumlov

Day trips from český krumlov, where to eat and drink.

• Planning your trip

Beyond Český Krumlov – where to go next

• Download the PDF travel guide

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you book or purchase by clicking a link. Using the links on this guide to plan and book your trip helps support the Little Holidays (at no extra cost to you) and keeps us online, ad-free, and community-supported. Thank you!  Learn more.

How to spend 2 days in Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is a fantastic destination for a weekend trip. Its old town is compact and walkable, and you can visit the town’s best sights in a day or two. If the weather permits, you can hike around the surrounding Blanský forest, or go for a drive to nearby towns and cities.

Here’s my recommended itinerary for 2 days (or more) in Český Krumlov.

Day 1 – Spend your first day walking around Český Krumlov’s old town. Walk around the castle ground and up the tower for amazing views. Then check out the Minorite Monastery and the traditional Czech goods along Latrán. Pop into the Egon Schiele museum for edgy art, then end the day with a glass of local beer along the Vltava.

Day 2 – Time for a hike! Český Krumlov lies in the Blanský natural reserve, with many hiking trails beginning at the town’s borders. Hike up to the Kleť mountain’s observatory tower for breathtaking views of the countryside. Then, hike down or ride a cable car to Holubov and continue your walk to Dívčí kámen, the ruins of a Gothic castle. Have dinner at the scenic town of Třísov before catching the train back to Český Krumlov. If you’re not in the mood for a hike, you can also drive to these locations and see more nearby towns and landmarks.

More days? – If you can add more days to your trip, there’s a lot more you can do around the South Bohemian region. Visit České Budějovice, the region’s capital and home of Budvar beer; Holašovice, a small and quiet historic village; and Hluboká nad Vltavou, home of one of the Czech Republic’s most beautiful castles. If you’re driving towards South Moravia or Vienna, check out this road trip guide that goes through the Czech south’s most beautiful towns and villages.

Tell us: What are you most excited about your trip to the Czech Republic?

• Going on a road trip to historical castles, charming small towns, and gorgeous countryside
• Excited to see and explore Prague’s beautiful cobbled streets and majestic spires
• Having a laidback little holiday in a cozy cottage in the forest or a lovely spa town
• Looking forward to hiking and biking in the Czech Republic’s magnificent outdoors
• Here for the beer! Plus those yummy chlebíčky and hearty Czech dishes
• Going on a road trip to historical castles, charming small towns, and gorgeous countryside 52%, 14 votes 14 votes 52% 14 votes - 52% of all votes
• Excited to see and explore Prague’s beautiful cobbled streets and majestic spires 30%, 8 votes 8 votes 30% 8 votes - 30% of all votes
• Here for the beer! Plus those yummy chlebíčky and hearty Czech dishes 11%, 3 votes 3 votes 11% 3 votes - 11% of all votes
• Having a laidback little holiday in a cozy cottage in the forest or a lovely spa town 4%, 1 vote 1 vote 4% 1 vote - 4% of all votes
• Looking forward to hiking and biking in the Czech Republic’s magnificent outdoors 4%, 1 vote 1 vote 4% 1 vote - 4% of all votes

Map – essential landmarks in and around Český Krumlov

Use this Google map to help you plan your trip to Český Krumlov. I added all the important landmarks, the best sights and places to visit, as well as the best hotels and restaurants in the area.

When going hiking, use this map only as a guide. It’s best to follow the marked trails .

If you’re driving to Český Krumlov, use Waze to navigate.  If you have a valid Czech highway vignette that allows you to use the tolled highways, add it to your Waze app’s list of toll and HOV passes to get the best routes. (Go to: Settings > Navigation > Toll & HOV Passes > Vignette CZ – Dálniční známka.)

Český Krumlov Old Town

There are several entrances to the old town.

If you’re coming from the train station, you’ll be entering via the northern side, passing through hotels and restaurants along Latrán. If you drove to Český Krumlov and used the parking lot near the castle (along Chvalšinská), you’ll be coming in from the northwest, and you’ll see right away the impressive stone gate leading to the castle grounds. If you chose to stay in the pensions just outside the old town, you would be coming in from the southern entrance.

Wherever you’re coming from, the town’s twisted and narrow streets designed to follow the meanders of the Vltava river will entice and surprise you at every turn. You can’t see far ahead as the tall, imposing buildings rise to the sky. This keeps the scenery fresh – one moment a row of architectural wonders, another a view of the river and the many lovers holding hands on its banks.

If you are keen on visiting the top museums in the old town, stop by the Information Center in the old town square to get your  Český Krumlov card . This card covers the entrance to 5 of the most popular museums in the town, 3 of which we will be visiting on this walking tour.

If you want to learn more about the history of the town, go on a walking tour with an expert guide .

Český Krumlov Castle Complex

One of the most amazing bird’s eye views of the town is right within the castle grounds.

The Krumlov castle was built in the 14th century, initially the dwelling place of the royal families of Rosenbergs, then Schwarzenbergs, before it became a property of the state. In 1992, the castle complex was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage monument .

Visit the castle museum then go up the castle tower for amazing views of the town. Then walk further west towards the castle’s gardens and pond.

Minorite Monastery

From the castle grounds, retrace your way back to Latrán to visit the monastery, first established in 1350 by the Rosenbergs. The monastery grounds are designed for reflection. Shaded benches and grassy lawns in a peaceful courtyard invite guests to take a moment and slow down.

There are several exhibits in the monastery which gives you a glimpse of how the Minorite monks have been conducting their duties and their lives throughout the centuries. There is also an entire room dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, with panels of illustrations depicting his life and how he came to be a saint.

Specialty shops along Latrán

From the monastery, exit to Latrán once more. If you’re looking for souvenirs, turn right on Latrán and you’ll immediately see  Český Krumlov Original  – you won’t miss its bright storefront. This is a perfect place to pick up traditional gingerbreads, mead, chocolates, and other regional specialties.

The Czechs take great pride in their regional products. There are the Czech beers that you will hear every Czech rave about; the Moravian wines that every Moravian could discuss for hours; and in Český Krumlov, they have gingerbreads that come with centuries’ worth of artisanal history.

Egon Schiele Art Centrum

From Latrán, go back through the old town square (or venture into the smaller side streets) and make your way to  Egon Schiele Art Centrum  – a tribute to Český Krumlov’s resident bad boy.

Born in Austria surrounded and influenced by the great Viennese minds of Freud, Mahler, and Klimt, Schiele spent a lot of time in the then-widely conservative town of Český Krumlov (his mother’s birth town). While at the time, his erotic artworks earned the ire of the burghers and elitist artists, now he is celebrated by the town as an artist whose bold style challenged all the norms of his time.

Sunset by the banks of Vltava

When in the Czech Republic, beer will always be present. With Český Krumlov’s proximity to České Budějovice, the home of Budvar, a glass of the regional specialty is the best way to end your day.

Try to get a table in one of the riverside restaurants, like  Papa’s Living Restaurant , to watch the sunset.

Hiking in Blanský forest

On your second day, go for a hike around the Blanský forest.

There are several nature trails you can follow with varying levels of difficulty. The one we did – hike to Kleť then to Dívčí kámen and then back by train from Třísov to Český Krumlov – was easy enough for a hobby hiker like me. Start early and make several stops to eat and drink and enjoy the beautiful scenery. We hiked about 20 KMs and walked from mid-morning to sunset.

If 20 KMs sounds a bit much, you can also visit these places by driving. You can then add a visit to Zlatá Koruna to your itinerary.

Mountain Kleť is the highest peak of the Blanský natural reserve. On a clear day, the lookout tower at the top can give you amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

A few meters from the lookout tower is the Kleť Observatory , an astronomical observatory and research institution where scientists have been monitoring the sky for asteroids, comets, and UFOs since 1968. You can tour the facilities and learn more about the research program and their discoveries.

If you’re starving after the hike, there’s a restaurant beside the lookout tower. Have a bowl of goulash, česnečka (Czech garlic soup), and the region’s beer (the Czech Budweiser Budvar) before moving on to your next stop.

From Kleť, walk or drive towards Třísov and on to Dívčí kámen. You can also ride the cable car from Kleť to Krásetín and continue your hike from there.

Dívčí kámen

Our next stop is the ruins of Dívčí kámen , a Gothic castle built in the 1300s and one of the biggest castle ruins in Bohemia.

Like the Krumlov Castle, Dívčí kámen was built by the Rosenberg family in 1349 and then eventually abandoned in 1506. While it is certainly no longer fit for a king to live in, the castle ruins still regularly host concerts, medieval markets, and performances.

From Dívčí kámen, you can walk to the Třísov station and catch the train back to Český Krumlov. If you’re driving and still have some time, you can continue your drive to Zlatá Koruna.

Zlatá Koruna

Zlatá Koruna is a short drive from Český Krumlov. The town is home to a well-preserved medieval monastery listed as a National Historic Monument.

The Czech King Přemysl Otakar II established the Cistercian monastery in 1263, which he dedicated to the Virgin Mary after winning the Battle of Kressenbrunn. Through the centuries, it endured attacks from the Hussites in the 1400s, aggression from nobles like the Rosenbergs in the 15th and 16th centuries, and abolishment by the Holy Roman Emperor Joseph II in 1785. In the 1900s, the Schwarzenbergs began rebuilding essential parts of the premises, and the state eventually took over rebuilding the monastery complex. Today, it is considered one of the most valuable complexes of early and late Gothic architecture in Central Europe.

You can go on a tour of the monastery and church to see and learn more about the convent, the Gothic chapel, and the Church of Assumption, which is the largest church in South Bohemia.  You’ll also get a glimpse of the Cistercian order’s daily life and learn more about the history and literature of South Bohemia.

Apart from the monastery, Zlatá Koruna is a beautiful place to go on a short walk . The village lies at the foot of Mountain Kleť and parts of it are within the protected landscape of the Blanský forest. From the monastery, you can walk along the Vltava and make a loop around the village.

If you can spend a couple more days in Český Krumlov, there are a lot of beautiful places you can visit in the South Bohemian region. These are all within 45 minutes’ driving distance from Český Krumlov and can also be reached by public transportation.

Hluboká Castle

The Hluboká Castle is one of the Czech Republic’s most beautiful castles. Initially established in the 13th century as a royal castle for King Přemysl Otakar II, it underwent reconstructions in the 1600s when the Schwarzenberg family gave it its present-day Neo-Gothic appearance. Prince Adolf II’s diplomatic trips to Great Britain inspired him to pattern the castle complex after the English castle of Windsor.

There are several tour routes you can take of the castle. You can also spend some time walking around the castle grounds and appreciating the castle from every angle.

The town itself is a beautiful place to stop by when driving between Prague and Český Krumlov. Restaurace Lovecká Chata near the pond is a great place to stop for lunch.

Holašovice is a small historic village which, despite its quaint and charming row of Baroque houses, has a bit of a dark history.

In the 16 th  century, Holašovice was nearly wiped out by the bubonic plague in just five years. Only two inhabitants survived, and it took another five years for the population to rise to 17. In the following centuries until the 1900s, the village became home to a primarily German-speaking community – an enclave within a Czech language area.

At the end of World War 2, the German residents were driven away, and the village became deserted during the Czech communist regime. It was only in 1990 when the village was once again restored and inhabited, with its “South Bohemian folk Baroque” style preserved.

It is now designated a  UNESCO World Heritage site  as an example of a traditional European folk village. It’s a small and quiet town you can easily explore in about an hour. It does come alive during the annual festival held on the last weekend of July.

České Budějovice

České Budějovice is the capital city of South Bohemia.

Its most popular landmark is the beautiful square named after King Přemysl Otakar II (of whom we’ve heard so much about so far), who also granted the city its brewing rights in the 13th century. The square is one of the largest in Europe – a hectare in size – and is lined by beautiful Baroque arcaded houses and home to an impressive Baroque town hall.

While there, you can also climb up the Black Tower, visit the Cathedral of St. Nicholas and the Iron Maiden Tower, or tour the Budvar brewery .

Drive from South Bohemia to South Moravia

If you’re driving to South Moravia or Vienna, make sure to stop by the lovely towns of Telč and Třeboň. Both are small and historic Renaissance towns and great spots to go for a short stroll.

Třeboň is one of the largest producers of freshwater fish in Europe, so if you’ve had enough roasted pork and duck in Bohemia, make sure to taste the Třeboň carp ( Restaurace Bílý jednorožec is one of our favorites!).

Here’s my itinerary for the drive across the Czech Republic’s south .

While you’re in Český Krumlov, make sure to try traditional South Bohemian dishes like kulajda (a creamy dill soup), various potato specialties like bramborové šišky and cmunda, and freshwater fish from Třeboň. You can have a taste of these traditional dishes at Jakub Restaurant or Krčma U dwau Maryí .

Beer, of course, is an important food group in the Czech Republic, so make sure to check out Restaurace Eggenberg (the best place for locally-brewed beer), Hospoda Na Louži , and Hostinec Depo.

If you need a break from Czech food, Papa’s Living Restaurant and Nonna Gina are excellent Italian restaurants.

Planning your trip to Český Krumlov

Getting there.

Nearest airports – The nearest international airports to Český Krumlov are Prague (180 km away), Linz (70 km away), and Munich (300 km away).

Driving – South Bohemia is a lovely destination for a road trip. You can get a rental car from Prague or Vienna and go on a road trip that goes through the Czech Republic and Austria’s most beautiful cities.

By train or bus – If you’re coming from Prague, the most convenient way to go to Český Krumlov is by bus.  Buses go from Prague to Český Krumlov and back almost hourly from 6 am to 8 pm, and the journey takes about 3 hours.

If you’re coming from elsewhere, the nearest major transportation hub to Český Krumlov is České Budějovice. You can take the train or bus to České Budějovice and then transfer to a bus to Český Krumlov.  RegioJet  and  České dráhy  are the most useful companies for bus and train travel around the Czech Republic, as well as neighboring countries. You can search for routes and buy tickets online.

Day trip from Prague – If you’re on holiday in Prague and only have a day to visit Český Krumlov, join this convenient day trip with experienced guides. You’ll travel comfortably through the countryside with an English-speaking guide and see all of Český Krumlov’s highlights.

Transfers from Austria – If you’re coming from Austria, you can book these convenient one-way transfers from Vienna and Salzburg .

Getting around

Renting a car – The Czech Republic is an excellent destination for a road trip. You can get a rental car from Prague or other major cities in the Czech Republic .

Vignette for driving on Czech motorways – Make sure that your car has a valid vignette for driving on Czech motorways . Most rental cars from within the Czech Republic would have this. If you’re coming from neighboring countries, you can buy it from gas stations in border towns.

Use Waze to navigate around the Czech Republic. Add the Czech vignette to your Waze app’s list of toll and HOV passes to get the best routes. (Go to: Settings > Navigation > Toll & HOV Passes > Vignette CZ – Dálniční známka.)

Public transportation – You can travel by bus and train to most cities and towns in the Czech Republic. RegioJet  and  České dráhy  are the most useful companies, and you can search for routes and buy tickets online.

Best places to stay in Český Krumlov

To fully enjoy Český Krumlov’s romantic medieval ambiance, stay in a beautiful hotel in the historic old town like Hotel Ebersbach . If you’re traveling with family and friends, stay in a spacious holiday home like Monastery Garden . If you plan to go on hikes and road trips, and want a relaxing stay away from the crowds, stay in a pension outside the old town like Penzion Tilia .

Here’s a more comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Český Krumlov .

Learn more about Český Krumlov

• Český Krumlov’s medieval magnetism by Barbara Frye

“This is a town that changes everybody’s plans. […] It basically ruins everybody’s itineraries, changes everybody’s plans and makes them switch directions pretty quickly. And that’s kind of the way the river runs. The river runs in on itself.”

Although not at the level that it changed Carolyn Zukowski’s life, Český Krumlov did have that effect on us. This is an interesting look into the life of a tourist-turned-local and her life along the Vltava’s riverbank.

• Not Far From Prague, a Czech Village Worth Rhapsodizing About by Roger Toll

A crash course on Český Krumlov’s history told through buildings and beer.

• Architecture in Český Krumlov and history of the town of Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is more than just a pretty postcard-perfect town. I got goosebumps walking through its streets, its polished cobblestone steps a testament to the number of shoes that have walked those streets since the 1200s. I think you can best appreciate its beauty by reading about its history and the structures that have stood the test of time.

• South Moravia, Czech Republic

Continue your adventures beyond Prague and visit the sunny wine region of South Moravia! If you love castle towns like Český Krumlov, head to Mikulov and enjoy days of hiking, dining, and wining around the beautiful town.

• Salzburg, Austria

If you’re craving for more beautiful Baroque cities, Salzburg is a 3-hour drive south of Český Krumlov. You’ll spend days admiring opulent cathedrals and palaces, enjoying the strains of Mozart’s compositions, and driving around the gorgeous Lake District. Continue your drive to Vienna for the perfect Central European road trip itinerary.

• Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake towns are indeed the perfect setting for beautiful holidays, and Lake Bled is Slovenia’s most gorgeous one. With plenty of amazing natural landscapes to explore, a slew of restaurants serving delicious Slovenian and international cuisine, and a long list of outdoor adventures and experiences to check out, a holiday in Lake Bled is one that’s sure to be sweet and satisfying.

I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Český Krumlov and the beautiful South Bohemian region!

It’s truly one of the Czech Republic’s most beautiful castle towns and a must-visit – even if you’re just in Prague for a short city break. A day trip to Český Krumlov from Prague is certainly worth it, but if you can spare a couple of extra days, make sure to take your time exploring the beautiful South Bohemian region. Breathtaking views, hearty Czech cuisine, and historic landscapes and monuments await!

Make sure to  download the PDF guide  and use it to plan the perfect little holiday in Český Krumlov and beyond. If you have any questions or need extra help planning your trip, send me a message, and I’ll do my best to help you out.

Thanks for reading and have a fun and exciting holiday in the Czech Republic!

Post first published: 14 January 2017

Last updated: 17 July 2020 – added and updated travel guide, fixed format

Reader Interactions

October 17, 2019 at 5:50 am

Beautiful post ..and totally agree with you it’s a fairy tale town

October 17, 2019 at 9:43 am

Thanks, Snehal! Yes, Cesky Krumlov is absolutely lovely!

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Cesky Krumlov Itinerary: Travel Guide Blog For First Timer

Last updated on June 24th, 2024

Český Krumlov, a fairy tale town jumped out of the illustration and comes to life. There are many things to do in this fairy tale town to plan on your Cesky Krumlov itinerary. A great place to spend two days or a single day trip from Prague.

This magical town was entered into the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is probably the most beautiful town in the Czech Republic. Rated in the Top ten most beautiful towns in the world, Cesky Krumlov is one of the most stunning places and should not be missed on a trip to the Czech Republic. 

If you are  visiting Prague for two or three days and only have time for a single day trip from Prague, make sure to visit Český Krumlov. This fairy tale town is worth planning for one day or 2 days Cesky Krumlov itinerary.

There are plenty of  things to do for the 1-Day Cesky Krumlov itinerary . Here are a few highlights that you need to know before making your trip. Make sure to continue reading on our Cesky Krumlov travel guide blog to plan your wonderful trip!

Table of Contents

Pre-Trip Essential

Located in South Bohemia, Cesky Krumlov, also known as CK town, is charmed by its artistic impression of quaint houses, medieval streets, an intact Baroque castle, and a meandering river. The picturesque old town is well preserved from the past and bombing of War War II. All make this scenery town feels like a fairy tale from the middle ages into reality.

Before we get into different things to do in this wonderful town, let’s get some basic on transportation how to get to Cesky Krumlov from Prague, where to stay, what to eat, and things to do at Cesky Krumlov, the beautiful little town.

From Prague To Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is very convenient to visit as part of the central Europe trip. A visit to Cesky Krumlov can be easily worked into part of the travel itinerary from Prague, Vienna, Hallstatt, or Salzburg. There are many options available but the most convenient is getting from Prague to Cesky Krumlov due to a variety of transportation arrangements.

Getting To Cesky Krumlov By Public Transport

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov By Train Trains connect Prague and Cesky Krumlov with a required one-stop transfer at České Budějovice. It takes a slightly longer time compared with a bus with 3 hours journey at a similar cost. Just recently, a direct train route is running from Prague and Cesky Krumlov. Trains leave from Prague’s main train station at 8.01 a.m and the last train to go back to Prague at 2.07 p.m. Both train journeys take almost three hours. You can either walk to the town or take a taxi to the city center.

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov By Bus Student Agency from RegioJet and Flixbus run between Prague’s Na Knížecí station and Cesky Krumlov. Buses leave every hour from Prague with approximately 2.5 hours of the journey at 200 CZK. There are two bus stops on either side of the city within 10 minutes of walking distance. Choose the one near your accommodation as most roads are cobblestones. If you are visiting Cesky Krumlov for a day trip, you can consider getting off at the first one and then returning to the other one.

MAKE A RESERVATION : If you are heading to CK during peak season or on a weekend, make sure to book the seat in advance through their website. The tickets are selling extremely fast, especially during those peak times for a day trip. Make a bus reservation via Bookaway .

Getting To Cesky Krumlov By Car and Share Shuttle

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov By Car Self-driving takes approximately 2.5 hours (175 km) of driving journey from Prague to Cesky Krumlov. By driving, you are free to stop by any scenery point along the journey at your own pace. Park your car outside the Cesky Krumlov town as there is no car parking in the town center.

If you need to rent a car to visit Cesky Krumlov, make sure to Compare Best Car at RentalCars.com with the best rate offer and high reputation from customers. And make sure to purchase a highway vignette required for driving at the Czech Republic.

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov By Shuttle Service Shuttle service is one of the good options with point-to-point pick-up service from the hotel directly. CK Shuttle connects, Prague, Vienna, Cesky Krumlov, and Hallstatt with several departure times per day. The shuttle service from Prague to CK cost about 800 CZK ($35) per person with hotel pick up.

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov By Guided Tour A nice way to visit Cesky Krumlov with hassle-free worry about. Most tours are coming from Prague to Cesky Krumlov, taking you through the most sights to visit. It normally runs around 10 or 11 hours for a day trip.

The Best Budget Transport Option

If you are coming from Prague, I would highly recommend you get the express bus to Cesky Krumlov. During our central Europe trip, we choose the Student Agency’s express bus from RejioJet for our transportation, which run from Praha, Na Knížecí to Český Krumlov, AN. The cost is less than 10 euros for early bird promotion. The bus ride from the Student agency is very comfortable with television, free Wifi, charging electronics, and a cup of one hot drink is serviced.

Make a bus reservation from Prague to CK

We are taking a shuttle service from CK Shuttle to our next destination, Hallstatt. The public transport from Český Krumlov to Hallstatt is not well-connected. CK Shuttle helps us arrive in Hallstatt hassle-free. The cost is about 800 CZK ($35) per person, shared with other travelers.

Cesky Krumlov Itinerary Planning

A visit to Cesky Krumlov doesn’t take too long and can be finished in a few hours. Many travelers choose to take a day trip from Prague or as a pit stop before going to the next location. But this charming small town is worth an overnight stay as it is so beautiful.

Surrounded by the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is separated into an old town area and castle distinct in the northeast. We choose to stay a night at Cesky Krumlov to experience the calming of the European town before heading to our next destination, Hallstatt.

Here are things to do in Cesky Krumlov itinerary (1-Day) :

Old Town Walking

• Climb Up to Highest View Point, Castle Tower

Explore Cesky Krumlov Castle Complex

Take a panoramic view at mantelbrücke, leisure walk at castle garden, reward yourself with trdelnik.

• Look for Best Panoramic Photo Spot In Cesky Krumlov (Castle Tower, cloak bridge, Seminární Zahrada)

From Prague to Cesky Krumlov, the journey take about 2.5 hours by bus and 3 hours by train.

While Cesky Krumlov is a perfect day trip from Prague, we highly recommended staying at least one day in Cesky Krumlov. Staying one night in CK town is the best way to beat the day-tripping crowd to the town’s most popular sites.

Definitely worth it! Cesky Krumlov is truly a charming town of its artistic impression of quaint houses, medieval streets, an intact Baroque castle, and a meandering river.

Cesky Krumlov’s old town is compact and walkable. Start your visit from Municipal Square (Namesti Svornosti), the main town square of Cesky Krumlov with beautiful gabled houses painted in romantic and colorful bohemian style surrounded. Strolling along the cobblestones street, you can easily find a variety of specialty shops, artist shops, and street performances along the street.

Don’t miss to take a moment though at Lazebnický Bridge, one of the best views at Cesky Krumlov. If you are interested, you can experience the creative hand-made shops, pottery experience, woodwork, metal carving, and leather carving in the old town area. No need to plan much of an itinerary but just wandering around and learning about some of its hidden secrets is the best thing you can do at Cesky Krumlov.

Climb Up To The Highest View Point, Castle Tower

Standing on the hillside of the Castle District, Castle Tower is the tallest building in Cesky Krumlov with 162 stories of the staircase. It was the symbol of the town, its history, and its beauty.

To access the castle tower, you will be required to buy the admission ticket of 250 CZK which bundles together with the Castle Museum. The exhibition was relatively simple with some decent displays about life in the castle. But the view of this lovely town and its vicinity from the castle tower is so delightful and worth paying for the visit.

Proceed to the main area of the castle distinct after the visit to the castle tower. Don’t miss the visit to Cesky Krumlov Castle, the second largest castle in the Czech Republic. The entire castle has a few forty buildings, courtyards, a theater, a museum, and a 7 hectare of the castle garden. There are few ground-tour offerings for families and visitors guided by knowledgeable guides if you want to enter the castle area.

Several areas within the castle complex can be visited without the need to buy a ticket. If you are limited on time and don’t want to spend money, you can just wander around the grandly colorful painted castle courtyard. It is worth seeing.

After passing through a series of courtyards, you will enter an elegant bridge that can look out over the entire Cesky Krumlov town. This “Stone Column Sky Bridge Gallery” was built in the 15th century and is now known as the “Mantelbrücke” bridge. The view from the cloak bridge and the neighboring lookout platform is where you can get the classic panoramic view of Cesky Krumlov with the beautiful castle tower and the twin towers of the St. Vitus church together.

The last part of Cesky Krumlov Castle’s visit is the Castle garden at the end of the castle distinct. Up the slope adjacent to the complex of castle buildings, the royal garden was founded in the 17th century with a total build-in of 11 hectares with the gorgeous Neptune Fountain at its center.

Enjoy a leisure walk in the castle garden and slowly find a path that takes you down to the historic center of Oldtown.

Treat yourself with a Trdelnik after a long hour castle walk. Trdelnik is one of the street food in the Czech Republic and is known made for tourists. While a bit overpriced, I couldn’t resist grabbing another one after I tried it in Prague.

This sweet pastry is so tasty and refreshing especially added the ice cream topping. The dough is wrapped cylinder around a spindle and continuously rotated over an open flame until cooked in golden brown color. You can easily find Trdelnik the Old Town street but the one most famous is sold at MLS Crepe Bistro.

Best Panoramic Photo Spot In Cesky Krumlov

You couldn’t resist taking the endless photo of Cesky Krumlov. This photogenic town is so beautiful with its colorful street, Baroque castle, and snaking river. Here are the few best places if you are looking for where to take a good panoramic photo for your great moment at Cesky Krumlov.

Castle Tower : My personal favorite! But you need to pay a small fee and climb up the 162 stairs to take the best view of Cesky Krumlov. It is worth the visit.

Cloak bridge and viewing platform : The most popular spot that you can find at the castle complex. This platform gives you the best spot in the city center with free entry. Get the different views of Cesky Krumlov through a stone arch.

Seminární Zahrada : A perfect photo shot at a little peaceful courtyard with different layered of buildings and skyline. And it is free!

Accommodation: Apartment Soukenicka 44

We stayed in Apartment Soukenicka 44 during our visit to Cesky Krumlov. It is a cozy stay and is listed in a Gothic building with Renaissance elements. It is located in the central town and everything was within walking distance.

While we had a total of 4 people, so the duplex department with 3 single beds and 1 double bed fulfills our need can up to 5 people. It was well equipped with a blend of modern elements, hardwood floors, and wood-beamed ceilings. We enjoyed our cozy stay here and truly feel at home. Besides this, Apartment Soukenicka 44 also has a smaller room to cater for 2 to 3-person travelers. Take a look if you need more information.

For more accommodation options, check our simple guide on where to stay in Cesky Krumlov .

What To Eat in Cesky Krumlov

There are plenty of restaurants to choose from for their delicious Czech cruise. Here are some highly recommended restaurants that I have visited during my trip to this wonderful town:

Krčma v šatlavské Ulici : Most famous tavern restaurant with a super unique dining experience with delicious food. This little tavern restaurant will make you feel like stepped back in time to the Medieval feast in a cave with a burly man cooking up the meat in a roaring open fire in the middle. You will enjoy your dining here which is filled with delicious smelling meat and loved every bit of the atmosphere it created. A huge portion yet delicious. However, make sure to reserve a table, especially for dinner!

We are having a medieval feast at Krcma v Satlavske Ulici with great food, nice beer, and a unique tavern atmosphere.

MLS Bistro : Probably the best restaurant for brunch, light lunch, and tea break in town. Try their delicious sweet crepe with a cup of nice coffee. This cozy place and nice atmosphere is your option for your breakfast or afternoon tea. You can choose to dine in or take away for their famous crepe or Trdelink.

Related food blog : MLS Creperie – Delicious Best Crepes in Cesky Krumlov

Papa’s Living Rest aurant : If you are looking for something not in Czech traditional cuisine, get a table in Papa’s Living. One of the best riverside restaurants to enjoy the charming town and watch the sunset. This Italian restaurant served excellent tasty modern food, wine in the middle of quaint.

Important Tips To Know Before Visit

Wake Up Early : Explore the city before the crowds settled in. Most buses and tours are arriving at Cesky Krumlov in the afternoon after three hours of road journey from Prague. So get up early to visit this charming town before the crowd comes in.

Cesky Krumlov Card : This card cover five entrances of the most popular museum including the castle museum with a free castle tower entrance for an amazing view of the town. If you are planning to visit more than one museum, the Cesky Krumlov card can greatly save your money.

Stay at Least One Night : We highly recommended to stay at least one night in this charming town. It can get super crowded, especially during the afternoon. Being there in the early morning and late afternoon gives you a chance to have the town all to yourself. It was magical walking the street in the early morning.

Where To Go Next : Combine your visit and worked into part of the Central Europe itinerary. From 3 days in Prague to Cesky Krumlov, and hop over to Austria to visit Vienna, Hallstatt, or Salzburg.

Overview: Cesky Krumlov Itinerary

There are many things in Cesky Krumlov awaiting you to discover. One of the most visited cities in the Czech Republic and possibly the Best Day Trips From Prague. While most day-trippers from Prague leave the town and didn’t plan to stay at least a day or more. This amazing city deserved at least one or two nights’ stay. A great place for South Bohemia’s charming gateway.

Lastly, I hope this Cesky Krumlov travel post did help you plan your Cesky Krumlov itinerary. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me or ask me in the comments form. Happy travel to CK town!

Don’t forget to check out our Central Europe travel blog, itinerary and travel tips here:

• [Czech Republic] Three Perfect Days in Prague
• [Czech Republic] Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
• [Austria] Salzburg, City of Mozart and Sound Of Music
• [Austria] Hallstatt, World Most Beautiful Town
• [Austria] Vienna, City Full of Art, History and Fairy Tales
• [Germany] Berchtesgaden, The Hidden Natural Gem
• [Slovakia] Bratislava: A Charming Unpolished Old Town in Slovakia
• [Hungary] Budapest Itinerary: Spending Wonderful 3-Days in Budapest

Our next destination is Hallstatt: World Most Beautiful Lakeside Town

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March 6, 2020

Cesky krumlov guide: a medieval town in the czech republic.

When my good friend Barbie suggested Prague for an early February trip, I knew I wanted to add another city in the Czech Republic. I had my eye on Cesky Krumlov for awhile, knowing it is not a frequented destination for most. As soon as we entered the old archway from the medieval part of town, I knew the town was going to be a hit. Picture cobblestone roads, pastel-colored buildings (some of which date back to the 13th century), cozy cafés, and a castle overlooking the whole city. The town is built around the ’S’ curve of the Vltava River, and aptly named Cesky Krumlov (‘Crooked Meadow’,) for its landscape. It’s extremely walkable and charming, a true gem!

Preset Collection used in this blog post: Winter Collection

1-3 Days __ BEST TIME TO VISIT – MAY THROUGH SEPTEMBER IS PEAK SEASON, JANUARY/FEBRUARY IS THE QUIETEST TIME OF YEAR WEATHER – SUMMERTIME IS WARM, (80°F / 26°C AVERAGE), SNOW IS RARE IN WINTER GETTING AROUND – WALKABLE, THE HISTORICAL CENTER IS A CAR-FREE ZONE CURRENCY – CZECH KORUNA, SOME PLACES TAKE EUROS AND CREDIT CARDS BUT YOU’LL WANT CASH LANGUAGES – CZECH, MOST PEOPLE SPEAK ENGLISH NEARBY AIRPORTS – LINZ AIRPORT (LNZ)

Photos: colorful buildings of Cesky Krumlov; old fort walls; view of the river from the patio outside Papa’s Living Restaurant; crossing the bridge towards Cesky Castle, views from the castle grounds.

→ Getting to Cesky Krumlov From Prague

Traveling from Prague to Cesky Krumlov was very straightforward and affordable. We took a 3 hour bus via Regiojet from the main bus station in Prague to just outside the walls of Cesky Krumlov. The trip cost less than $12 USD and included comfy seats, plus drinks and snacks for sale.

Where to Stay

As I mentioned, Cesky Krumlov is a walkable city. You don’t need a car to get around, and most sights and stops are within a 10 minute walk from the main square. The town is best experienced as an overnight visit; you’ll get the small streets to yourself in the mornings and evenings when the day trip crowds disperse back to Prague!

With most small town stays, we opted for a boutique hotel offering picture-perfect city views. Hotel Oldinn was the spot, conveniently located in the main square and fully renovated in the last few months. Our room was cozy and design-forward, with windows that opened onto the main square in Cesky Krumlov. I highly recommend it for an overnight visit. We were lucky enough to wake up to snow in the main square our second morning here!

Hotels in Cesky Krumlov

The Gardena – $ – a family-run guest house at the top of the hill, authentic and highly-rated. Hotel Oldinn – $$ – recently remodeled, this historic hotel in the main square is my top pick in Cesky Krumlov. Where I stayed & where I’d stay if I returned. Hotel Latran – $$ – old-world decor in a pink building, featuring classic Czech food and drinks. Garni Hotel Castle Bridge – $$ – basic rooms overlooking the river, but the real draw of this hotel are their rooms with a balcony. Bellevue Hotel – $$ – this charming, elegant hotel on the edge of town has one of the best fine dining restaurants in the city. Where I’d want to splurge.

View All Hotels in Cesky Krumlov

Airbnbs in Cesky Krumlov

Picturesque rentals are sparse, so opt for an Airbnb mainly if you’re on a budget. Location is everything in Cesky Krumlov — you don’t want to find yourself outside the walls of the city! Here are my top picks, all within walking distance of the main sights.

Authentic Cesky apartment – $ – with a private balcony and castle views, this 16th century apartment (previously a museum) is the best deal in town. Pension Na Fortne – $ – A cozy and bright space in the center of town, with easy river access and a private patio. Double room near the castle – $ – straightforward, clean lodgings nearby Cesky Castle. Apartment No. 7 – A well-appointed apartment featuring homey touches, located on the historical Latrán street. 16th Century Guard Tower Stay – $$ – if you’re after history, look no further. This unique overnight option is steeped in history. 600-year-old whole house – $$ – with 3 floors to yourself, it’s hard to beat this charming and rustic property with wood beams and plenty of character.

New to Airbnb? Here’s $40 off your first booking.

Where to eat

As Cesky Krumlov is frequented mostly by day-trippers, it’s easy to fall into a tourist trap for a quick lunch or dinner. During our visit in February, many restaurants were closed (February is one of the slowest seasons here and in Europe), but that didn’t stop us from scouting out the best food options. Scouring reviews, vetting local recommendations and opting for local cuisine lead to some of the best meals we had in the Czech Republic!

Papa’s Living Restaurant – this restaurant shows up first in most recommended restaurants in the city, and we were pleased to find that our dishes were quite tasty. Both of us ordered daily specials.

Pension Kristinka – this hotel has a downstairs restaurant with a great selection of Czech specialties – I ordered the fish, and my favorite dessert of our trip. According to the house’s history, witches lived here in the 1500s. Cash only.

Hostinec Depo – this warehouse-turned-restaurant has a trendy vibe with large ceilings and local beer. It seemed to have the most locals out of any restaurant in Cesky Krumlov. My chicken dish was delicious.

Le Jardin Restaurant – the highest-rated fine dining restaurant is located in Hotel Bellevue. Unfortunately closed for remodeling during our visit, but I wish I could’ve eaten here.

Traveller’s Restaurant – this is the most basic of all restaurants on this list, situated in a local hostel. If you’re after straightforward Czech dishes in a casual atmosphere, head here. Cash only.

Drunken Coffee – our go-to spot for breakfast and coffee. It’s located just off the river and has takeaway pastries as well.

Jakub Restaurant – also closed during our visit, this restaurant came recommended to us by others for classic Czech dishes in a fine dining atmosphere.

Cesky Krumlov is a small town, and everything inside the medieval walls is walking distance away. The best way to see the town is by exploring the various roads and shops. It’s one of those destinations that you simply need to experience for yourself! 

Visit the main viewpoint – there are a number of city views in Cesky Krumlov, and this one is a great place to start. Located in the center of town, it features views over the rooftops and of Cesky Castle. There’s also a beautiful map of the city that is great for mapping out your walks.

Taken one day apart from the main viewpoint in Cesky Krumlov. We woke up to snow our second morning here.

Take a boat tour – in the warmer months you can take a raft down the river for a different perspective. This tour is under an hour and includes a stop for drinks. Unfortunately, we visited in winter so this wasn’t an option for us.

Explore Cesky Castle – the castle dates back to 1240 and is a must-visit in Cesky Krumlov. You can explore the grounds for free, but entrance to the museum and tower is an additional fee. Tickets include admission to both. The tower views are spectacular and provide a 360 degree view of the city.

The first two photos are the view from the castle tower. The other photos are the view from the castle grounds (no ticket required).

Go antiquing – there’s a number of antique shops in town. They’re hard to miss, but if you want a good starting point, head to this antique store .

Go to a museum – we admittedly only visited the Castle museum during our trip, as we found a number of the museums to be over-the-top tourist attractions. However, I’d suggest checking out this blacksmithing museum for something a bit different – you can even participate in the demonstrations.

Try the local cuisine – some of our favorite spots included Bon Bon for homemade chocolate, Česky Perník for gingerbread and liqueur, Rosmarinus for local spices, and Krčma Šatlava and Hostinec Depo for lunch and dinner. You’ll also want to try a local Trdelník (Chimney Cake)!

My top 3 favorite Cesky Krumlov photo spots — Main viewpoint in town – Google Maps Cesky Krumlov Castle Grounds near Cloak Bridge – Google Maps With a Chimney Cake in hand – Instagram

Cesky Krumlov is the perfect destination to combine with a trip to the Czech capital of Prague . Or consider adding the beautiful architecture and bath houses of Budapest, Hungary .

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Cesky Krumlov Travel Guide

The jewel of South Bohemia, Cesky Krumlov is a must for anyone visiting the Czech Republic. With its narrow cobblestone streets, quaint cafes and pubs, and a castle that could have fallen right out of the pages of a fairytale, Cesky Krumlov has a mystical and magnetic vibe that keeps bringing visitors back for more. For such a small town, Cesky Krumlov packs a lot of history. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cesky Krumlov boasts Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architecture - the most notable piece being the Cesky Krumlov Castle. Ancient yet whimsically colorful, the castle is the centerpiece of the miniature city, overlooking the Vltava River and the nook of land that the main square occupies. 

What Cesky Krumlov lacks in size it makes up for in personality. You’ll find unique local craft stores and other shops around every corner, along with family-owned pubs and restaurants to relax in when you get hungry. You can walk from one side of the city to the other in about 20 minutes, giving you plenty of opportunities to slip down side streets and pop into cozy tea houses and cafes during your journey through town. There are also several local specialties for you to sample, including local brews, desserts, premium blue cheese, and the spring water from the Blansky forest near the city. 

During the summer, Cesky Krumlov comes to life with live music, boaters, gardens, and dozens of cultural events. The city is also surrounded by nature, so you can opt to go biking, hiking, or even horseback riding through forests for the day. During the winter, Cesky Krumlov takes on a more intimate and cozy feel; spend the day exploring before warming your hands with some specialty hot chocolate. There’s no bad time to visit Cesky Krumlov - so much so that some people come back to see it in every season. 

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Introduction to Český Krumlov:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Český Krumlov is famous for its Old Town, with 300 protected medieval buildings, and its castle complex, the second largest in the Czech Republic. Surrounded by rolling hills and the Vltava River, Český Krumlov's cobblestone streets wind past centuries old townhomes, inns, shops, and cafes. Located in the southwest part of the Czech Republic, this picturesque city is home to about 14,000 residents.

Trivia & Quick Points:

The architecture of the Castle and the town is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

The name of the city comes from the German term "krumme aue" (crooked meadow). This evolved to Krumlov. In the 15th century, the adjective "Český" (Czech) was added to distinguish it from the Moravian city, Moravský Krumlov.

The average temperature in July is 61 degrees Fahrenheit. The average temperature in January is 27 degrees Fahrenheit.

The town experienced a period of decay from the end of World War II until 1989, when restoration efforts began in earnest, leading to its inscription into the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992.

Facts & Information:

The original Gothic castle, upon which the town of Český Krumlov was based, was founded by the Lords of Krumlov (one of the branches of the Vítkovci family. around 1253. The Vítkovci family was a branch of the powerful Witigonen family, which has the five-petalled rose in its coat-of-arms. In 1302, the last Witigonen died, and the Witigonens' relatives, the Rosenbergs (Rožmberk), inherited the castle. The Rosenbergs maintained their seat there until 1602. During this time, the town experienced its greatest prosperity, with rapid economic development, construction of new buildings, and the expansion of trade with other cities in the region.

In 1602, the Emperor Rudolf II von Habsbursg bought the Krumlov dominion. In 1622, it was transferred to the Eggenberg family. In the 1680's, under the rule of Johann Christian I. von Eggenberg, farming, construction, and the arts flourished, helping Český Krumlov rise out of a period of stagnation that resulted from the Thirty Years' War.

At the end of 17th century, the Castle Baroque Theatre was built; and the Castle Gardens were renovated. In 1719, a new dynasty, the Schwarzenbergs, inherited Český Krumlov. In the second generation of their rule, Joseph Adam zu Schwarzenberg began extensive reconstruction of the castle. During this time, the castle was developed with a Baroque character.

Towards the end of the 18th century, and in the 19th century, the economy and the arts stagnated. By the middle of the 19th century, the Český Krumlov Castle was no longer the main residence of the Krumlov-Hluboká Schwarzenberg family. In the 20th century, the World Wars caused further stagnation though Krumlov was spared damage from battles or from bombings. At the end of the war, the German population was expelled.

In 1989, the Velvet Revolution brought renewal to Český Krumlov, eventually leading to its inscription into the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1992.

Český Krumlov is a cultural center with a dozen museums and galleries, a medieval castle complex with beautiful gardens, historic and modern theaters, including the Castle Baroque theater built in the 1600's, and the revolving auditorium, built in the 20th Century, and hundreds of cultural events each year.

This small, picturesque town is a frequent host for conferences in the arts and sciences. It also boasts several retreats for artists, writers, and musicians.

Travel & Tourism:

Český Krumlov offers visitors guided tours year-round in several languages, including English. These tours provide visitors with an in-depth view of the history, legends, architechture, and culture of Český Krumlov. One tour focuses on the 400 year old Eggenberg Brewery and gives visitors a chance to sample the local brew.

Highlights & Features of the City and Surroundings:

Situated in a valley with the Blansko Forest to the north and the foothills of Šumava to the south and west, opportunities for nature hikes, biking, and cross-country skiing abound.

The Vltava river, which surrounds the town, can be enjoyed by wooden raft, canoe, or kayak.

The castle complex, with its tower situated on a rocky promontory, offers spectacular views of the Old Town below.

Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visitors will find an enchanted atmosphere, surrounded by more than 300 well-preserved historical buildings, including St. Vitus' Church, built in the early 1400's.

What to Do & See

Take a relaxing cruise on the Vltava River on an old-fashioned wooden raft, or rent a canoe or kayak and explore the river and the edge of town. The adventurous will enjoy the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting on the upper part of the river and the region near the Lipno Dam on the outskirts of the town. For those who wish to spend more than one day rafting, campgrounds, pensions, and hotels are available around the river outside Český Krumlov.

The Old Town has several noteworthy museums and galleries. The Regional Museum houses a permanent collection of about 34,000 objects including Bohemian antiques and archeological finds from the region as well as a detailed model of Český Krumlov at the turn of the 19th century. The Museum of Architecture and Craft, located on the first floor of the historic house, Dlouhá 92, in the centre of Český Krumlov, displays the architectural details of the burgher houses of Český Krumlov from the Middle Ages to today. The museum exhibits timber ceilings, portals, doors and windows, framing and facades, as well as colourful interior decorations.

The 5-Petalled Rose Celebrations, a three-day festival in mid-June, transform Český Krumlov into a Renaissance town once again. The festival harkens back to the time of the greatest development in Český Krumlov, when Vilém and Petr Vok from the House of Rosenberg reigned. Day and night, visitors are treated to concerts; dances; daredevil performances; duels; theatrical performances; arts and crafts; processions of noble ladies and gentlemen, knights, and jugglers; a Medieval Fest; and much more.

Getting There & Away

By Train: Trains from Prague go through České Budějovice. The trip from Prague to Český Krumlov is 4-5 hours. The part from České Budějovice to Český Krumlov is approximately 45 minutes.

By Bus Buses are available from České Budějovice at regular intervals and from Prague several times a day.

Getting Around

The historical town center is a car-free zone. Buses and taxis are available from the train station and areas outside of the Old Town.

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