Day 1 – Historical Cesky Krumlov
Enjoy your first day in the main historical center of the town, which is truly like a snapshot from a postcard! Discover its meandering cobbled streets, beautiful orange-roofed houses, and colorfully painted facades.
1. Historic Center
The historic center of Cesky Krumlov is so gorgeous that it’s now a UNESCO-protected area! Over a period of hundreds of years, the town was peaceful and avoided conflict. Because of this, the houses and streets you see really are the same as they were all that time ago!
Don’t miss Svornosti Square, which is the main central square. Here, you’ll find the 14th-century town hall and the plague column, built to honor the many plague victims of Cesky Krumlov.
2. Church of St Vitus
The church of St Vitus dominates the skyline of Cesky Krumlov. It sits within the historical center, a 1-minute walk from the main square, on the riverbank. Spot the spire with the pink-painted details!
Entry fee: Free! This is as long as there is no mass or any other religious events occurring.
3. Cloak Bridge (Lavka pod Zamken)
This uniquely designed 3-story stone bridge, named the Cloak Bridge, connects to the castle and was pioneering for its time. Finished in the late 1700s, it took nearly 100 years to complete.
The corridors within the bridge connect to various different places in the castle. For example, the top story connects to the castle gardens. The Cloak Bridge is one of the most impressive sights in town and an absolute must-see in Cesky Krumlov.
Tip: The view from the top is phenomenal, but make sure to see the bridge from below too!
4. Cesky Krumlov Castle
The castle of Cesky Krumlov is the second-largest castle in the country outside of Prague! You can spend a good few hours here wandering around the grounds, exploring the beautiful gardens and various buildings.
The castle museum below has many of the beautiful historical items on display from the castle. It also has detailed information so that it’s possible to learn about the castle without joining an official tour.
Tip: At night, the castle is beautifully lit up and shines across the town.
Opening Times & Entry Fees
Depending on the time of the year, the castle opening times and the tours can change. Generally, though, the museum, tower, and exterior of the castle are accessible every day from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, make sure to check the official website for more details.
Cesky Krumlov card
On arrival in Cesky Krumlov, it’s well worth purchasing the museum card at a price of 400 CZK (~ 15.25 EUR). This is one card that grants access to five of the main museums in the town. These are:
- Fotoatelier Seidel
- Castle Museum and Tower (does not include the castle tour)
- Regional Museum
- Egon Schiele Art Centrum
- Monasteries
5. Latran Houses
After visiting the castle, pass through this Latran district of Cesky Krumlov, nestled on the hillside next to the castle. This is a charming medieval part of the town, home to different colored houses. Many years ago, the servants of the castle used to live in this neighborhood. Now, the area is home to cute little shops and restaurants.
Also discover: The Spa Town, Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic
6. Monastery of the Minorites
Within the Latran district lies a peaceful monastery, and like everywhere else in Cesky Krumlov, is absolutely beautiful! It’s well worth a visit, particularly for its gardens and interior murals. Its story is slightly unusual in that, at one time, both monks and nuns lived here together!
Opening Times & Entry fee
In the main spring/summer season, the monastery is open every day from 10 AM – 6 PM. The garden is open every day from 7 AM – 7 PM. Note that the opening times vary in the winter.
The regular entry for an adult is 150 CZK (5.70 EUR). However, if you have a Cesky Krumlov Card, the monastery is included in the price.
7. Canoe or Kayak on the Vltava River
One of the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov is to paddle along the water of the Vltava River. Czech people love their watersports, and Cesky Krumlov is no exception! There are tonnes of canoe/kayak shops where you can hire a boat, do a guided tour, and explore the river for the day. Each shop will offer different packages, so you can make the journey as long or as short as you want.
Additionally, take a picnic for lunch and stop off in an idyllic remote spot or at a restaurant, as there are many along the river!
8. Museum Fotoatelier Seidel
This photography museum is truly fascinating for both people who have an interest in photography and those who don’t. Hannah and I definitely have, haha! The museum is the former studio of photographer Josef Seidel, and it literally takes you on a journey through the process of photography in the old way and the unique pictures that have been found at his atelier.
Everything is preserved almost exactly as it would have been when it was in use. From the darkroom equipment to his negatives and personal notes. It’s truly unique and a fantastic addition to your days in Cesky Krumlov.
9. Hluboká Castle
There are over 2,000 castles in the Czech Republic, and Hluboká Castle is one of the most precious. A real fairytale castle with a white facade, stunning gardens, and picturesque from every angle!
Plan to spend at least two hours discovering its gardens, art gallery, tea room, chapel, and even the inside! From Cesky Krumlov, Hluboká Castle is about 35 minutes by car and 70 minutes by public transport.
We recommend to rent a car in Czech Republic through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Where to Stay in Cesky Krumlov
Because of how ancient Cesky Krumlov is, most places to stay look like something from a storybook. Monastery Garden is a charming 10-bed boutique-style hotel located next to the Krumlov monastery and castle. A very ‘home away from home’ feel! Find all hotels in the town.
Getting to Cesky Krumlov
The old city center of Cesky Krumlov is a small, walkable area with no cars allowed in most parts. From one side to the other will take you about 20 minutes.
The easiest way to get to Cesky Krumlov is via direct train from Prague in under 3 hours. This is the most efficient way and is also the prettiest, watching the beautiful Czech countryside fly by.
A slightly cheaper alternative is to take the RegioJet bus from Prague in approximately 3 hours. For those who would prefer to do a day trip from Prague to Cesky Krumlov, there are many tours to choose from. All of which have coach travel included.
Lastly, you can also travel to the colorful Cesky Krumlov by car. This option gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make up your own schedule. However, once you’re in the city, everything is explored on foot.
We recommend to rent a car in Czech Republic through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Best Time to Visit
Cesky Krumlov is great to visit at any time of the year! During the summer, you can enjoy watersports and wander the medieval streets with ice cream in hand. But the winters are magical when the castle is covered in a blanket of snow.
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This is a great guide – looking forward to exploring Cesky Krumlov :) Can I ask where you took the picture of you looking out at the Church of St. Vitus?
Thanks Naomi. It’s a park next to the Cloak Bridge in Cesky Krumlov. Enjoy your time there!