Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic is a medieval town about 2 hours from Prague that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The historic center with its colorful buildings and gigantic castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. Surrounded by green hills and with the Vlatva River winding through the town like a horseshoe, Cesky Krumlov is a must-visit in the Czech Republic. Find out what are the best sights to do in fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic!
8 best things to do in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Cesky Krumlov has long been a hidden gem in Czech Republic because of the communist era. Until it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992, and for good reason! When you walk through Cesky Krumlov, you have the feeling of going back in time. The many, colorful houses and buildings are in incredibly good condition and feel almost fairytale-like. Many travelers visit Cesky Krumlov as a day trip from Prague, Munich or Vienna. However, we recommend spending at least one night here. Then it will not be so crowded and you will have enough time to admire the sights in Cesky Krumlov.
1) Český Krumlov castle
The absolute attraction to do in Cesky Krumlov is the castle of the Rozenberg family from the 13th century. This is one of the largest castle complexes in the world and the second largest castle in the Czech Republic. Inside the castle complex you will find a museum, you can climb the tower or visit the castle gardens. Because the castle is so large, there are several castle tours you can do. Opening hours vary by season and can be found on this official website. You can visit the beautiful courtyard of the castle all year round though and at any time of day.
DID YOU KNOW.: The moat at the castle is dry and bears now live here, according to the ancient tradition of the castle. These are bears that were intercepted in the airport and can no longer live in the wild.
2) Cloak Bridge (Plastovy Most)
Walking across the courtyard of the castle complex, you can continue walking up to the Cloak Bridge. This gigantic, stone bridge consists of five stories and is about 40 meters high. The bridge is connected to the castle and you can walk through the upper corridors to get from one part to another. From the top of the bridge you have a fantastic view of Cesky Krumlov and the surrounding, hilly landscapes. But be sure to take the time to go all the way down to the bridge as well. Only there will you notice how impressive the Cloak Bridge is!
3) Historical center (Old Town)
It is thanks to its historic center that Cesky Krumlov became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colorful, medieval houses surrounding the central Svornosti Square tell a lot of history with their facades. All around it is a tangle of narrow, cobbled streets. On the central square you will also find the 14th-century town hall of Cesky Krumlov. Near the square you will find the pink St. Vitus Church that towers high above the downtown area. You may have already seen the church from the viewpoint at the castle, but now you can also go inside and take a look!
4) Latran district
A 10-minute walk from the central square in Cesky Krumlov you are in the Latran district. These two parts of town are connected by a wooden bridge that was completely renovated in 2024. The Latran district is located adjacent to the castle, and it was also here where the servants of the castle lived. Now you can still find houses with beautiful, painted facades. The houses now house mostly nice stores and cozy restaurants such as Svejk Restaurant, which is highly recommended!
5) Minorite monastery
As you dive into the narrow streets of the Latran neighborhood, you will most likely bump into the tucked-away Minorite monastery. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov. This monastery is extra special because monks and nuns once lived here together. Now it remains a beautiful building with both Gothic and Baroque details. Especially the accompanying garden is fantastic, where you can unwind on the grass. In summer, concerts are also regularly held in the garden.
6) Boat trip on Vlatva river
Those who want to discover Cesky Krumlov from a unique perspective should definitely consider a boat trip. You can take a boat ride on a wooden raft down the winding Vlatva River. During this cruise, you will sail past the many restaurants and historic buildings that are right next to the water and almost make you feel like you have landed in Venice.
7) Taste Český Krumlov beer
The Czech Republic is the birthplace of lager and therefore has a strong beer culture. Cesky Krumlov also has its own beer and you can visit the “Port 1560” brewery, where beer has been brewed for more than 500 years. The unique thing about this beer is that it is brewed according to an old (and very natural) recipe, and therefore only keeps for a few months. Therefore, the only place you can taste this beer is in Cesky Krumlov, either in the brewery itself or in one of the many cafes or restaurants. Outside of Cesky Krumlov you will not find this beer anywhere!
8) Hluboká Castle
The Czech Republic has no fewer than 2,000 castles. Hluboká Castle is perhaps one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic and definitely worth a visit. You can visit the gardens or take a guided tour that gives you an insight into the luxurious life of Czech nobility in the 18th century. Hluboká Castle is a 45-minute drive from Cesky Krumlov. Or combine your visit to this fairytale castle with Ceske Budejovice, another town in South Bohemia, Czech Republic.
Where to stay in Český Krumlov
Cesky Krumlov is not large and in 20 minutes you can walk from one side of the town to the other. Still, we recommend staying here for at least one night so you can enjoy its charm without the many day tourists. We can very much Hotel Bellevue a stone’s throw from the castle and with fantastic breakfast! Alternatively, the Hotel Old Inn with its medieval charm is also highly recommended, located on Svornosti Square.
How to visit Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic
From Prague, you can take a direct train once a day that will take you to Cesky Krumlov in less than 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take the RegioJet bus or Flixbus from Prague. There are several buses a day and this ride takes 3 hours. If, like us, you want to discover more of the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic, the best way is to rent a car rental. If you are limited in time, you can also take a day tour from Prague to Cesky Krumlov!
Best time to visit Cesky Krumlov, Czechia
The best time to visit Cesky Krumlov is in spring (May and June) and autumn (September and October). Then the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscapes are beautiful. The summer months are also very popular, but then Cesky Krumlov can be very crowded. If you want to experience Cesky Krumlov in a unique way, go like us in December: then it is Christmas season, the town is beautifully lit and there is an authentic Christmas market.
Do you still have questions about what to do in Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic? Let us know in a comment below! Looking for more information about your next trip? Please do not hesitate to contact us or send an email to info@snoezelsontheroad.com
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