The best things to see and do in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Cesky Krumlov is an unique medieval town in the south of the Czech Republic. The town looks like the perfect real-life fairytale getaway and is definitely worth a visit once you are in Czech Republic. The city is located on the Vltava River and the historic center is completely car-free, making the city perfect for exploring on foot. As the town remained unchanged since the 14th century it feels like you are going back in time. In this article we share the best tips for the most beautiful places and sights in the most beautiful city in the Czech Republic. These are the best things to see and do in Cesky Krumlov (Český Krumlov).
Cesky Krumlov Castle
One of the most important and eye-catching sights in Cesky Krumlov is the imposing Cesky Krumlov castle. This enormous castle is the second largest castle in the Czech Republic and is the eye-catcher in the city. The castle was built in the 13th century and has a museum where you can read everything about castle life back in the days. A large part of the enormous castle can be visited for free, but if you also want to view the rooms, the entrance fee is 100 czk (€4) per person.
Climb the colorful castle tower
The most beautiful sight of the city and the most beautiful part of the Cesky Krumlov castle is the colorful Castle Tower. The tower can be admired from all angles in the city, but the most fun is to climb the 150 steps to the top. Once at the top you can enjoy a great view of the entire city and its surroundings. The entrance fee for the Castle Tower is 100 czk (€4) per person.
Cloak Bridge (Lavka pod Zamken)
Whoever thought that the Cesky Krumlov tower and it’s stunning Castle Tower were the only eye-catchers in the city is wrong. Don’t miss the huge Cloak Bridge (Lavka pod Zamken) located under the castle. The Cloak Bridge is one of the most photogenic spots in the entire city. It took about a hundred years to complete the build of this unique 3-story stone bridge. The unique architecture makes the Cloak Bridge an absolute must-see in Cesky Krumlov.
Latran District
Cesky Krumlov consists of several districts and one of the areas in the city that you should definitely not miss is Latran District at the bottom of the hill below the castle. In this medieval part of the city you will find the most beautiful, colorful houses, restaurants, cobbled streets and boutiques. The entire town is protected by UNESCO which means the compete town is perfectly preserved.
Church of St Vitus
The St. Vitus Church – or Church of Saint Vitus – is one of the must-sees in Cesky Krumlov. The church is built on a plateau, so that the structure rises above the rest of the buildings. The Gothic church can be visited for free. It took over 30 years to built this Roman Catholic Church in the 13th century which makes the church one of the oldest buildings in the city.
Monastery of Minorities
Another special place in Cesky Krumlov is the Monastery of Minoreties. This monastery is located in the Latran District and especially the beautiful, huge garden is worth a walk. The monastery garden is open every day from seven to seven. You can also take a look at the monastery during spring and summer months. The entrance fee for this is 150 czk per person.
Next to the Monastery of Minorities you can spend the night in one of the most beautiful hotels in the city, Monastery Garden Bistro & Rooms.
The historical city centre
As mentioned before, the entire town is protected by UNESCO which makes Cesky Krumlov a perfect city to stroll around. The historic centre is absolutely stunning. Make sure to visit Svornosti Square which is the main central square.
Explore the Vlatna river
Cesky Krumlov is located in a loop of the Vltava River, so much of the city revolves around life in and around the water. One of the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov is therefore to take a trip on the river. Rent a canoe, kayak or paddle board and explore the city from the water. At various places in the city it is possible to rent a canoe or boat that will take you to the other side of the city where you will be picked up by a car or van.
Day trip from Cesky Krumlov to the Hluboka Castle
When you’ve seen everyting in Cesky Krumlov – or before you drive there -, I advise you to make a small detour to visit the beautiful Hluboka castle. Hluboka Castle is located about a thirty-five minutes drive north of Cesky Krumlov and is one of the most beautiful fairy-tale castles in the Czech Republic. You can park your car in the village of Hluboká nad Vltavou from where you can walk to the castle. The road there is quite steep, but doable for everyone. Once you have arrived at the gigantic castle you can take a nice walk through the castle garden (free) or take a look at the castle itself. At the Hluboká castle it is possible to book different tours. The prices for a tour start at 150 czk per person.
Opening hours Hluboka castle
- May to August: 9am to 5.30pm.
- April to October: 9am to 4.30pm.
- November to March: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The castle is open every day of the week except Mondays. On Mondays, the castle is only open in July and August.
Where to drink and eat in Cesky Krumlov
- Non solo caffé: The best coffees in town
- Lunch at Restaurant 99
- Vietnamese food at MY SAIGON
- The best pizzas at Nonna Gina
- Craft beers in Cesky Krumlov: Bistro 53 Beer Point
Where to stay in Cesky Krumlov
In Cesky Krumlov there are many hotels and guesthouses where you can stay. Are you traveling with a motorhome, caravan or tent? Even then there are various options. We stayed at one of the nicest camping spots we have stayed in the Czech Republic, Kemp Krumlov. This camp site is located north of the city, right on the Vltava River. From here you can easily walk to the city in about 15 minutes. It is also possible to rent a canoe or boat here.
Prefer to stay in a nice hotel? Below you will find some nice places in Cesky Krumlov:
How many days for a Cesky Krumlov city trip
For your city trip I recommend at least one full day. The city is relatively small and can easily be explored on foot. Nevertheless, we are glad that we have set aside an extra half day. The atmosphere in Cesky Krumlov is so wonderful, just like all the sights. All the small alleys ensure that you always have the feeling that you have ended up in a different place and there is always something new to see. We are huge fans of Cesky Krumlov and we definitely recommend you to visit the city during a trip through the Czech Republic.
How to get to Cesky Krumlov
As mentioned, Cesky Krumlov is located in the South Bohemia region in the south of the Czech Republic. From Prague it takes about two hours to travel to Cesky Krumlov. Do you have enough time for a nice trip through the Czech Republic? Then travel half an hour further south for a relaxing day at the largest lake in the Czech Republic, Lake Lipno. The best place to start your trip in the Czech Republic is Prague, the capital which you can easily fly to from any destination in the world. I recommend renting a car once you’ve arrived in Prague to explore the rest of the country.