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Český Krumlov – Pride of the Rožmberk Lords of South Bohemia

One of the most beautiful small historical towns in Europe. It is particularly known for its surrounding beautiful natural scenery as well as the historical, especially Renaissance architecture. The city seems almost like a stage set, to show off the period. It had its heyday thanks to the powerful Rožmberk nobility, who built themselves a family seat so lavish that it could rival the seat of the then Czech rulers in Prague. Due to its popularity, Český Krumlov is facing a similar problem to the centre of Prague – the Old Town can get overcrowded. During peak tourist season, visitors outnumber locals many times over, so we do recommend choosing a different time to visit, preferably during the working week. If you decide to stay in one of the many local romantic hotels, you will get to enjoy a walk through the nearby streets in near solitude.

  • © Město Český Krumlov
  • © Město Český Krumlov
  • Revolving auditorium © Město Český Krumlov

Don’t miss:

Castle and Château
Zámek 59, Český Krumlov    zamek-ceskykrumlov.cz
Krumlov castle château is the second largest in the Czech Republic. This highly valued complex is captivating not only for its romantic appearance and sgraffito façades, but also its richly decorated interior. There are several sightseeing tours, where you can get acquainted with the life of the nobility from the 16th to the 19th century (you’ll get to see the original furniture and decorations in the interiors), while the equally interesting castle museum and the observation tower are open all year round.

Castle Theatre
A great example of Baroque aristocratic theatre. The original stage set, orchestra pit, stage and also a number of period costumes and stage decorations have been preserved here.

Castle Garden
The extensive castle garden makes for a very pleasant stroll. It retains a great many Baroque and Rococo elements.

Revolving auditorium
Zámecká zahrada, Český Krumlov    otacivehlediste.cz
This popular modern-day theatre stage is situated in the beautiful castle park, which together with the Bellaria summerhouse make impressive backdrops, especially during evening performances. The revolving auditorium is open during the summer season and oversubscribed, so you do have to book tickets in advance.

Latrán
What started as a few dwellings beneath the castle gradually became a separate village, and eventually merged with Český Krumlov town. The Latrán is one of the most romantic parts of the city, with many original, mainly Renaissance houses.

Inner town
The historical centre of Český Krumlov features a number of Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Here on Krumlov town square stands the Gothic church of St Vitus – one of the landmarks of the city. The inner town is romantically enveloped by a meander of the Vltava river.

Monasteries
The large monastery complex of the Minorites and Clarisses is located near Krumlov Castle. To be seen here are the original historical monastery premises, an interactive human skills exhibition and a restored monastery garden. The whole complex comes alive with numerous cultural events and regular craft workshops.

Egon Schiele Art Centre
Široká 71, Český Krumlov    esac.cz
One of the best representatives of Austrian modernism, Egon Schiele was much attached to Český Krumlov, his mother’s birthplace, where he often stayed and painted. In addition to the exhibition on his life and work, you can see exhibitions of classical and contemporary art here.

Český Krumlov Regional Museum
  Horní 152, Český Krumlov    muzeumck.cz
The museum introduces visitors to the history of the city and château. Its main attraction is a detailed ceramic model of Český Krumlov. 

Josef Seidel Photo Studio
Linecká 272, Český Krumlov    seidel.cz
The Secession Building of the Seidel Photo Studio tells the story of the beginnings of professional photography and local pioneers of this craft.

Great places to eat & drink:

Apotheka Cocktail Bar
Latrán 46, Český Krumlov    facebook.com
A stylish cocktail bar, situated in an original historical pharmacy.

Hostinec Depo
Latrán 74, Český Krumlov    depokrumlov.cz
The Depot Inn serves great tank beer and no-nonsense Czech cuisine in a stylish interior.

Kolektiv
Latrán 13, Český Krumlov    facebook.com
A modern café, bistro and wine bar. Amon other things, you can sample choice coffee and properly home-made desserts. A great place to have breakfast.

Masná 130
Masná 130, Český Krumlov    masna130.cz
An oasis of calm right in the centre of the busy Old Town serves excellent coffee from the Prague roasters Has Bean. Also on offer are coffees from guest roasters.

IDEÁL
Horská 70, Český Krumlov    facebook.com
A local café with its own roasting shop is located a short distance from the Old Town, on the route to Křížový Vrch hill.

U Dwou Maryí [The Two Marys]
Parkán 104, Český Krumlov    2marie.cz
This medieval tavern in the Old Town is not to be missed. Taste some good old Czech cuisine in a historical setting. In summer, guests get to use the garden with views of the Vltava river, the Latrán, and the castle.

More about the destination:

  ckrumlov.info

When:

A trip to Český Krumlov is a good idea at any time of year, though being so popular a destination we recommend going outside the main tourist season.

How to get here:

Direct bus services leave from Prague, Na Knížecí (Metro B, Anděl), the journey to Český Krumlov takes about 3 hours (we recommend booking tickets ahead).