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Český Krumlov, Česko - Things to Do in Český Krumlov

Things to Do in Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov, Česko - Complete Travel Guide

Český Krumlov is a breathtaking medieval town in South Bohemia that feels like stepping into a fairytale. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved 13th-century architecture, dominated by a magnificent castle complex that towers over the winding Vltava River. The town's cobblestone streets, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings create an enchanting atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries. Despite its small size, Český Krumlov offers an incredibly rich cultural experience with world-class museums, traditional Czech cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. The town serves as a perfect base for exploring the Bohemian countryside while providing easy access to both Prague and Austria. Its compact medieval center can be explored on foot in a day, but the town's charm and numerous cultural offerings make it worthy of a longer stay.

Top Things to Do in Český Krumlov

Explore Český Krumlov Castle Complex

Wander through one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, featuring magnificent courtyards, gardens, and the famous Baroque theater. The castle towers offer spectacular panoramic views over the medieval town and surrounding countryside. Don't miss the beautifully preserved Renaissance and Baroque interiors showcasing centuries of aristocratic life.

Booking Tip: Castle tours cost around 180-320 CZK depending on the route chosen. Book online in advance during peak season (June-September) as tours often sell out. The best photography light is in the morning, and English tours run several times daily.

Stroll Through the Historic Old Town

Meander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful medieval houses, artisan shops, and cozy cafes. The Old Town Square serves as the heart of the historic center, surrounded by Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Every corner reveals hidden courtyards, ancient doorways, and perfectly preserved medieval details.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but guided walking tours cost 200-400 CZK and provide valuable historical context. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds. Many shops close on Sundays.

Take a Vltava River Rafting Trip

Experience the town from a unique perspective by rafting or canoeing down the gentle Vltava River. The peaceful journey offers stunning views of the castle and medieval buildings from below while passing through beautiful Bohemian countryside. Most trips include traditional Czech lunch stops at riverside restaurants.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost 800-1200 CZK including equipment and transport. Book with established operators like Malecek or Pujcovna Raftingu. Best conditions are April-October, with warmest weather June-August. No experience necessary for gentle routes.

Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum

Discover works by the famous Austrian expressionist painter Egon Schiele, who lived in Český Krumlov in 1911. The museum houses an impressive collection of his paintings and drawings, along with rotating exhibitions of contemporary Central European art. The building itself is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture.

Booking Tip: Admission costs 180 CZK for adults with student discounts available. Open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays except in high season. Audio guides in English cost extra 50 CZK. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit.

Experience Traditional Czech Cuisine

Savor authentic Bohemian dishes in medieval taverns and restaurants throughout the old town. Try local specialties like goulash, roasted duck with sauerkraut, and traditional Czech beer in atmospheric settings with vaulted ceilings and period decor. Many restaurants feature live folk music and traditional entertainment.

Booking Tip: Restaurant meals range from 300-800 CZK per person. Popular spots like Krcma v Satlavske require reservations, especially for dinner. Local beer costs 40-80 CZK. Lunch is often better value than dinner, and many places offer English menus.

Getting There

Český Krumlov is located about 180 kilometers south of Prague and is most easily reached by bus or car. Student Agency buses run regularly from Prague's Na Knížecí station, taking approximately 3 hours and costing around 200-300 CZK. Train connections require transfers and take longer, though the scenic route through South Bohemia is beautiful. For those driving, the journey from Prague takes about 2.5 hours via the A4 and Route 3. The town is also accessible from Austria, with Linz just 90 minutes away, making it popular for cross-border day trips.

Getting Around

Český Krumlov's historic center is compact and best explored on foot, with most attractions within a 10-minute walk of each other. Cars are restricted in the medieval core, and parking is available in designated areas outside the old town for 20-40 CZK per hour. Local buses connect the town center with surrounding areas and some hotels, running every 30-60 minutes. Taxis are available but rarely necessary given the town's small size. Many visitors enjoy renting bicycles to explore the surrounding countryside and reach nearby attractions like the Zlatá Koruna monastery.

Where to Stay

Historic Old Town Center
Castle District
Latrán Quarter
Plešivec Area
Horní Brána
Široka Street Area

Food & Dining

Český Krumlov's dining scene perfectly balances traditional Czech cuisine with modern culinary innovation. The old town is filled with atmospheric medieval taverns serving hearty Bohemian classics like svíčková, goulash, and roasted meats, often accompanied by excellent local Budweiser Budvar or Egenberg beer. Family-run restaurants in converted Gothic cellars and Renaissance buildings provide authentic experiences, while newer establishments offer contemporary takes on regional ingredients. Prices are reasonable compared to Prague, with quality meals available from 200-600 CZK. Don't miss trying trdelník (chimney cake) from street vendors, and be sure to sample local specialties like Bohemian dumplings and regional wines from nearby South Moravian vineyards.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Czechia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Sangam Indian Restaurant Prague

4.5 /5
(3972 reviews) 2

Pepř a Sůl

4.8 /5
(2615 reviews) 2

Sushi Viet

4.8 /5
(1134 reviews) 1

LA PETITE CONVERSATION

4.7 /5
(1058 reviews) 2

Terasa U Zlaté studně

4.6 /5
(963 reviews) 4

Tresind - indian restaurant

4.8 /5
(694 reviews) 2

When to Visit

The best time to visit Český Krumlov is during late spring through early fall (May-September) when weather is warmest and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months (June-August) offer the most activities and longest daylight hours but also bring the largest crowds and highest prices. Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) provide excellent weather with fewer tourists and beautiful seasonal colors. Winter visits (November-March) offer a magical snow-covered medieval atmosphere with Christmas markets in December, though some attractions have reduced hours and river activities are unavailable. Weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers regardless of season.

Insider Tips

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour bus crowds and capture the best photography light on the colorful medieval buildings
Climb the castle tower just before sunset for spectacular golden hour views over the old town and Vltava River
Book accommodation well in advance for summer visits, as the town has limited hotels and popular places fill up months ahead

Explore Activities in Český Krumlov