D5–D7: Český Krumlov—A Picturesque Medieval Town on the Vltava River

Nestled in the South Bohemia region of Czechia, Český Krumlov enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, charming Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and a dramatic castle perched above the winding Vltava River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved medieval core and vibrant cultural scene, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking picturesque beauty. Whether exploring the castle's extensive grounds, enjoying the lively atmosphere of its town square, or relaxing by the riverside, Český Krumlov offers a timeless escape.

Accidentally saw a hot air balloon flying near the Castle Tower.

Castle Tower and St. Jost Church

TRANSPORT FROM PRAGUE

By Bus

• Since the train station in Český Krumlov is farther from downtown, taking a bus is a better choice.

  
  

  Český Krumlov map

  
  
• Consider your accommodation location, bus schedules, and convenience for boarding and alighting when deciding between FlixBus or Student Agency.
• I took Student Agency from Prague, Na Knížecí 🔗[Map] → Český Krumlov, AN 🔗[Map].
• In Prague Na Knížecí, head to Platform 1.

  
  

  Prague, Na Knížecí Bus Terminal. The yellow indicates Platform 1 for Student Agency.

  
  

  Prague, Na Knížecí (Platform 1)

  
  

GOOD RESTAURANTS & COOL SHOPS

1. Authentic cafe 🔗[Map]: A cozy, family-owned restaurant open from breakfast to dinner.
2. My Saigon 🔗[Map]: Asian cuisine
3. Krčma Šatlava 🔗[Map]: Ideal for meat lovers
4. Ladislava Šmejkalová - DISC CLASSIC 🔗[Map]: Really cool CD store

   
   

   Unique souvenirs designed for music enthusiasts

   
   
5. Kovárna Héfaistos 🔗[Map]: Iron craft shop

   
   

   Five-petal roses hanging on the wall

   
   
6. Souvenir shop 🔗[Map]: A small shop located at the corner next to Museum Tortury. Its limited space might explain why it offers budget-friendly mementos.

   
   

   Castle Tower for CZK 159, Pin for CZK 60

     

GOOD HOTELS

1. Villa Gardena 🔗[Map]
• Located near the bus station. A well-equipped and clean apartment with a nice view.

FUN THINGS TO DO

1. Free walking tour—WISEMAN
• I always love walking tours because they are a fantastic way to explore a city’s highlights, learn engaging stories and local history, discover hidden gems, and receive tips for further exploration.
• You'll learn about the three most prominent families in Český Krumlov: the Rosenbergs, the Eggenbergs, and the Schwarzenbergs.
• Tour Times: 
• April–October: 10:30 AM, 2 PM (and 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays in June and July)
• November–December: 2 PM 
• Tour Length: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
• Starting Point: In front of the information center at the main square 🔗[Map]
2. Boat trip
• Raft and Canoe
• Historical Sightseeing Cruise
3. Tasting local beer from Pivovar Eggenberg

     💰Tip: Free restrooms at parking lots: P1, P2

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

1. Five-Petalled Rose Festival, June
2. International Music Festival in Český Krumlov, July–August
3. Saint Wenceslas Celebrations, September

TOP ATTRACTIONS

1. Český Krumlov Castle 🔗[Map]
• Tours
• Tour Route I - Český Krumlov Castle (Renaissance Rooms & Baroque Suite): CZK 300 , 55 minutes 👍 Highly recommend!
• Tour Route II - Český Krumlov Castle (19th Century Interiors): CZK 260, 55 minutes
• Baroque Castle Theatre in Český Krumlov: CZK 360, 45 minutes 👍 Highly recommend!
• Castle Museum and Castle Tower: CZK 280 👍 Highly recommend!
• Horse Stables: CZK 80

  
  

  Tour meeting points
  
  

  

  Castle Museum and Castle Tower
  
  

  

  Castle Tower and the 2nd Courtyard
  
  

  

  Renaissance painting at the 3rd Courtyard
  
  

  

  Coat of arms of the Rosenbergs (Castle Museum)
  
  

  

  Golden Carriage (Tour Route I)
  
  

  

  Cloak Bridge
  
  

  

  Castle Bear
  

  
  

2. Viewpoints
• In Castle Area (from east or west):
• Castle Tower
• On the way from 2nd courtyard to the 3rd courtyard 
• On the Cloak Bridge 🔗[Map]
• Platform in front of the Horse Stables (go through the door) 🔗[Map]
• Outside Castle (from east or west):
• Near the bus station 🔗[Map]
• Platform in front of Hotel Růže 🔗[Map]
• Church on the hill 🔗[Map]
  
  

  

  Viewpoints in Castle Area (the Sun symbol)
  
  

  

  Historic Centre of Český Krumlov
  

  
  

  

  Historic Centre of Český Krumlov

  
  
3. St. Vitus Church 🔗[Map]

   
   

   St. Vitus Church and the Vltava River
   
   

   

   St. Vitus Church

   
   

   

   St. Vitus Church (2D graph)

   
   
4. Minorite Monastery 🔗[Map]
5. Regional Museum 🔗[Map]
6. Museum Fotoatelier Seidel 🔗[Map]
7. Egon Schiele Center 🔗[Map]
8. Walking along the Vltava River

   
   

   Český Krumlov City Park
   
   

   

   Český Krumlov City Park

   
   

   

   Castle Tower glimpsed through a charming alleyway

   
   

   

   View of the Castle Tower from the Barber's Bridge

   
   

👉 Article list: Czechia