Český Krumlov is a city in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. It’s bisected by the Vltava River, and dominated by its 13th-century castle. The castle has Gothic, Renaissance and baroque elements, an 11-hectare garden and an original 17th-century baroque theater. There are panoramic views of the old town and the river from the top of its round belltower.
May to September – Ideal weather for walking, rafting, and sightseeing ☀️
October – Autumn colors + fewer tourists 🍂
December – Magical Christmas market with snowy rooftops 🎄
Avoid mid-July weekends if you want to skip big tour crowds
From Prague (~2.5–3 hrs):
By bus (RegioJet, FlixBus): Direct, comfy, and cheap
By train: Slower, ~3.5 hrs, but scenic
By car: ~2.5 hours – good roads and flexibility
From Salzburg or Linz: Around 2–2.5 hrs by car or bus
Český Krumlov Castle – Second-largest castle complex in Czechia, stunning views, and a bear moat 🐻
Castle Tower – Climb for 360° views of the fairytale town 🏯
Historic Old Town – Wandering the cobbled alleys is the real highlight
Latran Street – Pastel-colored medieval houses, cafés, and craft shops
Vltava River Loop – The town curves dramatically around the river 🛶
Baroque Castle Theater – One of the oldest preserved theaters in Europe 🎭
Egon Schiele Art Centrum – Contemporary art in a historic building
St. Vitus Church – Beautiful Gothic church right in the center
Monastery of the Minorites – Peaceful and photogenic spot
Regional Museum – Learn about the town’s rich cultural history
Take a raft or canoe trip around the Vltava River
Explore the castle grounds – including gardens and courtyards
Enjoy a medieval tavern dinner with live music
Catch a classical concert or festival – many happen in the castle grounds
Visit the castle bears – a local curiosity since the Renaissance
Watch sunset from the Castle Tower or Seminární Garden 🌅
Shop for Bohemian glass, puppets, or local handicrafts
Luxury:
Hotel Ruze – A former Jesuit college turned elegant hotel
Bellevue Hotel – Chic and close to the castle
Mid-range:
Hotel Zlatý Anděl – Stylish hotel in the town square
Pension U Města Vídně – Classic charm, great location
Budget:
Hostel 99 – Rustic, social, and friendly
Penzionek Olsakovsky – Charming, affordable guesthouse
Czech dishes to try:
Svíčková na smetaně – Creamy beef sirloin with dumplings
Roast duck with red cabbage and dumplings
Grilled trout from the Vltava River
Trdelník (chimney cake) – Tourist fave 🍩
Apple strudel, Koláče, and Czech beer 🍺
Where to eat:
Krčma v Šatlavské ulici – Medieval tavern with open fire grills 🍖
Papa’s Living Restaurant – River views + international food
Jakub Restaurant – Elegant Czech dining
U Dwau Maryí (Two Marys) – Local cuisine in a historical setting
Laibon – Great vegetarian spot right on the river
This is a storybook medieval town, untouched by time
Loved by artists, musicians, and romantic travelers
Summer festivals include Five-Petalled Rose Festival (costumes, parades, and sword fights!)
The town has a laid-back, magical vibe, especially in the early morning or evening when crowds clear out