Cesky Krumlov is not one of the most famous towns in the Czech Republic as it tends to be overshadowed by more famous destinations such as Prague or Karlovy Vary, which is why it’s not on the main travel itineraries. It’s a pity, because this UNESCO World Heritage medieval town is one of the most beautiful corners of the country and definitely worth a detour. Read on to find out more about what to see in Cesky Krumlov.
What to see in Cesky Krumlov?
Cesky Krumlov is built around a meander of the Vltava River, in fact, the entire old town is surrounded by water which makes the town even more enchanting. This fairy-tale place is perfect for strolling around and getting lost in its streets, so here is an itinerary with all the things to see in Cesky Krumlov.
Old Town of Cesky Krumlov
The tourist area of Cesky Krumlov is divided into three zones: the castle complex, the Latran district and the old town, which is the area between the meander gorges. In this part of the town you should see the town hall square and its colourful facades. You can also stroll along the river bank.
Cesky Krumlov Castle
The most important attraction to see in Cesky Krumlov is the town’s castle, which dates back to the 13th century and passed through the hands of the country’s most powerful families until it became state property in the 20th century. Inside the complex there are several points of interest such as the red gate, which is the main entrance, the old stables, the small castle and the bear moat, where we can still see some bears today. It is a highly recommended visit to make with children.
Admission for adults costs 300kn and it’s best to get up early to see it as it fills up very quickly with tourists. If you want to climb the tower of the small castle you’ll have to pay an extra €2, but it’s worth it for the views of the city.
Latran Quarter, a must-see in Cesky Krumlov
The Latran district is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Cesky Krumlov. It curves across the river and through the Budejovice Gate, the only original 16th-century gate still standing. Formerly home to craftsmen and castle workers, today it’s more of a tourist area where you’ll see buskers and street musicians, making for an even more enjoyable visit.
The main street is Calle Latrán, where there are numerous craft and souvenir shops. In the same neighbourhood, you can stroll along the riverbank, which is a quiet and beautiful place.
Churches to see in Cesky Krumlov
There are a couple of churches in Cesky Krumlov that we should include in our itinerary when we visit the town. In the Latrán district you’ll find the Church of St. Justus on the river bank, one of the town’s most characteristic buildings dating from the 16th century.
The Church of St. Vitus is located in the Old Town, and dates back to the 15th century. The most characteristic features of the building are the choir and the organ. Entry to both churches is free and they are open every day.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What to see around Cesky Krumlov?
Between Cesky Krumlov and Prague, there are several medieval villages and small towns nestling between the meandering Vltava River that are worth a visit, such as Ceske Budejovice. There are also castles in the area, such as Hluboká nad Vltavou.
Ceske Budejovice
Ceske Budejovice is another beautiful medieval town just half an hour’s drive from Cesky Krumlov and very well served by public transport, making it an ideal place for a day trip. Once there, the main sights to see are the large town square with all the surrounding buildings and St. Nicholas Cathedral.
We also highlight the Black Tower, from where you’ll get the best panoramic views of the whole city and the Budweiser brewery, where you’ll learn all the secrets about brewing Budweiser beer.
Prague
It’s usually the other way around, with those staying in Prague taking a day trip to Ceske Budejovice. However, it can also be the other way around. It takes about 2 hours by car, similar to the time it would take by train.
Prague is the most spectacular city in the country and in one day you won’t have time to do much more than stroll around and get a general idea of the city. Must-see sights include the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, the Powder Tower and other famous buildings such as the Town Hall and the Municipal House. The Jewish Quarter and Kampa Island are also not to be missed. If you have more time, there are several interesting museums and exhibitions in the city.
Hluboká nad Vltavou
Hluboka nad Vltavou is a pretty town about 40 minutes drive from Cesky Krumlov. The town is famous for its spectacular castle dating back to the 14th century and welcomes hundreds of tourists every year, however, it is also worth spending a few hours visiting its medieval streets. If you visit this romantic neo-Gothic castle that looks like something out of a fairy tale, don’t miss its dreamy gardens built next to a forest.
The castle is open daily from 9am-5pm except Mondays, and admission, which can be obtained online, costs 170 kc. There is also the option of visiting the castle on a guided tour.
What to see in Cesky Krumlov in 1 day?
Cesky Krumlov is a small town that can easily be visited in one day. Our recommendation is to start the day with a visit to the castle complex, as this is the most touristy area and the most crowded as the day progresses. The rest of the day can be spent strolling around the Latran district and the old town. There you’ll find good restaurants for lunch and numerous craft and souvenir shops where you can do your shopping.
Other places of interest to visit if you have more time are the Bicycle Museum, the Old Mill, or the city park. Strolling along the riverbank is also a good option, and you can also go kayaking.
How to get to Cesky Krumlov?
Cesky Krumlov is 170 kilometres south of Prague, the easiest city to get to. Public transport links are very good and Cesky Krumlov is a popular day trip destination when visiting the capital of the Czech Republic. Here are some of your transport options.
- Bus: is the easiest and cheapest way. Buses leave from Florenc and Na knížecí stations every hour. The journey takes 3 hours and costs €5.
- Train: The train journey also takes 3 hours, however, it is more expensive and the station in Ceský Krumlov is not exactly in the centre of town.
- Organised tours: full-day excursions to Ceský Krumlov can be booked from Prague, including guide and transport, and will take you to the best parts of the town.
- Private car: is the quickest option as it takes only 2 hours.
Where to eat in Cesky Krumlov
Here is a list of some of the best restaurants in Cesky Krumlov where you can try Czech specialities. The most typical dishes of the region are soups, such as Cesneka, knuckle of pork or Šopský salát pepper salad. And we can’t forget the beer, one of the country’s star products and at an unbelievably cheap price.
- Krcma v Satlavske Ulici: For less than €20 you can eat deliciously at this restaurant specialising in grilled meats. The portions aren’t particularly large, but the place is well worth the money as it’s conveniently located right in the centre.
- Krcma Marketa: This steakhouse located next to the castle gardens is a great place to sample some of the best meat dishes in the Czech Republic. Knuckle, sausages and steaks that will leave you more than satiated and at a very affordable price.
- U Dwau Maryi: The best thing about this traditional Czech restaurant is the view of the river and castle gardens. For €2 you can try one of the famous soups of Czech gastronomy, and for less than €10 you can try hearty mixed dishes.
- Svejk Restaurant: is one of the most famous traditional restaurants in the old town. They specialise in grilled meats and for around €10 you can try delicious ribs, knuckle of pork, sausages or duck.
Where to stay in Cesky Krumlov?
Although Cesky Krumlov is a relatively small town, it offers a wide range of accommodation, including hotels, guesthouses and hostels. If you’re spending a few days in the town we recommend staying in the centre, as this is the most beautiful area. If you stay out of town, prices will be cheaper but your perception of Cesky Krumlov will change a lot. Here is a list of some options for where to stay.
- Alt Straninger: a simple 3-star hotel in the city centre. The best thing is that breakfast is served in the room. The price per night ranges from €70 to €90.
- Pension Na Kovárn: a simple and comfortable pension located in the upper part of town and next to the bus station. The price is moderate.
- Krumlov House is a family-run hostel right in the centre, next to the bus station. The prices are very affordable as you share a room.
- Hotel Bellevue: this is a 4-star hotel in the heart of the historic centre and includes all amenities. The rooms have a modern and cosy design. The price per night is around €150.
Travel tips for Cesky Krumlov
- The best time to visit Cesky Krumlov is in May, June and September. Summer is the high season and there are a lot of tourists.
- The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech Koruna
- We recommend that you exchange money before you set off on your trip, as it will be cheaper.
- As European citizens we don’t need a visa to enter the country either, just your ID card or passport is enough.
- Be covered for medical emergencies: travel insured.
Plan your trip to Cesky Krumlov
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- Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers
- Create your own itinerary and add suggestions from the app to it.
- Add the stops you’re most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
- Organize your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can take inspiration from the routes we present in the post).
- Check out the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
- Make any modifications you need, and you’ll be all set for your trip.
- Share your experience. Upload photos of places you visited on your trip to the app and recommend other travellers what to see in Cesky Krumlov.
If you have any doubts about how to do this, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
Frequently asked questions when travelling to Cesky Krumlov
The town is small and in one day you will have plenty of time to see everything there is to see in Cesky Krumlov.
From Prague, the best way to get there is by private transport, as it is the fastest way. If you do not have your own car, then the bus is the best and cheapest alternative.
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