The Significance of Church of St. Vitus Architecture

The Church of St. Vitus architecture is famous for its intricate design. The building features a triple-aisle hall layout. This was a popular style in Central Europe during the 15th century. The master builder was influenced by the famous Parler family of architects.

Inside, you will see a breathtaking net vault. This complex ceiling design creates a sense of immense height and grace. The slender pillars support the weight with elegant ease. It is one of the best examples of Late Gothic vaulting in the Czech Republic.

The church also serves as a final resting place. You can find the tombs of the Rožmberk and Schwarzenberg families here. These noble families shaped the history of South Bohemia for centuries. Their presence adds a layer of historical weight to the beautiful stone walls.

To fully appreciate the design, visit during the morning. The light filters through the tall windows and illuminates the sanctuary. You can learn more about local history at the official tourism portal. This site offers updates on special events and services for 2026.

11 Best Sights to See in Český Krumlov

This list covers the most iconic sights and a few hidden gems. Each entry includes practical details for your trip planning. Use this to build your perfect itinerary in this historic town.

1. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight/Architecture Why go: To see the incredible Late Gothic net vaulting and historical tombs. Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers. Where: Kostelní street, Old Town. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Be respectful of ongoing services and keep noise to a minimum.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Sight/Museum Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the country. Best for: Everyone. Where: Latrán area. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour route. Tip: Book your tickets in advance on the official castle site to avoid long queues.
3. Name: Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the most famous 360-degree view of the town and river. Best for: Photographers. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee. Tip: Read more about the castle tower and museum before you climb the 162 steps.
4. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: Sight/Architecture Why go: This multi-story stone bridge is an engineering marvel from the 18th century. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Between the castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Tip: Visit the Cloak Bridge for panoramic views at sunset for the best lighting.
5. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: It celebrates the life and work of the famous expressionist painter. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká 71. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Tip: Check the Egon Schiele official site for seasonal exhibitions. You can also explore the Schiele gallery details online.
6. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: Sight/Indoor Why go: A peaceful complex showing how monks lived and worked in the Middle Ages. Best for: Families and history fans. Where: Klášterní street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee. Tip: The Minorite Monastery complex often hosts craft workshops for children.
7. Name: Baroque Theatre Type: Unique Experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the entire world. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Fifth Castle Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: Higher fee. Tip: Tours are very limited, so check the Baroque Theatre tour schedule early in your planning.
8. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: Experience Why go: A perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio with original equipment. Best for: Vintage lovers. Where: Linecká 272. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee. Tip: You can book a professional photo shoot in period costumes here.
9. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature/Sight Why go: Massive, manicured gardens featuring a unique revolving auditorium. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: Above the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: The gardens are closed during the winter months, so check seasonal dates.
10. Name: Graphite Mine Type: Activity Why go: Take a train deep underground to see how graphite was once mined. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Chvalšinská street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Tip: Wear warm clothes as the temperature underground is around 10°C. See more about graphite mine tours here.
11. Name: Mount Kleť Type: Day Trip/Nature Why go: The highest peak in the Blanský Forest with an observation tower. Best for: Hikers. Where: 6km from the city. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free (chairlift has a fee). Tip: Take the chairlift up and walk down for a relaxing afternoon.

Planning Your Visit to Český Krumlov

Visiting Český Krumlov in 2026 requires some basic planning. The town is very popular with day-trippers from Prague. To enjoy the quiet streets, try to stay overnight. The town becomes magical after the tour buses leave in the evening.

The streets are made of historic cobblestones. These can be very slippery when wet. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Avoid high heels if you plan to explore the castle hills or the river banks.

Most attractions are within walking distance of each other. You do not need a car inside the historic center. If you arrive by bus, the main station is just a ten-minute walk from the main square. Always carry some local currency (Czech Koruna) for smaller shops and cafes.