Highlights of the Church of St. Vitus Interior

The interior of this church is a masterpiece of European design. It has tall ceilings and very old decorations. You can feel the history as you walk through the nave. The light comes through tall windows to hit the stone floors. This section covers the most important features you should see inside.

• Best overall: The High Altar
• Best for history: The Schwarzenberg Tomb
• Best for art: St. John of Nepomuk Chapel
• Best free sight: The Gothic Vaulting

1. Name: The High Altar Type: Sight Why go: This is a massive Baroque structure from the 1600s. It features a painting of the Coronation of the Virgin Mary. Best for: Art lovers and religious history fans. Where: At the front of the main nave. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk to the end of the central aisle. Tip: Look closely at the side statues of various saints.
2. Name: Gothic Net Vaulting Type: Experience Why go: The ceiling features a complex rib pattern from the 15th century. It is one of the best examples in the Czech Republic. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts and photographers. Where: Throughout the main ceiling of the nave. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look straight up once you enter the church. Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the whole ceiling.
3. Name: St. John of Nepomuk Chapel Type: Sight Why go: This chapel holds the remains of the heart of members of the Schwarzenberg family. It honors the famous Czech martyr. Best for: Learning about local legends and nobility. Where: On the left side of the church. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the side aisle to the north wall. Tip: Read the plaques to learn about the family history.
4. Name: The Schwarzenberg Tomb Type: Sight Why go: This area contains the resting places of powerful local rulers. It shows the importance of the town's history. Best for: History buffs. Where: Within the church floor and side walls. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the choir area. Tip: Please keep silent as this is a sacred burial site.
5. Name: The Baroque Organ Type: Sight Why go: This historic musical instrument is still used for concerts today. It has beautiful wood carvings and gold leaf. Best for: Music fans. Where: On the balcony at the back of the church. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look up toward the entrance wall. Tip: Try to visit during a scheduled organ recital.

Top Things to Do Near the Church of St. Vitus

After seeing the Church of St. Vitus interior, explore the rest of the town. Český Krumlov is small and easy to walk through. You can find many top sights in Cesky Krumlov just steps away. This list includes the best nearby experiences for your itinerary.

1. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Sight Why go: This is the second-largest castle complex in the country. It offers incredible views and history. Best for: Everyone visiting the city. Where: Across the river from the church. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour circuit. Getting there: Cross the bridge from the old town center. Tip: Check the official castle site for tour times.
2. Name: Minorite Monastery Complex Type: Experience Why go: This peaceful complex offers a look at medieval monastic life. It has beautiful gardens and art. Best for: Those seeking a quiet escape from crowds. Where: In the Latran district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: A short walk through the Latran neighborhood. Tip: Visit the craft workshops often held on site.
3. Name: Svornosti Square Type: Sight Why go: This is the main historical square of the town. It features the Town Hall and a Plague Column. Best for: People watching and photography. Where: The heart of the Old Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 2 minutes from the church entrance. Tip: Many historical landmarks are located here.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Experience Why go: This gallery features the work of the famous expressionist painter. It is housed in a former brewery. Best for: Modern art lovers. Where: Siroka Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the main square. Tip: Read about the artist's life in Krumlov before you go.
5. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Activity Why go: See the church and castle from the water. It is a fun way to experience the town. Best for: Families and active travelers. Where: Various rental points along the river. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Head to the river banks near the center. Tip: Book sightseeing rafts in advance during summer.

Planning Your Visit to the Church of St. Vitus

Visiting the Church of St. Vitus requires some simple planning. The church is an active place of worship. You should always be respectful during your visit. Most people visit during the day between castle tours. However, early morning is the most peaceful time.

Entry to the church is usually free for tourists. You may need to pay a small fee for specific tours. Always check the notice board at the entrance. It will list the times for Holy Mass. Do not walk around the interior during these services.

The church is located on a hill. Wear comfortable shoes for the walk up the cobblestones. You can find many cafes nearby for a break. This area is perfect for taking photos of the town. Make sure to look at the church from the best viewpoints in Cesky Krumlov.