Booking Your Graphite Mine Adventure

The graphite mine offers a fascinating look into the industrial history of the region. Most visitors spend their time in the historic center. However, this underground experience is just a short trip away. You should always check the opening hours for the graphite mine before you plan your day. Tours do not run every hour during the low season.

Advance booking is highly recommended for groups or during the busy summer months. You can find official contact details on the Český Krumlov Official Tourism portal. While the mine is popular, it remains one of the more unique local secrets in Český Krumlov. Many tourists overlook it in favor of the castle. Booking early guarantees you won't miss out on this deep-earth journey.

How to Book Český Krumlov Graphite Mine Tour Tickets

Follow these steps to secure your place on the next underground expedition. The process is straightforward but requires some local knowledge. Always confirm your tour language when you make your reservation.

1. Check Availability: Visit the official website or call to see the daily schedule. Time: 5 minutes. Typical Cost: Free. Where: Online or via phone. Common Mistake: Assuming tours run daily in winter.
2. Contact the Mine: Send an email or call to reserve your specific time slot. Time: 10 minutes. Typical Cost: No deposit usually required. Where: Official contact office. Common Mistake: Forgetting to specify the number of people.
3. Travel to the Site: Head to the mine entrance located on Chvalšinská road. Time: 20 minutes from the center. Typical Cost: €2-5 for a taxi or local bus. Where: Just outside the main town loop. Common Mistake: Trying to walk from the castle in a hurry.
4. Purchase Your Tickets: Pay for your reserved tickets at the small wooden ticket booth. Time: 15 minutes. Typical Cost: 250–350 CZK per adult. Where: On-site ticket office. Common Mistake: Not having enough Czech Koruna in cash.
5. Prepare for Entry: Receive your protective clothing and board the mining train. Time: 10 minutes. Typical Cost: Included in ticket. Where: Changing rooms. Common Mistake: Wearing bulky personal coats under the mining gear.

Essential Preparation and What to Bring

Before you head underground, you must prepare for the unique environment. The temperature inside the mine stays around 10°C (50°F) all year. Even in summer, you will feel the chill quickly. You should also consider if the mine tour is suitable for children in your group. The dark and damp conditions can be intimidating for very young kids.

• Warm Layers: Wear a sweater or light jacket even on hot days.
• Sturdy Footwear: The ground is uneven and can be slippery.
• Socks: Wear thick socks as you will be given rubber boots to wear.
• Camera: Photography is usually allowed, but bring a strap to avoid drops.
• Cash: Some smaller ticket booths may have issues with international cards.

The mine provides specialized equipment for every visitor. This includes a protective overall, a helmet, and a headlamp. You will also get a pair of boots. These items help protect your own clothes from the graphite dust. For more information on what to expect, read about the full graphite mine tour experience. Proper preparation ensures you stay comfortable during the 70-minute visit.

Costs and Logistics for the Graphite Mine

Understanding the costs helps you budget for your trip to the Czech Republic. Prices for the tour are generally affordable for international travelers. Adult tickets typically range from 250 to 350 CZK. Family discounts are often available for those traveling with kids. Always check for updated 2026 pricing on the official mine notice board.

The mine is located about 2 kilometers from the historic town center. You can reach it by a long walk, but a taxi is faster. If you drive, there is a small parking lot available for guests. Most tours last about an hour and ten minutes. This includes the train ride into the mountain and the walking portion. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time.

Troubleshooting Common Booking Issues

Sometimes booking a tour doesn't go as planned. Here are some common problems and how to solve them.

• Language Barrier: If the staff doesn't speak English, use a simple translation app for emails.
• Sold Out Tours: If the mine is full, ask about the first tour the next morning.
• Finding the Entrance: Look for the large "Grafitový důl" signs on the road toward Vyšší Brod.
• Getting Dirty: Graphite dust is messy; don't wear your favorite expensive shoes to the site.
• Claustrophobia: If you feel nervous, stay near the guide or ask about the tunnel width.
• Payment Errors: Keep some cash handy in case the card machine loses its signal.
• Winter Closures: The mine often closes or has limited hours in January and February.