Quick Picks for Your Journey

Short on time? Use these quick picks to plan your day. These highlights ensure you see the very best of the region. Each spot offers a unique glimpse into local culture.

• Best for History: Vyšší Brod Monastery Library
• Best for Families: Lipno Treetop Walkway
• Best Viewpoint: Vítkův Hrádek Ruins
• Best Nature Spot: Devil’s Wall Nature Reserve

10 Best Stops on a Vyšší Brod Monastery Day Trip

The route from Český Krumlov to Vyšší Brod is full of surprises. You will pass through deep forests and charming river towns. Most travelers spend a full day exploring this scenic corridor. Here are the top ten stops for your itinerary.

1. Name: Vyšší Brod Cistercian Monastery Type: sight Why go: It houses the third-largest monastic library in the country. You can see the Záviš Cross, a gold relic studded with gems. Best for: History buffs and art lovers. Where: Vyšší Brod town center. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Moderate (paid tours). Getting there: Drive 30 minutes south from Český Krumlov. Tip: Tours are mandatory for the library and treasury, so book ahead.
2. Name: The Postal Museum Type: museum Why go: Located inside the monastery complex, it shows the history of mail. See old horse-drawn carriages and vintage stamps. Best for: Families and curious travelers. Where: Monastery grounds. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walk from the monastery entrance. Tip: Check the seasonal opening hours as it often closes in winter.
3. Name: Rožmberk nad Vltavou Castle Type: sight Why go: This medieval fortress sits high above the Vltava River. It offers a great Rožmberk Castle tour through knightly halls. Best for: Photography and medieval history. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou village. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Stop here halfway between Krumlov and Vyšší Brod. Tip: Climb the Jakobínka tower for the best river views.
4. Name: Lipno Treetop Walkway Type: experience Why go: Walk among the clouds on this massive wooden structure. It is part of the Lipno Treetop Walkway and Dam attractions. Best for: Families and outdoor enthusiasts. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High. Getting there: Drive 15 minutes from Vyšší Brod. Tip: Take the slide down from the top for extra fun.
5. Name: Vítkův Hrádek Type: viewpoint Why go: These are the highest castle ruins in Bohemia. You get a 360-degree view of the Alps on clear days. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: Near Svatý Tomáš village. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Use the Vítkův Kámen ruins guide for directions. Tip: The road is narrow, so drive carefully or hike up.
6. Name: Devil’s Wall (Čertova stěna) Type: nature Why go: A massive field of granite boulders overlooking the river. It is a famous National Nature Reserve. Best for: Nature walks and geology fans. Where: Between Vyšší Brod and Loučovice. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: There is a small parking lot right by the road. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the rocks can be slippery.
7. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: experience Why go: Experience the river like a local. Many visitors enjoy Vltava river rafting starting from Vyšší Brod. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: River banks in Vyšší Brod. Time: 3-6 hours depending on distance. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Rent gear at the local campsites. Tip: Book a one-way trip and use the shuttle bus back.
8. Name: Frymburk Village Type: sight Why go: A picturesque town on a peninsula in the Lipno reservoir. It has a beautiful square and a ferry. Best for: A relaxing lunch break. Where: Lipno Lake shore. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: 20 minutes from Vyšší Brod by car. Tip: Try the local fish at a lakeside restaurant.
9. Name: Zlatá Koruna Monastery Type: sight Why go: If you love Vyšší Brod, visit this sister site. A Zlatá Koruna Monastery visit shows a different Gothic style. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: North of Český Krumlov. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Stop here on your way back to Krumlov. Tip: The cloister garden is very peaceful for meditation.
10. Name: Lipno Dam Type: sight Why go: The largest lake in the Czech Republic. It offers beaches, sailing, and scenic walks. Best for: Summer swimming and relaxation. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou. Time: Flexible. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easily accessible by car or local train. Tip: Walk across the dam for a sense of its scale.

Essential Tips for Your Day Trip

Planning is key for a smooth experience. Most sites in Vyšší Brod open from May to September. Many locations have limited hours on Mondays. Always check the official websites before you leave.

The monastery tours are often in Czech. However, they provide printed guides in English. The library is the highlight for most visitors. Remember to dress modestly when entering the church. Respectful behavior is expected in this active religious site.

Parking is usually easy to find in the town. Small fees may apply in central lots. If you use the train, the station is a short walk away. The ride from Krumlov is very scenic and affordable. Enjoy the slow pace of the South Bohemian countryside.