10 Best Things to Do in Cesky Krumlov

There is more to this town than just the main castle. You should explore the hidden gardens and local museums. Many spots offer incredible photo opportunities. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Best overall: State Castle Cesky Krumlov
• Best for families: Vltava River Rafting
• Best viewpoint: Castle Tower and Museum
• Best for history: Baroque Castle Theater

1. Name: State Castle Cesky Krumlov Type: Sight Why go: It is the second largest castle in the Czech Republic. The interiors show how royalty lived centuries ago. Best for: History buffs. Where: Castle District. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 200-300 CZK. Getting there: Walk up from the town center. Tip: Buy tickets for Route I to see the main chapel.
2. Name: Castle Tower and Museum Type: Viewpoint Why go: This colorful tower offers the best 360-degree views of the town. The museum explains the castle's long history. Best for: Photographers. Where: Castle Entrance. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Located at the first courtyard. Tip: Climb the stairs early to avoid crowds.
3. Name: Baroque Castle Theater Type: Experience Why go: It is one of the world's best-preserved Baroque theaters. The original stage machinery still works today. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Fifth Castle Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 250 CZK. Getting there: Follow the path through the castle. Tip: Tours are very limited, so book weeks ahead.
4. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: These massive gardens feature a beautiful fountain and a revolving auditorium. It is a peaceful place for a walk. Best for: Relaxing. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the theater. Tip: Visit in late spring for the best flowers.
5. Name: Latran Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic district was once home to castle staff. It is full of colorful houses and craft shops. Best for: Wandering. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Look for the unique wall paintings on the houses.
6. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: This gallery celebrates the life of the famous painter Egon Schiele. It is housed in a former brewery. Best for: Art fans. Where: Siroka Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 200 CZK. Getting there: Central old town area. Tip: Check the temporary exhibits on the top floor.
7. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Experience Why go: Seeing the castle from the water is a unique perspective. The river is calm and fun for beginners. Best for: Adventure. Where: Various river docks. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK. Getting there: Rental shops are near the town center. Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for your phone.
8. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight Why go: This Gothic church is a major landmark on the skyline. It holds the tombs of local noble families. Best for: Architecture. Where: Kostelni Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Attend a concert here for great acoustics.
9. Name: Hluboka Castle Type: Day trip Why go: This white, Tudor-style castle looks like it belongs in England. It is a popular stop on the way to Krumlov. Best for: Romance. Where: Hluboka nad Vltavou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 250 CZK. Getting there: 30 minutes by car from Krumlov. Tip: If you enjoy this, consider the Karlstejn Castle guide for another trip.
10. Name: Holasovice Historical Village Type: Day trip Why go: A perfectly preserved village in the "South Bohemian Folk Baroque" style. It is a UNESCO site. Best for: Rural charm. Where: 30km north of Krumlov. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Best reached by car or taxi. Tip: Visit the local pottery workshop for souvenirs.

Getting Your Cesky Krumlov Castle Guided Tour Tickets

Booking your Cesky Krumlov castle guided tour tickets is straightforward but requires planning. The castle offers several different tour routes. Route I focuses on the Renaissance and Baroque rooms. Route II explores the history of the Schwarzenberg family. You can purchase these at the main ticket office. However, online booking is highly recommended for 2026. The official website allows you to pick a specific time slot. This saves you from waiting in long lines. Guided tours are available in several languages, including English. If you arrive late, tickets for the best times might be sold out. Always check the Visit Czechia site for seasonal updates.

How to Reach Cesky Krumlov from Prague

Most travelers start their journey in the capital city. You have several options for transport. The most popular choice is the direct bus. Several companies run frequent services from the Na Knizeci station. You should compare the Prague to Cesky Krumlov bus vs train options. Buses are usually faster and drop you closer to the center. Trains offer more scenic views but require a change in Ceske Budejovice. The journey takes about three hours one way. Private transfers are also available for more comfort. Many people find that a guided day trip is the easiest way to visit. This often includes your castle tickets in the price.