Things To Do
in Český Krumlov
Český Krumlov is a fairy-tale town in the Bohemian South, cradled by the Vltava River. Its skyline is dominated by the medieval castle and colorful Baroque houses that line cobbled lanes. The town's compact historic center is best explored on foot, where every corner feels suspended in time.
A lively cultural calendar, riverside scenery, and hearty Czech cuisine make it a memorable destination year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the impressive Český Krumlov Castle, perched atop a hill with stunning views of the town. Wander through the castle grounds and marvel at its beautifully decorated interiors, including the Baroque theater. Don’t miss the picturesque gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll among blooming flowers.
After exploring the castle, grab lunch at a cozy café nearby and savor traditional Czech cuisine. Spend your afternoon wandering the charming streets of the old town, browsing through local artisan shops and galleries. Be sure to visit the Regional Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a riverside restaurant with spectacular views of the Vltava River. After dinner, take a romantic walk along the riverbanks, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of illuminated old buildings. End your night with a relaxing drink at a local pub, where you can mingle with friendly locals.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then prepare for an adventurous canoeing trip on the Vltava River. Paddle downstream, taking in the breathtaking landscapes and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Stop at various points along the way to enjoy a refreshing swim or a scenic picnic.
After lunch on the riverbank, continue your canoeing adventure, and perhaps spot some local wildlife along the shores. Make your way to a charming village downstream, where you can explore the quaint streets and enjoy a cold beverage at a local pub. Don’t forget to capture the stunning scenery that surrounds you.
Return to Český Krumlov as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, reflected in the water. Enjoy dinner at one of the town's traditional restaurants, known for its hearty dishes and fine Czech beers. Cap off the evening with a guided ghost tour, where you'll hear tales of history, mystery, and folklore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/hostel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🎟️Museum or castle ticket | $8-15 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning medieval architecture and UNESCO-listed charm
- Compact center ideal for walking and photo walks
- Rich local culture, Czech cuisine, and riverside scenery
- Strong concentration of cafés, pubs, and small museums
- Crowds can increase in summer and on weekends
- Cobblestone streets can be slippery in rain
- Some sights have limited hours outside peak season
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Dobrý den" - Hello
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Na zdraví" - Cheers
- "Pomoc, prosím" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Český Krumlov
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic silhouette against the river, with panoramic views from the castle grounds and the tower.
Colorful Baroque and Renaissance facades framed by cobblestones and bustling local life.
Reflections of the town in the water, especially at golden hour from the river path.
Quiet lanes and quaint courtyards ideal for moody, intimate portraits.
Formal garden terraces and groves offering soft morning light and distant views of the town.
Food in Český Krumlov
Český Krumlov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce served with dumplings; a Czech classic often found in taverns and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Rich beef goulash with paprika and onions, typically served with dumplings or bread.
Creamy dill and mushroom soup with potatoes, offering a comforting start to a meal.
Traditional fish soup from the Vltava region, especially popular in colder months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering pastries, local honey, sausages, and regional snacks near the town center.
Casual vendors along the riverfront with hot snacks, baked goods, and sweet treats like chimney cake.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Dobrý den' when entering shops or restaurants; use 'pan' (sir) or 'paní' (madam) with names when appropriate.
Maintain a respectful tone in public spaces; many streets are quiet at night in the old town.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; photography may be restricted in some interiors.
Safety
Tipping in Český Krumlov
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% is common if service is satisfactory; check if a service charge is included.
Cash is widely accepted, but cards (including contactless) are common in most restaurants and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with blooming gardens; shoulder-season crowds mean easier photography and shops reopening after winter.
Long days and river activities; expect more visitors and lively outdoor events; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak heat.
Vivid foliage and harvest markets; pleasant hiking weather and golden-hour light for dramatic photos.
Chilly with possible snow; Christmas markets and cozy pubs create a magical atmosphere, though some sights may have reduced hours.
Český Krumlov at Night
Hiking in Český Krumlov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hike to a hilltop with panoramic views over Český Krumlov and the surrounding countryside.
Extensive network of trails around Lipno Lake offering forest, hillside, and lakeside routes a short drive away.
Gentle to moderate hikes connecting the town to nearby viewpoints and villages.
Airports
How to reach Český Krumlov by plane.
The largest international airport nearby; about a 2.5–3 hour drive to Český Krumlov depending on traffic.
A regional international airport offering destinations within Europe; about 2.5–3.5 hours by road.
Major European gateway within a few hours by car or rail; convenient for connecting to Czech rail services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Czech locals living in the town and surrounding rural areas.
Visitors drawn to the castle, river scenery, and cultural events, especially in summer.
A mix of backpackers and longer-stay visitors drawn to the town’s heritage and art scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular around the town and surrounding countryside, with scenic riverside routes.
Common on the Vltava River, offering peaceful paddling and scenic views.
Day hikes in nearby hills and forests, including routes toward Kleť and surrounding villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Český Krumlov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dumplings with mushroom or cheese fillings, vegetable stews, and pasta dishes; many restaurants can adapt svíčková or guláš to be vegetarian on request.