The Best Sights and Experiences in Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov offers a mix of medieval charm and cultural depth. Many travelers start their journey at the Regional Museum Český Krumlov exhibits. This museum is housed in a beautiful former Jesuit seminary. It provides a perfect overview of the region's rich history. You will find folk art, archaeological finds, and fine furniture here.

Beyond the museum, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow streets are filled with colorful houses and cozy cafes. You can easily spend days exploring every corner. Here are the top ten items you should not miss during your visit.

• Best overall: Český Krumlov Castle
• Best for history: Ceramic model of the town
• Best for families: Vltava river rafting
• Best free activity: St. Vitus Church

1. Name: Ceramic Model of Historic Český Krumlov Town Type: Museum exhibit Why go: It is one of the largest ceramic town models in the world. It shows over 800 buildings in incredible detail. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Regional Museum, Horní Street. Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee (approx. 60–100 CZK). Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Look for the tiny details on the castle towers and town gates.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. It features a stunning tower and a bear moat. Best for: Everyone. Where: Latrán area. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; tours have fees. Getting there: Accessible via the Red Gate. Tip: Read a Český Krumlov Castle visitors guide before you go to pick the best tour.
3. Name: Baroque Castle Theater Type: Unique experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world. The original machinery and scenery still work. Best for: Art and theater lovers. Where: Fifth courtyard of the castle. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: Moderate (tours are limited). Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Book your tickets weeks in advance as tours sell out quickly.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: This gallery celebrates the life of the famous Austrian painter. It is located in a massive 16th-century brewery. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká Street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: Check the rotating contemporary exhibits on the upper floors.
5. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Iconic sight Why go: This Gothic masterpiece dominates the town's skyline. The interior features beautiful net vaulting and noble tombs. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Visible from almost anywhere in the center. Tip: Visit during a scheduled organ concert for a magical experience.
6. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic district was once home to castle servants. It is full of medieval charm and craft shops. Best for: Walking and shopping. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the barber's bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Look for the painted murals on the old house facades.
7. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Activity Why go: Seeing the town from the water provides a unique perspective. It is a relaxing and fun way to spend a summer afternoon. Best for: Families and adventurous travelers. Where: Various rental points along the river. Time: 1–3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Rental shops are located near the city center. Tip: Prepare to get a little wet when going down the river weirs.
8. Name: Mount Kleť Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest. You can see the Alps on a very clear day. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: About 10km from town. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free (chairlift has a fee). Getting there: Take a local train or bus to Holubov. Tip: Use the vintage chairlift to save your legs for the view at the top.
9. Name: Český Krumlov Monasteries Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This large complex offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. It showcases life in the Minorite monastery. Best for: Families and history seekers. Where: Klášterní Street. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the Latrán district. Tip: The interactive craft workshops are great for children.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Day trip Why go: Often called the most beautiful castle in Bohemia. It looks like a piece of Windsor Castle moved to the Czech Republic. Best for: Romantic travelers. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou (30km away). Time: 4–5 hours. Cost: Moderate for tours. Getting there: Easy 40-minute drive or bus ride. Tip: Visit the castle gardens for free even if you don't take a tour.

Details of the Ceramic Model of the Town

The ceramic model of historic česky krumlov town is the museum's crowning jewel. Petr Pešek and Jana Pešková spent years creating this masterpiece. They used historical maps and old drawings to ensure accuracy. Every chimney and window reflects the town's state in the year 1800. This was a time before modern renovations changed the landscape.

The model is built at a scale of 1:200. It covers approximately 56 square meters of space. You can see how the Vltava river wraps around the town core. It highlights the strategic layout of the castle and the church. Many visitors find it helpful to see the model before walking the streets.

Seeing the model helps you understand the town's evolution. It shows buildings that no longer exist today. The craftsmanship is truly world-class. It remains a top attraction for those visiting the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov area. Don't miss the chance to see this tiny version of a grand city.