Quick Picks for Your Krumlov Trip

Are you planning a short visit to this medieval gem? Use these quick picks to prioritize your time. These selections cover the most essential experiences in the city center.

• Best Overall: Český Krumlov Castle
• Best for Families: Castle Bear Moat
• Best Rainy Day: Regional Museum
• Best Free Activity: Church of St. Vitus
• Best Viewpoint: Cloak Bridge

13 Best Things to Do: Church of St. Vitus History & More

The city offers a mix of Gothic architecture and Baroque charm. Every street corner tells a story from the past. Exploring the Church of St. Vitus history is the perfect way to start your journey. Here are the 13 best things to do in and around the city.

1. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: sight Why go: It is a Gothic masterpiece from the 14th century. The building showcases many Gothic architecture features that define the region. You can see the grand Rožmberk family tombs here. Best for: History lovers and architecture fans. Where: Kostelní street, Inner City. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually free; donations welcome. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Look for the impressive 15th-century frescoes.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: sight Why go: This is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. It features a colorful tower and a deep moat with bears. Follow this castle visitors guide to see the best parts. Best for: Everyone. Where: Latrán district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; tours have fees. Getting there: Walk across the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Book official tours online in advance for 2026.
3. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: viewpoint Why go: This massive multi-story bridge offers the best views in town. It connects the castle courts and the theater. The architecture is unique and very photogenic. Best for: Photographers and view seekers. Where: Between the castle and gardens. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Visit at sunset for the most golden light.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: This gallery honors the famous Austrian painter who lived here. It features modern art in a historic brewery building. An Egon Schiele Art Centrum visit is a must for art fans. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Inner City. Tip: Check out the museum shop for unique gifts.
5. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: historical walk Why go: This is the oldest part of the city below the castle. It is full of colorful houses and small shops. A Latran neighborhood walk reveals hidden medieval details. Best for: Casual explorers. Where: North of the Vltava River. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Look up to see the painted Renaissance facades.
6. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: experience Why go: This complex offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. It features beautiful cloisters and a quiet garden. The monasteries complex hosts many cultural events. Best for: Peace seekers. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for some areas. Getting there: Located near the castle entrance. Tip: Visit the craft workshops often held on weekends.
7. Name: Regional Museum Type: museum Why go: It houses a massive ceramic model of the city. You can learn about the local history and folk traditions. It is located in a former Jesuit college. Best for: History buffs. Where: Horní street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low entry fee. Getting there: Just a short walk from the main square. Tip: The terrace behind the museum has great views.
8. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: experience Why go: This is a perfectly preserved 19th-century photo studio. It tells the story of early photography in the region. A Museum Fotoatelier Seidel visit is very nostalgic. Best for: Photography lovers. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk south from the main square. Tip: Book a guided tour to hear the family stories.
9. Name: Museum of Moldavites Type: museum Why go: It focuses on unique green gemstones formed by a meteorite. These stones are only found in this region. The exhibits are interactive and modern. Best for: Science fans and families. Where: Panská street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Located near the town square. Tip: You can buy certified moldavite jewelry here.
10. Name: State Castle Gardens Type: nature Why go: This large Baroque garden is perfect for a long stroll. It features a fountain and a beautiful summer house. It offers a break from the narrow city streets. Best for: Relaxing and nature. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up through the castle courtyards. Tip: The gardens are usually closed during winter months.
11. Name: Revolving Auditorium Type: experience Why go: This is a unique open-air theater in the castle gardens. The audience seating actually rotates during the show. A revolving auditorium show is a rare treat. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Castle Gardens. Time: 2-3 hours for a show. Cost: Ticket prices vary. Getting there: Walk to the back of the castle gardens. Tip: Book tickets many months in advance for summer.
12. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: This white castle looks like it belongs in England. It is one of the most romantic spots in Bohemia. The interiors are incredibly ornate and detailed. Best for: Fairytale fans. Where: 30km north of the city. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Varies by tour type. Getting there: Take a bus or train from the main station. Tip: Visit the nearby zoo if you have kids.
13. Name: České Budějovice Type: day trip Why go: This is the regional capital and home to Budweiser beer. It features a massive square and a historic tower. It is much less crowded than Krumlov. Best for: Beer lovers and urban explorers. Where: 25km north of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: Frequent buses and trains run daily. Tip: Climb the Black Tower for a great city view.

Practical Planning for Your Visit

Planning your trip to South Bohemia requires some thought. Most people arrive by bus or train from Prague. The journey takes about three hours. For a better experience, stay at least one night. The town is most magical after the day-trippers leave.

Wear comfortable shoes for your visit. The streets are made of old cobblestones. These can be slippery when wet or uneven. You will do a lot of walking uphill. This is especially true when visiting the castle or gardens.

Check the weather before you pack. Summers are warm but can have rain. Winters are cold and often snowy. Spring and fall offer the best balance of weather. You will find fewer crowds during these shoulder seasons.