Rare History & Authentic Crafts

The town's history is preserved in more than just castle walls. Some of the most fascinating cultural treasures are tucked away in quiet side streets. These locations offer an intimate look at local life from past centuries. You will find original machinery, preserved homes, and active craft workshops here.

Visiting these sites supports the preservation of delicate history. They require a bit more planning than a simple walk through the center. However, the reward is a deeper connection to the local heritage.

• Name: Museum Fotoatelier Seidel Type: Time-capsule museum Why go: It is a perfectly preserved Art Nouveau photography studio from the early 20th century. You can see thousands of glass negatives and original camera equipment. Best for: History buffs and photography lovers. Where: Plešivec neighborhood, south of the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate (approx. 250 CZK). Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the main square across the bridge. Tip: Book a guided tour to hear the touching personal story of the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel family.
• Name: Castle Baroque Theatre Type: Historical landmark Why go: This is one of the most significant theater monuments in the world. It retains its origianl stage machinery, scenery, costumes, and props from the 1760s. Only two such preserved theaters exist in Europe. Best for: Theater enthusiasts and architecture fans. Where: 5th Courtyard of the Castle. Time: 45 minutes (guided only). Cost: Higher end (approx. 380 CZK). Getting there: Walk up through the castle complex to the upper gardens. Tip: Baroque Theatre guided tours sell out weeks in advance, so reserve your ticket online immediately.
• Name: Minorite Monastery Workshops Type: Interactive craft experience Why go: This revitalized complex offers a hands-on break from sightseeing. You can try traditional crafts like glassblowing, blacksmithing, or soap making. It is a peaceful retreat from the busy streets. Best for: Families and creative travelers. Where: Latrán area, near the castle entrance. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free entry to grounds; fees for workshops. Getting there: Located just off Latrán street near the Red Gate. Tip: Check the schedule for Minorite Monastery craft workshops to ensure your favorite artisan is working.

Underground Mines & Cosmic Stones

Not every attraction in Český Krumlov is above ground or purely historical. The region has a rich industrial and geological past that is often overlooked. These sites provide a thrilling change of pace from Renaissance architecture. You can head deep underground or examine stones that fell from space.

These activities are excellent for rainy days or when you need a break from medieval history. They showcase the natural resources that made this region wealthy. Prepare for cool temperatures and fascinating science.

4. Name: Český Krumlov Graphite Mine Type: Adventure tour Why go: You get to ride a miner's train deep into the earth. Guides explain the harsh reality of mining in the region. It is an adventurous and educational experience unlike anything else in town. Best for: Adventure seekers and older kids. Where: Chvalšinská road, north of the castle garden. Time: 70 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the center or a short taxi ride. Tip: Wear warm clothes for the Český Krumlov graphite mine tour as it is cold underground year-round.
5. Name: Moldavite Museum Type: Geological exhibition Why go: Moldavite is a rare green gemstone formed by a meteorite impact 15 million years ago. This interactive museum explains the cosmic origins of this curious stone. It is modern, educational, and visually stunning. Best for: Science fans and jewelry lovers. Where: Panská street in the city center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Located centrally, just steps from the main square. Tip: Avoid fakes in tourist shops by learning about real stones at the Moldavite Museum interactive exhibits first.
6. Name: Fairytale House (Pohádkový dům) Type: Puppet museum Why go: This collection houses over 300 historical puppets and marionettes. It is situated in a medieval house that feels like a maze. The atmosphere is slightly spooky yet charmingly nostalgic. Best for: Families and collectors. Where: Radniční street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Just off the main square. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Fairytale House puppet museum shop to buy a unique local souvenir.

Alternative Views & Dark Legends

To truly understand the spirit of this town, you must look at it from different angles. Seeing the castle from the water offers a completely new perspective. Meanwhile, evening tours reveal the darker folklore that haunts these ancient cobblestones.

These activities add atmosphere and excitement to your itinerary. They allow you to engage with the river and the local art scene. Embrace the mysterious side of South Bohemia.

• Name: Wooden Raft Sightseeing Type: River cruise Why go: Experience the Vltava River on a traditional wooden raft used for centuries to transport timber. The guides share local stories while you float past the castle walls. It is peaceful, scenic, and culturally significant. Best for: Couples and photographers. Where: Departs from docks near the town center. Time: 50 minutes. Cost: Moderate (includes a drink usually). Getting there: Look for the "Voroplavba" signs near the river bridges. Tip: Sunset is the best time for wooden raft sightseeing cruises to see the castle illuminated.
• Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Art gallery Why go: This gallery is housed in a massive former brewery complex. It showcases the provocative work of Egon Schiele and other modern artists. The raw industrial space contrasts sharply with the delicate town outside. Best for: Art lovers and bohemian souls. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the central square. Tip: Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum gallery café for a quiet break with a bohemian vibe.
• Name: Night Ghost Tours Type: Walking tour Why go: As darkness falls, the city feels medieval and mysterious. Guides dressed in costume lead you through narrow alleys. You will hear legends of alchemists, vampires, and the White Lady ghost. Best for: Storytellers and thrill-seekers. Where: Usually starts at the main square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Meet at the plague column in the square. Tip: Bring a sweater and comfortable shoes for these ghost legends and night tours.
• Name: Castle Bear Moat Type: Historical curiosity Why go: Bears have been kept in the castle moat since the 16th century. It is a controversial but historic tradition linked to the Rosenberg family. Seeing them adds a strange reality to the castle's history. Best for: Animal history curiosity. Where: Between the 1st and 2nd castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the bridge from the Red Gate into the castle. Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see the bears active.