Český Krumlov - A bohemian fairytale

Hi guys :)
Did you know that the Czech republic is not just Prague? There are hidden pearls hidden all over the place. Let's enjoy the advent time once more and visit one of the most beautiful czech towns, once a metropolis of the whole southern Bohemia. The second largest Czech castle, the taste of fruit punch in the streets of the medieval town and meanders of the Vltava river, that and much more is Český Krumlov (or as Germans call it, Krummau).

It is one of the oldest bohemian towns. It was founded around the castle in the 12 century by the important Czech noble house Vitkovci. Ever since then, the town has been a centre of the south bohemian region till basically the World War I. During that time, the city grew and flourished. Let's walk through some of the most interesting places you can visit.

The castle atop the hill

The Český Krumlov castle

As stated bellow the castle is the second largest castle compound in the Czech republic. This landmark with its recognizable main tower and four courts is situated on a cliff high above the river Vltava (Moldau), so get ready for some serious stair/hill climbing. But the result pays off.

You can find there a Chatteu museum, Renaissance 6-story main tower, the Baroque Castle theatre and beautiful gardens surrounding the complex. There are several entrance tickets that you can combine as you wish. Visiting all parts of the castle shouldn't take more than 1000 CZK, but the price for some of the parts starts at 80 CZK. See the official site for more details.

Follow the link

St. Vitus church mirroring in the Vltava river

The inner city

If you leave the castle behind for a while and descend back among the common folk, you will find yourself in the inner city that - along with the castle - has been on the list of the UNESCO world heritage since 1990s. The will find here the imposing St. Vitus church with the tower climbing high above the Vltava. Just walk the narrow streets and let the atmosphere of a medieval city breath at you. You won't wanna leave, trust me. Don't miss the picturesque renaissance town hall that looks like it has just been imported here from Florence or Venice. 

View of the castle and the town from the gardens

Getting there

There is a regular bus and train connection with the Czech capital, Prague. There are several daily routes operated by the Regiojet company going from the Praha - Na knížecí bus station to Český Krumlov via České Budějovice (just look for the yellow buses and enjoy hot beverage onboard :)) Also, there is always a steward/ess, usually speaking English that can give you many other advices on your trip.

Alternatively you may choose to travel by train, but be aware that the trip takes longer, is more expensive and in most cases you actually have to transfer in České Budějovice to another train. 

Medieval houses in the inner city

There is obviously no public transportation in the town itself (it has around 1300 inhabitants) but all of the main attractions are accessible by foot within some 20 minutes, so don't worry. 

The cloaked bridge connecting the castle with the baroque theatre and gardens

There are plenty of festivals being held throughout the year, just like the renaissance fair Five-Petalled Rose Celebrations, or music festivals Krumlov Open Air or Internation Music Festival Cesky Krumlov. In the advent times, there are always very picturesque Christmas markets held on the main squares and at the castle, so don't forget to get your mulled wine. Just remember that in the winter months, some of the castle gardens may be closed which could be a little shame. 

The town coat of arms 

Long story short, the town is definitely worth your visit, so don't hesitate and give it a try. You may be pleasantly surprised :) 

Hope I'll see you next time :)

Lex