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Famous Landmarks in Cesky Krumlov

Famous Landmarks in Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov Bohemia, Czech Republic Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

A Unesco world heritage site's skyline is controlled by its castle, but the the town has other recognizable sites. The town itself embodies centuries of Bohemian nobility and power.

Its origins date back to the 13th century, with significant expansion by the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families.

Must-Visit Sites

  • State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov: UNESCO World Heritage site, second-largest in Czech Republic.
  • Castle Tower: Dominant feature, panoramic views of town and river.
  • Brezina Gardens: Baroque castle gardens, Rococo fountain, revolving auditorium.
  • Latrán District: Oldest part of town, lovely medieval houses, craft shops.

Visitor Information

Castle Access

  • Hours: Vary seasonally, generally open April to October, limited in winter.
  • Fees: Separate for different circuits, tower, museum, Baroque theatre.
  • Guided Options: Most castle interior tours are guided (Czech/English) or audio guides.
  • Booking in advance for tours is highly recommended during high season.
  • Castle Tower: Open for individual ascent; tickets at the base.
  • Revolving Auditorium: Performances seasonal, typically summer. Book booking tickets early.

Best Views & Photography

  • Castle Views: Panoramic views from the Castle Tower or across the Vltava River (Lazebnický most).
  • Early Morning/Late Afternoon: Less crowded conditions and softer light for photography.
  • Hidden Passages: Explore small alleys, staircases, and secret patios for unique perspectives.
  • Old Town Square (Náměstí Svornosti): Heart of historic town, surrounded by historic houses.

These times and locations offer less crowded views and stunning photographs.

Less Crowded Times

  • Off-season/Shoulder Season: Significantly fewer tourists in these periods.
  • Early Morning: Before 9:00 AM, most day-trippers have not yet arrived.
  • Late Afternoon: After 4:00 PM, many day-trippers begin leave.
  • These times offer a more peaceful encounter with the town's beauty.

Secret Viewpoints

  • Seminářská Zahrada:

    A peaceful garden offering unique views of the stronghold and town, often less crowded.

  • Křížová hora (Cross Hill):

    A short hike up to a chapel and a cross, providing a different, elevated perspective many tourists miss.

  • Riverside Paths:

    Explore lesser-known riverside paths for tranquil moments and various photographic angles.

  • Local Craft Shops:

    Discover unique artisan goods away from the main tourist shops near the square.

  • Eggenberg Brewery Tour:

    A dive into local beer culture and history, often overlooked by tourists.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

A Fairytale town in south bohemia offers a range of places of culture and museums providing insight into its history, art, and everyday life.

Museums

  • Castle Museum and Tower:

    Exhibits the past of the stronghold and noble families, displaying artifacts and context for the tower climb.

  • Egon Schiele Art Centrum (ESAC):

    Focuses on 20th-century and contemporary art, including works by Egon Schiele. Hosts diverse exhibitions.

  • Museum Fotoatelier Seidel:

    A perfectly preserved early 20th-century photographic studio. Offers insight into photographic history and everyday life.

  • Wax Museum:

    Features a collection of historical and legendary figures, a fun, lighthearted visit.

  • Museum of Torture:

    Exhibits middle ages torture methods, providing a darker a historical viewpoint.

  • The residence of Marionettes:

    A charming collection of traditional Czech puppets, demonstrating the country's rich puppet-making heritage.

Baroque Theatre

A unique, fully preserved 18th-century theatre within the castle complex. Tours are available, providing a glimpse into historical stagecraft.

Revolving Auditorium

An open-air theatre in the stronghold gardens, used for summer performances ranging from opera to drama. A unique setting for cultural events.

Minorite Monastery

A multifaceted of Franciscan and Poor Clares monasteries. It now functions as a cultural and educational center, hosting events and exhibitions.

Special Exhibits & Programming

Consult local guides or the Tourist Information Center for information on current temporary exhibitions, concerts, or cultural events.

  • Many events, notably in the summer months and during festivals, add vibrancy to the town's cultural calendar.
  • International Music Festival Český Krumlov (July/August) features classical performances.
  • Numerous small galleries throughout town sell local art and crafts, including paintings, ceramics, and accessories.

Historical Sites

Cesky Krumlov is a living historical site, with its entire urban fabric telling stories of centuries past. The preservation of its middle ages and The renaissance period core defines its primary archaeological value.

No specific outdoor archaeological ruins exist separate from the principal town structure.

Historical Districts & Architecture

Explore the town's meticulously preserved urban landscape.

Areas

  • Old Town (Vnitřní Město): UNESCO-listed, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and well-preserved Gothic and Renaissance houses.
  • Latrán: A medieval zone with preserved houses and the Budějovická Brána (Budweis Gate), one of the town's original entrances.
  • Its layout reflects centuries of urban development, offering an unique historical setting.

Religious & Spiritual Sites

Discover the town's spiritual heritage and architectural marvels.

Remarkable Sites

  • Church of St. Vitus: Dominant Gothic church (14th century), impressive frescoes and Baroque art/architecture altar.
  • Minorite Monastery: Complex of Franciscan and Poor Clares monasteries, now a cultural center.
  • Church of St. Jošt: Former church, now housing a museum, known for its distinctive tower.

Industrial & Military Heritage

Explore Cesky Krumlov's financial and historical backbone.

Locations

  • Eggenberg Brewery: Historic brewery in Latrán, offers tours and beer tasting.
  • Represents the town's industrial past and continues a long brewing tradition.
  • The preserved urban fabric itself highlights centuries of development.
  • No specific military heritage sites are a main attraction.

Memorial Sites & Monuments

Reflect concerning historical moments through these significant markers.

Monuments

  • Marian Plague Column: Located in the Old Town Square, commemorates the end of the plague.
  • AN emblem of thanksgiving and safety for the town.
  • The Old Town Square serves as a central gathering point, often hosting markets or events.

Unique Photo Opportunities

  • From the bridges over the Vltava, capture the iconic bends of the river and the fortress backdrop.
  • Night photos of the illuminated castle and town creates a magical scene. The lights highlight the architecture.
  • Look for reflections of the stronghold in the Vltava River for artistic shots.

Natural Attractions

Cesky Krumlov's beauty extends beyond its historic buildings to its surrounding natural landscapes.

Parks & Gardens

Castle Gardens provide comprehensive Baroque beauty, manicured lawns, and scenic castle views. The Town Park provides a smaller, quiet reflection spot.

Vltava River

The river is in itself a natural attraction, flowing through the town and providing opportunities for water activities. Its meandering course defines A Unesco world heritage site's unique shape.

Klet' Mountain

The highest mountain in the Blanský les Protected Landscape Area. It offers panoramic views of the region and is accessible by cable car or hiking trails.

Wildlife & Geological Features

Wildlife Viewing

The surrounding Blanský les Protected Landscape Area offers opportunities for observing local plants and animals, including deer and a variety of bird species.

Castle Bears

Brown bears reside in the moat of the Cesky Krumlov Castle, a historical tradition, providing a guaranteed "wildlife" sighting within town.

Geological Features

The meandering course of the Vltava River around the town forms a distinctive geological feature. It creates the iconic peninsula on which the Old Town sits.

Waterways & Recreation

The Vltava River is mainly for leisure boating. No beaches exist in Cesky Krumlov. Nearby fishponds in the South Bohemia region are employed for fishing.

No Safaris

No safaris are available in Cesky Krumlov. Wildlife viewing centers on local forest animals in designated protected areas.

Emerging Destinations

Venture to nearby villages and towns easily accessible but less frequented than A Fairytale town in south bohemia itself.

Day Trip Ideas

  • Zlatá Koruna (monastery): A beautiful Gothic Cistercian monastery located north of The City of the five-petalled rose.
  • Dívčí Kámen (ruined castle): Picturesque medieval old castle remains along the Vltava.
  • These make good half-day trips, presenting different historical and natural perspectives.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Discover A Fairytale town in south bohemia's lesser-famous treasures for distinct viewpoints and quieter experiences.

Local Favorites

  • Seminární zahrada (Seminary Garden): A peaceful garden with unique fortress and town views, often less crowded.
  • Walking paths by the river: Explore quieter riverside routes for different photographic angles.
  • Local Craft Shops in Latrán: Discover unique artisan goods away from main tourist shops.
  • Climbing the Cross Hill (Křížová hora): A short hike offering a different, elevated town perspective.

Attraction Booking Tip

Booking your reserve attractions beforehand often streamlines your visit, saving time and making sure of availability, especially during peak season.

GetYourGuide provides options for tours and tickets.

Explore Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the most obvious attractions to discover A Fairytale town in south bohemia's lesser-known treasures. These spots often give unique angles and a quieter experience.

Unique Perspectives

Discover tranquil spots with unique views of the town.

Serene Locations

  • Seminární zahrada: A peaceful garden with unique citadel and town views, often less crowded.
  • Walking paths along the river: Explore quieter riverside paths for different photographic angles.
  • Local Craft Shops in Latrán: Discover unique artisan goods away from the main tourist shops.

Local Favorites

Experience the town through the eyes of locals.

Overlooked Gems

  • Climbing the Cross Hill (Křížová hora): A short hike providing a different, elevated town perspective.
  • Eggenberg Brewery Tour: A dive into local beer history and culture, often overlooked by tourists.
  • The Jesuit Garden: A small, peaceful garden near the Church of St. Vitus, offering a quiet moment away from the crowds.

Emerging Destinations

Explore nearby villages and towns that are easily accessible but less frequented than A Unesco world heritage site itself.

Recommended Day Trips

  • Zlatá Koruna (monastery): A beautiful Gothic Cistercian monastery located north of The City of the five-petalled rose.
  • Dívčí Kámen (ruined castle): Picturesque medieval castle ruins along the Vltava.
  • These make good half-day trips, offering different historical and natural perspectives.

These destinations provide a quieter, more local experience of the South Bohemian region.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the iconic beauty of The City of the five-petalled rose from various angles, especially during optimal lighting conditions.

Picture-Perfect Spots

  • From the viaducts over the Vltava, capture the iconic bends of the river and the castle backdrop.
  • Night taking pictures of the illuminated castle and town establishes an enchanting scene.

The lights emphasize the architecture, offering truly spectacular shots. Look for images of the castle in the Vltava River for artistic views.

Local Insights for Exploration

Maximize your exploration by considering these practical tips.

General Advice

  • Explore a few of A Unesco world heritage site's hidden gems for a more intimate experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Carry a small map or use a navigation app as some alleys are winding.

These tips will enrich your experience and discover the town's charming character beyond the main attractions.

Historical District Insights

Old Town Vnitřní Město

This UNESCO-listed area is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets. It features well-preserved Gothic and Renaissance houses, reflecting centuries of city development.

Latrán

A medieval-era area with preserved houses and the Budějovická Brána (Budweis Gate), one of the town's original entrances. Its character is distinct from the inner Old Town.

Church of St. Vitus

The dominant Gothic church in the Old Town, from the period of the 14th century. It features impressive frescoes and a Baroque altar, serving as a spiritual and architectural centerpiece.

Final Tip for Sightseeing

Exploring the town on foot is the most rewarding way to discover its charm. Wear comfortable shoes.