Cesky Krumlov – The Pride of South Bohemia

An endlessly photogenic destination, Cesky Krumlov is one of South Bohemia’s most famous cities. Known for its narrow cobblestoned streets, castle towers and historic city center, these sites have captured the attention of many visitors for centuries.  

Located in the Bohemia region between Prague, Austria to the south and Germany to the west, Cesky Krumlov is a stunningly beautiful town and the second most visited city in the Czech Republic - a reason why it is often included as an excursion option on a Danube river cruise. 

What leaves visitors in awe? The following experiences are just the beginning:

Cesky Krumlov Castle
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Sitting up on the hill overlooking the city, the structure’s history dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by the Lords of Krumlov (Vitkovci family).  The castle was rebuilt in the Renaissance style in the 16th century, and extensive reconstruction in the 18th century was in Baroque style.  Today, the castle is one of the most beautiful in all of the Czech Republic.  Tip: Go up the castle tower to get the ultimate photo of the town from up high.  

Inner Town

The town of Cesky Krumlov was created around the castle.  The medieval city center, Inner Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  The main square, namesti Svornosti (Unity Square) looks like a movie set.  The painted houses that line the square are great examples of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture
 
Museum Fotoatelier Seidel

A museum dedicated to father and son photographers Josef and Frantisek Seidel, it contains a unique collection of photographs from the Czech-German-Austrian area from the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th. 
 
Egon Schiele Art Centrum
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Art Centrum is dedicated to the expressionist artist Egon Schiele, who lived and worked in Cesly Krumlov. He is known for his expressionist work of provocative nudes, portraits of cities and his own portraits.

Church of St. Vitus

St. Vitus Church is one of more than 300 well preserved buildings in the Old Town area and the second most important architectural landmark in town.  The first church in this location was built in 1309, it was expanded over the years in both Gothic and Baroque styles. The prominent Gothic style tower was added in the 19th century.  Inside you’ll find an interesting collection of religious artwork, frescoes, sculptures and tombs of famous noblemen.   
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Tip: The church is open every day and admission is free.  It is an active place of worship, and photography is prohibited inside. 
 
Cesky Krumlov is a very popular destination, and can unfortunately get crowded.  Peak hours are between 11am and 4pm – if you can manage visiting before or after these hours you’ll avoid the crowds.  Another tip: bring plenty of cash as many of the shops do not take credit cards.

If you are thinking about a river cruise in 2022 or even 2023, we need to start planning sooner rather than later. Give me call (602.540.3112) or send me an email (laurie@lakamatravel.com) so we can get started.