Why Český Krumlov should be on the top of your list to visit this summer?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Renaissance and baroque architecture from 1500, an impressive fortress complex and owner of one of the last two remaining baroque theatres in Europe, all this and more is Český Krumlov.

The leading destination of the Bohemian region carries on as the Czech Republic’s most charming location.

Let´s begin with the location. Český Krumlov is located in the Bohemia´s deep south region, south-east of the Czech Republic, and it takes about two hours and a half by car, and 5 by bus, approximately, to get there from Prague. The trip from the Czech Capital is perfect if it´s done during the day because you get the see the Czech countryside and its fields, mountains, and villages. 

Bus tickets for one way and from Prague can be found in between 80 and 350 Crowns depending on the provider and the times of departure. For accommodation there are many hostels and little Inns scattered all over the city to satisfy different tastes and budgets, just be sure to reserve with as much anticipation as possible, because believe when I tell you you´ll keep seeing the sign “no rooms available” over and over as you walk through the city. 

The city may be small, but it´s not a day trip recommendation I will make but a weekend trip instead; the city and the outdoors activities offer (among others, you can rent a canoe for 3 hours of thrill down the river) will keep you active and exploring, as the little alleys and streets to discover are many, it´s a pleasure to try to walk them all and every corner is a perfect photo moment.

 You should also expect a large presence of tourist’s groups from all over the world and be prepared to cope with the delays and overwhelming feelings it may bring, but if you can get past that, you´ll find yourself ignoring everyone else and loving the place in no time. 

There are 3 major points of interest during a visit to this city: The old town surrounded by the  Vltava River, with its streets and alleys, with its local food and ales, and with the restaurants at the river shore and their Castle view; the fortress and castle of the Rožmberk family, an astonishing complex that includes the royal gardens, horse stables, the mighty tower with its 162 steps (perfect vantage point to contemplate the city!) and the impressive bridge that connects two large sections; and the central historical square where you can gasp at all the architecture from the still standing little homes and venues, some of which have there since the 1600´s, like a pharmacy that has resisted the three attempts from McDonalds to take its place.

In the castle you can find little keeps where you can eat and refresh yourself, there are two museums inside and you must visit the permanent exhibition by the Czech artist Miroslav Paral, composed of bronze sculptures, it´s a ride through the modern history of the country and the city, and some of the personal memories of the author and the sculptures themselves will definitely cause an impression on you. 

Other attractions include the puppet museum, great if you want to know more about this fine Czech tradition, and the old factory which a semi-abandoned space that carries history and depicts the passage of time without any words. Watch out for the family of Brown European bears in the pit at the entrance of the castle! These impressive animals have been part of the identity of the city since one of the Rožmberks carved them in their coat of arms in the 16th century. 

Český Krumlov has been a praised Czech gem by anyone who has visited it, the bohemian city is a serious reason for the Czech people to be happy and proud about, and overall to experience this city is to live it through a strong the sensation of being lost in a time warp in the midst of a medieval town, an experience that many dream to have during their travels in Europe.