Quick Picks for Your Český Krumlov Visit

Short on time? These quick picks help you decide where to go first. Use this summary to plan your morning efficiently. You can also check out our Český Krumlov city guide for more details.

• Best Overall: State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov
• Best Free View: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most)
• Best for Families: Vltava River Rafting
• Best Rainy Day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum

Top 10 Things to Do in Český Krumlov for a Day Trip

The town center is compact and walkable. You can reach most sites on foot within minutes. Here are the top attractions for your visit.

1. Name: State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. The interiors are breathtaking and well-preserved. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Castle District. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for tours; grounds are free. Getting there: Walk uphill from Latrán. Tip: Book tour tickets in advance on the official castle site.
2. Name: Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the most iconic 360-degree views of the town. The colorful Renaissance decorations are stunning. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Enter via the Red Gate. Tip: Climb early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
3. Name: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: Architecture Why go: This massive multi-story bridge connects the castle parts. It provides unique views of the river and town rooftops. Best for: Sightseeing for free. Where: Between the castle courtyards and gardens. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path from the castle courtyards. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting.
4. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic district was once home to castle servants. It features charming colorful houses and craft shops. Best for: Exploring local atmosphere. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the Barber’s Bridge. Tip: Look for the old monastery gates hidden in the side streets.
5. Name: Náměstí Svornosti (Old Town Square) Type: Market/Square Why go: This is the heart of the Old Town. It features a plague column and the historic Town Hall. Best for: People watching and coffee. Where: Center of the Old Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main pedestrian signs. Tip: Use the tourist office located right on the square for maps.
6. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Historic sight Why go: This Gothic masterpiece dominates the town skyline. The interior is peaceful and filled with local history. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Kostelní street. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Short walk from the main square. Tip: Be respectful as this is an active place of worship.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: It showcases the life and work of the famous expressionist painter. The gallery is housed in a former brewery. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: Visit the Art Centrum website to check for temporary exhibits.
8. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Experience Why go: Seeing the town from the water is a unique perspective. It is a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon. Best for: Adventure seekers and families. Where: Various rental points along the river. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Rental shops are near the Barber’s Bridge. Tip: Wear clothes that you don't mind getting slightly wet.
9. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: These expansive Baroque gardens are perfect for a quiet walk. They feature a unique revolving auditorium. Best for: A relaxing break from the crowds. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards to the very end. Tip: The gardens are usually closed during winter months.
10. Name: Regional Museum in Český Krumlov Type: Museum Why go: It houses a famous ceramic model of the town. You can learn about the history of the Bohemian region. Best for: Learning local history. Where: Horní street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Near the viewpoint by the Jesuit College. Tip: Don't miss the viewpoint terrace right next to the museum entrance.

Planning Your One Day Itinerary Tips

To make the most of your trip, arrive before 10:00 AM. Most day-trippers arrive by midday, making the streets very crowded. Wear comfortable walking shoes because the cobblestones are uneven. You should also decide if Český Krumlov is worth visiting for just one day based on your pace. Most people find that one day is perfect for the main highlights.

How to Get to Český Krumlov

Getting here from Prague is very simple. The most popular option is the direct bus. Several companies run frequent services from the Na Knížecí station. You can read more about Prague to Český Krumlov travel options here. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Trains are also available but often require a transfer in České Budějovice.