Prague to Cesky Krumlov Day Trips

Built around a 13th-century castle, Český Krumlov’s remarkably preserved medieval center earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1992. Its Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture has remained nearly intact for over 700 years, even escaping damage during the world wars.

Located just about 175 km from Prague, Český Krumlov is an ideal destination for a day trip. It takes about 2 hours to cover the distance by car, and you can easily visit it and return to Prague in a day.

Most Český Krumlov tours include an expert guide who will show you around the medieval town. You can take the tour in your preferred language and fully explore the UNESCO World Heritage town’s history and culture.

Full-day guided tours from Prague to Český Krumlov include round-trip transfers, allowing you to enjoy the experience without worrying about transportation logistics. Relax and enjoy the scenic journey.

Český Krumlov is often described as a “fairytale town,” and for good reason – its medieval architecture and winding streets have remained practically unchanged for centuries. Wander through the narrow alleyways, admire the mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and take fabulous photographs from its many viewpoints.

Explore the lavishly decorated rooms of the Castle Museum, set in the Lower Castle. They’re filled with original furnishings, historic paintings, weapons, noble attire, and rare items from the Schwarzenberg family collection—including the gilded Golden Carriage used in ceremonial processions.

Ascend the 160 steps to the top of the 54.5-meter Castle Tower and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views. See Český Krumlov’s red-tiled rooftops, winding medieval streets, the Vltava River, and the surrounding South Bohemian countryside spread out below.

Dating back to 1767, the Baroque Theatre in the Český Krumlov Castle complex is Europe’s best-preserved of its kind, with original stage machinery, orchestra pit, scenery, costumes, and props—all housed in the original 18th-century structure and meticulously restored.

First built in the 15th century, the five-storey Cloak Bridge links the castle’s fourth and fifth courtyards. Its most striking features date back to the 18th century, including three levels of enclosed Baroque corridors and a scenic covered walkway that opens up to stunning views of the old town, the castle gardens, and the Vltava River.

Spanning 11 hectares, the Baroque gardens of Český Krumlov Castle unfold across tiered terraces, framed by stone walls. Highlights include the Rococo-style Bellaria Pavilion and an elaborate Neptune fountain adorned with mythological figures and flowing cascades.

One of the best ways to explore Český Krumlov is from the River Vltava, which winds through the town. Take a cruise on a historic wooden raft or navigate the river yourself by canoe. With the castle looming over you from above, medieval buildings lining the banks, and narrow streets twisting away, the town’s timeless charm envelopes you.

With its tall octagonal Gothic spire, St. Vitus Church is visible from almost every point in Český Krumlov. Built in the 1400s, it is one of the town’s oldest buildings and the burial site of many members of the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families. Head inside to admire its soaring vaulted ceilings and tall stained glass windows.

For fans of the artist Egon Schiele, the Art Centrum is a must-visit. It features a permanent exhibit on Schiele’s life and work, including original drawings, letters, photos, and personal items related to his family history in Krumlov. It also hosts seasonal exhibitions of modern and contemporary 20th–21st century art.

Housed in photographer Josef Seidel’s original 1905 home and studio, the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel (Seidel Photo Studio Museum) preserves his working darkroom, photography equipment, and personal items. Its archive holds 140,000 images—mainly glass negatives—documenting Český Krumlov, local life, and the surrounding Šumava region.