If you are planning a trip to the Czech Republic, you’ll surely visit its capital – Prague. However, even if Prague’s attractions are a must-see, this small country offers many other interesting places to visit. So, you should try to visit at least one of its lesser known, but equally beautiful cities. At least, you can’t leave without seeing the small town called Cesky Krumlov. It is the real pearl of southern Bohemia – the fact that a big part of the city is designated as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site clearly proves this. Cesky Krumlov offers numerous architectural beauties, historical sites, cultural events as well as great restaurants, bars and cafes. Here are a few tips for the best things that you should not miss.
1. The stunning medieval castle
Firstly, it is an obligation to visit the Cesky Krumlov Castle on the massive rock rising above the Vltava River. The castle was built in the 14th century by an ancient and important Czech dynasty called the Rožmberk (Rosenberg). With its five courtyards and extremely large lands and gardens, it is the second biggest castle in Czech Republic, just after the one in Prague. It is also one of the most beautiful ones – its stunning colour-painted tower, as well as its old baroque theatre, are the real icons of the city. To see its beautiful interiors and learn more about its history, you should buy a ticket for one of the guided tours. The price varies from 130 CZK (~5.17 USD) to 150 CZK (6 USD) depending on which tour you choose.
2. The historical city centre
Not only the castle, but also the historical centre of the city, which is part of the UNESCO Site and that lies beyond the castle is a must-see. The small curved streets where you can get lost very easily are full of old houses. These buildings with wonderful painted facades were built during the medieval age for the craftsmen and royal alchemists that lived and worked in the city. In fact, the art of handmade products has persisted in this city and while walking through the streets, you’ll hardly resist visiting the shops with homemade chocolate bonbons, wooden toys, ceramic pottery and antiques.
3. The newly restored Monastery
There is another UNESCO Site that is worth visiting – the large complex of the old “Minorite Monastery” buildings, situated on the left side of the river in the Latran District. This monastery was founded in 1350 by the landlord Peter I Rosenberg as a common siege for the Order of Minorite monks and the Order of Saint Clare nuns. In fact, the whole complex was in ruins until the 1950s. It has been reconstructed and reopened to the public in 1990. Its new look and restoration is really worth visiting. In addition, there are nice gardens on the side where you can breathe the fresh air and chill out by tasting its silence and tranquillity.
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4. Egon Schiele Art Gallery
After visiting these historic sites, it is time to discover some culture and art of the region. Cross to other side of the river and take a look to the Egon Schiele Art Gallery. Egon Schiele was a talented painter whose family came to Krumlov from Austria. He was a student of the Art Nouveau artist Gustav Klimt and his paintings reflect his wild artistic life. They are full of beautiful women that Schiele had relations with as well as of strange visions of the city itself. Surely, Schiele was a real bohemian man full of contradictions. However, the Schiele Gallery doesn’t show only the work of the painter himself – the first floor is dedicated to a temporary exposition that is always interesting. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm and the entrance fee for adults is 160 CZK (~6.36 USD).
5. Learn about the history of photography
Cesky Krumlov wasn’t only the shelter of crazy painters, but also of talented photographs. If you’re passionate by this art form, you can’t miss the old photographic atelier of photographer Josef Seidel who worked at the beginning of the first half of 20th century. Actually, he walked with his devices all around the Krumlov region that is called “Bohemian Forest” and documented its life. His precious and passionate work gave the world an important documentation of its past, of the habits of people that are disappearing, as well as of a stunning virgin nature of the Bohemian hills. His old atelier was recently restored and thanks to this, you can visit the “Museum Fotoatelier Seidel” with a guide for 100 CZK (4 USD). There you’ll learn not only about Seidel himself, but also about the way the photographs worked during the beginning of 20th century. Mainly the photographic studio with a glass-topped roof is extremely interesting and you should not miss it!
6. Do you need some rest - let's go to Antre Cafe
Are you already a bit tired? Then go for some nice cup of coffee to the Antre Cafe near the Town Theatre that is situated at the “Upper Gate” of the city, on Horní Ulice 2. If it is sunny, find some nice place on its terrace from where you can see a breath-taking panorama of the city. You’ll see the castle, the river and the hilly curved streets. Order some good wine or coffee there and take a rest. There is another reason why you should not miss the Antre terrace – during the summer, there is a barbecue stand. The smell of freshly grilled meat will surely lure your senses. So, don’t resist and order their chicken breast with grilled vegetables – you won’t be disappointed. The view, good wine, tasty food and great, familiar atmosphere - the day can’t finish better, can it?
The best places of Cesky Krumlov
Cesky Krumlov is one of the most beautiful Czech cities and you should definitely not miss it. There are many interesting things to do and to see, so here a few tips of the real must-dos! So, let’s enjoy this magical place!
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