48 Hours in Cesky Krumlov – 2 Day Itinerary
Nestled in the picturesque South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, the enchanting town of Cesky Krumlov attracts travellers with its timeless charm and rich history.
With its UNESCO World Heritage status and a maze of cobblestone streets, this beautiful little town is a true gem waiting to be discovered. Although this medieval marvel may be quite a small destination, there are plenty of attractions to fill up 2 days in Cesky Krumlov.
The summer months of June, July and August are considered the peak tourist season here, with warm, pleasant weather and longer daylight hours.
The town comes alive with festivals during the summer, with outdoor events and vibrant street performances, offering a fun and lively atmosphere that will make your trip all the more memorable.
If you can’t plan a trip during this time, or prefer to come when there are fewer crowds, the months of April, May and September are amazing times to visit as well. There are plenty of wonderful and cosy Cesky Krumlov hotels close to all of the main attractions, such as Hotel Arcadie, Hotel Ebersbach and Monastery Garden.
Once you arrive, it’s worth picking up a Cesky Krumlov Card for 400 Czech Koruna, which will grant you entry into five of the main museums in town: the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, the Castle Museum and Tower, the Monastery Museum, Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, and the Regional Museum. Even if you don’t end up seeing them all, it will save you some time waiting in line.
If you have the opportunity to visit Cesky Krumlov, a well-planned itinerary is essential to make the most of your time.
The following Cesky Krumlov itinerary will guide you through the must-see attractions, hidden treasures and immersive experiences that the charming town has to offer. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Bohemia.
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Overview Of 2 Days In Cesky Krumlov Itinerary
Day 1 in Cesky Krumlov:
- State Castle and Chateau Cesky Krumlov
- The Castle Gardens
- The Egon Schiele Art Centrum
- The Regional Museum of Cesky Krumlov
- The Museum of Torture Instruments
- A dinner of traditional Czech cuisine
Day 2 in Cesky Krumlov:
- The Old Town
- The Church of St Vitus
- Canoeing or rafting along the Vltava River
- The City Park
- A classical music performance at the Baroque Theatre
Day 1 in Cesky Krumlov
State Castle and Chateau Cesky Krumlov
Your first priority when visiting Cesky Krumlov will be to explore the stunning castle complex, which is one of the most popular attractions in the Czech Republic.
Once you arrive, it’s worth picking up a Cesky Krumlov Card for 400 Czech Koruna, which will grant you entry into five of the main museums in town: the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, the Castle Museum and Tower, the Monastery Museum, Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, and the Regional Museum. Even if you don’t end up seeing them all, it will save you some time waiting in line.
More commonly known as simply Cesky Krumlov Castle, the complex dates back to the 13th century and overlooks the Vltava River.
With a unique layout featuring five courtyards and 40 buildings interconnected by a series of corridors and passageways, it is a truly incredible example of mediaeval architecture with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements.
One of the main highlights of the Cesky Krumlov Castle is the Baroque Theatre, which is considered one of the best-preserved theatres of its kind in the world.
The theatre dates back to the 17th century and features original stage machinery, costumes and props. If you wish, you can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the theatre and see its stunning interior.
Another major feature of the complex and a must-see during your visit is the Castle Museum, found in the upper castle.
The museum houses a large collection of historical artefacts, including weapons, armour, artwork and period furniture, all of which provide insights into the rich history of Cesky Krumlov and the surrounding regions.
Don’t forget to climb the Castle Tower too, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the town and its iconic red-roofed houses.
You’ll also get a chance to stop and admire the Cloak Bridge here, which crosses the moat by the western side of the Upper Castle.
The Castle Gardens
Lastly, designate some time to explore outside of the castle and wander around the beautiful and expansive gardens. Dating back to the 17th century, the gardens feature numerous sections, including:
The Baroque Garden: The central part of the gardens is designed in the Baroque style, featuring neatly manicured lawns, geometrically shaped flower beds and symmetrically arranged hedges. This section showcases the influence of Italian Renaissance gardens.
The Rococo Garden: At the northern end of the gardens, you’ll find the Rococo Garden, which was added in the 18th century. This section features more quirky and ornate designs, including statues, decorative vases and a charming pavilion.
The Orangery: Next to the Baroque Garden is the Orangery, a greenhouse that was originally used for growing citrus fruits and exotic plants. Today, it serves as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions and concerts.
The Cascade Fountain: One of the main attractions in the gardens is the Cascade Fountain. This tiered fountain is adorned with statues and water flows down the steps, creating a picturesque sight. It serves as a focal point of the gardens and is often used as a backdrop for photographs.
The Bellaria Summer House: A delightful structure built in Renaissance style, the summer house is a peaceful retreat and a beautiful spot to enjoy panoramic views of Cesky Krumlov and the surrounding countryside.
The Theatre: The Castle Gardens also house an open-air theatre, which hosts performances during the summer. It provides a stunning setting for theatrical productions, concerts and other cultural events.
Egon Schiele Art Centrum
This wonderful art museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Austrian painter Egon Schiele, and is an important cultural institution within Cesky Krumlov.
During his short life, Schiele was one of the most prominent figures of Austrian Expressionism in the early 1900s. The museum was established in 1992 and is housed in a historic building known as the former Brewery House.
The collection here includes a significant number of Schiele’s artworks, including paintings and drawings. Whether you are familiar with his work already, you’ll have the opportunity to explore his distinctive art style, which often portrayed provocative and psychologically charged subjects.
The museum also frequently hosts smaller, temporary exhibitions featuring works by other artists who are inspired by Schiele or share similar artistic styles.
The Regional Museum
The Regional Museum of Cesky Krumlov is a cultural institution that aims to preserve and showcase the history, art and culture of the region.
Housed in a newly-constructed Baroque building, the collections cover everything from local history and archaeology to architecture and crafts.
The large, highly-detailed ceramic model of the Old Town in the 1800s is one of the museum’s must-sees.
The Museum of Torture Instruments
One of the more unique places to visit in town is the exhibition on torture instruments in the basement of the Town Hall in Unity Square.
Housed within reconstructed cellars that take up a total of 400 square metres, you’ll discover around 100 exhibits that include engravings, wax figures and eerie audio-visual effects.
It won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re interested in the Middle Ages and aren’t easily spooked, you’ll certainly want to check this museum out.
Taste traditional Czech cuisine
End your first day in Cesky Krumlov by indulging in the local cuisine. As you may have already learned if you’re coming from Prague, Czech cuisine is known for its hearty dishes that often feature meat, potatoes and bread.
Some popular dishes include goulash, roast pork, sauerkraut, and a variety of flavourful soups. Dumplings are a staple too, though they are often served as a side dish to soak up the delicious sauces in many Czech dishes.
You’ll also find plenty of sweet treats and pastries, such as trdelnik (which is made from rolled dough, sugar and walnuts) and kolace (sweet pastries typically filled with fruit or cheese).
Some of the best places to get a bite to eat in Cesky Krumlov are Švejk Restaurant, Papa’s Living Restaurant, Krčma Šatlava and Gotika. Beer culture is deeply ingrained in Czech cuisine, so don’t forget to order a cold one with your meal (if you’re a drinker).
Day 2 in Cesky Krumlov
Wander the Old Town
Start your second day in Cesky Krumlov by leisurely walking around the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. This central area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture and its charming atmosphere.
While wandering around the Old Town, you will be able to spot countless architectural gems that feature a mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The Town Square, Náměstí Svornosti, is considered the focal point of the area, with its colourful facades and the iconic Samson’s Fountain.
Depending on when you are visiting, you may stumble onto one of the many festivals and cultural events hosted by the town throughout the year.
If you want to learn as much as possible about the history and architecture, a walking tour with a private guide is recommended.
The Church of St Vitus
The Church of St Vitus is one of the most prominent and historic landmarks in Cesky Krumlov. Located next to the river in the Old Town, it is known for its tall Gothic tower which stands at a height of 86 metres.
Known as Kostel svatého Víta in Czech, the church was originally built in Gothic style in the 15th century, though it has undergone several renovations and additions in the centuries since.
The interiors are even more stunning, with the 17th-century altar beautifully decorated and the nave and the aisles adorned with Gothic vaulting. The church houses several valuable works of art, including altarpieces, statues and paintings from different periods.
Notably, there is an altarpiece dedicated to St Vitus, the patron saint of the church. While as tourists we can simply admire the beauty of the church, it continues to play an essential role in the spiritual and social life of the local community.
Explore the Vltava River
Rafting or canoeing on the Vltava River is a popular outdoor activity in Český Krumlov and an exhilarating way to experience the natural beauty of the town. There are two main options available to you.
You can either join a guided tour, or rent equipment to explore the river at your own pace. Guided tours are recommended for beginners and those who prefer more structure, as they offer instruction and equipment, and often include transportation to and from the starting and ending points.
If you choose to rent equipment, you can find several rental agencies in Cesky Krumlov that offer rafts, canoes and kayaks, as well as all necessary gear.
The rental companies will typically provide you with safety equipment, including life jackets and paddles, as well as information on the river conditions and recommended routes.
The most popular stretch for rafting and canoeing is the section known as Cesky Krumlov – Zlata Koruna.
This 11-kilometre route takes you through both gentle rapids and calm stretches, offering some adrenaline as well as some time for relaxation and sightseeing. This usually takes a few hours, depending on your pace and the river’s current.
Relax at the city park
The main park in Cesky Krumlov (Městský Park) is a lovely place to spend a quiet moment in the afternoon, particularly after a long day or two of walking.
Relax by the river in this serene oasis for a little while, watching the boats go past, having a chat with your travel companion, or reading a book by yourself.
If you’re travelling with kids, there’s a playground here for them to enjoy. This park will have a completely different vibe depending on the season, and is even worth walking through after it’s been snowing.
Attend a classical music concert
Finish off your Cesky Krumlov 2 day itinerary by attending a classical music concert, which can be a magical and truly memorable experience. You can expect to hear masterpieces by composers from various eras, including Mozart, Beethoven, Bach and Dvorak.
One of the most renowned venues in the town is the Baroque Theatre, offering an intimate and authentic atmosphere. Here you will be able to appreciate both the acoustics and the historical significance of the venue simultaneously. You can also occasionally find classical music performances in churches like St Vitus or St Jošt.
You can easily check the event schedules and purchase tickets online. Keep in mind that some concerts may have limited seating, so it’s best to book your tickets early to avoid missing out.
FAQs About visit Cesky Krumlov in two days
How much time do you need in Cesky Krumlov?
Wondering how long to spend in Cesky Krumlov? In general, most visitors will find that spending one or two days there is enough to experience the main attractions and get a good sense of the vibe and culture of the town.
If you have more time to spare and want to delve deeper into the town’s history and culture, or if you simply prefer a slower travel pace, staying for an additional day or two would allow you to visit smaller museums, take a relaxing boat ride on the river, or even go on a hiking or cycling trip in the surrounding countryside.
Is Cesky Krumlov worth visiting?
Yes, Cesky Krumlov is definitely worth visiting. This picturesque town in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic is known for its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, charming cobblestone streets and stunning views of the Vltava River.
The town is compact and easily explored on foot, allowing you to soak in its unique atmosphere and architectural beauty.
Cesky Krumlov also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Five-Petalled Rose Celebrations and the International Music Festival. These events add an extra charm to the town and provide an opportunity to experience its vibrant cultural scene.
Even more, if you’re a lover of the outdoors, Cesky Krumlov offers opportunities for outdoor activities like rafting or kayaking on the Vltava River, hiking in the surrounding countryside, or cycling along the scenic paths.
How far is Cesky Krumlov from Prague?
The distance between Cesky Krumlov and Prague is approximately 180 kilometres by road. The most common mode of transportation between the two cities is by car or bus, which usually takes around two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.
It’s also possible to get to Cesky Krumlov from Prague by train, but the journey typically takes a bit longer.
Final Thoughts: 2 days itinerary for cesky krumlov 2023
Cesky Krumlov is a stunning destination that will have you eagerly coming back for more. With its cobbled streets, winding river and captivating castle, it’s not hard to see why it attracts so many travelers.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a romantic getaway or even just some rest and relaxation, Cesky Krumlov has something for everyone.
With two days of exploration, you can mix and match the itineraries we’ve mentioned here to create the perfect holiday tailored to your needs. So make sure to pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city!
Recommended tours in Cesky Krumlov
- One day trips in the surroundings of Cesky Krumlov
- Private day trip to Hallstatt from Český Krumlov
- Český Krumlov Private Walking Tour
- Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area
- Cesky Krumlov Tour 4 hours
- Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour
- Private one way Sightseeing transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague
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