Quick answer

Český Krumlov is a compact, UNESCO-listed medieval town in southern Bohemia—picture cobbled streets, a hilltop castle, Vltava river meanders and lively cultural life. Plan for crowds in summer, limited car access in the old town, and comfortable walking shoes for steep cobbles.

Visa & entry requirements

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: no visa needed.
• US/Canada/Australia/NZ citizens: visa-free for short stays (Schengen rules: up to 90 days in 180 days) if entering the Schengen Area via the Czech Republic. Carry passport valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure and proof of return/onward travel.
• Other nationalities: check the Czech Republic (Schengen) visa requirements with your nearest Czech embassy/official government site well before travel.
• COVID: verify current health entry rules (testing, vaccination) shortly before travel—requirements can change.

Best time to visit

• Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September): best combo of milder weather, fewer crowds, and open attractions.
• High season (July–August): warm but crowded; book accommodation early and expect queues.
• Winter (December–February): quiet, picturesque with possible snow and Advent/Christmas markets, some attractions/hotels may have reduced hours.

Safety tips

• Český Krumlov is generally very safe for tourists.
• Usual precautions: watch belongings in crowded spots, be aware of pickpockets near bus stops and main squares, avoid poorly lit alleys at night.
• Nightlife is relaxed but monitor alcohol intake near riverbanks and stairways—stones can be slippery.
• Emergency numbers: EU-wide 112 for police/ambulance.

Local customs & etiquette

• Polite greetings: a simple "Dobrý den" (good day) in Czech is appreciated; younger staff may speak English.
• Respect quiet in residential lanes—locals value peaceful evenings.
• When entering churches/castles, dress modestly and follow any photography restrictions.
• Tipping: 5–10% in restaurants if service isn’t included; round up taxi fares.

Currency & money

• Currency: Czech koruna (CZK). Some tourist shops accept euros but expect poor exchange rates.
• Cards: Widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shops; smaller cafés, market stalls and pensions may be cash-only—carry some CZK.
• ATMs: Available near the town center; check fees with your bank.

Getting there & local transportation

• By air: nearest major airport is Václav Havel Prague (PRG) ~170 km; transfer by bus, train, shuttle or car (approx 2.5–3 hours).
• By train/bus: Regular regional buses from České Budějovice (about 30–40 min). Direct buses from Prague (2.5–3 hours) are common in tourist season; trains require a transfer and drop you a short walk from town.
• Driving: Allowed, but the historic centre has limited vehicle access and narrow streets—park in perimeter lots/official car parks and walk in.
• On foot: The town is best explored on foot; steep cobbled streets and many stairs—wear sturdy shoes.
• River activities: Canoe/kayak trips on the Vltava are popular—book via reputable operators.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Castle complex: Buy a combined ticket to see the castle tower, castle gardens and Baroque theatre; guided tours fill up—reserve ahead in high season.
• Český Krumlov Card: If you plan multiple paid sights, check for a tourist card/combined tickets to save money.
• Timing: Early morning or late afternoon visits to the main square/photo spots avoid peak-daytrip crowds from Prague.
• Photography: The town is photogenic—sunrise from the castle gardens or the Latrán bridge gives excellent views.
• Food & drink: Try regional Czech cuisine (roast pork, dumplings), local beers and trout from the Vltava. Book popular restaurants for dinner in summer evenings.
• Festivals: Summer sees music, theatre and folklore events (e.g., Five-Petalled Rose Festival every two years). Check the event calendar before booking.
• Day trips: Combine with Český Krumlov–based trips to Lipno Lake, Holašovice, or České Budějovice.
• Respect residents: Many properties are private; keep noise down and follow posted signs (especially in quiet lanes and near churches).

Practical checklist before you go

• Passport, (Schengen) visa if required, travel insurance covering medical and trip interruption.
• Cash in CZK for small purchases and market stalls.
• Comfortable walking shoes and a light rain jacket—weather can change quickly.
• Phone with offline map or downloaded directions; some alleys have poor GPS/phone signal.
• Reserve accommodation and key tours (castle, theatre) well in high season.

Enjoy your visit—plan for relaxed walking, photo stops, and soaking in the town's medieval atmosphere.