Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Soumya
This epic 2-day itinerary for Cesky Krumlov includes the best things to do in the city – visiting the Cesky Krumlov Castle, exploring the Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site) on a walking tour, taking in stunning views of the city, rafting on the Vltava River, and savoring delicious Bohemian cuisine.
Cesky Krumlov is a picturesque town in the Czech Republic where you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Cobblestone streets, colorful medieval houses, a majestic castle, and a river meandering through all of them—the beauty of Cesky Krumlov beckoned to me when I started planning my Central Europe trip.
Come, let’s explore what this detailed 2-day Cesky Krumlov itinerary has in store for you. As always, this itinerary is tailored for travelers with a passion for history and culture, but it also includes some adventurous river rafting.
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Perfect 2 Days in Cesky Krumlov
Cesky Krumlov might be small, but it’s packed with charm, history, and unforgettable experiences. From its medieval roots to its stunning views and incredible food, this fairytale town is the perfect 2-day getaway in Central Europe.
I was torn between taking a day trip to Cesky Krumlov and spending a couple of days there, until I finally decided on the latter. Because there was just so much to see and do in Cesky Krumlov. 48 hours also felt a little short!
Day 1: Old Town + Views + Vltava River
Stroll through the Old Town
Start your first day in Cesky Krumlov, wandering through the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Latran area, nestled beneath the 13th-century castle, is filled with beautifully preserved medieval burgher houses featuring colorful facades. Most of these houses have been converted into pensions, boutique stores, museums, and charming cafes.
Only about 300 locals live in the historic center today, which makes me a little sad. However, it is also true that a significant portion of the local population relies on tourism for their livelihoods. I strongly encourage you to buy, eat, and experience the local flavors in Cesky Krumlov.
✦ Pro Tip: Book your Cesky Krumlov Old Town Guided Walking Tour here.
Visit the Main Square and the Plague Column
Head to the main square, Namesti Svornosti (Unity Square), the heart of Cesky Krumlov. Impressive Gothic and Renaissance buildings surround the square, many of them dating back to the 14th century.
Here, you’ll also find the striking Marian Plague Column, a testament to the town’s resilience after the 1680 plague.
The square is also a great starting point for exploring nearby museums, as the visitor center is conveniently located here. Feel free to pick a map and purchase a Cesky Krumlov Card here for discounted entry to multiple museums.
Join the Wiseman Free Walking Tour
The Wiseman Free Walking Tour, which I thoroughly enjoyed, also begins at the main square. Jan, our tour guide, dived deep into local history and legends, offering fascinating stories about the town’s past, such as why locals eat carp here, why much of the population is atheist, and why their main church has two organs. Jan made it fun and interesting, and I’m so glad I signed up for it.
At the end of the tour, you can pay whatever you want, depending on your satisfaction with the experience. Standard payments range between 10 and 15€ for 2-hour tours like these. However, it really depends on how much you’re willing to pay. We loved the tour paid 15€ per person.
Wiseman offers two free walking tours daily: 10:30 – 12:30 and 14:00 – 16:00. They do not operate from Jan – March.
✦ Pro Tip: Check out more reviews of the Wisemann Free Walking Tour here. Book your tour in advance here.
Enjoy Stunning Views at Seminární Zahrada
For the ultimate photo spot, visit the Seminary Garden (Seminární Zahrada). This peaceful courtyard offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cesky Krumlov, with its red-roofed houses and the castle towering above.
If you’re taking the Wiseman tour, you’ll come here with them. However, be sure to visit this spot on your own or with your loved ones, as it is one of the best viewpoints in Cesky Krumlov. And guess what? It is free to enter!
I came here multiple times because it was on my way to the old town from my hotel, Pension Krumau, and I absolutely loved the views at all times of the day.
Take a moment to enjoy the scenery and appreciate the timeless charm of Cesky Krumlov from this magical spot.
✦ Pro Tip: Check out the 6 best Cesky Krumlov viewpoints for stunning vistas.
Explore St Vitus Church
Walk over to St. Vitus Church, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks.
Built in the 15th century, this late Gothic masterpiece features impressive vaulted ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and striking frescoes. It’s a must-see for lovers of medieval architecture.
Much of Cesky Krumlov’s population is not religious. So, this church is barely visited by locals. But mass does happen, and you can join in if you’re interested. Additionally, the church is often the venue for musical concerts in Cesky Krumlov.
Enjoy Authentic Bohemian Cuisine
For lunch, treat yourself to authentic Bohemian flavors at Restaurant Na Louzi.
Na Louzi is a traditional Czech tavern (hospoda in the local language) that serves amazing potato salad, schnitzel, and roast duck. I ordered their grilled carp with garlic and totally loved it. They also offer vegetarian dishes, such as fried cheese, cauliflower, and mushrooms.
Immerse in Local History at the Regional Museum
Learn about the lives of locals through the centuries with a mix of exhibits spanning from medieval times to the present day.
Don’t miss their intricate 20th-century ceramic model of the old town.
Paddle Along the Vltava River
End your first day in Cesky Krumlov with a scenic river experience.
You have two choices – you can join a traditional wooden raft tour or opt for an active rafting adventure.
We opted for this 50-minute wooden raft tour, which included a local guide who shared the history of Cesky Krumlov and the buildings that lined the riverbank. We also crossed two rapids in the raft, and it was a lot of fun. Our guide ended the tour with a beautiful Czech song.
✦ Pro Tip: Wooden raft tours sell out quickly. Book yours here.
Dinner at My Saigon
For dinner, indulge in delicious Vietnamese cuisine at My Saigon. This cozy eatery offers fresh, flavorful dishes and is a refreshing option after a day packed with Czech delights.
Day 2: Cesky Krumlov Castle + Museums + Shopping
Visit Cesky Krumlov Castle
Kick off your second day in Cesky Krumlov with a visit to the Cesky Krumlov Castle. It’s the second-largest castle in the Czech Republic, second only to Prague.
First built in 1253, the castle underwent several additions and renovations over the centuries by the various dynasties that occupied it. The Rosenbergs (Cesky Krumlov’s most powerful rulers), who lived here for nearly 400 years, gave the castle a beautiful Renaissance makeover.
Cesky Krumlov Castle is a feast for the eyes, with jaw-dropping views from the tower, ornately designed interiors, and a sprawling 10-hectare garden to explore. The courtyards and gardens are free to explore.
Do not miss the bear moat at the castle grounds. They still have three actual bears there. The presence of bears at the castle is tied to a local legend. However, it is not the ideal situation for the animals.
The castle is closed during the winter months, so plan your visit accordingly. Check opening hours here before visiting.
Climb the Castle Tower
I highly recommend climbing the Castle Tower for panoramic views of the town. It’s not a challenging climb at all – it has about 160 steps, including the 30 steps that you need to climb to get to the ticketing office.
Of all the towers I have climbed in Central Europe, the one in Rothenburg, Germany, was the most challenging. But that’s a story for another day!
Walk the Cloak Bridge
The Cloak Bridge, part of the castle complex, offers stunning vistas and is steeped in history.
It is a three-storied arched bridge that resembles a Roman aqueduct, but it is not. It was once a secret passageway for royalty, and now it’s a must-see attraction for visitors.
Tour the Baroque Theater
Visit the Baroque Theater inside the castle complex, one of the best-preserved of its kind in Europe. The theater is still used today, and you can catch a performance if you’re lucky.
You can only visit it with an official tour guide, and tickets must be booked in advance. The tour guide will provide you with detailed insights into the history and construction of the theatre, including all the sets and furnishings.
The best part of the tour was seeing how different sound effects, such as those of rain, wind, and thunder, are created using various tools. We also got to go under the stage and experience how special effects and scene changes were done. I absolutely loved this tour.
Book your Baroque Theater tour tickets here. The castle is closed on Mondays and during the winter months, from November to April. Check opening hours here before visiting.
Enjoy Lunch at Laibon
For lunch, stop at Laibon, a local vegetarian restaurant conveniently located on the riverbank. Enjoy a relaxing meal with an incredible view of the Vltava River, as well as a range of plant-based dishes bursting with flavor.
Laibon offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including many from South Asia. But I tried their traditional Czech bryndza (goat cheese) dumplings and loved them. The owner is a friendly guy who loves to chat about local food and culture.
Explore Cesky Krumlov’s Unique Museums
Cesky Krumlov is filled with quirky and fascinating museums. The Wax Museum, Museum of Commerce, and Puppet Museum each provide a unique glimpse into diverse aspects of history and culture.
With the Cesky Krumlov Card, you’ll have access to these museums, along with the Egon Schiele Art Centrum and the Castle Museum. You can buy the card at the visitor center in the main square.
Enjoy an Afternoon Treat
Before you leave, indulge in a trdelník, a traditional Central European pastry that’s also called the chimney cake. You can also try it in Prague, Bratislava, and Budapest. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this delicious treat is often filled with ice cream or Nutella.
Bring Home a Souvenir
Wrap up your Cesky Krumlov visit with a stop at one of the town’s boutique shops for a memorable souvenir.
Some of my favorite Czech souvenirs that I picked up in Cesky Krumlov were handmade ceramics, local woodwork, jewelry, and enamel mugs painted by locals.
How to Get to Cesky Krumlov?
Cesky Krumlov is a well-connected destination that can be conveniently reached by bus, car, or shuttle from major cities in the Czech Republic and neighboring countries.
By Bus: Buses are the most popular and affordable way to reach Cesky Krumlov. Regular services operate from Prague, with a travel time of approximately 3 hours. Companies like RegioJet and FlixBus provide comfortable and reliable options. We used Flixbus to travel from Cesky Krumlov to Linz, and it was very comfortable.
By Car: If you want to keep your plans flexible, driving to Cesky Krumlov is an excellent choice. The route from Prague takes about 2.5 hours, and parking is available on the outskirts of the town. Click here to rent a car.
By Shuttle Service: Private shuttles or shared minibusses are another direct and convenient way to get to Cesky Krumlov. You can book these services in advance. They often include a comfortable door-to-door experience.
We used a private CK shuttle to travel from Hallstatt to Cesky Krumlov. CK Shuttle is the most highly rated shuttle service for Cesky Krumlov. Since we booked so late, we were unable to get seats on the shared shuttle. So, make sure to book your shared shuttle service in advance to avoid disappointment, like us.
Please note that there are no trains that directly connect to Cesky Krumlov. If you’re used to traveling in Europe by train, you may be in for a disappointment here.
Where to Stay in Cesky Krumlov?
Cesky Krumlov is not the typical European town with numerous hotel chains. Instead, it boasts a charming selection of private pensions and guesthouses (most historic houses in the historic center have now been converted into pensions), perfect for those seeking a more intimate and authentic experience.
We stayed at the adorable Pension Krumau and had great views of the castle tower, the town’s red-roofed houses, and cobblestone streets from our room. Our room was spacious, warm, and cozy. The owner of Pension Krumau was a kind gentleman, and we were treated to hearty local breakfasts by him.
✦ Pro Tip: Check out more adorable pensions in Cesky Krumlov here.
2 Days in Cesky Krumlov Travel Tips
- Cesky Krumlov is a popular day trip destination from Prague and Vienna. Therefore, early mornings and late afternoons/evenings are quieter, making them perfect for soaking in the serene beauty before the day-tripping crowds arrive and after they leave. That’s why it is best to spend a night or two in Cesky Krumlov.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to tread the cobblestone streets of Cesky Krumlov.
- Climb the Castle Tower for the best views of the town.
- Tour the Baroque Theater for a unique experience, something you’ll not get in any other European city.
- Join the Wisemann Free Walking Tour for a great introduction to Cesky Krumlov.
- Get a Cesky Krumlov Card from the Tourism Office located at the main square. It is helpful if you want to see 3 or more museums that it provides entry to, including the Regional Museum, Monastery, Castle Museum and Tower, Fotoatelier Seidel, and the Egon Schiele Museum.
After spending two wonderful days in Cesky Krumlov, we headed further south to Salzburg in Austria and then to Regensburg and Nuremberg in Germany to continue our Central European trip.
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