Cesky Krumlov

Český Krumlov was founded in the 13th century and soon became the seat of the powerful Rožmberk family. Thanks to its strategic location on a trade route and the Vltava river, it flourished as a hub of commerce, nobility, and art.

Its castle — the second largest in the Czech Republic — dominates the town and offers sweeping views of red rooftops and winding alleys. The town's beauty survived wars, neglect, and communism, and today it thrives as a living showcase of Bohemian culture.

Character & feeling of this place

Český Krumlov feels like a place time forgot. The creak of wooden doors, the smell of baked honey cakes, the echo of your steps on stone — it’s not staged, it’s simply preserved. It's the kind of town where you don’t follow a map — you follow your curiosity.

• The castle has a moat — with real bears.

  Bears have lived in the castle moat for centuries. Today, they’re part of the town’s quirky tradition and a favorite attraction for visitors.

• The whole town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  Český Krumlov was added to the UNESCO list in 1992 for its unique urban and architectural heritage — virtually unchanged since the Renaissance.

• It has the world’s oldest working Baroque theater.

  Built in 1766, the theater inside the castle still has original stage machinery, costumes, and candle lighting. It’s rarely open — but magical if you catch it.