In Krumau, several ways of exploring the city’s history lie close together: the historic centre on the Vltava, the castle complex and collections ranging from photography to city models. There is also a late Gothic church, a synagogue now used for cultural purposes and experiences on the river. When planning your trip, it is worth organising the options by interest rather than simply ticking off individual sights.
A cityscape spanning several centuries
The historic centre of Český Krumlov lies on the Vltava and developed around a castle dating from the 13th century. Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements meet in the complex. The architectural heritage of the medieval centre is exceptionally well preserved; its development continued uninterrupted for more than five centuries. Different eras thus come together in a cohesive historic cityscape.
The castle complex includes a castle museum and a collection of carriages and sledges in the stables, which recently opened. If you are interested in architectural history, you can compare the castle’s history with other significant buildings in the city: St. Vitus Church is a late Gothic building dating from 1407 to 1439, which was later remodelled. Classical music concerts are occasionally held there. The Český Krumlov Synagogue was built in 1909 by the local Jewish community. Its octagonal tower features understated Neo-Romanesque elements.
Photography, city models and art
The Fotoateliér Seidel Museum focuses on historical photographs, glass negatives, cameras and the furnishings of a darkroom. The museum also regularly presents themed photographs in the historic studio. It thus combines a collection of photographic objects with a recurring programme centred on the studio.
The Regional Museum has a different focus: it displays a detailed ceramic model of the historic city centre and the preserved interior of a Baroque Jesuit pharmacy. The model provides an overview of the city centre, while the pharmacy showcases a specific historic interior. The Egon Schiele Atelier is open to the public in the room where Egon Schiele lived and worked in 1911.
Port 1560 also brings history and the present together in one exhibition venue. The building is housed in a former aristocratic brewery that has been extensively reconstructed and features four exhibitions on the themes of life, work, art and dreams. The synagogue is also currently used as a meeting place and as a multifunctional cultural, artistic and social space. Individual programmes may change.
See the city from the river and a lookout point
The “Krumlovem na lodi” activity offers a different perspective: canoe or raft trips on the Vltava take you through Český Krumlov and last around two hours. Along the way, you pass several weirs, including one directly below the castle; the historic district can be seen from the river. The experience combines a trip on the water with views of the cityscape, while visiting the museums and buildings focuses on collections and architecture.
Boats, rafts, bicycles, scooters and electric bicycles, as well as a full range of water and cycling equipment, can also be rented in Český Krumlov. Rental providers recommend excursion routes, arrange transport for equipment and people, and offer trips with instructors or guides. If you would rather visit a lookout point, Křížová hora has a pilgrimage complex with panoramic views and telescopes. From there, the view stretches across Český Krumlov and the Bohemian Forest.
These different options can help you choose a stay in Krumau: architecture and history, photography and exhibitions, or activities on the Vltava. When planning, check the dates of cultural events and the availability of any activities on offer, where applicable.
Discover more destinations: Neudorf B. Berlau, Chunzen, Unterbreitenstein, Angern, Kaplitz, Thurmplandles, Oberhaid, Hohenfurth.
Back to the regional travel overview: Okres Český Krumlov.
