The Best Things to Do in Cesky Krumlov If You Only Have One Day

I fell in love with Cesky Krumlov from the moment I stepped off the bus. I instantly knew I should have booked more than just one day in this picturesque town. With only 24 hours to take it all in and so many things to see and do, we had to hit the ground running. Below is a quick guide of things to do in Cesky Krumlov if you only have one day.

Český Krumlov is a stunning medieval city in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. I’d say it’s one of the prettiest towns in all of Europe. It gets a lot of visitors but still overlooked by many.

Most do a day trip from Prague, but I recommend a minimum of 1-2 nights in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is best experienced in the stillness of the early mornings before the tour buses arrive.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Prague

Prague to Cesky Krumlov

Traveling between cities in the Czech Republic can be a challenge. Public transportation isn’t as advanced as other European cities, so it may make it more difficult to go beyond Prague. However, I’ve been seeing that the options are increasing and it’s getting much simpler to explore other towns.

By car: Cesky Krumlov is about 100 miles south of Prague. We didn’t want to drive because I had read several things about the cops being shady on the roads. But if you do prefer to drive, I hear the countryside is beautiful and easy to manage.

By train: This is a recent addition. A few years ago we didn’t have the train option so we opted for the bus. Before, the only way you could travel from Prague to Cesky Krumlov by train is if you switched trains in the town of České Budějovice. Now, a direct train from Prague to Cesky Krumlov was added to the itinerary. The trip is 2 hours and 47 minutes. You can book directly through this site here.

By Bus: If you’re feeling adventurous, there is a direct bus from Prague to Cesky. It was a memorable ride for us because our immediate neighbor was FaceTiming loudly (in Czech) for quite a while. He was sitting so close to us that we were practically on the call too. One of the workers had to tell him to hang up and respect his neighbors. Besides that, there were no issues with taking the bus and it only costs around 190 Koruna per person ($8). The ride is 3 hours long and you can book your ticket online through RegioJet.com.

Where to Stay in Cesky Krumlov

The Hotel Old Inn in Cesky Krumlov was a lovely surprise! It is located in the main square and within walking distance to everything. It has been fully renovated and you can check room availability here.

One thing we really enjoyed was the underground catacomb restaurant near the hotel called Grill Restaurant Katakomby. It’s currently closed for renovations (I think), and I really hope it’s not closed for good. It was such a fun experience! One of our favorites in Cesky.

You’ll see the kitchen in the back there, and our table was the one right by the kitchen. We were able to see the chef prepare our meals on wooden charcoal just like the middle ages.

Things to Do in Cesky Krumlov

VISIT THE CASTLE THAT OVERLOOKS THE TOWN. This is one of the most popular attractions in Cesky for good reason. Just look at the view you get, it is breathtaking. You can explore the grounds inside, but we only went to get a view of the city and take a bazillion photos. Admission prices range depending on what you want to see, but you can learn more on their official site here.

PHOTOGRAPH THE TOWN IN THE EARLY MORNING. Most will agree that waking up way too early is the ideal time to capture a city. You gotta beat the crowds. The empty, winding streets, few locals, and quiet nooks will make for the best photos.

CONSIDER A WALKING TOUR. If you only have one day and would rather explore the city with a local expert, then this 2-hour tour is a great option: click here to book. You’ll journey with a guide around the town and castle area while learning more about its history.

ENJOY THE VLTAVA RIVER. It’s the longest river in the Czech Republic. It runs from the Bohemian Forest all the way past Prague! You can actually rent a kayak, canoe, or go rafting down the river.

Or you can just savor the quieter side with a meal or a drink (much more my style).

DON’T MISS THE COCKTAILS AT THE MUSIC BAR. First, how adorable is this facade?! Second, the drinks here were great and inexpensive. My piña colada was only $4!

The Czech Republic, in general, is one of the cheaper countries you can visit in Europe. Prague is affordable, but Cesky Krumlov is even better. Plus, the locals are much nicer and the town has more charm.

If you’d rather stay in Prague and just do a day trip to Cesky Krumlov, this 10-hour tour will be perfect: click here for the latest prices. They offer hotel pick up and drop off, plus lunch in a tavern. Even if it’s just for half a day, I hope you make it out to this wonderful place.

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