Czech Republic: Cesky Krumlov

[bjorn]

After you've had it with the tourist onslaught crowding the streets of Prague, spend some time relaxing in Ceský Krumlov. It is one of the most idyllic places in the Czech Republic.

Most visitors kick back with a pint of the local beer, Eggenberg, while watching the kayakers on the winding Vlatava river. Later, they might go hiking, or visit a museum or Krumlov Castle. The city's castle is the second largest in the Czech Republic (after Prague Castle), and the village of red-tiled roofs, faded Renaissance facades, and old Gothic churches was built around it.

Austrian Expressionist Egon Schiele, spent several years painting erotic art in Ceský Krumlov. The Egon Schiele Center, has a permanent exhibition of more than 50 of his works and also sponsors international touring shows that have included the works of Andy Warhol and Annie Liebovitz. The District Museum, in a former Jesuit seminary that dates from 1650, has exhibits on the history of Ceský Krumlov and surrounding villages. Despite all the cultural activities in Ceský Krumlov, the best reason to visit is the natural beauty of the surroundings.

When to go:
Ceský Krumlov is located along the Vltava River, at the foot of the Blanský Forest. Spring and summer months are great for hiking, swimming, and boating, but winter is also a great time to visit for ice skating, skiing, and sledding.

What to Do:
History/Ruins:
Krumlov Castle has heaps of history. Tour the castle, wander the gardens, and see a play at the revolving theater. The Egon Schiele Center, District Museum, and Castle Museum are also worth a visit.

Shopping:
Ceský Krumlov is not known for its shopping, but there are enough small folk art shops and high-end boutiques to keep avid shoppers occupied for an afternoon.

Food/Culinary Info:
Traditional Czech food, with a smattering of international favorites like pizza and burgers round out Cesky Krumlov's culinary experience.

Adventure/Natural Wonders:
Hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, inner tubing on a summer day, ice skating and sledding in the winter are some of the activities in and around Ceský Krumlov. The hills surrounding the town are filled with trails that are perfect for day hikes. Hostel owners can give you the details.

Cultural Comments:
Ceský Krumlov retains a sense of tradition and is a real town, not a tourist trap.

Arts:
Local theatre and music groups perform occasionally.

Festivals/Events:
Nearly 400 cultural events, including International Jazz, Organ, Piano, and Early Music Festivals, and the town's Renaissance-style Five Petalled Rose Festival, are held in Ceský Krumlov each year.

Nightlife/Bars:
Ceský Krumlov is pretty quiet.

Cafe Quotient:
Plenty of cafés, including a very hip oriental tea house that feels like a den of inequity.

Cost:
The Czech Republic is generally cheaper than most of Europe and, as a small town, Czesky Krumlov is less expensive than a larger city like Prague.

Getting Around:
Cars are not allowed in the historic area of Ceský Krumlov, which adds to the city's medieval atmosphere. The best way to see the area is by foot. Buses are the most direct way to arrive, but trains come from Ceský Budejovice come several times a day.

Safety:
As safe as it is in Ceský Krumlov, travelers should always be aware of their personal safety and belongings.

Language:
Czech. Learn some before visiting. German, Russian or French is useful.

Party/Social Scene:
Ceský Krumlov is a small town. There are several bars, clubs and pubs, but the nightlife is on the quiet side.

Other Info:
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