Top 12 Sights and the Graphite Mine Underground Tour

Český Krumlov is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers a mix of history, nature, and unique industrial tours. Most attractions are within walking distance of the town center. Here are the top experiences you should not miss.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Český Krumlov Castle
• Quick Pick (Best Adventure): Graphite Mine Underground Tour
• Quick Pick (Best for Families): Vltava River Rafting
• Quick Pick (Best Rainy Day): Museum Fotoateliér Seidel

1. Name: Graphite Mine (Grafitový důl) Type: experience Why go: It is a rare chance to see how miners worked. You ride an original mining train into the earth. Best for: Adventure seekers and families. Where: Chvalšinská 243, about 15 minutes walk from the center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approx. 250-350 CZK. Getting there: Walk or take a short taxi from the Old Town. Tip: Check if the Graphite Mine tour is suitable for children before you book.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the country. The views from the tower are breathtaking. Best for: History buffs. Where: Castle District. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; interiors vary by tour. Getting there: Located right above the town center. Tip: Visit the official castle site to book interior tours in advance.
3. Name: Castle Baroque Theater Type: experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world. Much of the original machinery still works. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Fifth Courtyard of the Castle. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk through the castle grounds. Tip: Take a Castle Baroque theater tour as spots are very limited.
4. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: activity Why go: Seeing the town from the water is a unique experience. You can navigate small weirs and enjoy the current. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Various rental points along the river. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 500 CZK per boat. Getting there: Rental shops are in the center and Latrán. Tip: Try wooden raft sightseeing cruises for a more relaxed river trip.
5. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: museum Why go: This preserved 19th-century photo studio feels like a time capsule. It tells the story of the region through old portraits. Best for: Photography fans. Where: Linecká Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the main square. Tip: A Museum Fotoateliér Seidel visit often requires a reservation for guided tours.
6. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: It features works by the famous Austrian painter who lived here. The gallery is housed in a massive old brewery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: The Egon Schiele Art Centrum also hosts rotating contemporary exhibitions.
7. Name: Latrán District Type: neighborhood Why go: This historic area was once home to castle staff. It is filled with colorful buildings and hidden courtyards. Best for: Walking and photography. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the barber’s bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Explore the Latrán district hidden gems to find quiet cafes.
8. Name: Eggenberg Brewery Type: experience Why go: Taste local beer where it has been brewed for centuries. The atmosphere is very traditional. Best for: Foodies. Where: Latrán area. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Varies. Getting there: Short walk from the castle gate. Tip: Book a local brewery tasting experience to learn about Czech lager.
9. Name: Mount Kleť Type: viewpoint Why go: It is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest. You can see the Alps on a clear day. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: 10km outside town. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free (chairlift has a fee). Getting there: Take a local train or bus to Holubov. Tip: Ride the old-fashioned chairlift to the top for easy views.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: This white castle looks like it belongs in England. It is one of the most beautiful in the Czech Republic. Best for: Fairy-tale seekers. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40 minutes by car or bus. Tip: The castle gardens are perfect for a picnic.
11. Name: Lipno Treetop Walkway Type: nature Why go: Walk among the trees and enjoy views of the Lipno Dam. There is a huge slide to get back down. Best for: Families. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 45 minutes by car or bus. Tip: Visit during the week to avoid large crowds.
12. Name: Holašovice Village Type: sight Why go: A UNESCO-listed village famous for "Folk Baroque" architecture. It is a very peaceful and authentic spot. Best for: History lovers. Where: 25km north of town. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized tour. Tip: Visit the local pottery workshop for unique souvenirs.

Planning Your Graphite Mine Underground Tour

A Graphite Mine underground tour is a highlight for many visitors. You will receive special clothing before you enter. This includes a jumpsuit, a helmet, and a lamp. The mine is damp and chilly, even in summer. Temperatures stay around 10 degrees Celsius (50°F) all year.

The tour begins with a ride on a small mining train. This train takes you deep into the hillside. Once inside, a guide explains how graphite was extracted. You will see the heavy machinery used by miners. It is a very tactile and immersive experience.

We recommend wearing sturdy shoes for this excursion. The ground inside the mine can be uneven and wet. Most tours are available from April to October. It is wise to book your tickets at least a day in advance. This is especially true during the busy summer months.

Best Day Trips Near Český Krumlov

South Bohemia has many treasures beyond the city limits. Visit Czechia suggests exploring the surrounding countryside. Hluboká Castle is the most popular day trip nearby. Its white towers are visible from miles away. The interiors are filled with intricate wood carvings.

For nature, head to the Lipno Reservoir. It is the largest lake in the country. You can swim, bike, or walk the treetop path. It is a great place for active families. In winter, it becomes a popular local ski resort.

If you prefer quiet history, visit Holašovice. This village has remained unchanged for decades. The colorful farmhouse gables are iconic. It offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life. Most of these spots are within an hour's drive.

Practical Tips for a South Bohemia Visit

The best way to reach Český Krumlov is by bus. Direct shuttles run from Prague every hour. The journey takes about three hours. Trains are also available but usually require a transfer. Once in town, you can walk almost everywhere.

Summer is the peak season for tourism. June hosts the famous Five-Petalled Rose Festival. During this time, the town is very crowded. Consider visiting in May or September for better weather and fewer people. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards.

However, carry some Czech Koruna for smaller souvenir stalls. English is widely spoken in the main tourist areas. Learning a few Czech words like "Dobrý den" (Good day) is always appreciated. Always keep a light jacket ready for the evening chill.