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10 Best Things to Do at the Revolving Auditorium Open-Air Theatre

Visit the Revolving Auditorium open-air theatre in Český Krumlov. Discover 10 top sights, book tickets, and plan your 2026 trip with our expert guide.

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10 Best Things to Do at the Revolving Auditorium Open-Air Theatre
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Guide to the Revolving Auditorium Open-Air Theatre in 2026

The Revolving Auditorium open-air theatre is one of Europe’s most unique cultural venues. Located in the heart of South Bohemia, it offers a theatrical experience like no other. The audience sits on a massive circular platform. This platform rotates during the show to face different natural stages in the park. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the Czech Republic in 2026. This guide helps you plan your visit and explore the city.

Planning Your Visit to the Revolving Auditorium

Securing your spot at this venue requires advanced planning. The theatre operates mainly during the summer months. You should learn how to buy tickets as soon as they are released. Many shows sell out months before the season begins. The 2026 schedule usually becomes available in late autumn of the previous year.

Performances take place in the castle gardens regardless of light rain. Ponchos are often provided, but umbrellas are not allowed. The shows are usually in Czech. However, many productions offer translated subtitles via a mobile app. This makes the experience accessible for international travelers. Always check the weather forecast before heading to the gardens.

The venue is located within the UNESCO World Heritage site of the castle. This means you are surrounded by centuries of history. Arrive at least thirty minutes before the show starts. This gives you time to walk through the beautiful gardens. The atmosphere at night is truly magical and quiet.

10 Best Sights Near the Revolving Auditorium Open-Air Theatre

Český Krumlov is a small city with many treasures. You can easily walk between most major attractions. Here are the top ten experiences to include on your trip. These picks offer a mix of history, art, and outdoor adventure.

  • Best overall: Revolving Auditorium Theatre
  • Best for families: Graphite Mine Underground Tour
  • Best rainy-day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
  • Best free: Castle Garden Walk
  1. Name: Revolving Auditorium Type: experience Why go: It is a world-unique theatre where the stage moves around you. Best for: Culture lovers and couples. Where: Castle Gardens. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 600–1100 CZK. Getting there: Walk through the main castle gates. Tip: Bring a warm jacket even in summer as nights get cold.
  2. Name: State Castle and Chateau Type: sight Why go: This is the second-largest castle complex in the country. Best for: History buffs. Where: Castle District. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free for grounds; tours vary. Getting there: Visible from anywhere in the city center. Tip: Visit the castle tower for the best panoramic views. Check the official castle site for tour times.
  3. Name: Castle Baroque Theater Type: museum Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theatres in the world. Best for: Art and architecture fans. Where: Castle Fifth Courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 300 CZK. Getting there: Follow signs for the Baroque theater tour inside the castle. Tip: Tours are limited to small groups, so book online in advance.
  4. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: activity Why go: See the city's medieval skyline from the water. Best for: Families and active travelers. Where: River banks near the center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK per raft. Getting there: Look for wooden raft sightseeing cruises near the bridges. Tip: Sunset cruises offer the most romantic views of the illuminated castle.
  5. Name: Latrán District Type: neighborhood Why go: This historic area features colorful houses and narrow alleys. Best for: Photography and wandering. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the Barber’s Bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Explore the Latran district hidden gems like small craft shops.
  6. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: It honors the famous expressionist painter who lived here. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 200 CZK. Getting there: Located in a former brewery in the Old Town. Tip: The Egon Schiele Art Centrum also hosts rotating contemporary exhibits.
  7. Name: Monastery Craft Workshops Type: experience Why go: Learn traditional crafts like blacksmithing or bookbinding. Best for: Families with children. Where: Monastery complex. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by craft. Getting there: Walk to the northern edge of the Latrán district. Tip: Try the interactive workshops at monasteries for a hands-on souvenir.
  8. Name: Graphite Mine Type: experience Why go: Ride a train deep underground to see how miners worked. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Chvalšinská Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 250 CZK. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the city center. Tip: Take the graphite mine underground tour if it is a very hot day.
  9. Name: Mount Kleť Type: day trip Why go: The highest peak in the area offers views of the Alps on clear days. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: 10 km north of the city. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free; chairlift has a fee. Getting there: Take a local train or bus to Holubov. Tip: Use the vintage chairlift to reach the summit observatory easily.
  10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning white castle inspired by England’s Windsor Castle. Best for: Fairytale architecture fans. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: Half-day. Cost: 250-400 CZK for tours. Getting there: 30-minute drive or bus from the city. Tip: Visit the Visit Czechia portal for regional transport connections.

Where to Eat and Stay in Český Krumlov

Dining in this city is a journey back in time. Many restaurants are located in buildings from the 14th century. You can find hearty Czech meals like roasted pork and dumplings. The local brewery provides fresh beer that pairs perfectly with the food. Many spots offer terraces overlooking the Vltava River.

For a unique evening, try a medieval tavern. These places often use open fires for cooking. The atmosphere is dark, cozy, and very traditional. It is a great way to end a day of sightseeing. Make sure to book a table if you are visiting during a festival.

Staying overnight is highly recommended. The city is very quiet after the day-trip crowds leave. You can find boutique hotels inside the historic castle walls or in the Old Town. Many guesthouses offer views of the Revolving Auditorium open-air theatre gardens. This allows you to walk back safely after a late performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get tickets for the Revolving Auditorium open-air theatre?

You should buy tickets online through the official South Bohemian Theatre website. Sales for the 2026 season usually start in late 2025. Because seating is limited to about 640 people, shows sell out very quickly. Always book several months in advance to secure your preferred date.

What happens if it rains during a performance?

Performances generally continue during light rain. The theatre provides plastic ponchos to all audience members for free. If the weather becomes dangerous, the show may be canceled. In that case, ticket holders usually receive a refund or an alternative date. Umbrellas are strictly prohibited during shows.

Is the Revolving Auditorium accessible for English speakers?

Yes, the theatre is very welcoming to international guests. While the actors speak Czech, many plays provide English and German translations. You can access these through a dedicated mobile application on your smartphone. Remember to bring headphones and ensure your phone is fully charged before the show.

The Revolving Auditorium open-air theatre is a highlight of any Czech trip. It combines world-class acting with a stunning natural setting. Beyond the theatre, Český Krumlov offers endless history and charm. Plan your 2026 visit early to enjoy the best of South Bohemia. For more ideas, explore our guide to authentic experiences in Cesky Krumlov today.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.