Český Krumlov: A Winter Visit





I have been to Český Krumlov twice before. I visited while attending a conference in Prague with other colleagues. On one of those trips, I joined a guided tour. Even now, if I revisit the Czech Republic, I still want to go to Český Krumlov, and if possible, I would like to stay there for a night.


The castle, built over centuries, and the town below it, nestled along the riverside and surrounded by hills, remind me of a warm, fairy-tale-like medieval fortress. The natural surroundings, the colorful rooftops, and the flowers blooming in various corners are etched into my memory. On top of that, there are delicious meals and drinks to enjoy.

During the day, the town is crowded with tourists, but as the sun sets, the sounds of people gradually fade, leaving behind a peaceful stillness. I have always wanted to visit this place with my family. My decision to choose Prague as a winter travel destination in Central Europe was also related to this wish.


Flexibus hompage - reservation
Flexibus hompage - reservation

On December 23, 2024—just two days before Christmas—we visited Český Krumlov.



1. Is a Guided Tour Necessary?


Having taken a guided tour before, I knew it wasn't necessary. The information provided by the guide wasn't much different from what can be found in books or online.

Despite the beauty and reputation of this castle, its lords did not hold significant political influence. That may be why there wasn't much worth listening to from the guide.

Additionally, the final bus stop is right at the entrance of Český Krumlov, so there's no reason not just to take a bus and explore on your own.



2. Day Trip Itinerary




If you're visiting Český Krumlov for the first time and planning a day trip, taking a FlixBus is the best option. Here's a recommended itinerary:


  • 8:00 or 9:00 AM: Depart from Prague
  • 10:00 or 11:00 AM: Arrive and begin sightseeing
  • Until 2:00 PM: Explore the town below the castle and have lunch
  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Tour the castle
  • 5:00 - 6:00 PM: Depart for your next destination


3. Taking the Bus


We took the bus from Prague Main Station (Praha hlavní nádraží).

Upon entering the station, you will see two open elevators on either side. Take either one to the top floor. You will be in the station's parking lot when you exit the elevator.

The bus departs from platform 4. The driver usually waits outside, so show your ticket and board the bus. Then, you can relax for about two hours before arriving in Český Krumlov.


Praha hlavní nádraží

Praha hlavní nádraží




4. Exploring Český Krumlov


Since it was December 23, I expected it to be very cold. However, I only wore a light winter jacket, which wasn't as cold as anticipated. The temperature was around 2–3°C, but it felt warmer since there was no wind.

Most photos online are taken between spring and autumn, showcasing vibrant, colorful landscapes. Having spent three months under cloudy skies in Denmark, I became acutely aware of the stark contrast between sunny and overcast days and between summer and winter.

The day we visited was cloudy, and I was curious to see what Český Krumlov would look like in winter.


Even in winter, Český Krumlov was still a beautiful place.

Photographers know that cameras come with various color filters to adjust the tone of an image. What struck me was that the entire town seemed like someone had turned down the saturation, removing all the bright colors. I looked at a desaturated version of Český Krumlov as if someone had applied a "negative mode" filter.

It was a different side of the town from what I knew, but it had its unique charm.


Winter, Christmas, Český Krumlov
Winter, Christmas, Český Krumlov

Winter, Christmas, Český Krumlov
Winter, Christmas, Český Krumlov

Winter, Christmas, Český Krumlov
Winter, Christmas, Český Krumlov



5. Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market


The Christmas Market in Český Krumlov is held at Náměstí Svornosti (Svornosti Square).


Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market
Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market

Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market
Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market

Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market
Český Krumlov’s Christmas Market



Since the square is not very large, the market is also relatively small, with around 20 stalls. These stalls sell Christmas-related decorations, gifts, seasonal snacks, and warm drinks like mulled wine. Surprisingly, there is even a carousel in one corner of the square. However, this tiny carousel is manually operated by its owner, who spins it by hand.


The authentic charm of the Christmas market begins after 4:00 PM when the sky darkens.

As night falls, all the Christmas lights throughout the town are illuminated. The castle and village were already enchanting in the evening, but with the added Christmas lights, it felt like stepping into a fairy tale.

While there may not be many activities other than visiting pubs or restaurants in the evening, if you want to spend a quiet and cozy Christmas with your family or loved one, staying here for a night could be a meaningful experience.


Christmas Nightscape of Český Krumlov
Christmas Nightscape of Český Krumlov

Christmas Nightscape of Český Krumlov
Christmas Nightscape of Český Krumlov
Christmas Nightscape of Český Krumlov
Christmas Nightscape of Český Krumlov







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