Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ČESKý
KrumlOv
Lassoed by its river and dominated by its castle, this enchant-
ing town feels lost in a time warp. While Český Krumlov is the
Czech Republic's answer to Germany's Rothenburg, it has yet
to be turned into a medieval theme park. When you see its awe-
inspiring castle, delightful Old Town of shops and cobbled lanes,
characteristic little restaurants, and easy canoeing options, you'll
understand why having fun is a slam-dunk here.
Český Krumlov (CHESS-key KROOM-loff) ) means, roughly,
“Czech Bend in the River.” Calling it “Český” for short sounds
silly to Czech-speakers (since dozens of Czech town names begin
with “Český”). “Krumlov” for short is okay.
Since Krumlov is the second-most-visited town (1.5 million
visits annually) in the Czech Republic, there's enough tourism to
make things colorful and easy—but not so much that it tramples
the place's charm. This town of 15,000 attracts a young, bohemian
crowd, drawn here for its simple beauty, cheap living, and fanciful
bars.
Planning Your Time
Because the castle and theater can be visited only with a guide (and
English-language tours are offered just a few times a day), serious
sightseers should reserve both tours first thing in the morning in
person at the castle and theater (or call the castle), and then build
their day around the tour times. Those who hate planning ahead
on vacation can join a Czech tour anytime with an English infor-
mation sheet.
A paddle down the river to Zlatá Koruna Abbey is a highlight
(three hours, see “Canoeing and Rafting the Vltava,” page 193),
and a 20-minute walk up to the Křížový Vrch (Hill of the Cross)
