The Rich Church of St. Vitus History

The Church of St. Vitus history began in the early 14th century. The current Late Gothic structure was built between 1407 and 1439. It replaced an older, smaller church from the 1300s. This building was a major project for the local community. It shows the wealth of the town during the Middle Ages. The church served as the main spiritual hub for the lords of Krumlov.

Inside, you will find the final resting place of the Rosenberg family. They were the most influential nobles in Bohemia for centuries. Their ornate tombs are masterpieces of stone carving. The church also features a stunning net vault ceiling. This architectural style is typical of the Late Gothic period in Central Europe. It creates a sense of immense height and light. You can learn more about these details in our best attractions in Cesky Krumlov guide.

During the Baroque era, the interior saw many changes. New altars and paintings were added to reflect changing tastes. However, the external Gothic silhouette remained largely untouched. This blend of styles makes the church a living museum. It survived wars and political shifts over hundreds of years. Today, it is still an active place of worship. It also hosts classical music concerts throughout the year.

10 Must-See Historical Sights in Český Krumlov

To truly enjoy the town, you should see more than just the church. The entire historic center is walkable and packed with stories. Here are the top 10 experiences to include in your 2026 itinerary. These picks offer a mix of culture, history, and great views.

• Best overall: Church of St. Vitus
• Best for families: Graphite Mine Tour
• Best rainy-day: Regional Museum
• Best free activity: Castle Gardens

1. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: sight Why go: It is the spiritual heart of the town with incredible Gothic vaults. Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers. Where: Kostelní street, Old Town. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations encouraged). Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Visit during a morning mass to hear the historic organ.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Complex Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the country. Best for: Everyone visiting the city. Where: Latrán district. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour; grounds are free. Getting there: Short walk across the barber's bridge. Tip: Check the castle complex guide for tour times.
3. Name: Castle Baroque Theater Type: experience Why go: One of the world's best-preserved 18th-century theaters. Best for: Theater and stagecraft enthusiasts. Where: Fifth courtyard of the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid guided tour only. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Book weeks in advance as spots are very limited.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: Dedicated to the famous Austrian painter who lived here. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Central Old Town location. Tip: Visit the official site for temporary exhibit info.
5. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: museum Why go: A perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio. Best for: Photography and social history fans. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the square. Tip: The Seidel studio tours offer great insight into local life.
6. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: sight Why go: A peaceful complex with beautiful gardens and cloisters. Best for: Seeking quiet away from the crowds. Where: Klášterní street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small fee for exhibitions. Getting there: Latrán area near the castle. Tip: The monastery gardens are perfect for a picnic.
7. Name: Regional Museum in Český Krumlov Type: museum Why go: Features a massive ceramic model of the town as it looked in 1800. Best for: Understanding local development. Where: Horní street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low entry fee. Getting there: Near the Church of St. Vitus. Tip: Visit the regional museum for the best historical overview.
8. Name: Graphite Mine Tour Type: activity Why go: Go underground to see how mining shaped the region. Best for: Families and adventurous travelers. Where: Chvalšinská street (outskirts). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 20-minute walk or short bus ride. Tip: Wear warm clothes as the mine is cold year-round.
9. Name: Mount Kleť Type: day trip Why go: The highest peak in the Blanský Forest with a lookout tower. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: 10km from the city. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free hike; small fee for the chairlift. Getting there: Train to Holubov then hike or lift. Tip: On clear days, you can see the Austrian Alps from the top.
10. Name: Castle Gardens Type: nature Why go: Vast 17th-century gardens with a unique revolving theater. Best for: Relaxing walks and garden design. Where: Above the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the castle courtyards. Tip: Check out the revolving auditorium schedules for summer shows.

Planning Your Visit for 2026

Visiting Český Krumlov in 2026 requires some basic planning. The town is very popular during the summer months. To avoid the biggest crowds, arrive early in the morning. Staying overnight allows you to see the town after day-trippers leave. The evening atmosphere near the river is truly magical.

Most sights are within easy walking distance. The cobblestone streets can be uneven and slippery. Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the hilly terrain. If you plan to visit the castle, check the official castle site for updates. Ticket prices and opening hours can change seasonally.

Photography is a major highlight of any trip here. The view from the Seminar Garden is iconic. You can capture the Church of St. Vitus history and the castle in one frame. Please remember that the church is a place of prayer. Keep your voice low and avoid taking photos during services. Respecting local customs ensures a better experience for everyone.