Český Krumlov without the kitsch: 9 places for true explorers

Český Krumlov is an architectural gem, no doubt. But between castle tours and selfie sticks in the main square, the magic can quickly fade. Those who venture off the beaten path, however, will still find it: the quiet, magical Krumlov. Here are our 9 favorite spots for authentic moments.

1. The Plešivec district: The real Český Krumlov

South of the city center lies the historic suburban district Plešivec. While the old town often feels like a museum, here you can feel real life. The rows of houses on the hillside offer fantastic views of the castle, completely without crowds.

2. Horní Brána (Upper Gate): Skip-the-line view

This quarter extends east of the old town. Go up to the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows. Up here in the quarter Horní Brána You have one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the castle complex, while down in the city the masses throng on the Mantelbrücke (Cloak Bridge).

3. Kvítkův Dvůr: The Forgotten Manor

Just a short walk behind the castle gardens lies Kvítkův Dvůr (Favoritenhof). This former stately manor house seems like a relic of a bygone era. The historic complex with its murals is a true hidden gem for anyone seeking Baroque country charm without the tourist crowds.

4. Vyšný & the Vyšenské hills: pure nature

Do you need a break from cobblestones? The district lies north of the city. Vyšný and the nature reserve Vyšenské kopce. The gentle hills offer wonderful hiking trails through calcareous grasslands with rare flora and fauna – and a view of Krumau that hardly any tourist ever gets to see.

5. The chapel on the Kreuzberg (Křížová hora)

A baroque pilgrimage site south of the town center. The short climb is rewarded with peaceful tranquility and arguably the most spectacular panoramic view of the Bohemian Forest.

6. The Palace Garden – The Upper Terrace

The further you walk up the castle hill, the emptier it becomes. The rear part of the castle gardens offers wide avenues and quiet spots for reading or relaxing.

7. The rose garden at the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel

In this garden in the Plešivec district, you can feel the spirit of the turn of the century. An ideal place to soak up the atmosphere of the city in peace and quiet.

8. The Latrán district – The backyards

Hidden in the narrow streets of Latrán are passageways leading to quiet courtyards. Here you can often find small workshops and secluded cafes away from the main thoroughfares.

9. The banks of the Vltava towards Rybáře

Follow the river upstream. After about 15 minutes you will reach Rybáře. Here, fishermen sit on the banks and the tourist bustle gives way to the relaxed tranquility of the river.