Cesky KrumlovCzech Republic

Overlooked by a magnificent castle, Český Krumlov is a town reminiscent of the glories of the Czech Republic’s medieval and Renaissance eras. Explore the labyrinthine streets of a UNESCO-protected historic center. Admire the romantic charm of centuries-old churches, footbridges, gardens and the meandering Vltava River.

The heart of Český Krumlov is its captivating Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set on a river bend. It centers on Náměstí Svornosti, a cobblestone square framed by grand burgher houses. Follow the maze of narrow lanes to landmarks including the Church of St. Vitus and Jakoubek House. Delve into centuries of local history at the Moldavite Museum, Museum of Torture and Regional Museum in Český Krumlov. Spot work by Viennese artist Egon Schiele at the Egon Schiele Art Centrum.

The Old Town’s street performers provide amusement on nearly every corner, cafés spill out onto the pavements and cozy bars offer samples of locally brewed beer. At the riverfront enjoy kayaking, boating and tubing activities while gazing up at the town’s pretty rooftops.

Cross a footbridge at the Old Town’s northern edge to the 13th-century Český Krumlov Castle. Visit its resplendent rooms, a pristine Baroque garden and a moat which has kept bears since the 1700s. Walk along the attractive Latrán Street and visit the Marionette Museum’s puppet displays. Join a guided tour of the Eggenberg Brewery.

Across the river from the Old Town is Městský Park, a place to relax on a sunny day. Nearby see the Museum of Fotoatelier Seidel and the Church of St. Vitus.

Come for one of the town’s festivals, including September’s Festival of Baroque Arts. Watch reenactments of medieval events at June’s Five-Petalled Rose Celebrations. Attend chamber music, opera and philharmonic concerts during July’s International Music Festival.

Reach Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic’s South Bohemia by a 4-hour train ride from Prague. Mild in the summer and picturesque in the snow-covered winter, throughout the year Český Krumlov resembles a miniature version of the capital city.