Top Historical and Cultural Day Trips

South Bohemia is rich in aristocratic history and architectural gems. You do not have to travel far to see some of the country's most impressive sights. These destinations are perfect for travelers who love photography and history.

1. Name: Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is often called the most beautiful castle in the Czech Republic. The Windsor-style architecture and sprawling English gardens are breathtaking. Best for: Romantics and history buffs. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou (30 km north). Time: Half-day (4–5 hours). Cost: Tours around €10–€15; gardens are free. Getting there: Direct bus or train to České Budějovice, then a local bus. Tip: Read our full guide to the Hluboká Castle day trip for tour booking advice.
2. Name: Holašovice Type: UNESCO Village Why go: This tiny village preserves a unique style known as Rustic Baroque. The colorful gables on the village green look exactly as they did in the 19th century. Best for: Photographers and culture lovers. Where: Holašovice (25 km north). Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free to walk around; small fee for the museum. Getting there: Bus connections can be tricky; a car or guided tour is easiest. Tip: Combine this with a Holašovice UNESCO village tour to solve transportation hurdles.
3. Name: České Budějovice Type: City/Regional Capital Why go: It features one of the largest town squares in Europe and the famous Black Tower. It is also the home of the original Budweiser beer. Best for: Urban explorers and beer lovers. Where: České Budějovice (25 km north). Time: Half-day to full-day. Cost: Free sightseeing; tower climb approx. €3. Getting there: Frequent buses take just 30–40 minutes. Tip: Check the České Budějovice day trip guide for the best brewery tour times.
4. Name: Rožmberk Castle Type: Historic Fortress Why go: This 13th-century castle sits dramatically above the Vltava River. It was the ancestral seat of the powerful Rosenberg family. Best for: Medieval history enthusiasts. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou (25 km south). Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Tours approx. €8–€12. Getting there: Direct bus or a seasonal train ride. Tip: Consider a Rožmberk Castle day tour if you want to skip the hassle of public transit schedules.

Best Excursions from Český Krumlov for Nature

If you need a break from medieval streets, the local landscape offers hills, rivers, and ruins. These trips get your blood pumping and offer fresh air. The Blanský les nature reserve is right on the city's doorstep.

• Name: Kleť Mountain Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: At 1,084 meters, it is the highest peak in the protected landscape area. You get panoramic views of the Alps on clear days from the stone tower. Best for: Hikers and active families. Where: 8 km north of town. Time: 4–6 hours. Cost: Free to hike; chairlift approx. €6 one way. Getting there: Hike directly from town or take a train to Holubov. Tip: See our map for hiking Kleť Mountain from Český Krumlov to find the best trail.
• Name: Lipno Treetop Walkway Type: Activity/Family Why go: Walk mostly flat ramps high above the forest floor ending in a massive observation tower. You can even slide down a toboggan from the top. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou (30 km southwest). Time: Half-day. Cost: Entry approx. €15. Getting there: Shuttle buses or train (with a transfer). Tip: Plan your Lipno Treetop Walkway excursion for a clear weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
• Name: Dívčí Kámen Ruins Type: Hike/History Why go: These extensive medieval castle ruins stand atop a rock at the confluence of two creeks. It is one of the most romantic spots in the region. Best for: Hikers and solo travelers. Where: Near Třísov (15 km north). Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee approx. €2. Getting there: Train to Třísov station, then a short walk. Tip: The Dívčí Kámen ruins hike is lovely in autumn when the leaves change color.
• Name: Vltava River Rafting to Zlatá Koruna Type: Adventure Why go: The river current is gentle, making this a fun way to travel. You float through forests and end up at a historic monastery. Best for: Groups of friends. Where: River route starting in Krumlov. Time: 4–6 hours. Cost: Raft rental approx. €15 per person. Getting there: Start in town; return by bus/train. Tip: Find details on rafting from Český Krumlov to Zlatá Koruna before booking a boat.

Religious Sites and Border Crossings

South Bohemia has deep spiritual roots visible in its grand monasteries. Additionally, the proximity to Austria makes cross-border travel tempting. These final picks round out the region's top experiences.

• Name: Vyšší Brod Monastery Type: Historical/Religious Why go: This Cistercian monastery houses a magnificent baroque library and the famous Cross of Záviš. It is a place of quiet beauty and history. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Vyšší Brod (30 km south). Time: 3 hours. Cost: Tours approx. €8. Getting there: Direct train or bus. Tip: Learn what to see at Vyšší Brod Monastery to ensure you do not miss the library hall.
• Name: Salzburg (Austria) Type: International Day Trip Why go: Known for Mozart and baroque architecture, this Austrian gem is reachable for a long day trip. The drive through the Alps is scenic. Best for: Bucket-list travelers. Where: Salzburg, Austria (200 km). Time: Full day (10–12 hours). Cost: Shuttle services approx. €40–€50 one way. Getting there: Private shuttles are faster than the train. Tip: Check UNESCO listings for Salzburg if you are planning a longer stay.