View of Cesky Krumlov Castle seen across town's rooftops, Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

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Český Krumlov State Castle

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Český Krumlov's striking Renaissance castle, occupying a promontory high above the town, began life in the 13th century. It acquired its present appearance in the 16th to 18th centuries under the stewardship of the noble Rožmberk and Schwarzenberg families. The interiors are accessible by guided tour only, though you can stroll the grounds on your own. Book tours at castle ticket windows, over the website or through the Infocentrum.

Three main tours are offered: Tour 1 (one hour) takes in the opulent Renaissance and baroque interiors; Tour 2 (one hour) visits the Schwarzenberg portrait galleries and their 19th-century apartments. Tour 3 (40 minutes, 10am to 3pm Tuesday to Sunday May to October) explores the chateau’s nearly perfectly preserved baroque theatre.

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Nearby Český Krumlov attractions

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Located within the castle complex, this small museum and adjoining tower is an ideal option if you don't have the time or energy for a full castle tour…

2. Marionette Museum

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This is the better of two museums in town dedicated to puppetry and marionettes. It's a branch of the National Marionette Theatre in Prague and is housed…

3. Náměstí Svornosti

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The centre of the Old Town is defined by náměstí Svornosti, with its 16th-century Town Hall and Marian Plague Column, dating from 1716. Several buildings…

4. Egon Schiele Art Centrum

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This excellent private gallery houses a small retro­spective of the celebrated and controversial Viennese painter Egon Schiele (1890–1918). Schiele's…

5. Church of St Vitus

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