Cesky Krumlov Castle

If you see nothing else in Český Krumlov, you must visit the amazing castle (the second largest in the Czech Republic-CLOSED ON MONDAYS). There is no way you can miss it since the castle, which consists of a long row of attached buildings, stretches across a lofty ridge overlooking the town from across the river. It is huge, stretching over a kilometer along the bluff. Dominating the scene is a dramatic bell tower that rises in a series of whimsically painted tiers, the final one being an ornate, open-air viewing arcade under a steeple topped by a jaunty flag.  Admission to the castle and its gardens is free.  Highlights include: the Bear Moat, Lapidarium (old cellars displaying sculptures-admission charged), climbing the Castle Tower (admission charged), walking through the vast Castle Gardens, and the Summer House-Bellarie in the gardens. Several excellent tours (1, 2 and Baroque Theatre see separate listings) can be purchased from the ticket office in the second courtyard (purchase early to ensure a tour in English).