A Brief History of Latrán vs Old Town

The history of these two districts is a tale of social hierarchy. Latrán developed first as a settlement for castle servants. These people were craftsmen and artists who worked for the lords. They lived under the direct jurisdiction of the castle. This created a unique social identity separate from the townspeople.

The Old Town, or Vnitřní Město, grew inside a sharp river bend. It was the commercial heart of the city. Merchants and burghers built grand houses here. They enjoyed more autonomy than the residents of Latrán. This led to frequent disputes over taxes and rights between the two groups.

In 1555, Wilhelm von Rosenberg finally joined the two towns. He wanted to end the constant bickering. This unification allowed the city to flourish as a single entity. Today, you can still feel the shift in atmosphere as you cross the river. It is a key part of any Latrán district walking itinerary.

10 Essential Sights in Latrán and Old Town

Exploring these districts reveals the rich layers of Czech history. Here are the top 10 sights to visit. We have selected a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems. These picks cover both the castle-adjacent Latrán and the merchant-driven Old Town.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Český Krumlov Castle
• Best for families: Castle Garden
• Best rainy-day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• Best free: Lazebnický Bridge

1. Name: Budějovická Gate Type: sight Why go: It is the only surviving gate of the city's original nine. Best for: History buffs. Where: Northern end of Latrán. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the castle. Tip: Look at the different designs on the inner and outer facades.
2. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: experience Why go: This peaceful complex offers a glimpse into medieval religious life. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located near the castle entrance. Tip: Visit the craft workshops often held in the courtyards.
3. Name: Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the most iconic panoramic view of the entire city. Best for: Photography. Where: Latrán (Castle complex). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Enter through the Red Gate. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the museum to save money.
4. Name: Latrán Street Type: neighborhood Why go: The street is lined with beautifully preserved Gothic and Renaissance houses. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Main thoroughfare of Latrán. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Connects the Budějovická Gate to the river. Tip: Look up to see original sgraffito decorations on the walls.
5. Name: Lazebnický Bridge Type: viewpoint Why go: This wooden bridge connects Latrán to the Old Town. Best for: Seeing the castle from the water level. Where: Between Latrán and Old Town. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from Latrán Street. Tip: It is a great spot to watch rafters on the Vltava.
6. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: sight Why go: A masterpiece of Bohemian Gothic architecture with a striking spire. Best for: Art and history. Where: Old Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Visible from almost anywhere in the Old Town. Tip: Check the schedule for evening organ concerts.
7. Name: Náměstí Svornosti Type: sight Why go: The central square of the Old Town featuring the Plague Column. Best for: People watching. Where: Heart of the Old Town. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: All main Old Town streets lead here. Tip: Visit the Tourist Information Center located right on the square.
8. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: It houses works by the famous Austrian painter who lived here. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Old Town. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from the main square. Tip: The museum is housed in a former 16th-century brewery.
9. Name: Old Town Hall Type: sight Why go: A Renaissance building formed by joining several older Gothic houses. Best for: Civic history. Where: Náměstí Svornosti. Time: 10 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free. Getting there: North side of the main square. Tip: Notice the coat of arms representing the city's noble families.
10. Name: Eggenberg Brewery Type: experience Why go: Taste local beer in a historic building dating back centuries. Best for: Food and drink. Where: Edge of Latrán. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Varies. Getting there: Walk towards the river from the monastery. Tip: Try the dark lager for a traditional Bohemian taste.

Planning Your Visit to Both Districts

Walking between Latrán and the Old Town is very easy. The distance is short but the streets are steep. Wear comfortable shoes as most paths use historic cobblestones. This is especially important if you plan to visit the castle interiors later in the day.

The best time to explore is early morning or late afternoon. Day trippers often crowd the narrow streets between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Staying overnight allows you to see the districts illuminated. The brief history of Latrán vs Old Town feels more alive at dusk. You can easily see the whole area in one full day.

Most attractions are within a 10-minute walk of each other. The city is very compact and pedestrian-friendly. If you have extra time, consider visiting the castle interiors for a deeper look. The transition between the two districts remains the highlight for many travelers.