The History: Did Egon Schiele Live in Český Krumlov?

Schiele arrived in Český Krumlov in May 1911. He was looking for a cheap place to work. He moved into a small garden house with his partner, Wally Neuzil. The town's medieval atmosphere deeply moved him. He began painting the "Dead City" series, which captured the town's haunting beauty.

Unfortunately, the local residents did not approve of his lifestyle. They were shocked by his paintings of young models. He was eventually forced to leave the town after only a few months. Despite this, the city remained a central theme in his art for years. You can still see the same views he captured on canvas today.

Visiting these sites offers a glimpse into his creative process. The town is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It perfectly preserves the environment Schiele knew. Exploring his history helps you appreciate the local culture more deeply. It is a must-visit destination for any modern art enthusiast.

10 Best Sights Linked to the Life of Egon Schiele

Here are the top picks for your artistic itinerary. These locations offer a mix of history, art, and stunning views.

• Best overall: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• Best for families: Český Krumlov Castle
• Best rainy-day: Regional Museum
• Best free: The Cloak Bridge view

1. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: This is the premier destination for Schiele fans. It features a permanent exhibition of his life and works. Best for: Art historians and modern art fans. Where: Široká 71, Old Town. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Check the ticket prices and hours before you go.
2. Name: Egon Schiele’s Garden Studio Type: Experience Why go: This is the actual house where Schiele lived in 1911. It sits in a beautiful garden by the river. Best for: Intimate history. Where: Linecká Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low fee for entry. Getting there: Walk south from the town center along the river. Tip: Visit in summer to see the garden in full bloom.
3. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Sight Why go: This massive complex dominates the skyline Schiele painted. It offers a look at the town's royal history. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Castle District. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Clearly visible from anywhere in town. Tip: Visit the official castle site for tour bookings.
4. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides the most iconic view of the town. Schiele often sketched the rooftops from this height. Best for: Photography. Where: Connecting the castle courts. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle grounds. Tip: Read about the Cloak Bridge history for better context.
5. Name: Plešivec Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic area is where the Garden Studio is located. It feels much quieter than the main tourist center. Best for: Peaceful walks. Where: South of the Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the bridge from the main square. Tip: Look for the old houses that appear in Schiele's "Dead City" paintings.
6. Name: Latrán District Type: Neighborhood Why go: This area was the heart of the town's working class. Schiele found many of his subjects in these narrow streets. Best for: Shopping and snacks. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just across the barber's bridge. Tip: Visit the local craft shops for unique souvenirs.
7. Name: Regional Museum in Český Krumlov Type: Museum Why go: It offers a broader look at the town's history. You can see how the city looked during Schiele's era. Best for: History buffs. Where: Horní Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the Church of St. Vitus. Tip: Don't miss the detailed ceramic model of the city.
8. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: Indoor Why go: This calm complex offers a contrast to Schiele's chaotic life. It features beautiful gardens and quiet cloisters. Best for: Reflection. Where: Latrán. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Located near the castle entrance. Tip: Check for local concerts held in the monastery.
9. Name: Vltava Riverbank Type: Nature Why go: The river loops around the town in a unique way. Schiele used this curve as a major compositional element. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Throughout the town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow any path leading down to the water. Tip: Rent a wooden raft for a different perspective of the sights.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: Located nearby, this white castle is a masterpiece of romantic architecture. It is a great contrast to Krumlov's medieval style. Best for: Day trippers. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 30-minute drive or bus from the town. Tip: Book your bus tickets a day in advance.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Artistic Trip

To make the most of your visit, stay at least two nights. This allows you to see the town after the day-trippers leave. Morning is the best time for photography. The light on the orange roofs is spectacular. Most sites are within walking distance of each other.

If you love art, the Egon Schiele Art Centrum is your priority. They often host temporary modern art exhibits. These shows complement the permanent Schiele collection. You should also wear comfortable walking shoes. The cobblestone streets are very uneven and steep.

Booking in advance is essential for 2026. This town is a popular destination year-round. Use official websites for the most accurate prices. Many museums offer discounts for students and seniors. Always carry a small amount of local currency (Czech Koruna) for smaller shops.