Why seeing the ceramic model of Český Krumlov is worth it

The Regional Museum and Synagogue houses one of the town's greatest treasures. This ceramic model is built at a 1:200 scale. It shows the town as it looked in the 19th century. Seeing the ceramic model of Český Krumlov helps you understand the town's layout. You will appreciate the winding Vltava River much more.

Artists Petr Pešek and Jana Pešková spent years creating this work. It features over 800 buildings from the historic core. Each tiny window and roof tile is handcrafted. It is widely considered the largest ceramic model of its kind globally. The museum itself is located in a former Jesuit college. This setting adds a layer of historical charm to your visit.

Before you explore the narrow alleys, visit this exhibit. It provides a sense of scale that you cannot get from the ground. Many visitors find it helpful for navigating the famous landmarks in Český Krumlov later. It is an educational experience for both adults and children. The museum also offers stunning views of the castle from its terrace.

12 Top experiences at the Regional Museum and Synagogue

There are many things to do when visiting this cultural hub. Use this list to plan your day effectively. Most sights are within walking distance of the main square. Be sure to check the opening hours before you go.

• Best overall: The Ceramic Model
• Best for families: The Castle Garden
• Best rainy-day: Regional Museum
• Best free: Cloak Bridge views

1. Name: The Ceramic Model of the Town Type: Sight Why go: It is a 1:200 scale masterpiece with incredible detail. Best for: History buffs. Where: Regional Museum main floor. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in museum entry. Getting there: Walk to Horní Street. Tip: Look for the tiny figures in the windows.
2. Name: The Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: This Art Nouveau building is beautifully restored. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Za Soudem street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entrance fee. Getting there: Short walk from the town gate. Tip: Check for evening chamber concerts held here.
3. Name: Museum Terrace Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers one of the best views of the castle. Best for: Photographers. Where: Behind the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the museum lobby. Tip: Visit during the golden hour for the best light.
4. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Sight Why go: It is the second largest castle complex in the country. Best for: Everyone. Where: Above the Latrán district. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Cross the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Look for the bears in the castle moat.
5. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: Viewpoint Why go: This multi-story bridge offers panoramic views. Best for: Scenic walks. Where: Castle complex. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Getting there: Follow the path from the castle courtyards. Tip: Read about the Cloak Bridge history before visiting.
6. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: It hosts world-class modern art exhibitions. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Located in the town center. Tip: Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum cafe for a quiet break.
7. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Sight Why go: A stunning example of South Bohemian Gothic architecture. Best for: Spiritual reflection. Where: Near the main square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Easily visible from Horní street. Tip: Respect the silence during active services.
8. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Experience Why go: This historic district is full of colorful houses. Best for: Walking tours. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Look for the medieval wall paintings on the facades.
9. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Experience Why go: See the town from a different perspective on the water. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Multiple rental points along the river. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Varies by boat type. Getting there: Walk to the river banks. Tip: Wear waterproof shoes and a hat.
10. Name: Castle Garden Type: Nature Why go: A massive Baroque garden with a revolving theater. Best for: Families and picnics. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Cloak Bridge. Tip: The revolving theater is a unique site in Europe.
11. Name: Marionette Museum Type: Museum Why go: It showcases the long history of Czech puppetry. Best for: Children and collectors. Where: Latrán district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Near the castle entrance. Tip: Some puppets are interactive and fun to try.
12. Name: Mount Kleť Type: Day trip Why go: The highest peak in the Blanský Forest. Best for: Hikers. Where: 10km from the city. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free (chairlift has a fee). Getting there: Local train or bus to Holubov. Tip: Visit the observatory at the summit.

Planning your visit to the ceramic model and beyond

To make the most of your trip, arrive early in the morning. The town gets busy with day-trippers by noon. You can find the latest updates on the Český Krumlov Official Tourism website. Most museums are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Many sites offer discounted tickets for students and seniors.

The town is very walkable, but the streets are cobblestone. Wear comfortable walking shoes to avoid sore feet. If you visit in 2026, check for seasonal festivals. The Five-Petalled Rose Festival is a major highlight in June. It features medieval parades and local crafts.

Public transport from Prague is very efficient. Buses and trains run frequently throughout the day. The journey takes about three hours one way. Consider staying overnight to enjoy the town after the crowds leave. You will find the atmosphere much more magical in the evening.