The heart of Český Krumlov is undoubtedly the monumental castle, the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic, second only to the Hrad in Prague. Český Krumlov Castle is a true architectural masterpiece, combining Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when the Vítkovci family began building the first fortress on a rocky hill above the Vltava River. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded by successive owners, including the powerful Rožmberk family, who gave it a Renaissance feel, and the Schwarzenberg family, who introduced Baroque elements.

One of the most fascinating features of the castle is the perfectly preserved Baroque theater from 1766. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world, with original furnishings, stage machinery and costumes. This theater is still in operation today, although performances are held there only a few times a year, due to the delicacy of the original decorations and candlelight. During your tour of the castle, be sure to visit the richly decorated chambers, the Masquerade Hall with its illusionist paintings, and the castle tower, which offers a breathtaking view of the entire city and the meanders of the Vltava River.

An integral part of the castle complex is the extensive Baroque-style castle garden, with fountains, sculptures and a unique theater with a revolving auditorium. The castle's bear enclosure is also an interesting feature - the tradition of keeping bears in the castle moat dates back to the Rožmberk family, who had a bear in their coat of arms. According to local legend, the bears protect the castle and the town from evil forces.

At the foot of the castle stretches the picturesque Latrán district, which, together with the castle, forms one of the most charming parts of the city. This medieval district is full of narrow, winding streets and perfectly preserved buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries. Walking through Latrán, you can admire the richly decorated facades of bourgeois houses, with sgraffito and frescoes characteristic of the region. Particularly noteworthy is the house at number 56, known as the 'House with a Rose,' decorated with beautiful Renaissance paintings.

Latrán is also home to numerous cafes and restaurants serving traditional Czech delicacies. Many of them are housed in historic cellars, which adds a unique and romantic touch to the meals. In the evening, when tourists leave the city, Latrán takes on a special charm - lantern-lit streets create a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic stroll for two.

Kláštery Český Krumlov is a complex of former monasteries, which is one of the most important religious monuments in the city. The complex includes two monasteries: the male Minorite Monastery and the female Monastery of the Poor Clares, both founded in the mid-14th century by the powerful Rožmberk family. After an extensive renovation completed in 2015, the monastery complex was opened to the public as an interactive museum center that presents monastic life and the history of the region in a fascinating way.

Wandering through the restored halls of the monastery, visitors can admire unique frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries, which miraculously survived the building's turbulent history. Particularly impressive are the paintings in St. Wolfgang's Chapel, depicting scenes from the lives of saints. According to local accounts, some of these frescoes have healing properties - it is said that touching a fresco depicting St. Anthony helps find lost objects and people.

The monastery complex also houses a fascinating interactive exhibition on medieval crafts. Here you can see what the work of medieval book illuminators, herbalists or alchemists was like. For couples looking for a romantic experience, a visit to the former monastery bakery is highly recommended, where you can take part in a workshop on baking traditional Czech bread according to recipes from the 15th century.

One of the most charming elements of the complex is the monastery garden, where medicinal herbs are grown according to medieval recipes. The garden is designed according to Christian symbolism - its central point is a fountain symbolizing the source of life, and the paths are arranged in the shape of a cross. It is an ideal place for a moment of rest and contemplation while exploring the city.

On the other hand, the Plášť Bridge (Plášťový most) is a unique structure connecting the castle with the castle theater and garden. This multi-level covered bridge was built in the 16th century and is one of the most distinctive features of the Český Krumlov skyline. The bridge gets its name from its appearance - the structure resembles a mantle imposed on a rocky hill. The bridge consists of three tiers of arcades supported by massive pillars, and its upper part serves as a corridor connecting different parts of the castle complex.

The Mantle Bridge offers one of the most beautiful views of the city and the meanders of the Vltava River. Particularly romantic is the view at sunset, when the last rays of the sun reflect in the waters of the river and the historic buildings take on a golden glow. According to local legend, the ghost of the 'White Lady' - Perchta of Rožmberk, who died with a broken heart after an unhappy marriage - sometimes appears on the bridge. Her appearance is said to herald important events for the town and its residents.

The Perchta Bridge is also an excellent landmark when exploring the city - its distinctive silhouette can be seen from many places, helping you find your way through the maze of medieval streets. For photography lovers, the bridge is one of the most photogenic landmarks in Český Krumlov, especially when lit up in the evening.

Seminární zahrada (Seminary Garden) is one of the lesser-known but extremely charming corners of Český Krumlov. This small terraced garden is located on a hillside near the former Jesuit seminary, from which it takes its name. The garden was established in the 18th century as a place of rest and meditation for seminarians, and today it is a true oasis of tranquility in the heart of the tourist town.

The garden is decorated in the Baroque style, with geometric flower beds, sheared hedges and stone paths. Its terraced layout takes advantage of the natural terrain, giving each level a different, equally beautiful view of the city and the river. Particularly picturesque is the view of the red roofs of the old town and the tower of St. Vitus Church, which changes with the seasons of the year and day.

In the central part of the garden is a small pavilion, which, according to local accounts, used to be a secret meeting place for couples in love. Today it is the perfect place for a romantic break while exploring the city. In spring and summer, the garden is filled with the scent of roses and lavender, which further enhances its romantic character. Interestingly, the garden is home to several rare plant species, including old varieties of roses that were planted here back in the 18th century.

Seminární zahrada is relatively unknown among tourists, making it an ideal place for couples seeking a moment of intimacy away from the crowds. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight gives the garden a particularly magical feel. According to local tradition, the couple who watch the sunset together from the garden's terrace will enjoy a long and happy relationship.

The Fountain and Plague Column, on the other hand, is located in the heart of the old town, on Svornosti Square (Concord Square). This Baroque monument was erected between 1714 and 1716 as a vote of thanks for saving the city from the plague epidemic that decimated Europe in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The column is topped by a statue of the Virgin Mary, and at its base are sculptures of saints considered intercessors against the plague: St. Roch, St. Francis Xavier, St. Sebastian and St. Anthony of Padua.

Surrounding the column is an octagonal fountain whose water, according to local beliefs, has healing properties. Tradition says that a couple who drinks water from the fountain at midnight on Midsummer Night (June 23-24) will be endowed with eternal love and fertility. Although it may be just a legend, the fountain and column create a romantic setting, especially in the evening when they are illuminated.

Svornosti Square, where the column is located, is the heart of the old town and the place where the public life of Český Krumlov has taken place for centuries. Surrounded by colorful townhouses from different eras, the square has retained its medieval character. Note the facades of the houses, each with its own history and unique decorations. Of particular interest is the 'Under the Golden Crown' house, decorated with Renaissance sgraffiti depicting biblical and mythological scenes.

In the evening, as the square empties of tourists, local restaurants set up tables outside, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for a candlelit dinner. Sitting with a glass of local wine, you can admire the illuminated column and fountain and listen to the sound of water, which has accompanied the residents and visitors of this magical city for centuries. It's the perfect end to a day full of excitement and discovering the mysteries of Český Krumlov.