With friends about to visit the Czech Republic for the first time, I was trying to distill the highlights for them: but for a relatively small country, there are so many picturesque places to visit that you need quite a lot of time. Looking through my photographs to give these friends some tips, I was struck by one town – Cesky Krumlov – which really impressed me.  It’s also recommended as a Prague daytrip by Europe a la Carte guest blogger Mark of Travel Wonders.

Located directly south of Prague and close to the German border, Cesky Krumlov is a photographer’s dream. Centered around a massive castle and the Vltava River, the old buildings have nearly all been renovated beautifully since the Cold War ended and tourist facilities have been well designed to cater for the numerous German and Austrian tourists who visit, due to the proximity.

My experience of Cesky Krumlov was quite unique. I was staying in a small bed and breakfast hosted by a charming old Czech couple, a place I’d stumbled across just by wandering some of the back streets. Although it was May – almost summer – I woke up in the morning to see only white outside my window. When the couple brought breakfast, they excitedly explained to me that snow in May was extremely rare. It certainly made the town look even more beautiful.

Unsurprisingly, the town is a UNESCO heritage listed site. Check out their offical tourist information to get the latest details on what’s on – they often host interesting cultural events. And see if you can be as lucky as me to get some snow out of season!  You may also like to “Czech out Brno“, the 2nd largest city in the Republic.

If you’re planning a trip to Cesky Krumlov, the HotelsCombined hotel price comparison site can find the best deals on Cesky Krumlov hotels for your stay.