Planning Your Graphite Mine Underground Tours

The Graphite Mine is a must-see for anyone visiting Český Krumlov. It is located just a short walk from the historic center. You will experience the daily life of a miner first-hand. The tour begins with a ride on a special mining train. This train takes you deep into the earth where graphite was once extracted. It is a cool and dark environment that feels like another world.

You must wear protective clothing provided by the mine staff. This includes a jacket, pants, and a helmet with a lamp. The tunnels can be damp and muddy in some sections. Safety is the top priority for all visitors during the tour. Professional guides lead the way and explain the history of the site. They share stories about the difficult work performed by miners in the past.

Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended for 2026. The tours are popular and have limited group sizes. You can check availability online or at the local tourist office. Tours are usually available in several languages including English and Czech. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. This gives you enough time to change into your mining gear.

10 Best Things to Do in Český Krumlov in 2026

Here are the top experiences you should not miss during your visit. This list includes everything from underground adventures to scenic river trips. Each item offers a unique way to enjoy the town's rich culture and history.

• Best overall: Graphite Mine Tours
• Best for families: Castle Complex
• Best rainy-day: Museum of Torture
• Best free activity: Cloak Bridge views

1. Name: Graphite Mine (Grafitový důl) Type: activity Why go: Ride an authentic mining train and explore 2 kilometers of underground tunnels. Best for: Adventure lovers and history buffs. Where: Chvalšinská road, north of the city center. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: Approximately 250-300 CZK. Getting there: A 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride from the main square. Tip: The temperature stays around 10°C (50°F), so bring warm socks.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. Best for: Everyone. Where: Latrán district. Time: 2 to 4 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; tour prices vary by circuit. Getting there: Walkable from any point in the old town. Tip: Visit the official castle site to book specific interior tours.
3. Name: Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Get the most famous panoramic view of the town and the Vltava River. Best for: Photographers. Where: Inside the first castle courtyard. Time: 30 to 45 minutes. Cost: Around 150 CZK. Getting there: Climbing the castle tower is easy from the main entrance. Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
4. Name: Baroque Theatre Type: experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved theaters of its kind in the world. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Fifth courtyard of the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Tours cost about 300 CZK. Getting there: Follow the path through the castle courtyards. Tip: Only a limited number of people can enter each day to protect the interior.
5. Name: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: viewpoint Why go: This massive multi-story bridge offers stunning views of the river valley. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Connecting the castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle complex toward the gardens. Tip: It is a perfect spot for sunset photos of the town.
6. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: activity Why go: See the town from a different perspective while floating down the river. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Various rental points along the river banks. Time: 1 to 3 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK depending on the boat size. Getting there: Rafting on the Vltava River is accessible from many central docks. Tip: Be prepared to get a little wet when passing through the weirs.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: Explore the works of this famous Austrian painter in a historic brewery. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Široká street in the town center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Around 200 CZK. Getting there: Located in the heart of the pedestrian zone. Tip: Check the museum website for seasonal exhibitions.
8. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: sight Why go: A beautiful Gothic church that dominates the town's skyline. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Kostelní street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A short walk uphill from the main square. Tip: Please remain quiet as it is still an active place of worship.
9. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: experience Why go: Discover peaceful courtyards and ancient religious art. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Follow the monastery complex guide to find the entrance near the castle. Tip: Visit the official site for information on craft workshops.
10. Name: Museum of Torture Type: experience Why go: Learn about medieval justice in the dark cellars of the Town Hall. Best for: Fans of the macabre. Where: Main Square (Náměstí Svornosti). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approximately 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Museum of Torture is located right in the center. Tip: This museum might be too scary for very young children.