Cesky Krumlov is a fairytale town frozen in time, its terracotta rooftops and pastel-colored facades cascading down to the serpentine curves of the Vltava River in southern Bohemia. The entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominated by the magnificent castle complex that ranks as the second largest in the Czech Republic after Prague Castle. Its iconic round painted tower rises above the medieval streetscape like a beacon from another century.

Wandering the cobblestone lanes reveals layers of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture at every turn, from the ornate frescoes adorning the castle walls to the intimate courtyards and artisan workshops tucked into ancient stone buildings. In summer, the river comes alive with kayakers and tubers drifting through the heart of town, while the castle’s revolving open-air theatre hosts performances against a backdrop of centuries-old gardens.

Pro tip: Stay overnight rather than making a day trip from Prague. After the tour buses depart around 5 PM, the town transforms into a magical, nearly empty medieval wonderland. Grab dinner at a riverside restaurant and stroll the illuminated streets in near solitude.