The Enchanted Charm of Český Krumlov

• HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
• GoodbyeNa shledanou
  [na skhledanou]
• YesAno
  [ah-no]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [pro-seem]
• Thank youDěkuji
  [dyeh-koo-yee]
• Excuse me/SorryPromiňte
  [pro-meen-tyeh]
• How are you?Jak se máš?
  [yak se mash]
• Fine. And you?Dobře. A ty?
  [dob-zhe. ah tee]
• Do you speak English?Mluvíte anglicky?
  [mloo-vee-teh ahn-gleet-skee]
• I don't understandNerozumím
  [neh-roh-zoo-meem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseRád bych viděl menu, prosím
  [rahd bikh vee-dyel meh-noo, pro-seem]
• I don't eat meatNemám rád maso
  [neh-mahm raad mah-soh]
• Cheers!Na zdraví!
  [na zdra-vee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseChtěl bych zaplatit, prosím
  [khtyel bikh zap-la-teet, pro-seem]

• Help!Pomoc!
  [poh-mohts]
• Go away!Jdi pryč!
  [ydee preetch]
• Call the Police!Zavolejte policii!
  [za-vo-ley-teh po-leet-see]
• Call a doctor!Zavolejte doktora!
  [za-vo-ley-teh dok-toh-rah]
• I'm lostZtratil jsem se
  [ztrah-teel ysem seh]
• I'm illJsem nemocný
  [ysem neh-mohts-nee]

• I'd like to buy...Chtěl bych koupit...
  [khtyel bikh koh-peeht]
• I'm just lookingJen se dívám
  [yen seh dee-vaam]
• How much is it?Kolik to stojí?
  [koh-leek toh stoh-yee]
• That's too expensiveTo je příliš drahé
  [toh yeh przh-leezh drah-hey]
• Can you lower the price?Můžete snížit cenu?
  [moo-zheh-teh snee-zheet tseh-noo]

• What time is it?Kolik je hodin?
  [koh-leek yeh hoh-deen]
• It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [yeh yed-nah hoh-dee-nah]
• Half past (10)Půl jedenácté
  [pool yed-nyahk-teh]
• MorningRáno
  [rah-noh]
• AfternoonOdpoledne
  [ohd-poh-led-neh]
• EveningVečer
  [veh-chehr]
• YesterdayVčera
  [v-cheh-rah]
• TodayDnes
  [dnes]
• TomorrowZítra
  [zee-trah]
• 1jedna
  [yed-nah]
• 2dva
  [dvah]
• 3tři
  [tree]
• 4čtyři
  [cht-yer-zhee]
• 5pět
  [pyet]
• 6šest
  [shest]
• 7sedm
  [sedm]
• 8osm
  [osm]
• 9devět
  [deh-vyet]
• 10deset
  [deh-set]

• Where's a/the...?Kde je...?
  [kdeh yeh]
• What's the address?Jaké je adres?
  [yah-keh yeh ah-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Můžete mi to ukázat (na mapě)?
  [moo-zheh-teh mee toh oo-ka-zat (nah mah-peh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kdy jede další (autobus)?
  [kdee ye-deh dah-lshee (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Jedno jízdenka (do ...)
  [yed-no yiz-dehn-kah (doh)]

The origins of Český Krumlov date back to the 13th century when it was founded by the Vítkovci family, a powerful Bohemian noble clan. The town's strategic location along the Vltava River made it an important trade hub. The Vítkovci constructed the initial castle complex, which served as a defensive fortification and a residence.

In the late 14th century, the Rosenberg family, one of the most influential noble families in Bohemia, took control of Český Krumlov. Under their rule, the town flourished both economically and culturally. The Rosenbergs expanded the castle, transforming it into a luxurious Renaissance residence. They also invested in the town's infrastructure, including the construction of the St. Vitus Church.

In 1602, Český Krumlov was sold to Emperor Rudolf II of the Habsburg dynasty. The town then became part of the extensive Habsburg territories. Under Habsburg rule, the town continued to thrive, but it also faced challenges such as the Thirty Years' War, which brought significant devastation to the region.

In 1719, the Schwarzenberg family acquired Český Krumlov. The Schwarzenbergs were responsible for significant architectural and cultural developments in the town. They built the Baroque theater inside the castle, which remains one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in Europe. The family also commissioned numerous art pieces and continued to develop the castle grounds.

The 20th century brought dramatic changes to Český Krumlov. After World War I, the town became part of the newly formed Czechoslovakia. It was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II and later became part of Communist Czechoslovakia. The political changes significantly impacted the town's architecture and cultural heritage, leading to periods of neglect and restoration.

In 1992, the historic center of Český Krumlov was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition spurred efforts to restore and preserve the town's unique architectural and cultural heritage. Today, Český Krumlov is a popular tourist destination, known for its well-preserved medieval core, vibrant arts scene, and the stunning Český Krumlov Castle, which is the second largest in Czechia.

Český Krumlov is located in the South Bohemian Region of Czechia. The nearest international airport is Václav Havel Airport in Prague, approximately 180 kilometers away. From Prague, you can take a direct bus or train to Český Krumlov. The bus journey takes around 3 hours, while the train journey, with a transfer at České Budějovice, takes about 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which offers flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic countryside.

Český Krumlov is a compact town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making walking the best way to explore. For longer trips, local taxis are available and relatively affordable. There is also a local bus service that connects different parts of the town and nearby villages. Renting a bicycle is another great way to explore the area, especially during the warmer months.

The official currency in Czechia is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Český Krumlov. However, it is recommended to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the town, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed.

Český Krumlov is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the town does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Český Krumlov. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Be quiet and respectful when visiting churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a simple 'Dobrý den' (Good day). A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don't forget to say 'Na zdraví' (Cheers) when toasting. Accept food and drink offerings graciously, as refusing hospitality can be considered impolite.

To experience Český Krumlov like a local, visit the local markets and shops where you can buy handmade crafts and local delicacies. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the lesser-known parts of the town, such as the picturesque Egon Schiele Garden and the quiet paths along the Vltava River. For a unique experience, attend one of the town's many cultural festivals, such as the Five-Petalled Rose Festival, which celebrates the town's medieval heritage.