Tiny European town that looks like it’s in a fairytale – with medieval castle and huge summer festival
A TINY town in Europe looks like it’s been plucked from a fairytale, with a winding river and colourful castle.
Český Krumlov in Czechia is not too far away from the Czech Republic‘s capital city, Prague.
Its historical charm is abundantly clear throughout, with its Renaissance architecture harking back hundreds of years.
And travel expert Maryanne Sparkes from European Waterways has explained why autumn might be the perfect time to visit the city.
She said: “If you’re searching for fairy-tale charm this Halloween, look no further than Cesky Krumlov!
“This enchanting town, with its winding streets and medieval architecture, offers a Halloween experience that feels straight out of a storybook.
“During this festive season, Cesky Krumlov hosts celebrations filled with costume contests, ghost tours, and themed events at the castle.”
Krumlov Tours operates a nighttime ghost tour where visitors will hear ghost stories while passing some of the city’s best monuments like the Renaissance town hall, a gothic church and the castle courtyard.
There’s also Český Krumlov Castle, an imposing building that towers over the city and dates back to the 13th century.
Nowadays, it is preserved with its original layout, structure, interior installations and architectural detail.
Its website claims it is “one of the most important monuments in Central Europe“.
The castle has stunning views over the old town and provides a glimpse into what life would have been like for the Bohemian Aristocracy all those years ago.
A unique baroque theatre is located inside the castle and is described as “the best preserved Baroque theatre in Europe”.
The theatre still has its original building and with an orchestra pit, stage, machinery and sets.
Because of its age, the theatre is only used twice for public shows, when an opera is performed by candlelight.
Local businesses also host Halloween-themed events and activities like costume parties and pumpkin carving.
The city becomes even more picturesque thanks to the vibrant autumn colours.
If you don’t have time to visit this autumn, the Czech city also comes into its own over summer during the annual Five-Petalled Rose festival.
The celebration takes part in the weekend closest to the summer solstice.
Period music is performed throughout the old town and historical sword fights can also be seen.
Jugglers and jesters also perform, while jousting competitions and horsework displays also take place.
Visitors can play period games, or simply have something to eat and drink from the many market stalls while taking in the festivities.
With pints in the town costing on average around £1.50, it’s certainly an affordable option.
Linz Airport in Austria is the nearest airport to Český Krumlov, with train journeys between the two taking 70 minutes.
Ryanair runs a direct service between London Stansted and Linz Airport, with return fares starting from £41 in December.
Alternatively, direct buses run from Prague where return flights can be booked from the UK.
A night for two in the town will set you back around £30.
Three other fairytale cities to visit in Europe
Here are three fairytale cities in Europe Brit holidaymakers might want to visit.
Bruges, Belgium
Often referred to as the “Venice of the North”, Bruges is famed for its medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobbled streets. The city’s well-preserved buildings and picturesque scenery make it feel like something straight out of a storybook.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
This quintessentially German town is a perfect example of a medieval walled city. With its half-timbered houses, narrow lanes, and preserved fortifications, Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers a glimpse into a bygone era and feels like a real-life fairytale setting.
Colmar, France
Nestled in the Alsace region, Colmar is renowned for its well-preserved old town, complete with half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and cobblestone streets. The city’s colourful facades and charming architecture give it an almost magical quality, reminiscent of scenes from a fairytale.
Earlier this year, the mayor of Prague revealed they want to crack down on pub tour crawls at night.
Meanwhile, these six European holiday hotspots are yet to be discovered by Brits.