Festival Krumlov: more than just concerts

Festival highlights

The programme offers something for every music lover. Highlights include the opening concert One Thousand and One Nights: Scheherazade, a recital by internationally acclaimed pianist Lukáš Vondráček, performances by the Pavel Haas Quartet, and concerts by Collegium 1704 conducted by Václav Luks.

Another highlight is the New York based pianist and composer Tomáš Kačo, whose music blends classical traditions with jazz and improvisation. In Český Krumlov, he will perform both as a composer and soloist, presenting a new work commissioned by the festival for violinist Bohu Moon.

The programme also includes concerts dedicated to film and game music. The Brewery Garden will host Harry Potter – A Magical Night, followed a week later by music from the acclaimed video game Kingdom Come: Deliverance II.

Where music meets unique places

Festival Krumlov is as much about the venues as it is about the music itself. Historic and unusual locations give each performance its own atmosphere and turn every concert into a memorable experience.

Listen to a jazz-inspired interpretation of the St. Wenceslas Chorale in the Romanesque Church of St. Nicholas** in Boletice, or experience a musical journey to Jerusalem in the pilgrimage church of Kájov.

Another unforgettable venue is the former psychiatric hospital in Červený Dvůr, where the Paganini Project will fill the historic grounds with the sounds of violin and guitar. If you enjoy places with a mysterious atmosphere, don't miss the concert by barefoot organist Katta in the evocative ruins of the monastery church in Kuklov.

Something extra every festival weekend

If you're visiting Český Krumlov during one of the festival weekends, make time for the Festival Zone in the Monastery Garden. From Thursday to Sunday, this open-air space offers a varied programme of free events, including concerts, open-air cinema, artist talks, creative workshops, children's theatre and relaxed musical picnics.

It's the perfect place to take a break between concerts, enjoy a drink or a bite to eat, and experience the festival atmosphere without a ticket. Families will appreciate the children's activities and hands-on workshops, while music lovers can look forward to intimate performances and informal meetings with festival artists.

More ideas for your festival stay

If you enjoy art as much as music, take some time between concerts to explore Český Krumlov's galleries and exhibitions. Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, known for its modern and contemporary art exhibitions, or discover the Palace of Illustration in the castle complex, home to a remarkable collection of book illustrations. Art lovers should also not miss the Picasso Life exhibition, featuring original works by Pablo Picasso. Another worthwhile stop is Port 1560, the revitalised former brewery complex where history, architecture and contemporary culture come together. During the festival, you can also visit an exhibition of French landscape painting from 1850–1930.

When you're not attending a concert or visiting a gallery, it's worth exploring some of Český Krumlov's quieter corners. Head to the southern meander of the Vltava River, where you'll find places connected with photography (Museum Fotoatelier Seidel), art (Schiele's Garden Studio) and the town's Jewish heritage (the Synagogue). It's a rewarding way to discover a different side of Český Krumlov beyond its most famous landmarks.

You can also follow the themed walk Modern architecture in Český Krumlov, revealing a lesser-known side of the town with buildings and places that tell stories beyond its medieval streetscape. For panoramic views, make your way to Křížová hora (Cross Hill), a Baroque pilgrimage site located just 2 km from the historic centre.

You'll find more themed walks, as well as an overview of monuments, museums and galleries, on our website.