Is the graphite mine tour suitable for kids?

The short answer is yes. Most children find the adventure very exciting. The tour begins with a ride on a real mining train. This is often the highlight for younger visitors. However, the environment is dark and damp. The temperature stays around 10 degrees Celsius all year. This might be scary for very small children or those afraid of the dark. We generally recommend the tour for kids aged five and older.

Safety is a top priority during the visit. Every guest receives a protective suit and a helmet with a lamp. This makes children feel like real explorers. The guides explain the mining process in a simple way. If your child can walk for an hour, they will likely enjoy the graphite mine tour. It is a great break from traditional museums. Just remember that strollers are not allowed inside the tunnels.

11 best family activities in Český Krumlov

Beyond the mine, the city offers many treasures. There are many sights to see in this UNESCO World Heritage town. Here are the top picks for your family itinerary.

1. Name: Graphite Mine (Grafitový důl) Type: experience Why go: Ride an authentic mining train underground. Best for: Adventure seekers and train fans. Where: Chvalšinská road, near the city center. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: Usually 250-350 CZK per person. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Wear warm socks as your feet can get cold.
2. Name: Castle Museum & Tower Type: sight Why go: Climb the colorful tower for the best city views. Best for: Photographers and older children. Where: Latrán neighborhood. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Expect to pay 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Walk through the main castle gate. Tip: Buy a combined ticket to save money.
3. Name: Castle Bears (Medvědí příkop) Type: nature Why go: See the famous bears living in the castle moat. Best for: Animal lovers of all ages. Where: Between the first and second castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from above. Getting there: Enter the castle grounds from Latrán. Tip: Visit in the morning when the bears are most active.
4. Name: Mirror Maze (Zrcadlové bludiště) Type: activity Why go: Get lost in a hall of mirrors and funny distortions. Best for: Rainy days and younger kids. Where: Široká street in the Old Town. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Around 100 CZK. Getting there: Located near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: Watch your step to avoid bumping into glass!
5. Name: Museum of Marionettes (Muzeum loutek) Type: museum Why go: Explore the rich history of Czech puppetry. Best for: Creative kids and theater fans. Where: Former St. Jost Church, Latrán. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually under 150 CZK. Getting there: Near the bridge connecting Old Town and Latrán. Tip: Look for the interactive puppet stages where kids can play.
6. Name: Monastery Garden (Klášterní zahrada) Type: nature Why go: A peaceful spot for kids to run and play. Best for: Families needing a break from crowds. Where: Near the Minorite Monastery. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry to the gardens. Getting there: Walk north from the castle area. Tip: Visit the nearby craft workshops for a hands-on experience.
7. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: activity Why go: See the city from a different perspective on the water. Best for: Active families and sunny days. Where: Various rental points along the river. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK per boat. Getting there: Most rentals are near the city park. Tip: Choose a raft instead of a canoe for better stability with kids.
8. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: museum Why go: Step back in time in a perfectly preserved photo studio. Best for: History buffs and teenagers. Where: Linecká street. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: Around 200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk south of the main square. Tip: Book a period photo shoot for a unique souvenir.
9. Name: Baroque Theater Type: sight Why go: Visit one of the world's oldest preserved theaters. Best for: Culture lovers and older children. Where: Fifth castle courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 250-300 CZK. Getting there: Follow signs through the castle grounds. Tip: Take the Baroque Theater tour to see the stage machinery.
10. Name: Lipno Treetop Walkway Type: day trip Why go: Walk among the trees and slide down a massive slide. Best for: Outdoor adventure and great views. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: 300-400 CZK. Getting there: 30 minutes by car or bus from the city. Tip: Take the chairlift up for extra fun.
11. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: Visit a castle that looks like it belongs in Disney. Best for: Fans of fairy tales and architecture. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: 250-350 CZK for tours. Getting there: 40 minutes north by car. Tip: Explore the vast park if the tour is too long for kids.

Practical tips for your graphite mine tour

Planning is key for a smooth visit. You should consider booking tickets in advance. This is especially true during the busy summer months. Tours are limited in size. If you arrive late, you might have to wait several hours. Try to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

Dress appropriately for the underground climate. Even in July, the mine is chilly. Long pants and a light jacket are necessary. The mine provides overalls, but they are not very thick. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The ground can be uneven and wet in some areas. These small steps ensure your kids stay comfortable and happy throughout the tour.