Is the Museum of Torture Suitable for Children?

The Museum of Torture is a dark and graphic attraction. It uses wax figures to show historical punishment methods. Many displays include blood and screams from audio effects. This can be very frightening for younger visitors. Most travel experts suggest this museum is not ideal for children under 12. Older teenagers may find the historical aspect interesting. However, sensitive children should definitely avoid the narrow, dimly lit corridors.

If you are traveling with kids, consider these quick picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: Moldavite Museum
• Best for families: Fairytale House
• Best rainy-day: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel
• Best free activity: Exploring the Castle Gardens

Always check the mood of your group before entering. The museum is located in the basement of the Town Hall. The cold air and dark stone walls add to the scary feeling. Parents should use their best judgment. If your child dislikes horror movies, they will likely dislike this museum. There are many other unique spots in town to enjoy instead.

10 Unusual Museums in Český Krumlov for 2026

Discover the most unique sights in this UNESCO World Heritage town. These locations offer history, art, and science in unexpected ways. Here are the top picks for a memorable visit.

1. Name: Museum of Torture Type: sight Why go: To see medieval justice methods in authentic cellars. Best for: History buffs and horror fans. Where: Main Town Square (Náměstí Svornosti). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 150 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from any central hotel. Tip: Avoid if you are claustrophobic.
2. Name: Moldavite Museum Type: experience Why go: Learn about rare green gemstones formed by meteorites. Best for: Science lovers and families. Where: Panská street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the pedestrian zone. Tip: Read the reviews of the Moldavite Museum before visiting to see the interactive games.
3. Name: Museum of Marionettes Type: experience Why go: Explore the long tradition of Czech puppetry. Best for: Families and theater fans. Where: Former Church of St. Jost. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Near the bridge to the castle. Tip: Look for the giant puppets at the back.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: See provocative works by this famous Austrian painter. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Standard museum fee. Getting there: Central old town location. Tip: Visit the official site for current temporary exhibitions.
5. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: sight Why go: A perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio. Best for: Photography fans and history lovers. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the square. Tip: Book a guided tour to hear the family's moving story.
6. Name: Graphite Mine Type: experience Why go: Ride a train deep underground into a real mine. Best for: Adventurous kids and adults. Where: Chvalšinská road. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Higher than average. Getting there: Best by car or a 20-minute walk. Tip: Wear warm clothes as the mine is 10°C year-round.
7. Name: Fairytale House (Museum of Puppets) Type: experience Why go: Over 300 historical puppets in a magical setting. Best for: Young children. Where: Radniční street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Just off the main square. Tip: Kids can try moving some of the puppets themselves.
8. Name: Regional Museum Type: museum Why go: See a unique ceramic model of the entire city. Best for: History lovers. Where: Horní street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Near the Jesuit College. Tip: The view from the museum terrace is incredible.
9. Name: Castle Baroque Theater Type: sight Why go: One of the world's best-preserved 18th-century theaters. Best for: Architecture and history fans. Where: Fifth castle courtyard. Time: 45-minute tour. Cost: Premium. Getting there: Walk through the castle interiors. Tip: Tours are limited, so book weeks in advance on the official site.
10. Name: Wax Museum Type: sight Why go: Meet figures from Czech history and folklore. Best for: Casual tourists. Where: Kájovská street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the Egon Schiele center. Tip: Buy a combined ticket with the Torture Museum to save money.

Planning Your Unusual Museums Itinerary

Most unusual museums in this town are small. You can easily see three in one day. Start your morning at the castle to avoid the largest crowds. Use the Official Tourism portal to check for seasonal closures. Many museums offer family tickets which save you money. Wear comfortable shoes because the cobblestones are very uneven.

The town is very compact and walkable. You do not need a car once you arrive. Most attractions are within a 15-minute walk of each other. If you visit in summer, buy tickets online when possible. This is especially true for the Graphite Mine and the Baroque Theater. These spots have strict capacity limits for safety.