A LESSER-known European city break destination has been described as a "fairytale" and likened to going back in time.
Its medieval history is celebrated every year with an annual festival held throughout its cobbled old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Český Krumlov in Czechia is not too far away from the Czech Republic's capital city, Prague, but still gets far fewer visitors than perhaps it might expect to have.
Its historical charm is abundantly clear throughout, with its Renaissance architecture harking back hundreds of years.
That's most clear in its castle - an imposing building that towers over the rest of the town.
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It dates back as far as the 13th century, although additions were built onto it throughout the following decades.
Today it is preserved with the original layout, structure, interior installations and architectural detail.
Its website claims it is "one of the most important monuments in Central Europe".
It offers stunning views over the old town and the rest of Český Krumlov, as well as a glimpse into what life would have been like for the Bohemian Aristocracy who would have lived there all those years ago.
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "This is a truly magical spot on a hill with spectacular views."
Another added: "So much history. Stories of the ages."
The castle is home to a unique baroque theatre, which is described as "the best preserved Baroque theatre in Europe".
It still has its original building and with orchestra pit, stage, machinery and sets, while props and costumes can also be seen.
Due to its age and how delicate it is, the theatre is only used three times a year and only twice for public shows, when a Baroque opera is performed in simulated candlelight.
However, historic pageantry can be enjoyed elsewhere in the town, particularly during the annual Five-Petalled Rose festival.
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The celebration takes part in the weekend closest to the summer solstice and is a great way to commemorate the history of the city.
Period music is performed by musicians throughout the old town, while historical sword fights can also be seen.
Jugglers and jesters are among a variety of theatre and dance performers that are on show, as well as jousting competitions and horse work displays.
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.
In the evenings, a fire parade is hosted creating a special atmosphere throughout the town.
Travel Bloggers Single Parents on Holiday were really impressed with their visit to Český Krumlov, listing it in the number one spot of their list of Europe's top 10 "hidden treasures".
They wrote: "The fairytale-like town of Český Krumlov in the far south of the Czech Republic makes visitors feel like they are stepping back in time.
"Its medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts narrow cobblestone streets, charming Renaissance-era architecture, and a stunning castle overlooking the Vltava River.
"Stroll along the meandering alleyways, visit the Baroque theatre, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the town’s many festivals, including the Five-Petalled Rose Celebrations held in June."
Getting to Český Krumlov is fairly simple, with buses going directly from Prague.
Return flights can be booked from the UK from £42, while a night for two in the town will set you back around £30.
There are plenty of other castles in Europe worth visiting, however, including some in the UK.
Bamburgh
Overlooking the beach in Northumberland is Bamburgh Castle, creating a dramatic backdrop for the long stretch of sandy shoreline.
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Ghent
This Belgian city is built on two rivers, the Lys and the Scheldt, so a boat trip is the perfect introduction.
From there, visitors can drift past dramatic castles and monasteries as they take in the sights of the city.
Bratislava
The Slovak capital is fairly small for a European capital, but has a lot for visitors to explore.
Among those are the castle that stands tall over the rest of the city and is the first thing you see when approaching.
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