Planning Your Accessible Visit

The layout of Český Krumlov follows the curves of the Vltava River. This creates a mix of flat riverfronts and elevated castle grounds. Most of the historic center is a pedestrian zone. This makes walking safer and more pleasant for visitors. You will encounter many different types of pavement during your walk.

The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre known for its preservation. Because of this, many original cobblestones remain in the streets. These stones can be bumpy for wheels and tired feet. Knowing which streets have smoother side paths is very helpful. Many modern renovations have added flatter stones to the main walkways.

Accessibility has improved significantly in recent years for international tourists. Public buildings and museums often have ramps or lift access now. You should still expect some inclines when moving between the lower and upper towns. Planning your route around the river can help you stay on level ground. Always carry a map that highlights elevators and accessible entrances.

10 Best Accessible Walking Routes Český Krumlov

This list features specific locations that offer easy movement and great views. Each spot is chosen for its relative flatness or available assistance. You can combine several of these into a full-day itinerary. Here are the top accessible walking routes Český Krumlov has to offer.

1. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Courtyards Type: sight Why go: Experience the grandeur of the second-largest castle in the country. The courtyards are mostly flat and paved with manageable stones. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Castle District Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Free to enter courtyards Getting there: Use the main ramp from Latrán street. Tip: Visit the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov official site for tour accessibility details.
2. Name: Latrán District Type: experience Why go: This historic neighborhood connects the castle to the river. It features many Latrán district walking highlights like colorful facades and craft shops. Best for: Shopping and architecture. Where: Latrán Street Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk across the Lazebnický Bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Stick to the center of the road where the stones are often flatter.
3. Name: Náměstí Svornosti (Old Town Square) Type: sight Why go: The central square is the heart of the city. An Old Town Square walking loop allows you to see the Town Hall and Plague Column. Best for: People watching and central access. Where: Old Town Center Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Accessible via several flat streets from the river. Tip: The square has a slight slope but remains very manageable for wheels.
4. Name: Městský Park (City Park) Type: nature Why go: This is the flattest green space in the city. You can use a Vltava river bridges walking map to find the park entrance. Best for: Families and quiet relaxation. Where: South of the Old Town Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the river path south from the center. Tip: The paths here are paved and very smooth for strollers.
5. Name: The Baroque Castle Garden Type: nature Why go: The upper garden offers massive flower beds and a fountain. Use an accessible entrance to Castle Gardens map to avoid the steepest stairs. Best for: Garden enthusiasts. Where: Castle Hill Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Take the shuttle or use the top entrance near the parking lot. Tip: The garden is long, so plan for plenty of resting stops.
6. Name: Monasteries Český Krumlov Type: experience Why go: This complex has been beautifully restored with accessibility in mind. Visit the Monasteries Český Krumlov to see Gothic and Baroque art. Best for: Culture and quiet interiors. Where: Latrán Time: 2 hours Cost: Moderate entry fee Getting there: Located just off the main Latrán street. Tip: The inner courtyards are very peaceful and easy to navigate.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: This world-class gallery is housed in a former brewery. The Egon Schiele Art Centrum offers large elevators and wide halls. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká Street Time: 2 hours Cost: Moderate entry fee Getting there: Located on a wide, relatively flat street in the Old Town. Tip: The museum shop is also fully accessible and worth a visit.
8. Name: Regional Museum Terrace Type: viewpoint Why go: Get the best view of the castle without climbing a tower. The terrace is accessible through the museum building. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Horní Street Time: 30 minutes Cost: Small fee for museum, terrace often included Getting there: Walk up Horní street from the main square. Tip: This is a great alternative to the steep castle tower climb.
9. Name: Seminární Zahrada (Seminary Garden) Type: viewpoint Why go: A small, flat garden with incredible views of the castle and river. It is located right across from the Regional Museum. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Horní Street Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Directly accessible from the sidewalk on Horní street. Tip: Visit during sunset for the most beautiful lighting.
10. Name: Hluboká nad Vltavou Type: day trip Why go: Located nearby, this white castle looks like it belongs in a fairytale. The park surrounding the castle is mostly flat and easy to walk. Best for: A full day excursion. Where: 30 km north of the city Time: 4-5 hours Cost: Free for park, fee for castle interior Getting there: Take a low-floor bus or a private accessible taxi. Tip: The walk from the town to the castle is uphill, so consider the local tourist train.

Navigating Cobblestones and Slopes

Cobblestones are the biggest challenge for many visitors. You can find tips for avoiding cobblestones in Český Krumlov center by looking for newer pavements. Many streets now have a "runner" of smooth stones in the middle. These are designed specifically to help those with wheels or mobility aids. Follow these paths whenever they are available.

Understanding the town's geography is also important. The Old Town is mostly level once you reach the square. However, the path up to the castle involves a steady incline. You should ask yourself: are Český Krumlov streets wheelchair friendly in every area? The answer is mostly yes, but some detours are often required.

If a slope looks too steep, look for a nearby elevator or ramp. Many hotels and restaurants in the center have hidden lifts. Don't be afraid to ask locals for the easiest way to reach a higher point. Most people are very helpful and will point you to the smoothest route. Using a sturdy pair of walking shoes with good grip is always recommended.

Accessible Dining and Rest Stops

Taking breaks is essential when exploring the city. Many cafes along the Vltava River offer outdoor seating on flat wooden decks. These spots are easy to enter and provide beautiful views of the water. You can enjoy a coffee while watching the rafters go by. Most of these riverfront paths are level with the street.

Public restrooms are another important consideration for your route. The main square and the castle courtyards have accessible toilet facilities. These are usually well-marked with the international disability symbol. Most modern museums also provide high-quality, accessible restrooms for their guests. It is a good idea to carry some small change for the entry fee.

Timing your walks can also improve your experience. The streets are much easier to navigate when they are not crowded. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for a peaceful walk. You will have more space to choose the smoothest parts of the path. This makes your journey through the town much more relaxing and enjoyable.