Planning Your Baroque Castle Gardens Visit

The gardens are open from April through October each year. They usually close during the cold winter months for maintenance. Entry to the main garden areas is free for all visitors. This makes it one of the best budget-friendly activities in the city. You should check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov site for exact hours.

The terrain is mostly flat but includes some gravel paths. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this route. If you have mobility concerns, look for accessible walking routes in Český Krumlov before arriving. Most areas are reachable, but some slopes are quite steep.

Expect to spend at least two hours exploring the grounds. The gardens are quite large and invite a slow pace. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best light. You will also avoid the largest tour groups during these times. Bring water, as shops are limited inside the garden gates.

10 Essential Stops for Your Baroque Castle Gardens Walking Guide

This list highlights the most beautiful and historic spots in the park. Each location offers a unique look at 18th-century landscape design. Follow this order to complete a natural loop from the castle entrance. You will see everything from grand fountains to quiet ponds.

1. Name: The Cascade Fountain Type: sight Why go: This is the most famous feature of the gardens. It features stone statues of water deities and nymphs. The water flows down four levels of stone steps. Best for: Photographers Where: Between the lower and upper gardens Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk up the main ramp from the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Look for the detailed stone frogs at the base.
2. Name: The Revolving Auditorium Type: experience Why go: This is a unique open-air theater. The entire seating area rotates during performances. It is set against the backdrop of the Bellarie Manor. Best for: Culture lovers Where: Central Upper Garden Time: 10 minutes (viewing) Cost: Free to view exterior Getting there: Follow the central path past the fountain. Tip: Book tickets months in advance for a night show.
3. Name: Summer Manor Bellarie Type: sight Why go: This Rococo building is a rare architectural gem. It was used for garden parties and relaxation. The blue and white exterior is very striking. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Near the Revolving Auditorium Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free to view Getting there: Located right next to the theater area. Tip: The facade is perfect for afternoon photos.
4. Name: The Castle Pond Type: nature Why go: This is the quietest part of the park. It is filled with water lilies and surrounded by tall trees. You can often see local birds here. Best for: Quiet reflection Where: The far western end of the gardens Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk to the very end of the main path. Tip: There are benches here for a peaceful rest.
5. Name: The Lower Parterre Type: sight Why go: This area shows the classic French garden style. It has perfectly clipped hedges and colorful flower beds. The symmetry is very impressive. Best for: Gardeners Where: Near the garden entrance Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: This is the first area you enter from the castle. Tip: Visit in late spring for the best blooms.
6. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: sight Why go: This massive bridge connects the castle to the gardens. It offers incredible views of the town and river. It is a masterpiece of engineering. Best for: Panoramic views Where: Entrance to the garden area Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards to reach it. Tip: Stop at the window openings for framed photos.
7. Name: The Castle Riding School Type: experience Why go: This grand building was used for winter horse training. It now hosts concerts and large events. The interior is vast and historic. Best for: History buffs Where: Near the garden gate Time: 15 minutes Cost: Varies by event Getting there: Located just outside the main garden entrance. Tip: Check the local schedule for evening concerts.
8. Name: The Hedge Maze Type: activity Why go: Small mazes made of tall hedges are fun to explore. They follow the original 18th-century layouts. It is a great spot for kids. Best for: Families Where: Upper Garden area Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Look for the green walls near the Bellarie Manor. Tip: Keep an eye on children as they can disappear quickly.
9. Name: The Terrace Viewpoint Type: sight Why go: This spot overlooks the Vltava river bend. You can see the entire Old Town from here. It is less crowded than the bridge. Best for: Avoiding crowds Where: Southern edge of the garden Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk along the southern perimeter wall. Tip: This is a great spot for sunset.
10. Name: The Kitchen Garden Type: sight Why go: This area grows traditional herbs and vegetables. It shows how the castle staff once produced food. It has a very rustic feel. Best for: Foodies Where: Near the gardener's house Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Follow signs for the "Zahradnictví" near the pond. Tip: Look for labels on the different herb species.

Navigating the Castle Grounds with Ease

The walk through the gardens involves several different surfaces. Most paths are fine gravel or packed earth. These can be dusty in summer or muddy after rain. Wear shoes with good grip to stay safe. You should also watch for the occasional uneven stone step.

Restrooms are available near the entrance and the Riding School. There is also a small cafe near the Revolving Auditorium. It serves coffee, ice cream, and light snacks. Prices are slightly higher than in the town center. However, the garden setting is worth the extra cost.

Please respect the historical nature of the site. Do not climb on the statues or pick the flowers. Stay on the designated paths to protect the grass. Photography is encouraged, but drones are generally not allowed. This helps keep the atmosphere peaceful for everyone.

Nearby Walking Routes in Český Krumlov

Once you finish the gardens, other paths await. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with much to see. You can easily walk down into the river valley. Follow the Vltava River bridges walking map for a scenic return. This route takes you past many riverside cafes.

If you want more views, try the hills opposite the castle. These paths offer a different perspective of the fortress. Many visitors enjoy the loop back toward the town square. This allows you to see the medieval architecture up close. The town is very compact and easy to navigate.