At a Glance: Two Days in Český Krumlov

This itinerary focuses on the history and beauty of the castle grounds. You will experience the town's unique atmosphere. Here is a quick look at your trip.

• Day 1: Old Town Square, Castle Courtyards, and the Cloak Bridge.
• Day 2: Baroque Castle Gardens walking path and the Art Centrum.
• Highlight: Sunset views from the castle terraces.

Most of the town is walkable. You should wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones. The castle is the main focal point. You can reach the gardens easily from the city center.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of the Castle

Day 1: Morning: 09:00 – 12:00. Start your journey at the Old Town Square walking route. This central hub is surrounded by colorful Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Grab a coffee at a local cafe. Observe the Town Hall and the plague column. The streets here are narrow and winding.

Day 1: Afternoon: 13:00 – 16:30. Walk across the Barber’s Bridge into the Latrán district. Follow the Latrán district walking guide to reach the castle entrance. Enter the castle through the Red Gate. Spend your afternoon following a Český Krumlov Castle courtyards guide. Each courtyard has unique murals and architectural details. Do not miss the castle bears in the moat.

Day 1: Evening: 17:00 – 19:00. Head toward the massive stone arches. The Cloak Bridge walking views are the best in the city. You can see the Vltava River winding through the town. For dinner, find a restaurant on the Vltava River embankment walk. The sound of the water makes for a relaxing evening. Logistics Tip: Book your castle tour tickets in advance at the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website.

Day 2: The Baroque Castle Gardens Walking Path

Day 2: Morning: 09:30 – 12:00. Today you will explore the Baroque Castle Gardens walking path. This area is located high above the town. Enter the gardens through the gate near the fifth courtyard. The path is wide and lined with tall trees. You will first see the grand Cascade Fountain. It features statues of water deities and nymphs. This is a great spot for photos. Use this best photo spots walking route to find the best angles.

Day 2: Afternoon: 13:30 – 16:00. Continue walking toward the rear of the gardens. You will find the unique Rotating Auditorium. This outdoor theater is famous across Europe. Nearby is the wooden Bellaria Summer Manor. It is a beautiful example of Rococo architecture. After your walk, head back down to the town. Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum for a dose of modern art. It is housed in a former brewery. This provides a nice contrast to the Baroque style of the morning.

Day 2: Evening: 17:00 – 20:00. Spend your final hours on a self-guided walking tour of Český Krumlov. This allows you to revisit any spots you missed. Optional Swap: If it rains, skip the gardens and visit the Monasteries Český Krumlov instead. They offer great indoor exhibits and workshops. Logistics Tip: The gardens are free to enter. However, they are usually closed during the winter months. Always check the seasonal schedule before you hike up the hill.

Where to Stay for Easy Garden Access

Choosing the right base makes your trip easier. The Latrán district is very close to the castle gates. It has many boutique hotels in historic buildings. You will be steps away from the start of the garden path. This area is very atmospheric at night. You can feel the history in the old stone walls.

The Old Town is another excellent choice. It is just across the river from the castle. You will have more dining options here. Most hotels are within a 10-minute walk of the castle entrance. If you prefer a quiet stay, look for guesthouses near the top of the hill. These are closer to the garden’s upper entrance. You will avoid the steep climb each morning.

Practical Tips for Your Walking Tour

The walk to the gardens involves a steady incline. The path is paved but can be slippery when wet. Wear sturdy walking shoes to stay comfortable. The gardens cover about 11 hectares of land. Give yourself at least two hours to see everything. The upper part of the garden has a large pond and a forest area.

Early morning is the best time to visit. You will avoid the large tour groups that arrive by midday. The light is also better for photography at this time. Most visitors stay near the fountain. If you walk further back, you will find quiet benches. This is a perfect spot for a picnic. Remember that the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Please respect the grounds and stay on the marked paths.