10 Best River Paths for Walking in Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is best explored at a slow pace. The river provides a natural guide for your journey. Many visitors start with the famous Vltava River loop walk to see the main sights. This route connects several historical streets and bridges. Below are the top spots to include in your itinerary.

• Best overall: Parkán Street
• Best for families: Castle Garden
• Best for photos: Cloak Bridge
• Best free activity: Rybářská Street

1. Name: Parkán Street. Type: Historical path. Why go: This narrow lane sits right against the river walls. It offers a quiet, medieval atmosphere. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Old Town. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square toward the river. Tip: Look for the small cafes with river terraces.
2. Name: Rybářská Street. Type: Experience. Why go: Known as the "Fishermen's Street," it runs along the outer curve of the river. It provides a unique view of the castle from below. Best for: A quiet stroll away from crowds. Where: Below the castle district. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the walking route from Parkán to Rybářská street. Tip: This area is very peaceful in the early morning.
3. Name: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most). Type: Iconic sight. Why go: This massive stone bridge offers the most famous view of the town. It connects the castle courts. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Castle complex. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Český Krumlov Castle complex route upward. Tip: Visit at night when the bridge is beautifully lit.
4. Name: Castle Garden Path. Type: Nature. Why go: The gardens are vast and well-maintained. The paths lead past a revolving theater and a fountain. Best for: Nature and fresh air. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (gardens only). Getting there: Walk up through the castle courtyards. Tip: Check the official castle website for seasonal garden hours.
5. Name: Lazebnický Bridge. Type: Sight. Why go: This wooden bridge is the heart of the town. It connects the Old Town with the Latrán district. Best for: Watching rafters on the river. Where: Between Old Town and Latrán. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is the main bridge in the center. Tip: Stop here to see the castle tower rising above.
6. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Type: Museum/Indoor. Why go: The museum is housed in a former brewery by the river. It features world-class modern art. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Široká Street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: Walk two minutes from the main square. Tip: Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum website for current exhibitions.
7. Name: Latrán Street. Type: Neighborhood. Why go: This historic street is lined with colorful houses and shops. It leads directly to the castle gate. Best for: Shopping and local snacks. Where: Latrán district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross Lazebnický Bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Try a traditional Trdelník pastry while you walk.
8. Name: Horní Brána Viewpoint. Type: Viewpoint. Why go: It offers a classic view of the entire town loop. You can see how the river bends. Best for: Iconic landscape photos. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the main square toward Horní street. Tip: This is the best spot for a group photo.
9. Name: Minorite Monastery Gardens. Type: Unique experience. Why go: These gardens are a hidden gem. They offer a very calm space for reflection. Best for: Escaping the tourist rush. Where: Latrán area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (gardens). Getting there: Follow signs for the Monasteries from Latrán street. Tip: The gardens are perfect for a midday picnic.
10. Name: Rooseveltova Street. Type: Local path. Why go: This street leads you away from the center. It offers views of the town from a different angle. Best for: Seeing local life. Where: Southern edge of town. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the main square. Tip: Follow this path to find smaller, local pensions.

Planning Your Vltava River Loop Walk

The Vltava River loop walk is the most popular route for visitors. It covers about 2 to 3 kilometers in total. Most paths are paved with cobblestones. These can be slippery when wet. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The route is generally flat but has some inclines near the castle. You can easily complete the loop in two hours. This includes time for photos and short breaks. Most paths are open 24 hours a day. However, the castle courtyards close at night.

Navigation in the town is very simple. You can follow the river to find your way back. Signage is clear and often in English. Many paths are pedestrian-only zones. This makes walking safe and enjoyable. In 2026, expect more digital maps at key intersections. You can also use offline maps on your phone. If you get lost, just walk toward the castle tower. It is visible from almost everywhere in the town.

Best Times for Walking in Český Krumlov

Timing is everything for a great walking experience. The town can get very busy during the day. Day-trippers usually arrive by 10:00 AM. They often leave by 4:00 PM. Walking in the early morning is highly recommended. You will have the river paths to yourself. The mist over the Vltava is beautiful at sunrise. Evening walks are also magical. The town lights reflect in the water. Most shops stay open until 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM.

Seasonal changes affect the best river paths for walking in Český Krumlov. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and vibrant colors. Summer is the peak season for rafting. You will see many boats on the river. This adds a lively energy to your walk. Winter is quiet and can be very romantic. Snow on the red rooftops looks like a fairy tale. Always check the weather forecast before you head out. Heavy rain can make riverside paths muddy.