Planning Your Walk in Český Krumlov

Before you start, you need a solid plan. The historic center is a pedestrian zone, but the ground is uneven. Most streets are paved with original cobblestones. Choose comfortable, flat shoes over high heels or flip-flops. You will thank us later.

The route below works best as a one-way loop. You can start at the Castle Gardens and walk down toward the river. This saves your legs from frequent uphill climbs. Allow at least three to four hours for a relaxed pace. If you love photography, add an extra hour.

Timing matters in this popular town. Start your walk before 9:00 AM or after 4:00 PM to avoid large tour groups. The evening atmosphere is magical once the day-trippers leave. This route covers approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 miles). It is suitable for most fitness levels.

The Complete 11-Stop Walking Route

This itinerary takes you from the castle heights down to the riverside. It covers iconic landmarks and hidden corners. Follow these stops for the most logical flow. This path maximizes views and minimizes backtracking.

1. Name: Castle Baroque Gardens Type: Sight/Nature Why go: It offers peace away from the crowds. The manicured hedges and Rococo fountain are stunning. Best for: Nature lovers and quiet starts. Where: Top of the Castle complex. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the riding school or parking P1. Tip: Visit the revolving auditorium in the back of the garden.
2. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: Viewpoint/Architecture Why go: This massive arched bridge is an engineering marvel. It connects the upper castle courtyards. Best for: Dramatic photos of the town below. Where: Between the 4th and 5th castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the gardens toward the castle. Tip: Look through the peepholes in the walls for framed shots.
3. Name: Castle Courtyards & Tower Type: Sight/Iconic Landmark Why go: The Renaissance frescoes on the walls are incredible. The tower offers the highest view in town. See the official castle site for tower ticket prices. Best for: History buffs and bucket lists. Where: Main Castle Complex. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Courtyards free; Tower entry fee applies. Getting there: Continue downhill from the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Check the bear moat near the entrance to see if the bears are awake.
4. Name: Latrán Street Type: Neighborhood/Shopping Why go: This was the settlement for castle servants. It is full of painted houses and artisan shops. Best for: Souvenir shopping and admiring facades. Where: Below the castle, leading to the river. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Exit the Red Gate of the castle. Tip: Look for classic gingerbread shops here.
5. Name: Minorite Monastery Gardens Type: Experience/Relaxation Why go: A revitalized cultural space with herb gardens and workshops. It is often quieter than the main streets. Best for: Families and culture seekers. Where: Latrán 50. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Garden entry is usually free; exhibitions vary. Getting there: A short turn off the main Latrán street. Tip: Check their schedule for craft workshops.
6. Name: Barber’s Bridge (Lazebnický Most) Type: Sight/Photo Op Why go: It connects the castle area with the Old Town. The wooden statues and river views are romantic. Best for: Selfies with the castle in the background. Where: Crossing the Vltava River. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow Latrán street to the water. Tip: This is a key bridge for photographers at sunset.
7. Name: Svornosti Square Type: Cultural Hub Why go: This is the medieval heart of the city. Use our guide to the Plague Column to understand its center monument. Best for: People watching and grabbing a coffee. Where: Center of the Inner City. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk straight up from the bridge. Tip: Visit the Tourist Information center here for free maps.
8. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight/Religious Site Why go: Its tall Gothic roof rivals the castle tower. The interior features valuable frescoes. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Kostelní street, near the square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A short walk south from the square. Tip: Respect mass times on Sunday mornings.
9. Name: Seminary Garden Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the most famous photo spot in town. You see the castle rise above the river bend. Best for: The classic postcard shot. Where: Horní Street, opposite the Hotel Růže. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow directions to Horní Street from the square. Tip: Go at golden hour for warm light on the castle tower.
10. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum/Gallery Why go: It celebrates the controversial artist who lived here. The building itself involves a historic brewery. Best for: Art lovers and rainy days. Where: Široká 71. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry (approx. 200-250 CZK). Getting there: Walk west from the square. Tip: The museum shop has excellent artistic postcards.
11. Name: Eggenberg Brewery Gardens Type: Food/Drink Why go: End your walk with local flavor. The brewery has a large garden perfect for resting tired feet. Best for: Beer tasting and hearty Czech food. Where: Pivovarská street. Time: 1 hour+. Cost: Moderate meal prices. Getting there: Walk north along the river loop. Tip: Try the dark lager; it is a local specialty.

3 Short Detours & Day Trips Nearby

If you have extra time, step outside the immediate center. The region offers great nature and history just minutes away. These additions can turn a half-day walk into a full-day adventure.

• Graphite Mine: Located just a short walk from the center. You can take a small train underground. It gives a glimpse into the region's mining past. Great for kids.
• Křížová Hora (Cross Hill): A hiking destination visible from town. The climb takes about 45 minutes from the center. You get a panoramic view of the entire valley.
• Vltava River Rafting: Not a walk, but essential. Rent a raft or canoe for an hour. Viewing the castle from the water changes your perspective completely.