Preparing for Your Castle Walk

Before you begin the Český Krumlov Castle complex route, you need to prepare. The castle grounds are extensive and involve several steep inclines. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is essential for the cobblestone paths. You should also check the weather forecast before heading out. The upper gardens may close during heavy rain or high winds.

You can find many walking routes in Český Krumlov that lead to the castle. Most visitors arrive by foot from the town center. If you are arriving by train, you can follow the walk from the train station to the center first. This helps you get oriented with the city layout. Always carry a small bottle of water for the climb.

• Checklist:
• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
• A fully charged camera or smartphone.
• Water and light snacks.
• Sunscreen or an umbrella depending on the season.
• Pre-booked tickets if you want to see the interiors.

Timing is also very important for a good experience. The castle courtyards are open daily from early morning. Arriving before 9:00 AM helps you avoid the largest tour groups. This is especially true during the peak summer months of 2026. Evening walks are also peaceful after the day-trippers leave.

Step-by-Step Český Krumlov Castle Complex Route

Following a logical path ensures you see every major highlight. This route takes you from the lower town to the high gardens. You will pass through centuries of history along the way. Each courtyard has its own unique architectural style and atmosphere.

1. Step 1: The Red Gate: Start your journey at the entrance in the Latrán district. This gate marks the official entrance to the first courtyard. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake to avoid: Missing the entrance while looking at shops.
2. Step 2: The First Courtyard: Walk past the old salt house and pharmacy buildings. This area used to house the castle's administrative staff. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake to avoid: Rushing past the historic hospital building.
3. Step 3: The Bear Moat: Cross the bridge into the second courtyard. Look down to see the brown bears that live in the moat. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake to avoid: Dropping items or food into the moat.
4. Step 4: The Second Courtyard and Tower: This area contains the main ticket office and the Castle Tower. You can climb the tower for a small fee. Time: 20 mins. Cost: Tower fee ~150 CZK. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting to buy tower tickets at the office here.
5. Step 5: The Upper Castle: Walk through the dark corridor into the third and fourth courtyards. These areas feature stunning Renaissance sgraffito wall paintings. Time: 15 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake to avoid: Touching the fragile painted walls.
6. Step 6: The Cloak Bridge: Cross this massive multi-story bridge for the best views in the city. It connects the residential palace to the theatre. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake to avoid: Blocking the narrow passage while taking photos.
7. Step 7: The Castle Garden: Continue uphill past the Baroque Theatre to reach the large formal gardens. This is the final stop on the main route. Time: 30 mins. Cost: Free. Mistake to avoid: Turning back before seeing the fountain and pond.

Decision Guide: Guided Tours vs. Walking the Grounds

Many travelers wonder if they should pay for a guided tour. The grounds and courtyards are free to explore. However, you cannot see the royal apartments without a guide. You must decide based on your interests and available time. Most tours last about 45 to 60 minutes.

If you love history and furniture, choose Tour Route I. This tour focuses on the Renaissance and Baroque periods. If you prefer 19th-century history, Tour Route II is better. For those interested in unique architecture, the Baroque Theatre is a must. You can check the Český Krumlov Castle official site for current tour times.

Decision Guide:

• If you have limited time: Walk the free courtyards and the Cloak Bridge only.
• If you love views: Pay for the Castle Tower and Museum ticket.
• If you are a history buff: Book Tour Route I at least one day in advance.
• If you are on a budget: Stick to the free gardens and the best viewpoint walking route nearby.

Navigating the Upper Castle and Cloak Bridge

The upper section of the castle is the most impressive part. As you move from the second to the third courtyard, the path climbs. You will notice the walls are covered in detailed paintings. These sgraffito designs look like real stone blocks from a distance. They represent the wealth of the Rosenberg family who once lived here.

The Cloak Bridge is a masterpiece of engineering. It stands on massive stone pillars and has several levels of covered walkways. The lowest level is for the public to cross. Higher levels were used by the lords to reach the theatre and gardens privately. This area is a key part of the self-guided old town walking tour experience.

After the bridge, you will pass the Baroque Theatre. This is one of the best-preserved theatres of its kind in the world. Access is strictly limited to small guided groups to protect the machinery. Beyond the theatre, the path opens up into the expansive Castle Garden. This area offers a quiet escape from the busy town streets below.

Troubleshooting Your Castle Visit

Even with a good plan, issues can arise during your visit. One common problem is finding the correct ticket office. The main office is located in the second courtyard, not at the Red Gate. If you arrive late in the afternoon, tours may already be sold out. Always check the Český Krumlov Official Tourism portal for holiday hours.

Accessibility can be a challenge for some visitors. The path involves many cobblestones and some steep sections. If you have mobility issues, the first two courtyards are the easiest to reach. The climb to the gardens is quite significant. You may want to take frequent breaks if you are not used to hiking.

• Common Problems:
• The Castle Garden is closed during the winter months (November to March).
• Bears may be hibernating and not visible in the moat during winter.
• Photography is usually forbidden inside the guided tour rooms.
• Large backpacks must be left in lockers at the visitor center.
• The wind on the Cloak Bridge can be very strong and cold.
• Tickets for the Baroque Theatre sell out weeks in advance in summer.
• The walk from the town is uphill and can be tiring for children.