Understanding the Castle Layout

The castle is the second largest in the Czech Republic. It sits high on a rock above the Vltava River. The layout follows a linear path through five main courtyards. Each section represents a different era of construction. You will see Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov manages the site. Most people enter through the Red Gate. This leads directly into the expansive first courtyard. You do not need a ticket to walk through the main courtyards. However, the museum and tower require a separate fee. It is best to follow a structured walking through the five castle courtyards route. This ensures you do not miss the hidden details in the stone walls.

Exploring the Český Krumlov Castle Courtyards Guide

This list covers the essential stops within the castle grounds. Use this guide to plan your walking route effectively. Each item offers a unique glimpse into the past.

1. Name: The First Courtyard (Rejdiště) Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This was the administrative heart of the castle. It features the former pharmacy, stables, and salt house. Best for: History buffs and early arrivals. Where: Just past the Red Gate. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter via Latrán street. Tip: Look for the old blacksmith shop near the entrance.
2. Name: The Bear Moat Type: Iconic sight Why go: Bears have lived in this moat since the 16th century. It is a long-standing tradition of the Rosenberg family. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: Between the first and second courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the stone bridge over the bear moat at Český Krumlov Castle entrance. Tip: Visit in the morning when the bears are most active.
3. Name: The Second Courtyard (Lower Castle) Type: Iconic sight Why go: This area houses the Little Castle and the Mint. It feels like a fortified medieval square. Best for: Architecture photography. Where: Up the ramp from the bear moat. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the main incline from the first courtyard. Tip: This is the best place to buy tickets for the tower.
4. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the symbol of the city. The tower offers 360-degree views of the Old Town and the river. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Attached to the Second Courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Paid (usually around 150 CZK). Getting there: Climb the 162 steps from the ticket office. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so go slowly during peak hours.
5. Name: The Third Courtyard (Upper Castle) Type: Experience Why go: The walls are covered in stunning Renaissance murals. These paintings use the trompe l'oeil technique to look like 3D stone. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Through the dark passage from the second courtyard. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main path deeper into the complex. Tip: Look up to see the intricate details of the painted windows.
6. Name: The Fourth Courtyard Type: Experience Why go: Similar to the third courtyard, it features incredible wall paintings. It shows the wealth of the Schwarzenberg family. Best for: Avoiding the biggest crowds. Where: Directly connected to the third courtyard. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue walking toward the bridge. Tip: The acoustics here are excellent for hearing the local street musicians.
7. Name: The Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This multi-story bridge is an engineering marvel. It connects the castle to the theater and gardens. Best for: Sunset photos. Where: Between the fourth and fifth courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the cloak bridge walking views path. Tip: Stop at the arched windows for the most famous view of the town.
8. Name: The Fifth Courtyard Type: Experience Why go: This area provides access to the Baroque Theater. It offers a quieter atmosphere than the lower sections. Best for: A peaceful break. Where: Past the Cloak Bridge. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the high bridge. Tip: This is a great spot to see the castle's ironwork gates.
9. Name: The Baroque Castle Theater Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world. The original machinery and scenery still exist. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Adjacent to the fifth courtyard. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: Paid (booking in advance recommended). Getting there: Follow signs from the fifth courtyard. Tip: Tours are limited, so book weeks in advance for 2026.
10. Name: The Castle Garden Type: Nature/Park Why go: This massive Rococo garden features a revolving auditorium and a fountain. It is perfect for a long walk. Best for: Nature lovers and families. Where: At the very top of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (garden access). Getting there: Follow the Baroque castle gardens walking path. Tip: The garden is closed during the winter months.

Planning Your Visit to the Castle

Visiting the castle requires some physical effort. The path is mostly uphill and paved with uneven cobblestones. Wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the experience. Most visitors spend about three to four hours exploring the grounds. If you want to see everything, arrive early in the morning. This helps you beat the tour groups that arrive by midday. You can also check are the castle courtyards free to enter for updated seasonal hours. Photography is allowed in the courtyards but restricted inside the palace. Bring a spare battery for your camera. The views from the bridge are addictive. Finally, remember that the castle is a quiet zone in the evenings. It offers a very different, magical atmosphere after dark.