Overview of the Castle Grounds

The castle is the second largest in the Czech Republic. It sits on a rocky promontory above the Vltava River. The complex includes forty buildings and five main courtyards. Each area has a unique style and history. You can explore these spaces at your own pace. The State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov is very well preserved. It shows how noble families lived for hundreds of years.

Walking through the courtyards is like visiting an open-air museum. You will see incredible wall paintings and stone carvings. The layout follows the natural shape of the hill. This creates a winding path with many viewpoints. Most visitors enter from the town side near Latran. The path then leads up toward the castle gardens. This walk is suitable for most fitness levels.

Accessibility is generally good in the main areas. However, some paths have steep slopes or uneven cobblestones. If you have mobility concerns, check the accessible walking routes Cesky Krumlov guide. This will help you find the smoothest paths. Wear comfortable shoes for the best experience. The stones can be slippery when it rains.

10 Highlights of the Český Krumlov Castle courtyards walk

Use this list to navigate your Český Krumlov Castle courtyards walk. These stops are listed in order from the main entrance. You can spend as much time as you like at each one. Most people take about two hours for the full loop. This allows time for photos and rest breaks.

• Name: The Red Gate (Červená brána) Type: Entrance Why go: This is the iconic main entrance to the castle complex. Best for: Starting your tour. Where: Latran district side. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the coat of arms above the wooden doors. It marks the start of the Latran district walking highlights.
• Name: The Bear Moat (Medvědí příkop) Type: Experience Why go: Bears have lived in this moat since the 16th century. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: Between the first and second courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit in the morning when the bears are most active.
• Name: The First Courtyard (Rejdiště) Type: Sight Why go: This wide space was once used for stables and workshops. Best for: Getting your bearings. Where: Just inside the Red Gate. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit the tourist office located here for maps.
• Name: The Castle Tower (Hrádek) Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the most famous landmark in the city skyline. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Second courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee for tower climb. Tip: Check the scenic viewpoints walking route for more photo spots.
• Name: The Second Courtyard (Lower Castle) Type: Sight Why go: This courtyard features the New Burgrave’s House and ancient cannons. Best for: History buffs. Where: Past the Bear Moat. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look at the sundials on the walls of the buildings.
• Name: The Third Courtyard (Upper Castle) Type: Experience Why go: The walls are covered in amazing Renaissance Chiaroscuro paintings. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Through the steep vaulted passage. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The paintings look like 3D statues but are actually flat.
• Name: The Fourth Courtyard (Renaissance Courtyard) Type: Sight Why go: It continues the incredible fresco tradition of the third courtyard. Best for: Seeing architectural details. Where: Connected to the third courtyard. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Notice the different mythological figures painted on the walls.
• Name: The Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: Experience Why go: A massive multi-story bridge with incredible views of the town. Best for: Iconic photography. Where: Between the fourth and fifth courtyards. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Walk through the lower level for the best river views.
• Name: The Fifth Courtyard (Theater Courtyard) Type: Sight Why go: It houses the entrance to the famous Baroque Castle Theater. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Past the Cloak Bridge. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (Theater requires a ticket). Tip: Look back at the bridge for a great view of the tower.
• Name: The Castle Gardens (Zámecká zahrada) Type: Nature Why go: A large Baroque garden with a revolving auditorium and fountains. Best for: A relaxing finish to your walk. Where: At the top of the castle hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Follow the Baroque castle gardens walking guide for the best path.

Planning Your Walking Route

The castle courtyards are open daily throughout the year. Most people visit during the day. However, the courtyards stay open until late in the evening. Walking through them at night is a magical experience. The crowds disappear and the lighting is beautiful. This is a great time for quiet reflection.

You do not need to book in advance for the walk. Just show up and start exploring. If you want to see the interiors, you must buy a ticket. These tours often sell out in the summer. It is wise to book online if you want a guided tour. Otherwise, the outdoor walk is always available.

The walk involves some uphill climbing. The path from the second to the third courtyard is steep. Take your time and use the handrails if needed. There are benches in the first and fifth courtyards. These are good places to rest and enjoy the atmosphere. Bring a bottle of water, especially in the summer months.

Extending Your Walk Beyond the Courtyards

After finishing the courtyards, you can explore more of the city. The Latran district is right at the castle gates. It has many small shops and cafes. You can find traditional Czech pastries here. It is a very charming area for a stroll. Many buildings here date back to the Middle Ages.

You can also walk down to the Vltava River. There are several bridges with great views of the castle. The river is popular for rafting and canoeing. You can watch the boats go over the wooden weirs. This adds a lively energy to the historic setting. It is a great place for a casual lunch.

If you have more energy, try a longer route. You can walk around the entire old town loop. This takes you through the main square and back to the river. The city is small enough to see on foot. Every corner offers a new and beautiful perspective. Your Český Krumlov Castle courtyards walk is just the beginning.