Quick Picks for Exploring the Inner City

Before you start your journey, consider these top recommendations. These picks help you prioritize your time in the town. Every alley offers something unique for different types of travelers. You can easily see most of these in a single afternoon.

• Best Overall: Masná Street for its medieval atmosphere.
• Best for Families: Parkán River Walk for open space and views.
• Best Rainy-Day: Široká Street for its indoor galleries.
• Best Free Activity: Viewing the St. Vitus Church from Kostelní.

Using a self-guided walking tour is a great way to see these. You can set your own pace through the cobblestones. Most alleys are within a five-minute walk from the main square.

10 Must-Visit Hidden Alleys of Inner City Český Krumlov

The following list highlights the most atmospheric passages in the historic center. Each location offers a glimpse into the past. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the uneven ground. Many of these streets are pedestrian-only zones.

1. Name: Masná Street Type: Historic Alley Why go: This is one of the most narrow and preserved streets. It was once the home of local butchers. Best for: Medieval architecture fans. Where: Just off the main Svornosti Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the Town Hall. Tip: Look up to see the original stone masonry.
2. Name: Radniční Street Type: Scenic Passage Why go: It connects the main square to the Barber's Bridge. The street features beautiful Renaissance facades. Best for: Photography and souvenir shopping. Where: Linking Svornosti Square to the river. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path toward the castle. Tip: Visit early in the morning for empty streets.
3. Name: Parkán River Walk Type: Riverfront Path Why go: This path runs along the old city walls. It offers stunning views of the Vltava River. Best for: A relaxing evening stroll. Where: The eastern edge of the Inner City. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter via the small passage near the church. Tip: This is a great spot to see the Vltava riverfront walking path in action.
4. Name: Kostelní Street Type: Church Lane Why go: It leads directly to the impressive St. Vitus Church. The alley is quiet and very narrow. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Behind the main square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the square toward the steeple. Tip: Check the church opening hours before you visit.
5. Name: Široká Street Type: Cultural Hub Why go: This is the widest street in the Inner City. It hosts the famous Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Best for: Art lovers and museum goers. Where: Western part of the Inner City. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to walk; museum fee applies. Getting there: Walk west from the main square. Tip: The gallery gift shop has unique local prints.
6. Name: Dlouhá Street Type: Residential Alley Why go: It showcases the daily life of locals. The houses are painted in traditional pastel colors. Best for: Seeing local life. Where: Parallel to the river. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from Široká Street. Tip: Keep your voice low as people live here.
7. Name: Horní Street Type: Viewpoint Street Why go: It offers one of the best views of the castle. The street is lined with historic buildings like the Prelature. Best for: Iconic photos of the town. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk east from the square toward the museum. Tip: Stop at the viewpoint terrace near the museum entrance.
8. Name: Hradební Street Type: Wall Alley Why go: This street follows the line of the former city fortifications. It is very atmospheric at night. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the southern bend of the river. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the main square. Tip: Look for the remnants of the old town gates.
9. Name: Soukenická Street Type: Artisan Lane Why go: Named after the drapers who lived here. It has several small craft shops. Best for: Finding handmade gifts. Where: Near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Connects Široká and Kájovská streets. Tip: Many shops here only take cash.
10. Name: Kájovská Street Type: Entrance Gateway Why go: This was once the main entrance to the city. It features heavy stone arches and old taverns. Best for: Traditional Czech food. Where: Southern entrance to the Inner City. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the bridge from the southern parking lots. Tip: Try the local gingerbread in the nearby bakery.

Planning Your Walk Through the Hidden Alleys

To enjoy the hidden alleys of Inner City, timing is everything. Day trippers usually arrive around 10 AM. By 4 PM, the streets become much quieter. We recommend staying overnight to experience the town after dark. You can learn more about night walking tours for a different perspective.

The terrain is a major factor for your trip. Most streets are covered in original cobblestones. These can be slippery when wet. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. For those with mobility issues, check the accessibility for walking guide before you go.

Photography is a highlight of any visit to Český Krumlov. The light in the narrow alleys changes quickly. Mid-morning offers soft light that hits the colored facades. Always be respectful of private homes while taking photos. Many residents take great pride in their window displays.

Exploring Beyond the Inner City Alleys

Once you finish the Inner City, cross the river. The Latrán district offers even more historical routes. You can follow the Latrán district historical route toward the castle. This area has a more industrial, medieval feel. It was once the home of the castle's servants.

The Visit Czechia website suggests visiting the castle gardens. These are located just a short walk from the center. The gardens provide a green escape from the stone streets. You will find a rotating theater and a large pond there.

For a complete experience, consider a historic walk in Český Krumlov that covers both sides. The town is small enough to explore on foot. You do not need public transport within the center. Everything is reachable within a fifteen-minute walk.