A Quick Vltava River Bridges Walking Map Overview

Walking the bridges is the best way to orient yourself. The town is divided into the Old Town and the Latrán district. Most visitors start at the main square and loop outward. You can complete this entire walk in about two hours. However, you should allow more time for photos and coffee stops.

Before you start, here are some quick picks for your journey:

• Best Overall: Lazebnický most (Barber's Bridge)
• Best for Families: Rechle Covered Bridge
• Best Viewpoint: Plášťový most (Cloak Bridge)
• Best Free Activity: Walking the riverside paths

If you have limited time, try an express 2-hour walking itinerary. This route covers the most famous river crossings quickly. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are mostly cobblestone. The river current is often busy with rafters in the summer months. Watching them navigate the weirs is a local highlight.

10 Essential Stops on Your Vltava River Bridges Walking Map

This list follows a logical loop through the city. It connects the historic core with the outer scenic districts. Use these stops to build your own custom walking route. Most of these locations are accessible 24 hours a day.

1. Name: Lazebnický most (Barber's Bridge) Type: Sight Why go: It is the main link between the Old Town and the Castle. Best for: Iconic views and central access. Where: Latrán/Old Town border. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the statues of St. John of Nepomuk and Jesus.
2. Name: Plášťový most (Cloak Bridge) Type: Experience Why go: This massive multi-story stone bridge is a masterpiece. Best for: Panoramic views of the entire town. Where: Castle complex. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best light on the orange roofs.
3. Name: Rechle Covered Bridge Type: Sight Why go: A rare, long wooden bridge with a roof. Best for: Unique architecture and quiet photos. Where: Southern edge of the town loop. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is a great spot to hide from a sudden rain shower.
4. Name: Dr. Edvard Beneš Bridge Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a wide perspective of the river bend. Best for: Seeing the castle and church tower together. Where: Near the main bus entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is the best place to start a scenic viewpoints walking route.
5. Name: Myší díra Footbridge Type: Experience Why go: This bridge sits right above a popular river weir. Best for: Watching rafters splash through the water. Where: Near the "Mouse Hole" shortcut. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Grab a drink at a nearby riverside bar while you watch.
6. Name: Horní Street Bridge Type: Sight Why go: It crosses high above the old city moat area. Best for: Seeing the dramatic elevation changes of the town. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check the viewpoint next to the museum for a classic photo.
7. Name: Latrán Castle Entrance Bridge Type: Sight Why go: The wooden bridge leads directly into the Red Gate. Best for: Feeling like you are entering a medieval fortress. Where: Castle entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look down into the moat to see the resident bears.
8. Name: Rybářská Street Bridge Type: Experience Why go: A small bridge in the old fisherman's quarter. Best for: A romantic and quiet atmosphere. Where: Rybářská street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This area is perfect for a night walking tour.
9. Name: Pod Svatým Duchem Bridge Type: Sight Why go: It connects the park area to the historic center. Best for: A peaceful walk away from the main crowds. Where: Near the city park. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit the nearby Egon Schiele Art Centrum after crossing.
10. Name: Polečnice Confluence Bridge Type: Nature Why go: See where the Polečnice stream meets the Vltava. Best for: Nature lovers and bird watching. Where: Northern end of Latrán. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Follow the path north to find quieter local gardens.

Planning Your Walking Route in Český Krumlov

The town center is small but can be confusing. The river loops back on itself several times. Always keep the castle tower in sight to stay oriented. Most bridges are within a 5-minute walk of each other. If you need a map, you can find a free walking tour map download online.

Accessibility is generally good on the main bridges. However, some smaller paths have steep stairs or narrow walkways. The Cloak Bridge has a flat, wide surface suitable for most. For more details, see our guide on accessible walking routes. The cobblestones can be slippery when wet, so take care.

You can easily combine this walk with a castle tour. The State Castle and Chateau is the focal point. Many bridges lead directly into different castle courtyards. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring both the river and the palace. This ensures you see the most important historical sites.

Best Times for a River Walk in 2026

Timing is everything for the perfect river walk. Early morning is the most peaceful time to visit. You will see the mist rising off the Vltava water. By 10:00 AM, the day-trip crowds usually arrive from Prague. If you prefer quiet, wait until after 6:00 PM for your walk.

Photography is best during the "Golden Hour" before sunset. The low sun lights up the castle walls beautifully. In 2026, expect summer months to be very busy. Spring and autumn offer cooler weather and vibrant colors. Winter is also magical, especially when snow covers the wooden bridges.

Check the Official Tourism portal for local events. Festivals often take place near the river banks. These can block some paths but offer great entertainment. Always carry a small amount of Czech Koruna for riverside snacks. Most vendors prefer local currency over cards for small purchases.