Top Stops on Your Vltava River Embankment Walk

The riverside paths in Český Krumlov offer a unique perspective of the UNESCO World Heritage site. You can start your journey in the historic center. Most paths are paved but expect some uneven cobblestones. Here are the top specific locations to include on your itinerary.

• Best overall: Barber's Bridge
• Best for families: Městský Park
• Best for photos: The Cloak Bridge view
• Best free activity: Rybářská Street stroll

1. Name: Barber's Bridge (Lazebnický most) Type: sight Why go: This is the most famous bridge in town. It connects the Old Town with the Latrán district. You get amazing views of the castle tower from here. Best for: Everyone Where: Between Latrán and the Old Town Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk down Latrán street toward the river. Tip: Look for the statues of St. John of Nepomuk and Jesus.
2. Name: Parkán Street Embankment Type: experience Why go: This street runs right along the inner curve of the river. It features medieval walls and many terrace cafes. It is perfect for a coffee with a view. Best for: Relaxing Where: Eastern side of the Old Town Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to walk; price of a drink Getting there: Follow the narrow lanes from the Old Town Square. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the water.
3. Name: The Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Base Type: sight Why go: Most people walk over this bridge. However, seeing it from the embankment below is more impressive. You can see the massive stone arches towering above you. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Below the castle complex Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk along the river toward the western edge of town. Tip: Check our guide on Cloak Bridge views for the best angles.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: This gallery is housed in a former 16th-century brewery. It sits right by the river. It features works by the famous Austrian painter Egon Schiele. Best for: Art lovers Where: Široká street Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Approximately 200 CZK Getting there: A short walk from the main square toward the river. Tip: Visit the official site for current exhibition details.
5. Name: Městský Park (City Park) Type: nature Why go: This is the largest green space near the center. It has wide paths and direct access to the riverbank. It is much quieter than the busy castle area. Best for: Families Where: Southern loop of the river Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk south from the Jesuit College. Tip: This is a great spot for a picnic in the summer.
6. Name: Rybářská Street Type: neighborhood Why go: This street name means "Fisherman's Street." It is lined with traditional small houses. It offers a very peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. Best for: Quiet strolls Where: Below the castle rocks Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the path under the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Use our photo spots guide to find the best angles here.
7. Name: Rechle Wooden Bridge Type: sight Why go: This is a unique covered wooden bridge. It was originally used to catch floating logs. It is a rare piece of functional history. Best for: History buffs Where: Nové Spolí district Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: A 15-minute walk south from the city park. Tip: This bridge is very photogenic and often empty.
8. Name: Castle Tower Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: While not on the water, the tower provides the best view of the river loop. You can see the entire Vltava river embankment walk from above. Best for: Panoramic views Where: Inside the Castle complex Time: 30 minutes Cost: Approximately 180 CZK Getting there: Enter the first castle courtyard from Latrán. Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid long queues in summer.
9. Name: Horní Brána Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: This spot offers a classic postcard view of the town. You can see the river winding around the church and castle. Best for: Photographers Where: Near the Regional Museum Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk up the hill from the main square toward the bus station. Tip: This is the start of many self-guided tours.
10. Name: Rooseveltova Street Descent Type: experience Why go: This steep street leads you from the upper town down to the river. It offers glimpses of the water between old houses. Best for: Adventurous walkers Where: Eastern side of town Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk toward the river from the Horní gate. Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as the slope is significant.

Planning Your Vltava River Walk Route

Walking along the Vltava is generally easy. Most of the paths are well-maintained for tourists. However, you should prepare for some physical activity. The town has many hills and steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes with thick soles.

The best time for a walk is early morning. You will avoid the large tour groups. The mist on the river looks beautiful at dawn. Evening is also a great choice for a romantic atmosphere. Many buildings are lit up after dark.

Check the weather before you head out. Rainy days can make the cobblestones slippery. If you have mobility concerns, look for accessible routes. Some areas near the park are flatter than the castle district. Always carry a small bottle of water.

In the summer, the river is full of rafts. This adds a lively energy to your walk. You can watch people navigate the weirs from the bridges. In winter, the paths are cleared but can be icy. The town looks magical under a layer of snow.

Nearby Riverside Extensions and Day Trips

If you have more time, explore beyond the city center. The Vltava river continues through beautiful forests. You can find several historic sites just a short drive away. These locations offer a deeper look at Bohemian culture. Many are accessible by local bus or train.

Zlatá Koruna is a famous Cistercian monastery nearby. It sits in a quiet meadow by the river. It is only 10 kilometers from Český Krumlov. The architecture is a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles. It is a very peaceful place for a half-day trip.

Rožmberk nad Vltavou is another great option. This small town features a stunning castle on a high rock. The river flows right through the middle of the village. It is a popular spot for hikers and paddlers. You can reach it in about 25 minutes by car.

Finally, consider visiting Vyšší Brod. This town is home to a magnificent monastery and library. It is located near the Lipno Dam. The river here is narrower and very scenic. It is the perfect end to a Vltava-themed adventure.