At a Glance: The Castle Courtyard Route

This itinerary focuses on the outdoor spaces of the castle complex. You can walk through all five courtyards for free. Each area offers a unique look at Bohemian history. Here is a quick summary of what to expect on your journey.

• Day 1 Morning: Enter the Red Gate and explore the First Courtyard.
• Day 1 Afternoon: Visit the Second Courtyard bears and the Third and Fourth Courtyard murals.
• Day 1 Evening: Cross the Cloak Bridge to the Fifth Courtyard and the Castle Garden.

The route is mostly uphill but very manageable for most walkers. Grouping these stops together prevents unnecessary backtracking through the town. You will start at the lower entrance and finish at the top of the hill.

Your Walking Route Through All Five Castle Courtyards

Your journey begins at the iconic Red Gate. This is the main entrance from the Latrán neighborhood. The first courtyard was once the heart of the castle's economic life. You will see the old salt house and the brewery here. This area is wide and flat, making it an easy start. It is a great place to take your first photos of the castle walls.

Day 1: Morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

Spend your morning wandering the first courtyard. Visit the Lapidarium to see ancient stone sculptures. If you need a snack, there are small shops near the gate. This area stays open late, but morning light is best for pictures. Most visitors spend about 45 minutes here before moving up. This is a key part of walking the Castle Courtyards effectively.

Logistics Tip: The ground is made of large cobblestones. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid twisting your ankle. The first courtyard also has public restrooms near the entrance.

Climbing Higher: The Second and Third Courtyards

After the first courtyard, you will cross a stone bridge. Look down into the moat to see the castle bears. The bears have lived here since the 16th century. This bridge leads you directly into the second courtyard. Here, the massive Castle Tower dominates the skyline. You can pay a small fee to climb the tower for 360-degree views.

Day 1: Afternoon (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

The second courtyard houses the New Mint and the Dairy. Many people wonder is the walk up to the castle steep during this section. It is a gradual incline, but the views make it worth the effort. Next, you will pass through a dark vaulted passage. This leads you into the third courtyard, where the Upper Castle begins.

Logistics Tip: You can buy tickets for the tower inside the second courtyard. Check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov official site for current tower prices. The third courtyard is much narrower and feels more private.

The Grand Finale: Fourth and Fifth Courtyards

The third and fourth courtyards are famous for their walls. They are covered in "trompe l'oeil" paintings from the Renaissance. These paintings look like real stone carvings and statues. Take a moment to look up at the intricate details. This area feels like an outdoor art gallery. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city.

Day 1: Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:30 PM)

Continue through the fourth courtyard toward the Cloak Bridge. This massive multi-story bridge connects the castle to the theater. Walking across it offers the best view of the Vltava River. After the bridge, you enter the fifth courtyard. This area is home to the famous Baroque Theater. You can follow a self-guided walking tour cesky krumlov to find the best viewpoints here.

Logistics Tip: The fifth courtyard leads directly to the Castle Gardens. If it starts to rain, the passage under the Cloak Bridge offers good shelter. The gardens are a perfect place to rest after your walk.

Practical Tips for Your Castle Walk

Timing is everything when visiting the castle courtyards. The courtyards are open from early morning until late evening. However, the castle gardens close at dusk. If you want to avoid crowds, arrive before 9:00 AM. Most tour groups arrive in the middle of the day. Evening walks are also very peaceful and romantic.

Optional Swaps: If you are tired, skip the climb up the tower. Instead, spend more time in the gardens. If you have kids, the bear pit is a must-see. For a low-budget trip, stick to the free courtyards and skip the museum interiors. You can still see the best architecture without spending money. This route is a highlight of any historic walk in cesky krumlov.

Safety Note: The castle walls are very high. Always stay behind the stone barriers when taking photos. Keep a close eye on children near the Cloak Bridge area.

Best Base: Where to Stay in Český Krumlov

Choosing the right place to stay makes your walk easier. The Latrán district is located right at the foot of the castle. Staying here means you are only steps away from the Red Gate. The buildings in Latrán are historic and very charming. Many hotels offer views of the castle tower from their rooms.

Alternatively, the Old Town (Vnitřní Město) is a great choice. It is located across the river from the castle. You will have a short, scenic walk to reach the start of the route. This area has the most restaurants and shops. Both neighborhoods are very walkable and safe for tourists. Look for pensions or boutique hotels for a local feel.