Exactly How Many Steps to the Top of Castle Tower?

To reach the observation gallery, you must climb exactly 162 steps. The staircase starts wide but narrows as you go higher. Most of the stairs are made of sturdy wood. This climb is manageable for most people with average fitness. You should take your time and breathe deeply during the ascent.

The tower stands 54.5 meters tall above the castle courtyard. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. The architecture dates back to the 13th century. However, its current look is mostly from the late 16th century. You will see beautiful frescoes on the exterior as you approach.

The view from the top is spectacular. You can see the Vltava River winding through the medieval streets. The red-tiled roofs of the Old Town look like a postcard. It is the best place for photos in the entire city. Make sure to hold your camera tightly at the railing.

10 Best Things to See During Your Castle Tower Climb

The castle complex offers many famous landmarks in Cesky Krumlov. You should combine your climb with other nearby sights. Here are the top ten experiences to include in your itinerary.

1. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Sight Why go: It offers the highest panoramic view of the town. Best for: Photographers and view-seekers. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: ~100-180 CZK. Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the narrow stair congestion.
2. Name: Castle Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the noble families who lived here for centuries. Best for: History buffs. Where: Hrádek (Little Castle) building. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in combo tickets. Tip: Don't miss the 19th-century cinematic curiosities.
3. Name: The Bear Moat Type: Unique Experience Why go: See the brown bears that have lived here since the 1700s. Best for: Families. Where: Between the first and second courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Tip: The bears are most active during morning feeding times.
4. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: Sight Why go: A massive three-story stone bridge with incredible arches. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Connecting the upper castle and theater. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Read more about the Cloak Bridge history and viewpoints before visiting.
5. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Gothic church with a slender spire. Best for: Spiritual and art history interest. Where: Old Town center. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Respect ongoing services and keep noise levels low.
6. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: Explore 11 hectares of manicured Baroque gardens and fountains. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: The highest part of the castle hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit the revolving auditorium located within the gardens.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: See world-class modern art in a former brewery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: ~200 CZK. Tip: Check their seasonal exhibitions for contemporary Czech artists.
8. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Activity Why go: See the Castle Tower from the water for a unique perspective. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Various rental points in the city. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Varies by boat size. Tip: Wear waterproof shoes as you might get wet at the weirs.
9. Name: Mount Kleť Type: Day Trip Why go: The highest peak in the Blanský Forest with an observation tower. Best for: Hikers. Where: 6km north of the city. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free (small fee for chairlift). Tip: Use the chairlift from Krasetín if you want to save your legs.
10. Name: Rožmberk nad Vltavou Type: Day Trip Why go: A picturesque medieval castle perched above the river. Best for: Exploring Bohemian history. Where: 20km south of Krumlov. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: ~150-250 CZK for tours. Tip: It is easily reachable by local bus or a scenic train ride.

Planning Your Castle Tower Climb and Museum Visit

Before you arrive, check the Castle Tower and museum combination ticket prices. Buying a combo ticket is usually cheaper than buying them separately. You can purchase tickets at the visitor center in the second courtyard. The tower is often open year-round, but hours change by season.

The official Český Krumlov Castle site provides the most updated schedules. During summer, the tower can get quite crowded. We recommend visiting before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM. This avoids the peak tour group hours. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the wooden stairs.

There are no elevators in the Castle Tower. If you have mobility issues, the museum is a better choice. The museum is located on the ground floors of the Hrádek building. It features many artifacts from the castle's long history. You can see rare films and liturgical items there.