Essential Sights Inside the Castle Complex

The State Castle is the crown jewel of the city. It is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. You could easily spend an entire day just exploring its courtyards, towers, and hidden corridors. Tickets are sold separately for different parts, so plan ahead.

1. Name: Český Krumlov Castle (Tower & Museum)
   Type: Iconic Sight
   Why go: It dominates the skyline and offers the best history lesson. The tower provides a 360-degree view of the orange rooftops below. The museum explains the noble Rožmberk and Schwarzenberg families.
   Best for: First-time visitors and photographers.
   Where: Zámek 59 (Castle Hill).
   Time: 1–2 hours.
   Cost: Approx. 180 CZK (Tower only).
   Getting there: Walk up from Latrán street through the Red Gate.
   Tip: Visit the tower immediately when it opens to avoid the narrow staircase queues. Learn more about visiting Český Krumlov castle interiors.
2. Name: Baroque Theatre
   Type: Historical Experience
   Why go: It is one of the best-preserved baroque theatres in the world. The original stage machinery, costumes, and props are still intact. Tours are strictly guided and limited to small groups to protect the site.
   Best for: History buffs and theater lovers.
   Where: 5th Courtyard of the Castle.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Approx. 280 CZK.
   Getting there: Cross the Cloak Bridge from the main castle.
   Tip: Book your Český Krumlov Baroque Theatre tour weeks in advance; they sell out fast.
3. Name: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most)
   Type: Viewpoint
   Why go: This massive arched bridge connects the upper castle courtyards. It is an architectural marvel that spans a deep moat. The views of the river and Old Town from here are unmatched.
   Best for: Sunset views and free sightseeing.
   Where: Between the 4th and 5th Courtyards.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Accessible freely from the castle courtyards.
   Tip: Read about the Cloak Bridge viewpoints and history to appreciate its unique multi-story construction.
4. Name: Castle Gardens & Revolving Auditorium
   Type: Nature / Performance
   Why go: The baroque gardens offer a peaceful escape from the crowded streets. At the far end, you will find a unique open-air theatre with a rotating audience stand. Watching a play here on a summer night is magical.
   Best for: Relaxing strolls and summer culture.
   Where: Uphill from the castle buildings.
   Time: 1 hour (gardens) or 3 hours (play).
   Cost: Free (gardens), Varies (plays).
   Getting there: Continue uphill past the Riding Hall.
   Tip: Check the schedule for the Castle Gardens and Revolving Auditorium plays early in the season.

Cultural Gems in the Old Town & Latrán

Once you descend from the castle, the town itself invites you to get lost. The Historic Center matches the grandeur of the complex above. A UNESCO World Heritage designation protects the entire area, ensuring the medieval charm remains untouched.

5. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
   Type: Art Gallery
   Why go: Egon Schiele, a controversial and brilliant expressionist painter, lived here briefly. This gallery houses his works and contemporary exhibitions in a renovated renaissance brewery. It is a bold contrast to the town's classic history.
   Best for: Art enthusiasts and rainy days.
   Where: Široká 71.
   Time: 1.5–2 hours.
   Cost: Approx. 200–250 CZK.
   Getting there: Located near the river in the Old Town.
   Tip: See our Egon Schiele Art Centrum guide to understand his connection to the town.
6. Name: Museum Fotoatelier Seidel
   Type: Unique Museum
   Why go: This is a perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio. You can see vintage cameras, glass negatives, and the original darkroom. It tells the story of the Seidel family and the local border region history.
   Best for: Photographers and nostalgia lovers.
   Where: Linecká 272 (Plešivec area).
   Time: 50 minutes.
   Cost: Approx. 180 CZK.
   Getting there: A short 10-minute walk south from the main square.
   Tip: Combine your Museum Fotoatelier Seidel visit with a professional retro photo shoot souvenir.
7. Name: Latrán District
   Type: Neighborhood
   Why go: Latrán lies beneath the castle and was historically home to castle servants. It feels slightly less polished and more authentic than the main square. The medieval architecture here is stunning, with painted facades and narrow allies.
   Best for: Walking, souvenirs, and cafes.
   Where: The area north of the Vltava River.
   Time: 1 hour wandering.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Cross the Barber’s Bridge from Old Town.
   Tip: Look for the old Budejovicka Gate, the only remaining city gate.
8. Name: Svornosti Square (Main Square)
   Type: Sight / Market
   Why go: The heart of the Old Town is surrounded by colorful Renaissance and Baroque houses. The Plague Column stands in the center. It marks the perfect spot to grab a coffee and people-watch.
   Best for: Local vibes and Christmas markets.
   Where: Náměstí Svornosti.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Central point of the inner city peninsula.
   Tip: Visit the Info Center here for free maps and local event schedules.

Outdoor Activities & Nearby Adventures

Český Krumlov sits nestled in a double bend of the Vltava River. The surrounding landscape creates excellent opportunities for active travelers. You can easily escape the crowds by hitting the water or the nearby trails.

9. Name: Rafting on the Vltava River
   Type: Active Fun
   Why go: Seeing the castle tower from a raft offers a completely different perspective. The river flow is gentle, and there are exciting weirs (sluices) to slide down. It is fun for beginners and families alike.
   Best for: Groups and summer cooling.
   Where: Start points vary upstream; end in town.
   Time: 1–4 hours depending on route.
   Cost: Approx. 400–800 CZK per boat.
   Getting there: Many rentals operate along the riverbank.
   Tip: Learn about safety on weirs in our guide to rafting the Vltava River in Český Krumlov.
10. Name: Graphite Mine Tour
    Type: Industrial History
    Why go: Go underground to experience the region's mining heritage. You ride a small mine train into the tunnels and wear traditional overalls. It is an adventurous break from standard sightseeing.
    Best for: Families with kids.
    Where: Chvalšinská road (outskirts).
    Time: 70 minutes.
    Cost: Approx. 300 CZK.
    Getting there: 15-minute walk from the castle gardens.
    Tip: It gets cold underground; bring a sweater. Read more about the Graphite Mine Český Krumlov excursion.
11. Name: Monasteries Český Krumlov
    Type: Culture / Workshop
    Why go: This revitalized complex of Minorite and Clare monasteries offers interactive exhibits. You can try historical crafts like glass-making, ironworking, or shoemaking. The gardens are also free and tranquil.
    Best for: Families and craft lovers.
    Where: Klášterní dvůr, Latrán.
    Time: 1–2 hours.
    Cost: Varies by workshop/exhibit.
    Getting there: Located in the Latrán district near the river.
    Tip: Check the official Monasteries Český Krumlov site for workshop schedules.
12. Name: Mount Kleť Hike
    Type: Day Trip / Nature
    Why go: Escape the city entirely by hiking the highest peak solely in the Blanský Forest. At the top, there is an old stone lookout tower and a restaurant. You can hike up and rent a scooter to ride back down.
    Best for: Hikers and panoramic views.
    Where: 8 km north of town.
    Time: Half-day (3–4 hours).
    Cost: Free (hike), Scooter rental varies.
    Getting there: Public bus to Holubov or hike directly.
    Tip: Consider hiking Mount Kleť from Český Krumlov early in the morning for the clearest air.

When to Visit & Practical Traveling Tips

Timing your trip makes a huge difference in your experience. Summer brings warm weather and festivals, but also large crowds. The shoulder seasons of May and September often offer the best balance. Winter has its own charm, especially during the Christmas markets, though some castle interiors close for the season.

For current events and official updates, the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website is your best resource. Nearly everything in the historic center is walkable, so comfortable shoes are mandatory. Cobblestones can be tough on suitcases, so consider backpacking or booking a taxi to your hotel door.