Planning Your Visit to Český Krumlov State Castle

Visiting Český Krumlov State Castle requires some advance planning. The complex is the second largest in the country. It is very popular with day-trippers from Prague. You should check the official castle website for current seasonal hours. Some parts of the castle close during the winter months. Always book your guided tours in advance. This is especially true for the rare Baroque Theater. Tickets often sell out weeks ahead of time.

Most people spend at least half a day here. The castle grounds are free to enter. However, the museums and interiors require paid tickets. You can buy individual tickets for different sections. This allows you to customize your visit based on your interests. The castle is part of the many historical places in Cesky Krumlov you must see. Wear sturdy walking shoes as the paths are cobblestone and steep.

10 Must-See Spots When Visiting Český Krumlov State Castle

There are many things to see within the castle walls. We have selected the ten best spots for your itinerary. These range from high viewpoints to deep underground cellars. Each spot offers a unique look at the lives of former noble families. Make sure to keep your camera ready for the stunning views.

1. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the most iconic symbol of the city. The views from the top are unmatched. Best for: Photographers and first-time visitors. Where: Second Courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Small entrance fee. Getting there: Walk through the main castle gate from Latran. Tip: Read more about climbing the castle tower before you go.
2. Name: Baroque Castle Theater Type: Experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved theaters of its kind in the world. The original machinery still works. Best for: History buffs and arts lovers. Where: Fifth Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: Moderate; requires a specific tour ticket. Getting there: Follow the path across the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Learn about the Baroque theater history to appreciate the mechanics.
3. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: Sight Why go: This multi-story bridge offers a unique architectural look. It connects the residential areas to the theater and gardens. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Between the Fourth and Fifth Courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Getting there: Accessible from the upper castle courtyards. Tip: Check the Cloak Bridge views at sunset for the best light.
4. Name: Castle Museum Type: Museum Why go: It houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Schwarzenberg and Rosenberg families. You can see how the nobility lived. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Second Courtyard (Little Castle). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Located near the tower entrance. Tip: The museum is open year-round, unlike the main palace tours.
5. Name: The Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: These sprawling gardens feature a revolving auditorium and a beautiful fountain. It is a peaceful escape from the crowds. Best for: Families and relaxation. Where: Beyond the Fifth Courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry (seasonal). Getting there: Walk uphill past the theater. Tip: Use a castle gardens guide to find the hidden hedge maze.
6. Name: The Bear Moat Type: Experience Why go: Bears have been kept in the castle moat since the 16th century. It is a long-standing local tradition. Best for: Animal lovers. Where: Between the First and Second Courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: You will pass over the moat at the main entrance. Tip: Be respectful and do not throw food to the bears.
7. Name: Renaissance Interiors (Tour I) Type: Sight Why go: See the Golden Carriage and the stunning Rosenberg rooms. These tours show the peak of the castle's wealth. Best for: Interior design enthusiasts. Where: Third Courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid guided tour. Getting there: Meet at the tour assembly point in the Third Courtyard. Tip: This is the most popular tour, so book early.
8. Name: Baroque Interiors (Tour II) Type: Sight Why go: Focuses on the life of the Schwarzenberg family in the 18th and 19th centuries. It includes the castle chapel. Best for: History lovers. Where: Third Courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid guided tour. Getting there: Follow signs for Tour Route II. Tip: This tour is often less crowded than Tour I.
9. Name: Wenceslaus Cellars Type: Museum Why go: These deep, vaulted cellars now house contemporary art exhibitions. The atmosphere is cool and mysterious. Best for: Art fans. Where: Fourth Courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Stairs lead down from the courtyard level. Tip: It can be very chilly underground, even in summer.
10. Name: The Castle Stables Type: Experience Why go: See historical carriages and sleighs used by the nobility. It shows how people traveled in the past. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Fifth Courtyard area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Located near the entrance to the gardens. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the gardens to save time.

Practical Tips for Your Castle Experience

When visiting Český Krumlov State Castle, timing is everything. The busiest hours are between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Try to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This helps you avoid the largest tour groups. Many people visit as a day trip from Prague. If you stay overnight, you can enjoy the castle in the quiet evening hours. The Visit Czechia portal offers more travel inspiration for the region.

Photography is often restricted inside the guided tour rooms. Always look for signs or ask your guide before taking photos. You are free to take photos in the courtyards and gardens. Keep in mind that the castle is a historical site. Some areas may have low doorways or uneven floors. If you have mobility issues, check which sections are accessible. Most of the outdoor areas are reachable with some effort.

Exploring Beyond the Castle Walls

After you finish visiting Český Krumlov State Castle, explore the town. The Latran district is right below the castle. It is full of charming shops and local cafes. You can walk from the castle directly into this historic neighborhood. It is the perfect place to grab a traditional Czech meal. Try the local gingerbread or a hearty goulash.

Don't miss the Church of St. Vitus across the river. Its slender spire is a major part of the city skyline. You can also take a walk along the Vltava river. Many visitors enjoy rafting or canoeing around the town loop. This gives you a completely different view of the castle walls. The city is small enough to explore entirely on foot.