Essential City Walks & Historic Streets

The historic center naturally dictates the flow of foot traffic. These routes cover the ancient core where most hotels and restaurants are located. Expect crowds during midday, so early mornings are best for these specific paths. You will walk on uneven medieval stones constantly.

These first few walks connect the main squares to the riverbanks. They offer the classic architecture photographers love. Start your journey here to get oriented with the town’s layout.

1. Name: The Old Town Loop (Vnitřní Město) Type: Historic sightseeing Why go: This is the essential Český Krumlov Old Town walking route for first-timers. You will pass the Svornosti Square, the Plague Column, and the gothic Church of St. Vitus. The loop winds through narrow lanes filled with artisan shops. Best for: Architecture lovers and families. Where: Starts and ends at Svornosti Square. Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the central town square. Tip: Visit before 9:00 AM to see the square empty without tour groups.
2. Name: Latrán Street Promenade Type: Historic street walk Why go: This was the settlement for castle servants and merchants. The route connects the Budějovická Gate to the Barber’s Bridge. It is lined with painted Renaissance facades and quaint cafes. Best for: Window shopping and photography. Where: North of the Vltava River, below the castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (shopping extra). Getting there: Cross the Barber’s Bridge from Old Town. Tip: Join a Latrán Street walking tour to learn the stories behind the painted frescoes.
3. Name: The Night Watch Route Type: Atmospheric evening walk Why go: The town changes character completely after sunset. Day-trippers leave, and the alleys become quiet and mysterious. The illuminated castle towers above dark streets create a magical vibe. Best for: Couples and ghost story fans. Where: Any side street off the main square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Step out after dinner. Tip: Read our guide on Český Krumlov night walks for safe and spooky paths.

Castle Grounds & Panoramic Views

The State Castle is the second largest complex in the Czech Republic. It is not just one building, but a massive district perfect for walking. The terrain here involves significant elevation changes. You should be prepared for steep inclines and stairs.

However, the rewards are the best vistas in South Bohemia. You can access most courtyards for free without a guided tour ticket. For official details on opening hours, check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website.

• Name: Castle Courtyards to Baroque Garden Type: Uphill sightseeing walk Why go: Walk through all five castle courtyards to see the progression of architectural styles. The route ends at the expansive 17th-century park. It is a rigorous but rewarding Český Krumlov castle gardens walk. Best for: History buffs and garden enthusiasts. Where: Enter via the Red Gate at Latrán. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: Free (gardens and courtyards). Getting there: Walk uphill from the Red Gate. Tip: The gardens are closed in winter, but the courtyards remain open year-round.
• Name: The Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: Viewpoint stroll Why go: This multi-story arched bridge offers the most famous view in town. Walking across it feels like stepping into a fantasy movie. It connects the residential palace with the baroque theater. Best for: The iconic Instagram photo. Where: Between the 4th and 5th castle courtyards. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Cloak Bridge walking guide signs from the main castle. Tip: The bridge is open 24 hours, so visit at sunrise for solitude.
• Name: 5th Courtyard Viewpoint Type: Short panoramic walk Why go: Just past the bridge, the 5th courtyard offers a dedicated viewing platform. You can see the river bending almost 360 degrees around the town center. The red rooftops look spectacular from this angle. Best for: A quick sunset stop. Where: Far western end of the castle complex. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Keep walking west past the bridge. Tip: Look for the small cafe nearby for a coffee with a view.

Nature Trails & River Paths

If the stone walls feel closing in, escape to the riverbanks or nearby hills. These routes offer fresh air and green spaces. They are popular with locals dog-walking or jogging. The Český Krumlov Official Tourism usually marks these trails well.

Nature walks here are often less crowded than the castle. You get to see the town from distinct angles. Bring water, as there are fewer cafes on these periphery trails.

1. Name: Vltava River Loop Type: Flat nature walk Why go: Follow the water around the southern bend of the town. It is one of the distinct easy flat walking paths along Vltava River. You see rafters passing by and the castle towering above from below. Best for: Families with strollers or limited mobility. Where: Start near Parkán and follow the riverbank. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access via the wooden bridge near the town park. Tip: Stop at a riverside pub in the summer for a beer.
2. Name: Křížová Hora (Hill of the Cross) Type: Uphill hike Why go: This is a dedicated pilgrimage route leading to an octagonal chapel. The trail offers a stunning backdrop of the town and rolling hills. It is the top pick in our best viewpoints walking guide. Best for: Hikers and sunset chasers. Where: South of the town center (follow signs for Křížová Hora). Time: 1.5 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 20 minutes from the square to the trail start. Tip: The incline is steady; consider hiking poles if it has rained.
3. Name: Jelení (Deer) Garden Type: Park stroll Why go: Located directly under the northern castle walls. It is a cool, shaded area perfect for escaping summer heat. A stream runs through the park, adding to the tranquility. Best for: Picnics and reading. Where: North side of the castle ridge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Descend from the castle or enter from Chvalšinská road. Tip: Look for the bear moat enclosure nearby to see if the bears are out.

Challenging Hikes Near Český Krumlov

For travelers wanting a serious workout, look toward the Blanský Forest. The region offers excellent marked trails just outside the city limits. These require half a day or more. Proper hiking footwear is absolutely necessary here.

The signage is excellent, following the Czech tourist club color system. You will pass through dense forests and open meadows. This is real Bohemian countryside.

• Name: Kleť Mountain Summit Type: Mountain hike Why go: At 1,084 meters, Kleť is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest. The summit has the oldest stone lookout tower in Bohemia. On clear days, you can see the alps. Best for: Active travelers seeking a challenge. Where: Starts north of Český Krumlov. Time: 4–5 hours round trip. Cost: Free hike (Tower entry small fee). Getting there: Take a bus or start hiking Kleť Mountain from Český Krumlov outskirts. Tip: You can hike up and rent a scooter to ride down the paved road.