Planning Your Day Trip to Hluboká Castle

Taking a day trip to Hluboká Castle is one of the best day trips from Cesky Krumlov. You should plan for a full day to see everything. The castle is famous for its bright white walls and ornate towers. It was rebuilt in the 19th century to look like Windsor Castle in England. This style is called Gothic Revival and it is very impressive.

At a glance:

• 09:00 AM: Depart from Český Krumlov.
• 10:30 AM: Explore the Castle Gardens and Park.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch in Hluboká nad Vltavou town.
• 02:00 PM: Guided tour of the Castle interiors.
• 04:00 PM: Visit the South Bohemian Gallery.
• 05:30 PM: Return to Český Krumlov.

The castle is very popular during the summer months. You should book your tour tickets online well in advance. In 2026, the castle expects many visitors from all over the world. Arriving early helps you avoid the biggest crowds. This allows you to take photos without many people in the background.

Morning: Arrival and the Royal Gardens

Your morning begins with a scenic arrival in the town of Hluboká nad Vltavou. The castle sits high above the river valley. You must walk up a gentle hill from the parking area. This walk takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes because the paths are made of gravel and stone.

Day 1 Morning: Start your visit at the massive English-style park. This park covers many acres and is free to enter. You can walk under ancient trees and see rare plants. The view of the castle from the lower gardens is spectacular. It is the best place for wide-angle photos of the towers.

Take your time wandering through the formal riding gardens near the entrance. These gardens are manicured perfectly with colorful flowers. You will see detailed ironwork and statues along the paths. It is a peaceful way to start your day before the tours begin. Logistics tip: Restrooms are located near the main castle gate for a small fee.

Midday: Lunch in Hluboká nad Vltavou

After exploring the gardens, walk back down into the town for lunch. The town square is small but very welcoming. You will find several restaurants serving traditional Czech food. Try the local venison or fresh fish from the nearby ponds. Most places offer a daily menu at a lower price.

Day 1 Lunch: Aim to eat between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM. This gives you enough time before your afternoon tour. Many restaurants have outdoor seating during the warmer months. You can enjoy a view of the church while you eat. It is a good time to rest your legs.

If you prefer a quick bite, there are small cafes near the castle hill. They sell sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. This is a great option if you want to spend more time in the park. Always check if the restaurant accepts credit cards. Some smaller spots in the village may only take Czech Koruna.

Afternoon: Exploring the Castle Interiors

The highlight of your day trip to Hluboká Castle is the interior tour. You cannot enter the rooms without a guided group. There are several different routes you can choose from. The Representative Rooms tour is the most popular choice for first-time visitors. It shows the grand social spaces used by the noble family.

Day 1 Afternoon: Your tour will likely start at 2:00 PM or 2:30 PM. You will see incredible woodcarvings on the walls and ceilings. The castle has a massive collection of armor and weapons. You will also see beautiful tapestries and glass chandeliers. Each room tells a story about the life of the Schwarzenberg family.

The Private Apartments tour is another great option if you have time. This route shows the bedrooms and dining areas used for daily life. It feels more personal and less formal than the main halls. Photography is usually restricted inside the rooms to protect the art. Listen closely to the guide to learn about the hidden symbols in the decor.

Late Afternoon: Art and Local History

Before leaving, visit the Alšova jihočeská galerie located in the former riding hall. This gallery holds a famous collection of Gothic art. It is one of the most important art museums in the region. The building itself is a work of art with high ceilings and bright light. It provides a quiet space to reflect on your day.

Day 1 Late Afternoon: If you are traveling with children, consider a quick stop at the Ohrada Zoo. It is located just a short drive or long walk from the castle. The zoo focuses on animals found in the Czech Republic and Europe. It is smaller than city zoos but very well-maintained. This is a great optional swap for families.

Alternatively, you can visit the Ohrada Hunting Lodge near the lake. It houses a museum of forestry and hunting. The lake area is perfect for a final stroll before heading back. You might see locals fishing or enjoy the sunset over the water. It is a relaxing end to a busy day of sightseeing.

Logistics: Getting from Krumlov to Hluboká

Getting to the castle from Český Krumlov is straightforward. The easiest way is by car, which takes about 35 minutes. You will drive through the city of České Budějovice. You might consider visiting Ceske Budejovice for dinner on your way back. Parking in Hluboká is well-marked and located at the bottom of the hill.

Public transport is also a reliable option for travelers. You can take a bus from the main Krumlov station. Some routes require a change in the regional capital. Check the schedules on the official transport apps for 2026. Trains are available but the station is further from the castle than the bus stop.

If you enjoy nature, you can also look into hiking Klet Mountain on a different day. For this trip, stick to the roads to save energy for the castle. Many local agencies offer organized tours that include transport. This is a good choice if you do not want to navigate the bus system alone. Always carry a map of the town to find your way back to the station.