Preparing for Your Walk to Cloak Bridge

Before you set out, ensure you have the right gear. Český Krumlov is famous for its steep, uneven cobblestone streets. These paths can be very slippery when it rains or during the winter months. Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip to stay comfortable and safe.

Timing is also important for your visit. The bridge is a popular spot for tour groups during the middle of the day. To enjoy a peaceful walk, try to arrive before 9:00 AM or after 5:00 PM. This allows you to see the architecture without the heavy crowds of 2026.

• Footwear: Supportive sneakers or hiking shoes.
• Hydration: A reusable water bottle for the uphill climb.
• Camera: Fully charged phone or camera for panoramic views.
• Map: A digital or paper map of the castle complex.
• Weather Gear: A light raincoat or umbrella if clouds are grey.

How to Access Cloak Bridge on Foot: Step-by-Step

Follow this specific path to reach the bridge from the Latrán district. This is the most common route for visitors entering from the town center. You will pass through several historical courtyards along the way. Use this detailed walking guide to stay on track.

1. Step 1: Enter the Red Gate. Locate the main entrance to the castle complex on Latrán street. This gate is bright red and hard to miss. Time: 2 minutes; Cost: Free; Location: Latrán 6; Mistake to avoid: Do not enter through the side garden gates if you want the direct route.
2. Step 2: Walk through the Second Courtyard. Follow the path uphill past the ticket office and the Bear Moat. Look for the large tower on your left. Time: 5 minutes; Cost: Free; Location: Castle entrance area; Mistake to avoid: Stopping too long at the moat if you are in a rush.
3. Step 3: Pass through the Upper Castle. Continue through the dark stone passages into the Third and Fourth Courtyards. These areas feature stunning Renaissance murals. Time: 5 minutes; Cost: Free; Location: Upper Castle; Mistake to avoid: Entering the museum interiors by mistake instead of staying on the main path.
4. Step 4: Reach the Cloak Bridge. Walk through the final arched corridor to emerge onto the bridge. You will immediately see the town spread out below you. Time: 2 minutes; Cost: Free; Location: Western end of the castle; Mistake to avoid: Walking too fast and missing the small viewing windows in the corridor.

Choosing Your Route: Old Town vs. Castle Gardens

Your starting point determines the difficulty of your walk. If you are coming from the Old Town walking route, expect a steady uphill climb. This route is rewarding because you see the castle's scale increase as you approach. It is the best choice for those who want to see the Bear Moat.

If you prefer an easier journey, start at the top. You can take a local taxi or shuttle to the Castle Gardens entrance. From there, you can enjoy a gentle walk through the gardens toward the bridge. This path is almost entirely downhill and much easier on the knees.

Check the official castle website for any temporary path closures. Sometimes maintenance work can block specific courtyards. Knowing the status of the gates will help you choose the right direction. Most travelers find the downhill route from the gardens to be the most scenic option.

Troubleshooting Common Walking Issues

Even a short walk can have its challenges in an ancient city. Most issues arise from the castle's operating hours or the physical terrain. Planning ahead will help you avoid these common pitfalls during your journey. Here are some things to keep in mind while navigating the area.

• Gate Closures: The castle courtyards often close at night, blocking the bridge access.
• Slippery Cobblestones: Rain makes the stones very slick, so walk slowly on inclines.
• Physical Strain: The climb from the river level is steep and may be hard for some.
• Navigation Errors: GPS can be unreliable inside the thick stone walls of the castle.
• Crowded Passages: Narrow corridors can become bottlenecks when large groups meet.
• Limited Lighting: Some passages are dim, so watch your step in the late afternoon.
• Restroom Access: Public toilets are limited once you enter the upper courtyards.

Capturing the Best Views from the Bridge

Once you arrive, take time to explore the different levels. The Cloak Bridge is a multi-story stone structure that connects the castle to the theater. Most visitors walk across the open-air level. This area provides the views from the arches that define the city's skyline.

This landmark is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, so respect the structure. Do not climb on the stone railings or the statues. For the best photos, look toward the Vltava River and the church spires. The light is particularly beautiful just before sunset when the stone glows orange.

If you have time, look down from the bridge to see the lower paths. There is a secondary walkway beneath the main bridge arches. This lower path offers a different perspective of the massive stone pillars. It is often much quieter than the main bridge level above.