Winter Opening Hours and Dates

The castle tower stays open during the winter months for all visitors to enjoy the view. You can climb the stairs from Tuesday through Sunday throughout the entire cold season in 2026. The tower usually opens at 9:00 AM and closes its doors at 4:00 PM daily. Always check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov site for unexpected closures.

Winter weather in the Czech Republic can be quite unpredictable during the months of January and February. The tower may close briefly if heavy ice makes the outdoor gallery dangerous for tourist groups. Most days remain perfectly safe for visitors who want to see the town covered in white. You should plan your visit for the morning to get the best natural light for photos.

The castle grounds are beautiful even when the tower is the only part open for visits. You can walk through the courtyards and admire the painted walls without paying any extra fees. This is a great way to experience the history of the town during the quiet season.

Checklist for Climbing the Tower in Winter

Climbing the tower requires some physical effort and careful preparation before you start your steep ascent. The narrow wooden stairs can feel a bit chilly when the outside temperature drops below freezing. You should follow this helpful checklist to ensure your winter visit is both safe and very comfortable.

• Wear sturdy boots with excellent grip to handle the 162 historic stone and wooden steps.
• Bring a thick scarf and gloves because the wind is much stronger at the very top.
• Check the local weather forecast to ensure the sky is clear enough for long-distance viewing.
• Keep your camera battery warm inside your coat to prevent it from dying in the cold.

The tower gallery is quite narrow and can feel crowded when large groups arrive at once. Try to visit during the weekdays to avoid the busiest times on the weekends in winter. You will have more space to take photos of the Vltava River from the high balcony.

Essential Costs and Booking Information

Entry tickets for the castle tower are affordable for most travelers visiting the South Bohemia region. An adult ticket currently costs around 180 CZK for the tower and the castle museum combined. You can purchase these tickets directly at the main castle entrance near the first courtyard area.

Many people prefer climbing the castle tower cesky krumlov as a quick and rewarding activity. The ticket office accepts both local Czech Koruna and major credit cards for your convenience. You do not need to book weeks in advance during the quieter winter tourism season.

The castle museum is located right next to the tower and offers a warm indoor escape. You can learn about the history of the Český Krumlov Castle while you wait for the sun. It is a great way to spend an hour before heading up to the cold balcony.

Alternative Winter Viewpoints in the City

There are several other locations where you can find the best places to photograph snow in Český Krumlov. The Seminar Garden near the Regional Museum provides a classic view of the castle and tower. This spot is free to enter and remains open to the public throughout the entire year.

You should also walk across the Cloak Bridge scenic viewpoints for a different perspective. This massive stone bridge connects the different parts of the castle complex over a deep valley. It offers wide arches that frame the town and the river perfectly for your holiday photos.

Another great spot is the park behind the castle gardens for a quiet and peaceful walk. The gardens themselves are often closed in winter, but the surrounding paths remain open for all. You can see the castle walls rising high above the snowy trees from these lower paths.