Planning Your Vltava River Loop Trail

The layout of the city makes walking very easy. The river acts as a natural guide as you explore. Most visitors start in the Old Town square. From there, you can head toward the water in almost any direction. You will likely cross several bridges in a single hour.

The terrain is mostly flat along the banks. However, some bridges lead to steep castle paths. It is helpful to look at best walks in Cesky Krumlov before you start. This helps you choose a route that fits your energy level. Most loops take between two and three hours to finish.

The river is often full of rafters and canoeists. Watching them from above adds to the lively atmosphere. You should wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones. Many bridges are wooden and can be slippery when wet. Always keep your camera ready for the sudden castle views.

9 Scenic Bridges to Cross During River Walk

These bridges are the best spots to experience the city's magic. They connect the historic Latrán district with the main Old Town. Use this list to plan your route through the most picturesque areas.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Lazebnický Bridge
• Best for families: Rybářská Footbridge
• Best rainy-day: Rechle Covered Bridge
• Best free: All bridges listed below are free to cross.

1. Name: Lazebnický Bridge (Barber's Bridge) Type: sight Why go: This is the most famous bridge in town. It features statues of St. John of Nepomuk and Jesus. Best for: Iconic castle photos. Where: Connects Old Town to Latrán. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down Radniční street from the square. Tip: This spot gets very crowded at noon.
2. Name: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: sight Why go: This massive stone bridge has multiple levels of arches. It is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Best for: High-altitude panoramic views. Where: Part of the State Castle complex. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Look down to see the river loop from above.
3. Name: Dr. Edvard Beneš Bridge Type: sight Why go: This modern steel bridge offers a wide view of the river bend. It is a great alternative to the crowded wooden bridges. Best for: Seeing the St. Vitus Church towers. Where: Near the main bus station entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path from the regional museum. Tip: Great spot for long-exposure evening photos.
4. Name: Rybářská Footbridge Type: experience Why go: A low wooden bridge in the quiet fisherman's district. It feels much more local and peaceful. Best for: Watching rafters pass by. Where: Rybářská Street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the easy flat walking paths along Vltava river to reach it. Tip: Visit the nearby riverside cafes for a drink.
5. Name: Rechle Covered Bridge Type: sight Why go: This is a unique, long wooden bridge with a roof. It was historically used for moving logs down the river. Best for: History buffs and rainy days. Where: Southern edge of the city loop. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the center for about 15 minutes. Tip: It is much quieter than the central bridges.
6. Name: Castle Garden Bridge Type: sight Why go: A small, elegant bridge that crosses the gap into the formal gardens. It offers a transition from stone walls to lush greenery. Best for: Garden lovers. Where: Entrance to the Castle Gardens. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up through the castle courtyards. Tip: The gardens are closed during winter months.
7. Name: U Jelení lávky Type: experience Why go: This small bridge is located near the Eggenberg Brewery. It offers a close-up look at the river's weir. Best for: Seeing the water's power. Where: Near the northern castle entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk behind the castle towards the brewery. Tip: The sound of the rushing water is very relaxing here.
8. Name: Parkán Footbridge Type: sight Why go: This narrow bridge connects the Parkán street area to the other side. It is tucked away behind historic houses. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Parkán street. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Cesky Krumlov old town walking route. Tip: Look for the small hidden gardens nearby.
9. Name: Horní Brána Bridge Type: sight Why go: A stone bridge located near the upper gate of the city. It provides a sense of the old city fortifications. Best for: Understanding the city's defenses. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the main square toward the museum. Tip: Visit the museum terrace nearby for a great view.

Best Times for Photography and Crowds

Timing is everything when visiting these scenic spots. Early morning is the best time for photography. The mist often rises from the Vltava River before 8:00 AM. This creates a mystical look for your bridge photos. You will also avoid the large day-trip groups that arrive by bus.

Sunset is another wonderful time for a river walk. The sun sets behind the castle hill. This casts a golden glow over the wooden planks of the Barber's Bridge. Check the Visit Czechia website for local event dates. Festivals can make the bridges very busy but also very festive.

Winter offers a different kind of beauty. Snow on the wooden railings looks like a scene from a movie. However, be careful as the bridges can get icy. Spring brings high water levels and bright green trees along the banks. Every season offers a new perspective on these historic crossings.

Navigating the Český Krumlov River Paths

Walking the river loop is generally safe and easy. The paths are well-marked with yellow or red signs. Most bridges are pedestrian-only, so you do not need to worry about cars. However, some bridges like the Dr. Edvard Beneš Bridge do allow vehicles. Always stay on the sidewalk in those areas.

If you are traveling with a stroller, stick to the lower river paths. The Cloak Bridge requires climbing many stairs or steep ramps. The wooden bridges usually have small gaps between the planks. Hold children's hands while crossing to ensure they stay safe. The river current can be quite strong near the weirs.

Public toilets are located near the major bridges. You can find them by the Barber's Bridge and near the castle entrance. Most bridges have benches nearby where you can rest. Take your time to enjoy the views instead of rushing. The best part of the river walk is the slow pace of the town.