The Magic of Views from Cloak Bridge

The Cloak Bridge, or Plášťový most, is a masterpiece of engineering. It was built to replace an old wooden drawbridge. The bridge has several levels for different social classes. The lowest level is an open walkway for the public. Higher levels were once private corridors for the lords.

Understanding the history of the Cloak Bridge helps you appreciate the view. It was designed to provide safe passage during sieges. Today, it serves as the best balcony in the city. You can feel the wind and hear the river below.

The bridge offers a 360-degree perspective of the valley. To the north, you see the castle courtyards. To the south, the river bends sharply around the town. It is the perfect place to start your sightseeing journey. Make sure your camera battery is fully charged before arriving.

12 Top Sights to See from Cloak Bridge

Here are the best sights and experiences you can enjoy while exploring the bridge area. This list includes iconic landmarks and unique local activities. Each item offers a different perspective of this historic Bohemian town.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall view: The Castle Tower
• Best for families: Vltava River Rafting
• Best free activity: Seminary Garden Viewpoint
• Best indoor escape: Baroque Theater

1. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Sight Why go: It is the most iconic symbol of the city. You can see its colorful murals clearly from the bridge. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for climbing the tower. Tip: Look for the tower at sunset for a golden glow.
2. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight Why go: Its tall neo-Gothic spire dominates the town skyline. It provides a perfect contrast to the castle. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Town center across the river. Time: 20 minutes for viewing. Cost: Free to view from bridge. Tip: Use a zoom lens to capture the intricate roof tiles.
3. Name: Vltava River Bend Type: Nature Why go: The river wraps around the town in a horseshoe shape. You can see the water rushing over the weirs below. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Directly beneath the bridge. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the wooden rafts passing through the locks.
4. Name: The Baroque Theater Type: Experience Why go: One of the best-preserved theaters in the world. It is connected directly to the bridge's upper levels. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Fifth Castle Courtyard. Time: 1 hour for a tour. Cost: Moderate tour fee. Tip: Book Baroque Theater tours in advance as they sell out fast.
5. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: A massive park area located just past the bridge. It features a beautiful fountain and manicured hedges. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: West of the bridge. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Follow the path through the gardens for more hidden viewpoints.
6. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Experience Why go: This historic district sits at the foot of the castle. Its narrow streets are visible from the bridge's arches. Best for: Urban exploration. Where: Below the castle walls. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the old brewery building with its unique chimneys.
7. Name: Seminary Garden Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best view *of* the Cloak Bridge itself. It is a quiet park with benches and roses. Best for: Couples and painters. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is a top spot for capturing the bridge arches.
8. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Experience Why go: Seeing the bridge from a boat is a unique thrill. You glide right under the massive stone pillars. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: River entry points in town. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by boat type. Tip: Try rafting on the river during the summer months.
9. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: Sight Why go: A large religious complex with peaceful courtyards. Its red roofs are a key part of the bridge view. Best for: Spiritual and history fans. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Tip: Visit the monastery gardens for a quiet break.
10. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: A world-class gallery dedicated to the famous painter. It is located in a large historic building near the river. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Standard museum price. Tip: Check the official Egon Schiele site for current exhibits.
11. Name: Svornosti Square Type: Sight Why go: The main town square with its Plague Column. You can see the bustling activity from the bridge. Best for: People watching. Where: Town center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit the Town Hall for local visitor information.
12. Name: Graphite Mine Type: Day trip Why go: A unique underground experience just outside the center. It offers a cool break from the sun. Best for: Families and curious minds. Where: 15-minute walk from the bridge. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground.

Capturing the Best Views from Cloak Bridge

Photography is the main reason people visit the bridge. The light changes significantly throughout the day. Early morning is best for avoiding other tourists. The sun rises behind the town, lighting up the castle walls beautifully.

Sunset is another popular time for the views from Cloak Bridge. The sky often turns pink and orange over the Bohemian hills. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the bridge and the town. A tripod can help if you want to capture the river's motion. Be careful not to block the walkway for others.

Check the weather before you head out. Fog can sometimes roll in from the river in autumn. This creates a mystical, moody atmosphere for your photos. Rainy days also make the cobblestones shine. Every season offers a different look for this historic site.

Planning Your Visit to the Castle District

Reaching the bridge is simple but involves some uphill walking. Most visitors start in the town center and walk up through Latrán. You will pass through several castle courtyards. The bridge is located between the fourth and fifth courtyards. Wear comfortable shoes as the ground is uneven.

The bridge itself is open 24 hours a day. However, the castle interiors have specific opening hours. You should check the official castle website for current schedules. In 2026, expect higher crowds during the summer months. Visiting in May or September offers a better balance of weather and space.

Accessibility can be a challenge for some. The paths are steep and paved with large stones. There is a ramp near the garden entrance for easier access. If you have mobility issues, consider taking a taxi to the top. This allows you to walk downhill across the bridge.