Planning Your Walk Through the Castle Gardens

Before you start your walk through the Castle Gardens, check the season. The park is usually open from April until October. It stays closed during the winter months for safety and maintenance. The gates open early in the morning and close at sunset. You should check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov site for exact hours.

Entry to the main garden area is free for all visitors. This makes it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. Some specific buildings inside the garden may require a paid ticket. The terrain is mostly flat but involves a steep climb to reach. You will walk up a ramp from the fifth castle courtyard.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for your visit. The paths are gravel and can be dusty in the summer. Bring a bottle of water as there are few shops inside. The garden is very large and requires at least two hours to see. Most visitors prefer the morning hours to avoid the heat.

The gardens are fully accessible for strollers and most wheelchairs. However, some side paths have small steps or steep slopes. Stick to the main central alley for the easiest route. This central path leads you through all the major sections. You will find plenty of benches for resting along the way.

10 Best Stops on a Walk Through the Castle Gardens

This list includes the most iconic sights within the garden walls. Each stop offers something unique for history lovers and nature fans. These locations are recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for their cultural value. Follow the main path to see them all in order.

1. Name: The Cascade Fountain Type: sight Why go: This is the most famous landmark in the garden. It features beautiful Baroque statues and flowing water. Best for: photographers. Where: Between the Lower and Upper Gardens. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk straight from the entrance ramp. Tip: Visit at noon to see the water sparkling in the sun.
2. Name: The Revolving Auditorium Type: experience Why go: This is a unique outdoor theater with a rotating seating area. It uses the garden as a natural stage. Best for: culture enthusiasts. Where: Near the Bellaria Summer Manor. Time: 10 minutes to view. Cost: Free to see the structure. Getting there: Follow the signs for "Otáčivé hlediště". Tip: Book play tickets months in advance for 2026 shows.
3. Name: Bellaria Summer Manor Type: museum Why go: A stunning Rococo building used for garden parties in the past. It has a rare "magic table" for hidden dining. Best for: architecture fans. Where: Adjacent to the Revolving Auditorium. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view exterior. Getting there: Located in the middle of the garden park. Tip: The facade is perfect for classical portraits.
4. Name: The Upper Garden Oak Alley Type: nature Why go: Tall, ancient trees provide deep shade and a forest-like feel. It is very quiet compared to the fountain area. Best for: a peaceful stroll. Where: The far western end of the park. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the fountain into the wooded area. Tip: This area is especially beautiful in the autumn.
5. Name: The Castle Pond Type: nature Why go: A large, calm pond filled with water lilies and fish. It sits at the very end of the garden. Best for: relaxation. Where: The furthest point from the castle. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main alley to its end. Tip: Look for the small island in the center of the water.
6. Name: The Music Pavilion Type: sight Why go: A small, elegant wooden structure used for outdoor concerts. It represents the leisure life of the nobility. Best for: history buffs. Where: Near the Upper Garden entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on a side path near the fountain. Tip: Check the local schedule for occasional live music.
7. Name: The Castle Riding School Type: sight Why go: A massive Baroque building once used for training horses. It now hosts large gala events and concerts. Best for: seeing grand scale architecture. Where: Just outside the main garden gate. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view exterior. Getting there: It is the first large building you see. Tip: The interior is only open during special events.
8. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: sight Why go: This massive bridge connects the castle to the gardens. It offers some of the best views from Cloak Bridge over the town. Best for: panoramic photos. Where: Entrance to the garden area. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the 5th courtyard. Tip: Look down to see the river far below.
9. Name: The Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: While not in the garden, it is the best place to see the garden layout. You can try climbing the Castle Tower for a bird's eye view. Best for: active travelers. Where: Second courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: A short walk from the garden entrance. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the museum and tower.
10. Name: The Baroque Theatre Type: museum Why go: One of the best-preserved theaters of its kind. Learn about Baroque theatre usage and history on a tour. Best for: art lovers. Where: Fifth courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid tour. Getting there: Located right next to the garden ramp. Tip: You must join a guided tour to enter.

Photography and Views Near the Gardens

Photography is a major reason for a walk through the Castle Gardens. The elevated position provides a clear view of the city's red roofs. You can capture the St. Vitus Church spire against the green hills. The best light for photos is usually in the late afternoon. This is when the sun hits the castle walls directly.

The Cascade Fountain is the most popular spot for portraits. The white stone statues contrast beautifully with the colorful flowers. Try different angles to include the castle tower in the background. For a wider shot, stand on the terrace near the garden entrance. This spot overlooks the entire Latrán district.

Do not miss the view from the bridge connecting the garden and castle. It features several levels of stone arches. The top level is the best for seeing the Vltava river bend. It is one of the most famous best photo spots Cesky Krumlov has to offer. Be prepared for crowds in this specific area.

Exploring Beyond the Garden Gates

After your walk through the Castle Gardens, explore the surrounding areas. You can walk down into the Latrán district to see historic houses. This area is home to the Minorite Monastery complex guide and its gardens. It is much quieter than the main castle grounds.

If you want more adventure, head down to the water. You can try rafting on the Vltava river for a new perspective. Seeing the castle gardens from a boat is a unique experience. Many rental shops are located just a short walk from the castle. It is a great way to cool off on a hot day.

For art fans, the city center offers many galleries. Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum for modern works. The town is small, so everything is within walking distance. You can easily finish your garden walk and find a nice cafe nearby. Enjoy a local Czech beer while watching the river flow by.