Top Cinderella filming locations at Švihov Water Castle

Walking through Švihov feels like stepping into a 1970s fairy tale. The castle was chosen for its authentic medieval look and unique water defenses. Many of the outdoor farm scenes were filmed right in the main courtyard. You will recognize the stone walls and wooden structures from the movie. These spots are perfect for photos and reliving movie moments. Most locations are accessible through standard guided tours. Be sure to check out the special "Popelka" (Cinderella) exhibition during your visit. It is one of the most famous movie sites in the country.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - The Inner Courtyard
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Cinderella’s Exhibition
• Quick Pick: Best Free View - The Outer Moat Path
• Quick Pick: Best Photo Spot - The Main Gatehouse

1. Name: The Inner Courtyard Type: sight Why go: This was the main farmstead where Cinderella lived and worked. Best for: Movie fans and photographers. Where: Center of the castle complex. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in tour price. Getting there: Walk through the main entrance. Tip: Look for the spots where the lentils were scattered.
2. Name: The Main Gatehouse Type: sight Why go: This is where the Prince and his entourage arrived to find the bride. Best for: Iconic movie entrances. Where: Entrance to the inner castle. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Follow the main path from the village. Tip: The gate looks exactly as it did in 1973.
3. Name: The Frozen Moat Type: sight Why go: Famous for the winter scenes where the carriage gets stuck. Best for: Nature and atmosphere. Where: Surrounding the castle walls. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk the perimeter path. Tip: Visit in winter to see it look like the film.
4. Name: The Gothic Barn Type: sight Why go: It served as the stables for Cinderella's horse, Jurášek. Best for: Animal lovers and history buffs. Where: North side of the courtyard. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Part of the courtyard tour. Getting there: Located inside the first gate. Tip: Notice the massive timber beams.
5. Name: Cinderella’s Exhibition Type: experience Why go: See original costumes and props used during filming. Best for: Die-hard movie fans. Where: Inside the castle residential wing. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Extra fee may apply. Getting there: Ask at the ticket office. Tip: Check for the small hazelnut props on display.
6. Name: The Great Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Offers a bird's-eye view of all the filming locations. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Highest point of the fortress. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small climb fee. Getting there: Accessible via the main tour. Tip: The stairs are steep, so wear good shoes.
7. Name: The Castle Chapel Type: sight Why go: Features beautiful Gothic art and was seen in background shots. Best for: Art and architecture. Where: Southern wing. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the main tour. Getting there: Follow the guide from the courtyard. Tip: Look for the 15th-century wall paintings.

Planning your Švihov Water Castle tour

Getting to Švihov from Plzeň is very simple for travelers. The castle is located about 30 kilometers south of the city. You can take a direct train from the Plzeň main station. The ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes through the scenic Plzeň Region. Trains run frequently, making it one of the best day trips from Plzeň. Once you arrive at the Švihov station, it is a short 15-minute walk. Most tours are guided and last about an hour. It is wise to book tickets in advance during the summer. The castle is usually open from April through October.

Essential sights near Švihov Water Castle

If you have extra time, explore the surrounding area for more magic. The region is full of hidden gems and historic towns. You can combine your castle visit with a trip to nearby Klatovy. This adds variety to your itinerary beyond just movie locations. There are also active ways to see the castle from different angles. For example, you can check svihov castle boat rental prices and availability for a unique experience. Rowing around the moat gives you a great view of the walls. It is a peaceful way to end your afternoon before heading back.

1. Name: Klatovy Catacombs Type: day trip Why go: Famous underground crypts with mummified remains. Best for: History and mystery. Where: 15 minutes south of Švihov. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short train or bus ride. Tip: The Jesuit church above is also stunning.
2. Name: Chudenice Old Castle Type: day trip Why go: A peaceful estate surrounded by ancient forests. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: 10 km west of Švihov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Best reached by car or taxi. Tip: Visit the nearby American Garden arboretum.
3. Name: Moat Boat Rental Type: activity Why go: See the castle walls from the water like in the movie. Best for: Couples and families. Where: The castle moat. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Per boat per hour. Getting there: Rental dock near the entrance. Tip: Go at sunset for the best lighting.