What is the best walking tour Cesky Krumlov for history lovers?

The castle complex route is the most historical path in the city, covering 13th-century Gothic roots through 18th-century Baroque additions. It highlights the influence of the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families.

Is the Cesky Krumlov Castle Tower worth the climb?

Yes, the tower climb is highly recommended for its 360-degree views of the town and the Vltava River. It features 162 steps and provides a unique perspective of the castle's architectural layout.

Can I see the bears at Cesky Krumlov Castle for free?

Yes, the bears in the castle moat can be viewed for free as you walk between the first and second courtyards. The tradition of keeping bears here dates back to the 16th century.

When is the best time to visit the castle to avoid crowds?

The best time is early morning before 10:00 AM or late afternoon after 4:00 PM. Most day-trip buses from Prague arrive mid-day, making the courtyards quite busy.

Is the castle walk accessible for people with mobility issues?

The terrain is moderately challenging due to steep slopes and original cobblestone paths. While some courtyards are accessible, the tower and theater require navigating stairs.

Do I need tickets for this self-guided walk?

Walking through the castle courtyards and the Cloak Bridge is free. However, you will need to purchase tickets on-site if you wish to enter the Castle Tower, the Museum, or the Baroque Theater.

What is the Latrán neighborhood known for?

Latrán is the historic district directly below the castle, formerly home to the castle's artisans and staff. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Stepping into Cesky Krumlov feels like wandering through the pages of a medieval storybook, and nowhere is this more evident than within the sprawling grounds of its magnificent castle. This self-guided walking route invites you to explore the Renaissance Grandeur of Krumlov Castle at your own pace, focusing on the architectural evolution and historical intrigue that shaped this UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike a traditional guided tour Cesky Krumlov, this audio walk allows you to linger where you choose, whether that is under the massive arches of the Cloak Bridge or beneath the colorful shadows of the iconic Castle Tower. As you navigate the Latrán neighborhood and the upper castle courtyards, you will discover how the powerful Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families transformed a rugged fortress into a sophisticated palace. This walking route highlights the seamless blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles that define the complex. You will encounter engineering marvels like the multi-story Cloak Bridge and cultural treasures like one of the world's best-preserved Baroque theaters. This walking tour Cesky Krumlov provides the historical context needed to appreciate the intricate frescoes and the famous bear moat without the need for a fixed schedule. It is a neighborhood stroll designed for those who appreciate the intersection of history and architecture. From the panoramic heights of the Round Tower to the winding streets of the Latrán district, this experience offers a comprehensive look at the Bohemian aristocracy's legacy. Start exploring with Zigway and immerse yourself in the stories of knights, alchemists, and noblemen who once walked these very stones.

Highlights

Panoramic views from the multi-tiered Cloak Bridge

The rare and perfectly preserved 18th-century Baroque Castle Theater

The vibrant Renaissance frescoes of the Castle Tower

The historic Bear Moat, a tradition dating back to the 16th century

The winding, atmospheric streets of the Latrán neighborhood

The expansive courtyards of the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic

Tour Stops (6)

Cloak Bridge

Standing on the Cloak Bridge, or Plášťový most, you are witnessing an 18th-century engineering marvel. This massive multi-story stone bridge connects the castle's fourth and fifth courtyards, replacing an earlier wooden drawbridge. Look closely at the layers: the bottom level is an open passage for the public, while the upper enclosed levels were private corridors for the nobility to walk from their living quarters to the theater and gardens without braving the elements. The statues lining the bridge represent local saints, adding a Baroque religious touch to this structural giant. From here, the view of the Vltava River and the town's red-tiled roofs is arguably the best in the city.

Castle Theater

The Castle Theater is a crown jewel of European heritage. It is one of only two theaters in the world—the other being Drottningholm in Sweden—that retains its original 18th-century stage machinery, scenery, and costumes. Built in 1682 and later renovated in the late 1700s, this space was the private playground of the Schwarzenberg family. The stage uses a complex system of ropes, pulleys, and wooden gears to change scenes in seconds, a feat of Baroque technology. While the interior is strictly protected, the building itself stands as a testament to the era's obsession with drama and spectacle.

Státní hrad a zámek Český Krumlov

As you enter the main castle complex, you are standing in the second-largest castle in the Czech Republic, surpassed only by Prague Castle. This site has been the seat of power for the Rosenbergs, the Lords of Krumlov, and the Schwarzenbergs. Notice the 'Sgraffito' decorations on the walls—this Renaissance technique involves scratching through layers of colored plaster to create 3D geometric patterns. This area was the administrative and social heart of the region. The Five-Petal Rose, the emblem of the Rosenberg family, can be seen throughout the courtyards, serving as a constant reminder of the dynasty that ruled here for over 300 years.

Český Krumlov Castle Tower

The Castle Tower is the ultimate symbol of Cesky Krumlov. While its foundations are Gothic, dating back to the 13th century, the structure you see today is a Renaissance masterpiece from the 1580s. The tower's exterior is covered in intricate frescoes by the painter Bartoloměj Beránek, featuring architectural motifs and astrological symbols. It served both as a watchtower and a bell tower. Climbing the 162 steps to the gallery provides a 360-degree view of the Bohemian forest and the winding Vltava. It represents the transition of the castle from a defensive fortress to a residence of aesthetic beauty.

A Moat with Bears

At the entrance to the second courtyard, look down into the moat. Since the 16th century, the lords of Krumlov have kept bears here. This tradition was started by the Rosenberg family, who claimed a genealogical connection to the noble Orsini family of Italy—'Orsa' meaning bear in Italian. While the practice of keeping animals in moats is an ancient tradition, it remains a unique and somewhat quirky part of the castle's living history today. The bears are well-loved local figures, and their presence is a nod to the heraldic myths that the nobility used to bolster their prestige during the Renaissance.

Restaurant a Pizzeria Latrán

You have reached the Latrán neighborhood, the historic district located just below the castle. Historically, this was where the castle's craftsmen, merchants, and servants lived. The name 'Latrán' likely comes from the Latin word 'latus,' meaning 'side,' referring to its position alongside the castle. This area is a labyrinth of Gothic and Renaissance houses that escaped the modernization of the 19th century. Ending your walk here allows you to transition from the grand scale of the nobility to the charming, human-scaled life of the townspeople. It is the perfect place to find a local beverage and reflect on the centuries of history you've just traversed.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the main courtyards and Latrán typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time for photos at the Cloak Bridge and a visit to the castle moat.