Navigating the UNESCO Charm of South Bohemia

The town center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It preserves a medieval layout that is truly unique. You will find narrow alleys and grand plazas here. Most of the town is pedestrian-friendly. This makes it ideal for slow-paced exploration.

Accessibility can be a challenge due to historic cobblestones. Many main routes now feature smoother stone strips. These strips help those with strollers or wheelchairs. Always look for the flatter sections of the pavement. Planning your path helps you avoid the steepest inclines.

The Vltava River loops around the town center. This creates natural, flat paths along the water. These riverbank routes are often the most accessible. They offer great views without the need for climbing. You can enjoy the atmosphere without much physical strain.

11 Best Accessible Walking Routes in Český Krumlov

Explore the town with these carefully selected routes. Each one focuses on ease of movement and visual beauty. Here are our top picks for 2026.

1. Name: The Historic Old Town Loop Type: Sight Why go: This is the heart of the city. You see the Town Hall and St. Vitus Church. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Inner Town (Vnitřní město). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at Svornosti Square. Tip: Follow the historic old town walking route for the smoothest pavement.
2. Name: Castle Gardens Promenade Type: Nature Why go: These gardens are vast and mostly flat. They offer a peaceful escape from the crowds. Best for: Nature lovers and families. Where: Upper Castle area. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free (gardens only). Getting there: Use the elevator in the castle courtyard or the side entrance. Tip: Visit the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website for seasonal garden hours. Use our castle gardens walking guide for more details.
3. Name: Latrán District Architecture Walk Type: Neighborhood Why go: Latrán features colorful medieval houses and unique shops. It connects the castle to the river. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Latrán District. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the Barber’s Bridge from the Old Town. Tip: This Latrán district architecture walk avoids the steepest castle stairs.
4. Name: Vltava Riverbank Path Type: Experience Why go: Walk right next to the water and watch the rafters go by. The path is very level. Best for: Relaxed evening strolls. Where: River edge near Parkán street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access via the ramp near the Barber’s Bridge. Tip: Read our guide on Vltava river walking paths for the best entry points.
5. Name: Cloak Bridge Vista Type: Viewpoint Why go: This massive bridge offers incredible views of the whole town. It is wide and paved. Best for: Photographers. Where: Castle complex. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: The bridge is flat, but the approach from the town has a steady incline.
6. Name: Monasteries Cultural Walk Type: Museum Why go: The monastery complex is recently renovated and very accessible. It features quiet courtyards and art. Best for: History buffs and rainy days. Where: Latrán. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibit. Getting there: Located near the Budějovická Gate. Tip: Check the official Monasteries Český Krumlov site for current workshops.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art District Type: Museum Why go: This area around the art center is paved and easy to navigate. The museum itself has an elevator. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Southern part of the Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk the exterior; museum fee applies. Getting there: Walk south from the main square. Tip: Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum for world-class expressionist art.
8. Name: Seminární Zahrada Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: This garden offers the famous "postcard view" of the castle. The path is short and paved. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from Horní street. Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid large tour groups.
9. Name: Horní Brána Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This area is quieter and has more modern, smoother sidewalks. It offers a local feel. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: East of the historic center. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up Horní street past the museum. Tip: This is a great place to find local bakeries away from tourist prices.
10. Name: Castle Moat and Bear Pit Type: Experience Why go: See the famous castle bears from the bridge. The viewing area is flat and easy to reach. Best for: Families with children. Where: Entrance to the first castle courtyard. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the main castle gate in Latrán. Tip: The bears are most active during morning feeding times.
11. Name: Vyšenské Hills Nature Reserve Type: Day trip Why go: This reserve offers wide, well-maintained trails through the forest. It is just outside the city. Best for: Hikers wanting an easy terrain. Where: North of the city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 20-minute walk or 5-minute taxi from the center. Tip: Use a self-guided walking tour map to find the trailhead easily.

Practical Tips for Your Walking Adventure

Comfortable shoes are your best friend here. Even on accessible routes, the ground can be uneven. Choose shoes with good grip and cushioning. This will protect your feet from the hard stones. Avoid thin sandals or high heels during your walks.

Consider using the local shuttle bus. It connects the main parking lots with the center. This saves you from walking up the steepest hills. Taxis are also readily available and quite affordable. They can drop you directly at the castle entrance.

Timing is everything in a popular town like this. Early morning is the best time for quiet walks. Most day-trippers arrive after 10:00 AM. By walking early, you have more space to move. This makes navigating with a wheelchair or stroller much easier.

Best Seasonal Times for Walking in 2026

Spring and autumn offer the best walking weather. In May and June, the castle gardens are in full bloom. The temperatures are mild and perfect for long strolls. You will find the paths are dry and safe. September and October offer beautiful fall foliage along the river.

Summer can be very crowded and quite hot. If you visit in July, walk near the river to stay cool. The Vltava provides a natural breeze that is very refreshing. Always carry water as the sun reflects off the stone buildings. Winter walks are magical but can be slippery.

In 2026, several local festivals will take place. These events often mean some streets become pedestrian-only. This can make walking even easier as cars are restricted. Check the local tourism board for specific festival dates. Planning around these events can enhance your experience.