Why Seek Hidden Gems in Latrán Riverside Area?

Latrán was once the home of the castle's craftsmen and servants. Today, it remains one of the most authentic parts of the city. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep roots. Walking here feels like stepping back into the 16th century. The riverside adds a layer of tranquility to the stone streets.

The river creates a natural boundary that shapes the neighborhood. You can hear the water rushing over the weirs as you walk. This sound drowns out the noise of the busy tourist groups. Many of these spots are tucked behind heavy wooden doors. Others require a short walk away from the main bridge. Exploring these gems gives you a deeper connection to the local history.

Before you start your walk, check out these quick picks:

• Best overall: Minorite Monastery Gardens
• Best for families: Vltava River Raft Launch
• Best rainy-day: Latrán 1 Craft Shop
• Best free spot: The Red Gate

11 Best Hidden Gems in Latrán Riverside Area

The riverside walk in Český Krumlov is full of surprises. Latrán holds many of these treasures along its winding paths. Here are the top items to add to your itinerary.

1. Name: Eggenberg Brewery Gardens Type: nature Why go: Large, open green space with historic brewery views. Best for: relaxation Where: Northern end of Latrán Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk north from the castle entrance. Tip: Visit in late afternoon for the best golden light.
2. Name: The Cloister Herb Garden Type: nature Why go: A peaceful garden maintained by the Monasteries Český Krumlov. Best for: quiet reflection Where: Inside the monastery complex Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to enter gardens Getting there: Enter through the archway on Klášterní street. Tip: Look for the labeled medieval herbs.
3. Name: Barber’s Bridge (Lazebnický most) Type: viewpoint Why go: Connects Latrán to the Old Town with stunning castle views. Best for: photography Where: Between Latrán and Radniční Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: It is the main wooden bridge in the center. Tip: Look for the statue of St. John of Nepomuk.
4. Name: Minorite Monastery Courtyard Type: museum Why go: Incredible Gothic and Baroque architecture without the castle lines. Best for: history buffs Where: Klášterní 50 Time: 1 hour Cost: Moderate for exhibitions Getting there: Follow the signs from the Red Gate. Tip: Check their schedule for local concerts.
5. Name: Red Gate (Červená brána) Type: sight Why go: The iconic entrance to the Český Krumlov Castle courtyard. Best for: iconic photos Where: Latrán street Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Central Latrán, near the castle tower. Tip: Stand back to capture the tower in the background.
6. Name: Latrán 1 Craft Shop Type: experience Why go: A historic building housing traditional Czech crafts and marionettes. Best for: souvenirs Where: At the start of Latrán street Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free to browse Getting there: Right next to the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Look at the painted facade of the building.
7. Name: Vltava River Raft Launch Type: activity Why go: Watch the colorful rafts navigate the river weir. Best for: local vibe Where: Near the bridge on the Latrán side Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free to watch Getting there: Walk down the small path toward the water. Tip: Grab a coffee nearby and enjoy the view.
8. Name: Parkán Riverside Street Type: sight Why go: A narrow street with houses built directly into the old city walls. Best for: walking Where: Across the river from Latrán Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Cross the Barber's Bridge and turn left. Tip: Use a Parkan riverside street guide to find the best cafes.
9. Name: Myší díra (Mouse Hole) Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: A tiny passage leading to a unique river-level perspective. Best for: unique angles Where: Near the southern end of the river loop Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk south along the river from the center. Tip: Be careful as the steps can be slippery.
10. Name: Zlatá Koruna Monastery Type: day trip Why go: One of the most important Gothic monuments in Bohemia. Best for: architecture Where: 8km north of the city Time: 3 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Take a local bus or a short train ride. Tip: Combine this with a rafting trip down the river.
11. Name: Vyšší Brod Abbey Type: day trip Why go: A stunning Cistercian monastery with a world-famous library. Best for: culture Where: 30km south of the city Time: Half-day Cost: Moderate Getting there: Best reached by car or regional train. Tip: Check the library tour times in advance.

Walking the Latrán Neighborhood River Path

The river path is best enjoyed at a slow pace. Start your walk early in the morning to avoid the heat. The mist rising off the Vltava makes for amazing photos. Most of the path is paved with cobblestones. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for the uneven ground.

You can easily connect this walk to other parts of the town. Many small alleys lead from the river back up to the castle. These paths often hide small galleries and local workshops. Keep an eye out for signs pointing toward the "Centrum" or "Zámek." This ensures you never get truly lost in the maze.

If you want to see the whole loop, use a Vltava river walking map. It will show you where the path crosses the water. There are several small footbridges that tourists often overlook. These provide the best views of the Latrán skyline and the castle tower.