Why Explore South Bohemian Castles?

South Bohemia was once the seat of powerful noble families. The Rožmberks and Schwarzenbergs left a lasting mark here. Their wealth built massive stone walls and golden halls. Today, many of these sites are protected by UNESCO for their cultural value.

The region is very easy to navigate. Most castles are within an hour's drive of each other. You can visit a medieval ruin in the morning. Then, you can enjoy a Renaissance garden in the afternoon. It is a great way to see the Czech Republic beyond the capital city.

Visiting these sites also supports local preservation efforts. Many castles host festivals, markets, and night tours in the summer. These events bring the history of the region to life for modern travelers. Make sure to check local schedules before you arrive.

Essential List of Castles to Visit in South Bohemia

Here are the top picks for your itinerary. This list includes famous landmarks and hidden gems. Use this guide to choose the best stops for your 2026 trip.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Český Krumlov Castle
• Quick Pick (Most Beautiful): Hluboká Castle
• Quick Pick (Best for Hikers): Dívčí Kámen
• Quick Pick (Best for Families): Třeboň Chateau

1. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the country. The Baroque theater and bear moat are world-famous. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Český Krumlov town center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate for tours; grounds are free. Getting there: Walkable from anywhere in the city. Tip: Visit the official site to book the theater tour early.
2. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Experience Why go: This white castle looks like Windsor Castle in England. It features 140 rooms and 11 towers. Best for: Fairy-tale photos and romantic walks. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 30-minute drive or bus from Krumlov. Learn more about a Hluboká castle day trip here. Tip: Walk through the surrounding English-style park for the best views.
3. Name: Rožmberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: It sits high above the Vltava River. It is the ancestral home of the Rožmberk family. Best for: River views and medieval atmosphere. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou. Time: 1.5-2 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: 25-minute drive south of Český Krumlov. Tip: Climb the English Tower for a panoramic view of the river bend.
4. Name: Dívčí Kámen Type: Nature/Ruin Why go: These are massive ruins of a 14th-century fortress. It is located in a beautiful nature reserve. Best for: Hikers and outdoor lovers. Where: Near Třísov. Time: 2-3 hours (including the walk). Cost: Very low. Getting there: Take a train to Třísov, then follow the Dívčí Kámen hike route. Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy among the ancient stone walls.
5. Name: Zvíkov Castle Type: Sight Why go: Known as the "King of Czech Castles." it sits at the junction of two rivers. Best for: Dramatic scenery and early Gothic architecture. Where: Zvíkovské Podhradí. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: 1-hour drive north of Český Krumlov. Tip: Take a boat trip from the castle dock in the summer.
6. Name: Orlík Castle Type: Experience Why go: Once on a high cliff, it now sits right on the edge of a large lake. Best for: Water views and 19th-century interiors. Where: Orlík nad Vltavou. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 1 hour 10 minutes by car. Tip: Combine this with Zvíkov by taking a ferry between the two.
7. Name: Třeboň Chateau Type: Sight Why go: A large Renaissance complex in a famous spa town. It has beautiful gardens and a tomb. Best for: A relaxing day out. Where: Třeboň. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 45-minute drive east. Tip: Try the local carp specialty in the town square afterward.
8. Name: Jindřichův Hradec Castle Type: Sight Why go: The third-largest castle in the Czech Republic. It features a unique round music pavilion. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Jindřichův Hradec. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 1 hour 15 minutes by car. Tip: Look for the "White Lady" ghost stories in the local legends.
9. Name: Landštejn Castle Type: Ruin Why go: A massive Romanesque fortress near the Austrian border. You can climb the tall tower. Best for: Families and kids who love exploring. Where: Near Slavonice. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: 1.5-hour drive. Tip: The road to the castle passes through the "Czech Canada" wilderness.
10. Name: Nové Hrady Castle Type: Sight Why go: A classic border fortress with a deep moat. It feels very authentic and less crowded. Best for: Avoiding the big tourist groups. Where: Nové Hrady. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: 45-minute drive from Krumlov. Tip: Visit the nearby Terčino Valley for a nice forest walk.

Planning Your South Bohemia Castle Trip

Most castles in this region are open from April to October. Some larger ones stay open in winter with limited hours. Always check the official website before you travel. Monday is often the day when Czech castles are closed to the public.

Renting a car is the best way to see several sites. Public buses and trains are reliable but can be slow. Many travelers use Český Krumlov as a base. It is a central point for many day trips from Český Krumlov.

In 2026, expect to see more digital ticketing options. Booking online helps you skip the long lines at Hluboká and Krumlov. Wear comfortable walking shoes as many paths are cobblestone. Carry some Czech Koruna for smaller entry fees or snacks.