10 Scenic Riverside Bars and Walkways in Town

Exploring the river is the best way to see the city. Many of these spots are near the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov. You can easily walk between these locations in a single afternoon. Here are our top picks for scenic riverside bars and walkways in town.

• Best overall: Parkán Street
• Best for families: Městský Park
• Best rainy-day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• Best free spot: Lazebnický Bridge

1. Name: Parkán Street Type: Walkway Why go: This is one of the most picturesque scenic walks in Cesky Krumlov. The narrow lane runs right against the river. Best for: Romantic evening strolls. Where: Latrán/Old Town border. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square toward the river. Tip: Look for the small wooden doors leading to private terraces.
2. Name: Rybářská Street Type: Walkway Why go: This quiet path follows the outer loop of the river. It offers a peaceful escape from the main tourist crowds. Best for: Photography and quiet reflection. Where: Southern loop of the Vltava. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river downstream from the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: This is one of the best Vltava river walking paths Cesky Krumlov has to offer.
3. Name: Lazebnický Bridge Type: Iconic sight Why go: This wooden bridge connects the Old Town with the Latrán district. It provides a 360-degree view of the castle and the river below. Best for: Seeing the rafters go by. Where: Central town crossing. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the main walking route through town. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the heavy midday crowds.
4. Name: Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This massive stone bridge offers the highest view over the river. You can see the entire town layout from here. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Castle complex. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Getting there: Walk up through the castle courtyards. Tip: Check the official castle site for seasonal access updates.
5. Name: Papa's Living Restaurant Type: Bar/Restaurant Why go: It features a famous riverside terrace. You can enjoy Italian cuisine while listening to the rushing water. Best for: A scenic lunch. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 400-700 CZK). Getting there: Just a few steps from Lazebnický Bridge. Tip: Reservations are essential for a river-edge table.
6. Name: Bar Barbakan Type: Bar Why go: This bar is built into the old city fortifications. The terrace hangs directly over the Vltava River. Best for: Sunset cocktails. Where: Near the Horní Brána gate. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget-friendly (approx. 60-150 CZK for drinks). Getting there: Walk uphill from the main square toward the theater. Tip: Try the local Czech beers on tap.
7. Name: Tavern of the Two Marys Type: Unique local experience Why go: This historic building serves traditional Bohemian food. The riverside seating is rustic and very charming. Best for: Trying "Old Bohemian" platters. Where: Parkán Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located on the Vltava river bank walkway. Tip: Ask for the "Feast of the Two Marys" for a mix of local flavors.
8. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: While it is a museum, the back area borders the river. It provides a cultural break right next to the water. Best for: Art lovers on a rainy day. Where: Široká Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: Walk two blocks from the main square. Tip: Visit the museum cafe for a quiet drink.
9. Name: Městský Park (City Park) Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: The park has wide green spaces and a long river frontage. It is the best place to sit on the grass by the water. Best for: Picnics and families. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the main square. Tip: There is a small playground for children here.
10. Name: Zlatá Koruna Type: Day trip Why go: This historic monastery is located just down the river. The walk along the water to get there is beautiful. Best for: Active travelers. Where: 8km north of town. Time: Half-day. Cost: Bus/Train fare plus entry (approx. 150 CZK). Getting there: Take a local bus or raft down the river. Tip: Check the monastery opening hours before you leave.

Essential Tips for Your Riverside Visit

Visiting the river areas requires some planning. The town is famous for its steep and uneven cobblestones. Wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the paths safely. Many riverside bars fill up quickly during the summer months. It is wise to book your table at least a day in advance.

The Vltava is a very active river. You will see many people rafting and canoeing. Be careful when walking near the water's edge, as some paths do not have railings. Always keep an eye on children near the banks. For more safety info, visit the Official Tourism portal.

Respect the local environment while you explore. Do not throw trash into the river. Many of the riverside buildings are private homes. Keep your noise levels down during late-night walks. This helps preserve the peaceful atmosphere for everyone.

Best Times to Explore the Vltava River

The best time for scenic riverside bars and walkways in town is early summer. June and July offer long days and vibrant energy. The river is full of life during this time. However, September is also excellent for cooler weather and changing leaf colors.

Morning is the best time for photography. The light hits the castle walls beautifully around 8:00 AM. You will find the walkways almost empty before the day-trippers arrive. This is the best time for a peaceful stroll along the historic city center.

Evening brings a different charm to the river. The castle is illuminated, and the water reflects the city lights. Riverside bars become very cozy with candles and outdoor heaters. It is the perfect way to end your day in South Bohemia.