The Panoramic Views from Cloak Bridge

The Cloak Bridge is one of the most impressive structures in the entire castle complex. It consists of several levels of stone arches that connect the different castle courtyards. This spot is widely considered the most famous of all sunset locations in Český Krumlov.

From this high vantage point, you can look down at the entire historic town center. The Vltava River makes a sharp turn here, creating a beautiful horseshoe shape around the buildings. You should check out the Cloak Bridge panoramic viewpoint for the best photo angles.

As the sun sets, the light hits the side of the castle tower perfectly. The shadows of the bridge arches create interesting patterns on the ground below. It is a free spot that stays open to the public all night long.

You can reach this bridge by walking through the main gates of the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov. It is a short uphill walk from the town square. Most visitors find this to be the easiest place to watch the sky turn pink.

Hiking to Mount Křížová Hora

For those who enjoy a bit of exercise, Mount Křížová Hora is a fantastic choice. This hill is also known as the Mountain of the Cross. It offers a much wider perspective than the viewpoints located inside the town center.

The hike takes about twenty to thirty minutes from the main town square. You will follow a marked path that leads past several small historic shrines. This Krizova Hora hike is peaceful and surrounded by beautiful nature.

At the top, you will find a small white chapel with a distinctive red roof. This location provides a clear view of the castle and the surrounding Bohemian forest. It is much less crowded than the bridge or the castle gardens.

Watching the sun disappear behind the distant mountains is a truly serene experience. The entire valley fills with soft light as the town lights begin to flicker on. It is the perfect spot for a quiet evening picnic in 2026.

The Postcard View at Seminary Garden

The Seminary Garden is located right across from the Hotel Růže in the upper town. This small park is one of the most popular sunset locations in Český Krumlov for photographers. It offers a perfectly framed view of the castle tower and the church spire.

The garden features several stone benches where you can sit and enjoy the changing sky. It is a very accessible spot that does not require any steep climbing. Many people consider this the best photo spot in the town.

During the golden hour, the castle tower turns a deep shade of orange and gold. The garden is beautifully maintained with flowers and small hedges. It provides a quiet place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

You can easily reach this garden by walking up Horní street from the main square. It is open throughout the year and is especially beautiful during the spring and fall. Visit early to secure a good spot for your tripod.

Climbing the Historic Castle Tower

For the highest possible view of the sunset, you must climb the Castle Tower. This colorful tower is the most iconic symbol of the town's skyline. You can see the entire skyline of Český Krumlov from the top gallery.

There is a small fee to enter the tower and climb the narrow stairs. The effort is worth it once you see the 360-degree views of the region. You can see the river winding through the town like a silver ribbon.

Be sure to check the seasonal opening hours before you plan your visit. In the summer, the tower might close before the actual sunset occurs. However, the late afternoon light is still spectacular for taking high-altitude photos.

You can learn more about climbing the castle tower to prepare for your trip. The stairs are steep but the historic wooden structure is fascinating to see. It is a must-do activity for any first-time visitor in 2026.

Iconic Sunset Locations in Český Krumlov

The Castle Gardens are located at the very top of the castle hill. This area is much larger than the other viewpoints and offers many different perspectives. It is one of the most iconic sunset locations in Český Krumlov for a peaceful walk.

You can walk past the large fountain and the historic rotating theater. The gardens are filled with old trees that look beautiful as the sun filters through them. Check the castle gardens observation deck for a view of the lower town.

The garden walls provide several small openings that frame the town perfectly. You can see the church spires and the river from a very high angle. It is a great place to escape the busier parts of the town center.

The gardens usually close at dusk, so plan to arrive an hour before sunset. This gives you enough time to explore the entire park before the gates shut. It is a wonderful way to end your day in South Bohemia.

For more tips, read about golden hour photography in this historic town. You will find that the soft light makes every building look like a painting. This is truly one of the most romantic places in the world.