Best Vltava River Walking Paths in Český Krumlov

The Vltava River defines the geography of this historic town. Walking along its banks is the best way to see the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Most paths are easy to navigate and very accessible. You will find many places to walk along the Vltava river bank that offer unique perspectives. Here are the top 12 spots for your itinerary.

• Best overall: Parkán Street
• Best for families: Castle Garden
• Best rainy-day: Latrán District
• Best free: Horní Street Viewpoint

1. Name: Parkán Riverside Path Type: Sight Why go: This is the most iconic riverside walk in the town. It offers close-up views of the water and historic buildings. Best for: Photography and romantic evening strolls. Where: Parkán Street, Old Town. Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square toward the river. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the castle walls.
2. Name: Horní Street Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides a panoramic view of the river's dramatic horseshoe bend. You can see the entire town layout from here. Best for: Panoramic photos and orientation. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the main square toward the museum. Tip: This spot gets crowded, so go early in the morning.
3. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: Experience Why go: This massive stone bridge towers over the river valley. It connects the castle courts and offers dizzying views. Best for: Architecture lovers and thrill-seekers. Where: State Castle and Chateau complex. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to walk across. Getting there: Follow the cloak bridge and castle moat walk signs. Tip: Look down to see the rafters navigating the river rapids below.
4. Name: Latrán District Embankment Type: Activity Why go: This historic district is full of charm and riverside cafes. The path leads you through narrow alleys and over wooden bridges. Best for: History buffs and foodies. Where: Latrán District, north of the river. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Latrán district architecture walk from the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Stop at a riverside terrace for a local beer.
5. Name: Plešivec Embankment Type: Experience Why go: This area is quieter and more local than the main center. It offers a peaceful walk along the southern river bank. Best for: Avoiding crowds and seeing local life. Where: Plešivec neighborhood. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the Plešivec neighborhood walk southward. Tip: This is a great spot for a morning jog.
6. Name: Castle Garden Trails Type: Nature Why go: These gardens sit high above the river. The paths offer glimpses of the water through manicured hedges. Best for: Nature lovers and families with children. Where: Top of the Castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (gardens only). Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards and uphill. Tip: Check the revolving theater schedule to avoid event crowds.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Area Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: The area around this museum has lovely riverside access. It blends artistic history with natural beauty. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká Street. Time: 1 hour (including museum). Cost: Museum fee applies; path is free. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum before your walk.
8. Name: Monastery Gardens Type: Experience Why go: These gardens offer a serene escape near the river. The paths are well-maintained and very quiet. Best for: Meditation and quiet reading. Where: Near the Minorite Monastery. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter from the Latrán side near the castle. Tip: The gardens are particularly beautiful when the flowers bloom in spring.
9. Name: Vyšenské Hills Nature Trail Type: Nature/Hike Why go: This trail takes you into the hills overlooking the Vltava valley. It is a true nature experience just outside town. Best for: Hikers and birdwatchers. Where: Northern edge of town. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Vyšenské hills nature reserve hike markers. Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
10. Name: Rožmberk nad Vltavou Type: Day Trip Why go: A short drive away, this village has stunning river paths. It features another beautiful castle reflecting in the water. Best for: Full-day explorers. Where: 20 km south of Český Krumlov. Time: Half-day. Cost: Bus or car rental cost. Getting there: Take a local bus or drive south along the river. Tip: Combine this with a rafting trip back toward town.
11. Name: Zlatá Koruna Loop Type: Day Trip Why go: This path follows the river to an ancient monastery. The scenery is lush and very peaceful. Best for: History and nature fans. Where: 8 km north of town. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by train or a long riverside hike. Tip: Visit the monastery for its unique gothic architecture.
12. Name: Myší Díra (Mouse Hole) Shortcut Type: Experience Why go: This is a quirky, narrow passage that leads directly to the river. It is a fun shortcut used by locals. Best for: Curious travelers and kids. Where: Near the Rooseveltova street bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look for the narrow stairs near the bridge. Tip: Be careful as the steps can be slippery when wet.

Planning Your Riverside Walk in 2026

Walking the Vltava river paths requires some simple planning. In 2026, expect the town to be popular during summer. Early morning is the best time for a quiet stroll. The mist on the river creates a magical atmosphere. You can also find many riverside bars and walkways for evening relaxation.

Check the weather before you head out. Riverside paths can be cool even on sunny days. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets. Most paths are well-lit at night. However, some nature trails outside town are not. Always carry a map or use a digital guide.

Respect the local environment while you walk. The Vltava is a clean river used for many sports. Do not leave any trash behind. Stick to the marked paths to protect the riverbanks. For more travel ideas, visit the Visit Czechia portal. They offer great tips for exploring the region.

Hidden Gems Near the Vltava River

Beyond the main paths, there are hidden gems. Look for small wooden docks along the riverbanks. These are often open to the public for sitting. They offer a great view of the passing rafts. You can watch the world go by in peace. Many locals use these spots for fishing or reading.

Explore the area around the old brewery. The paths here are less traveled by tourists. You will see interesting industrial architecture from the past. The river is wider and slower in this section. It is a great place for quiet reflection. You might even spot some local wildlife like swans.

Don't forget the bridges that cross the Vltava. Each bridge offers a different perspective of the town. The Barber's Bridge is the most famous one. However, the smaller footbridges are often more charming. They provide excellent photo opportunities without the crowds. Take your time to explore every crossing.