Planning Your Walking Route from Castle Moat to Gardens

Before you start, check the weather forecast. The paths are mostly outdoors and can get wet. Most of the route is free to explore. However, the castle interiors require a ticket. You should start your walk early in the morning. This helps you avoid the large tour groups. The UNESCO World Heritage site is very popular in summer.

The path involves several steep inclines and stone stairs. It is not easily accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. If you have mobility issues, take the shuttle bus to the top. This allows you to walk downhill instead. Always carry a small map or a charged phone. You can find more details in our Cloak Bridge and castle moat walk guide. This will help you identify every historical marker.

Timing is key for the best experience. The gardens usually open at 8:00 AM and close at sunset. The castle courtyards stay open much later. Aim to spend at least two hours on this route. This gives you time for photos and rest stops. There are small cafes near the garden entrance for snacks. Prices are typical for a major European tourist destination.

Following the Walking Route From Castle Moat to Gardens

This itinerary focuses on the most scenic path through the complex. It is designed to be a relaxing half-day experience. You can easily combine it with a tour of the Old Town. Follow these steps to see the best of the castle grounds.

At a glance:

• Morning: Bear Moat and lower courtyards.
• Midday: Cloak Bridge photography and views.
• Afternoon: Castle Gardens and Rococo fountain.

Day 1:

Morning (09:00 – 11:00): Start your journey at the Red Gate entrance. This leads you directly to the Bear Moat. You might see the resident bears in the deep stone pit. This tradition has existed for centuries at the castle. Walk through the first courtyard to reach the ticket office. If you need help, learn how to find the entrance to Cloak Bridge before you arrive. This ensures you do not get lost in the winding halls.

Midday (11:00 – 13:00): Ascend through the second and third courtyards. The walls feature beautiful Renaissance paintings. You will soon reach the Cloak Bridge. This massive stone structure offers the best views of the Vltava River. Take your time to look through the arched windows. You can see the entire town from this height. It is a great spot for panoramic photography. This area is a highlight of the Cesky Krumlov historic old town walking route.

Afternoon (13:00 – 15:00): Continue past the bridge and uphill. You will pass the castle theater on your left. The path leads directly into the expansive Castle Gardens. Explore the manicured hedges and the large central fountain. Visit the Revolving Theater at the far end of the park. It is a unique outdoor venue for summer performances. For more details on the flora, see our Cesky Krumlov castle gardens walking guide. This is the perfect place to relax after your climb.

Best Views Along the Cloak Bridge and Castle Moat Walk

The views from the Cloak Bridge are world-famous. You can see the river curve around the town. The red rooftops look like a painting from this height. Look for the statues of saints lining the upper bridge. These add a spiritual feel to the historic walk. The bridge itself is a masterpiece of engineering. It spans a deep gap between the castle buildings.

Another great view is from the castle tower nearby. You must pay a small fee to climb it. From the top, you can see the castle moat from above. This perspective shows the sheer size of the fortifications. The green hills of Southern Bohemia surround the town. It is a breathtaking sight in any season. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the trees in the gardens.

Inside the gardens, the Rococo fountain is a must-see. It features intricate stone carvings of mythical creatures. The surrounding flower beds are carefully maintained. This area is very quiet compared to the busy courtyards. It provides a peaceful escape for nature lovers. You can sit on the benches and enjoy the fresh air. It is a highlight of the walking route from castle moat to gardens.

Where to Stay and Essential Logistics

Staying in the Old Town is the best option. You will be within walking distance of the castle. Many hotels are located in historic buildings. Some offer views of the castle tower or the river. Latrán is the neighborhood located directly below the castle. It is full of charm and small craft shops. Staying here makes it easy to start your walk early.

Public transport is limited within the pedestrian zones. Most visitors arrive by bus or train from Prague. The main bus station is a ten-minute walk from the center. You can also use local taxis for longer distances. However, walking is the primary way to get around. Check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov official site for updates. They list current events and temporary closures.

For 2026, expect new digital ticketing systems. You can buy entry passes online to save time. This is helpful for the castle tower and museum. Most shops and restaurants now accept credit cards. However, carrying some Czech Koruna is still a good idea. Small vendors may only take cash for snacks. Respect local rules by staying on the marked paths.