Quick Guide to the Best Viewpoints in Český Krumlov

Before diving into the full list, here are our top picks. These spots cater to different needs like budget and timing. You can see the whole town in just a few hours. Most locations are within walking distance of the center.

• Best Overall: Castle Tower (Zámecká věž)
• Best Free Spot: Seminary Garden (Seminární zahrada)
• Best for Sunset: Fifth Castle Courtyard Terrace
• Best for Families: Castle Garden

Each location offers a different perspective of the historic center. Some require a steep climb while others are flat. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. The cobblestone streets can be quite slippery when wet.

10 Best Viewpoints in Český Krumlov You Must Visit

Exploring the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov requires a bit of walking. The town is compact but hilly. You will want to visit these spots at different times of day. Morning light is best for the castle walls. Evening light makes the Vltava River glow.

1. Name: Castle Tower (Zámecká věž) Type: sight Why go: It offers the highest 360-degree view of the entire town. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 180 CZK (check current prices). Getting there: Walk through the main castle gate and look up. Tip: Buy the Český Krumlov Card to save on entry fees.
2. Name: Cloister Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: sight Why go: This multi-story bridge provides unique "framed" views of the town through its arches. Best for: Creative architectural shots. Where: Between the fourth and fifth castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main path through the castle complex. Tip: Visit at sunrise to avoid the heavy tourist crowds.
3. Name: Seminary Garden (Seminární zahrada) Type: experience Why go: It is the most famous spot to see the castle and tower together. Best for: Classic postcards shots. Where: Opposite the Hotel Ruže in the upper town. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up Horní street from the main square. Tip: This is one of the best places for photos in the city.
4. Name: Fifth Castle Courtyard Terrace Type: sight Why go: It offers a wide view of the river and the town's horseshoe bend. Best for: Sunset watching. Where: Past the Cloister Bridge in the castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle all the way to the rear gate. Tip: Look for the small openings in the wall for secret views.
5. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: sight Why go: The church itself is a landmark, and its surroundings offer great views of the Latrán district. Best for: Religious architecture fans. Where: Kostelní street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to visit the exterior. Getting there: A short walk from the town square. Tip: The interior is beautiful but check for service times before entering.
6. Name: Horní Brána (Upper Gate) Type: experience Why go: It provides a perspective of the town entering from the south. Best for: Quiet moments away from the main hub. Where: Near the regional museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the Seminary Garden toward the bus station. Tip: This is a great spot to see the town's layout.
7. Name: Castle Garden (Zámecká zahrada) Type: nature Why go: The manicured gardens offer views of the castle rear and the revolving theater. Best for: Relaxing walks and nature. Where: The highest point of the castle complex. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the fifth courtyard. Tip: The garden is usually closed during the winter months.
8. Name: Krumlov Mill (Mlýnské schody) Type: experience Why go: You get a low-angle view of the castle looming over the river. Best for: Seeing the scale of the castle walls. Where: By the river near the barber's bridge. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the stairs from the Latrán area. Tip: Grab a coffee at the nearby café while you enjoy the view.
9. Name: Mount Kleť Type: day trip Why go: It is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest with a lookout tower. Best for: Hikers and panoramic mountain views. Where: About 6km from the town center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Small fee for the tower; chairlift has a cost. Getting there: Take a local train or hike from the town. Tip: On clear days, you can see the Austrian Alps from the top.
10. Name: Dívčí Kámen Ruins Type: day trip Why go: These castle ruins offer a rugged, medieval view of the Vltava valley. Best for: History buffs and nature lovers. Where: Near the village of Třísov. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: A short train ride followed by a 3km walk. Tip: Pack a picnic as there are limited facilities at the ruins.

Photography Tips for the Best Viewpoints in Český Krumlov

Capturing the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov requires good timing. The town gets very busy with day-trippers between 10 AM and 4 PM. Photographers should aim for the blue hour or sunrise. During these times, the streets are empty and the light is soft. You can find more details in our guide to best sunset spots.

Wide-angle lenses are perfect for the narrow streets and large castle. A zoom lens is helpful for capturing the details of the tower. Many viewpoints have stone walls that act as natural tripods. Be respectful of other tourists while setting up your shots. Most spots are easy to reach on foot from the center.

In winter, the red roofs are often covered in snow. This creates a magical atmosphere for your photos. The low sun in winter also provides long, dramatic shadows. If you visit in summer, look for the greenery in the castle gardens. Each season offers a new way to see this historic town.

Planning Your Visit to These Scenic Locations

Most of the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov are located within the State Castle and Chateau. You can easily visit five or six spots in one afternoon. Start at the main square and walk toward the castle. Cross the Barber's Bridge for a great riverside view. Then, head up into the castle courtyards for higher perspectives.

Budget travelers will appreciate that many viewpoints are free. You only need to pay for the Castle Tower and the Church interior. If you have more time, consider a day trip to Mount Kleť. It provides a much-needed break from the city crowds. Check the weather forecast before heading to the higher elevations.

Wear layers as the weather can change quickly in South Bohemia. Even in summer, the evenings can be quite cool. Comfortable shoes are your most important gear for this trip. The hills and stairs will give your legs a good workout. Enjoy the slow pace of life in this beautiful Czech gem.