Planning Your Visit to the Castle Gardens

The gardens are open from spring until late autumn. Most visitors arrive between April and October. During these months, the flowers are in full bloom. The paths are well-maintained but can be steep in places. Wear comfortable shoes for your walk through the terraces.

Entry to the main garden area is usually free. This makes it one of the best value spots in town. However, some specific buildings may require a ticket or a tour. You should check the official landmark site for current updates. This ensures you do not miss any special seasonal events.

The garden is divided into several distinct sections. The lower part features formal Baroque patterns and hedges. The upper section has a more natural, English-style park feel. It takes about two hours to see everything at a relaxed pace. Plan for extra time if you want to take many photos.

10 Highlights of the Castle Gardens and Bellarie

Here are the top sights you must see during your visit. Each spot offers a unique glimpse into the royal past of Český Krumlov.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Bellarie Summer Manor
• Best for families: The Castle Pond
• Best viewpoint: Cloak Bridge
• Best free activity: Cascade Fountain stroll

1. Name: Bellarie Summer Manor Type: experience Why go: This is a rare Rococo pavilion with a unique "magic table" for dining. It is the most beautiful building in the garden. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: The far end of the garden Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to view outside; tour prices vary Getting there: Walk to the upper garden level Tip: Look for the delicate pastel frescoes on the exterior walls.
2. Name: Cascade Fountain Type: sight Why go: This grand fountain features statues of water deities and sea creatures. It marks the transition between the upper and lower gardens. Best for: Photography Where: Between the terrace levels Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located on the main central path Tip: The fountain is most impressive when the water is running in summer.
3. Name: Revolving Auditorium Type: experience Why go: It is a world-famous open-air theater that rotates during performances. The garden serves as a living stage for the actors. Best for: Culture seekers Where: Near the Bellarie Manor Time: 2-3 hours for a show Cost: Ticket prices vary Getting there: Follow the signs from the main entrance Tip: Book tickets months in advance as shows sell out quickly.
4. Name: The Castle Pond Type: nature Why go: A peaceful lake covered in water lilies at the very end of the park. It offers a quiet break from the tourist crowds. Best for: Relaxation Where: The westernmost point of the gardens Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk past the Bellarie Manor to the end Tip: This is the best spot for a quiet picnic on a sunny day.
5. Name: Castle Riding School Type: sight Why go: A massive Baroque building once used for winter horse training. It now hosts grand balls and classical concerts. Best for: History buffs Where: Near the garden entrance Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free to see the exterior Getting there: Located right next to the main garden gate Tip: Check the local schedule for evening concerts held inside.
6. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: sight Why go: This multi-story bridge offers the most iconic views of the town. It connects the castle courtyards directly to the gardens. Best for: Panoramic views Where: Entrance to the garden area Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from the fifth courtyard Tip: Visit at sunset for the best golden hour photos of the spire.
7. Name: The Upper Garden Type: nature Why go: It features long alleys of old trees and wide grassy spaces. It is much larger and more wild than the lower section. Best for: Long walks Where: Beyond the Cascade Fountain Time: 40 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Climb the stairs past the fountain Tip: Look for the 200-year-old lime trees that line the paths.
8. Name: The Lower Garden Type: sight Why go: This area shows off strict Baroque symmetry and perfectly trimmed hedges. It reflects the formal style of the 18th century. Best for: Garden design fans Where: Near the Riding School Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Enter through the main gate Tip: The geometric patterns are best seen from the higher terrace steps.
9. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: day trip Why go: This historic district sits right below the castle walls. It is filled with medieval houses and charming craft shops. Best for: Shopping and dining Where: Below the castle Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Free to explore Getting there: Walk down from the castle bridge Tip: Try the local gingerbread in one of the small bakeries here.
10. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: A major gallery dedicated to the famous Austrian painter. It is located in a stunning former brewery building. Best for: Art lovers Where: Town center near the river Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Check current entry fees Getting there: A short walk from the castle entrance Tip: The museum shop has excellent high-quality art prints.

Essential Tips for Your 2026 Garden Tour

To make the most of your trip, arrive early in the morning. The gardens are most peaceful before the tour groups arrive. You will have the best light for photos of the Bellarie Manor. Afternoon sun can be quite strong on the open terraces. Bring water and a hat if you visit in July or August.

The paths are mostly gravel and can be dusty. Wear shoes that you do not mind getting a bit dirty. If you have mobility issues, use the main paved entrance. Some side paths have steep stairs that might be difficult. You can find restrooms near the Riding School building.

Respect the historic nature of the plants and statues. Do not climb on the stone walls or fountain edges. Security guards often patrol the area to protect the site. Most visitors combine a garden walk with a full castle tour. This gives you a complete view of the town's history.

More Must-See Spots Near the Castle Grounds

After seeing the gardens, explore the rest of the complex. The castle itself is one of the largest in Central Europe. You can see the famous bears in the castle moat. They have lived there for centuries as part of a long tradition. It is a highlight for many families visiting the area.

If you have more time, visit the Minorite Monastery nearby. It offers a very different, quiet atmosphere compared to the castle. The gardens there are smaller but very well-kept. You can learn about the religious history of the region in their museum.

For a complete overview, try the top city highlights tour. It covers the main square and the riverfront areas. The Vltava River is the heart of the town. You can watch rafters go through the weirs from the castle viewpoints. It is a lively sight during the summer months.