Climbing the Castle Tower: What to Expect

The short answer is that there are 162 steps to reach the top gallery. The climb is manageable for most visitors with moderate fitness levels. You will walk up a spiral stone staircase that narrows near the top. Small windows along the way provide glimpses of the castle courtyards below.

The tower dates back to the 13th century but gained its Renaissance look later. It is a symbol of the city's long and rich history. Many visitors find the effort well worth the reward at the summit. You can see the entire UNESCO World Heritage site from the balcony.

Before you start, check the weather and crowd levels. The gallery can feel cramped during peak summer hours. Aim for early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience. Here are some quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: The Castle Tower view.
• Best for families: The Castle Bears in the moat.
• Best rainy-day: The Castle Museum.
• Best free activity: Walking across the Cloak Bridge.

Top 10 Sights and Activities in Český Krumlov

Beyond wondering how many steps is the Český Krumlov Castle Tower, you should plan your full itinerary. The castle complex is massive and requires several hours to explore fully. The surrounding town is equally captivating with its winding alleys and riverside cafes.

1. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the most recognizable landmark in the city with 360-degree views. Best for: Photographers and first-time visitors. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate (included in some combined tickets). Getting there: Walk from the town center toward the Red Gate. Tip: Buy a combined ticket with the Castle Museum to save money.
2. Name: Castle Museum Type: Museum Why go: It offers deep insight into the lives of the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families. Best for: History buffs. Where: Hrádek (Little Castle) area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located right next to the tower entrance. Tip: Look for the 19th-century cinematic models of the castle.
3. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: Iconic sight Why go: This massive multi-story arched bridge offers stunning views without a climb. Best for: Easy walks and sunset views. Where: Connecting the fourth and fifth courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main path through the castle courtyards. Tip: Visit at night when the arches are beautifully illuminated.
4. Name: Baroque Castle Theater Type: Unique experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved theaters of its kind in the world. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Fifth Castle Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: High (limited capacity). Getting there: Walk past the Cloak Bridge to the upper castle. Tip: Book theater tours weeks in advance as they sell out.
5. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: A massive, manicured park featuring a revolving auditorium and a fountain. Best for: Relaxing and escaping the crowds. Where: The highest point of the castle complex. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the theater area. Tip: The gardens are usually closed during the winter months.
6. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic district was once home to castle craftsmen and servants. Best for: Wandering and shopping. Where: Below the castle walls. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the wooden Barber's Bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Look for the traditional gingerbread shops in this area.
7. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Activity Why go: Seeing the castle from the water provides a completely different perspective. Best for: Adventure seekers and groups. Where: Various rental points along the riverbank. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Most rental shops are in the town center or Latrán. Tip: Choose a wooden raft trip for a more traditional, relaxed experience.
8. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Iconic sight Why go: A stunning Gothic church that dominates the town skyline opposite the castle. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Kostelní street in the Old Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A short walk from the main square (Náměstí Svornosti). Tip: Be respectful of ongoing services when visiting.
9. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: It hosts world-class exhibitions of 20th-century art in a former brewery. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: Visit the official museum site for current exhibition details.
10. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: Indoor/Culture Why go: A peaceful complex offering a glimpse into medieval monastic life. Best for: Quiet reflection and history. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located near the Red Gate of the castle. Tip: Check out the craft workshops often held in the courtyards.

Practical Tips for Your Visit in 2026

When planning your trip, remember that visiting Český Krumlov Castle is very popular. In 2026, expect higher visitor numbers during the summer months of July and August. To have the best experience, try to stay overnight rather than visiting on a day trip. The town becomes much quieter after the tour buses leave at 5:00 PM.

Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The cobblestone streets and the 162 steps of the tower can be slippery when wet. If you have mobility issues, the tower climb may be difficult. However, many other parts of the castle courtyards are accessible via ramps.

For the best value, consider the Český Krumlov Card. It includes entry to the Castle Museum, the Tower, and several other museums. You can purchase this at the tourist office in the main square. Always check the official castle site for the most current opening hours.