The Iconic Cloak Bridge Arches

The Cloak Bridge is a massive stone structure. It connects different parts of the castle complex. This is one of the top Cloak Bridge viewpoint guide locations. The arches provide a dramatic frame for the town below.

You should arrive thirty minutes before the sun sets. This gives you time to set up your tripod. The light changes very quickly during the blue hour. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the whole scene. The bridge stays open all night for visitors in 2026.

Look for the small windows in the bridge walls. These offer unique views of the Vltava River. The castle tower glows brightly in the background. You can capture the orange roofs of the old town. Most photographers stay on the lower level for better angles.

Seminární Zahrada Viewpoint

Seminární Zahrada offers the most famous view in the city. It is a small park near the regional museum. This spot provides a direct view of the castle tower. It is one of the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov for night shots. The park is free to enter at all times.

The castle tower is illuminated with warm yellow lights. This contrasts perfectly with the deep blue sky. There are several stone benches along the wall. You can use these to steady your camera if needed. The view includes the entire castle ridge and the river.

Try to visit this spot on a weekday in 2026. Weekends can get crowded with other photographers. The blue hour lasts about twenty minutes in the summer. It lasts longer during the winter months. Bring a small flashlight to see your camera settings clearly.

Vltava Riverbank and Barber's Bridge

The Vltava River flows in a horseshoe shape through town. Standing by the water offers amazing reflection opportunities. Barber's Bridge is a wooden structure with historic statues. The bridge connects the old town with the castle district. It is a very romantic spot for evening photos.

• Walk down to the wooden platforms near the water.
• Use a long exposure to make the river look smooth.
• Capture the reflection of the castle tower in the river.
• Focus on the textures of the old wooden bridge.

The street lamps on the bridge have a vintage design. They cast a soft light on the wooden planks. This creates a cozy atmosphere for your images. Watch out for pedestrians walking across the bridge. A sturdy tripod is essential because the bridge can vibrate.

Castle Courtyards and Fifth Courtyard

Walking through the castle at night is a magical experience. The stone walls look ancient under the soft lamps. You can visit the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov for free after hours. The courtyards are quiet and very peaceful. You will find many hidden corners for great photos.

The Fifth Courtyard is located past the Cloak Bridge. It offers a high vantage point over the town. You can see the river winding through the dark buildings. The red roofs look dark and mysterious during the blue hour. This is a great place for panoramic shots.

The castle gates usually remain open until late evening. Check the local signs for the exact closing times. Most of the outdoor areas stay accessible all night. The cobblestones can be slippery if it rains. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for your walk.

Best Locations for Blue Hour Photography Gear

To get the best results, you need the right tools. A tripod is the most important piece of equipment. It keeps your camera still for long exposures. You should also use a remote shutter release. This prevents camera shake when you take the picture.

Check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal weather tips. Temperatures can drop quickly after the sun goes down. Bring extra batteries for your camera in 2026. Cold weather makes batteries drain much faster than usual. A lens cloth is also helpful for morning mist.

1. Set your ISO to the lowest possible number.
2. Use an aperture between f/8 and f/11 for sharpness.
3. Shoot in RAW format for better editing later.
4. Keep your camera bag zipped to avoid moisture.

The blue hour happens twice every single day. Plan your route through the city in advance. This helps you reach multiple spots in one evening. The town is very safe for walking at night. You will enjoy the quiet streets after the day tours leave.