12 Amazing Free Things to Do in Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is a fairy-tale town that feels like a living museum. Many travelers worry that a UNESCO World Heritage site will be expensive to visit. However, you can find many incredible free things to do in Český Krumlov if you know where to look. You do not need a large budget to enjoy the winding streets and historic architecture. This guide covers the best sights that cost nothing at all.

From stunning castle views to peaceful river walks, there is something for everyone here. Most of the town's charm lies in its atmosphere and public spaces. You can spend hours wandering through medieval alleys without spending a single koruna. This list will help you plan a perfect budget-friendly itinerary. Check out the best things to do in Český Krumlov to start your planning.

Quick Picks for Your Visit:

Best Overall: The Castle Courtyards
Best for Families: The Castle Gardens
Best View: Seminární Zahrada
Best Rainy Day: St. Vitus Church

Exploring the Castle Grounds and Courtyards

The castle is the crown jewel of the city. While guided tours of the interior cost money, much of the complex is open to the public. You can walk through the massive courtyards to admire the Renaissance murals. This is one of the most essential free things to do in Český Krumlov. The scale of the architecture is truly breathtaking from the ground level.

The castle complex is the second largest in the Czech Republic. It towers over the Vltava river and offers a sense of history at every turn. You can see the famous castle bears in the moat for free as well. Walking through the gates feels like stepping back into the 16th century. Be sure to visit the official castle website for seasonal opening times of the gates.

Name: The Castle Courtyards Type: Sight Why go: Admire the stunning sgraffito wall paintings and massive medieval architecture. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Castle District Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk up the ramp from Latrán street. Tip: Look up at the painted windows; some are actually optical illusions.
Name: The Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This multi-story stone bridge offers one of the most iconic views of the town. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: Between the 4th and 5th castle courtyards. Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards toward the gardens. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the Old Town.
Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: A massive, manicured Baroque garden with fountains and a revolving theater. Best for: Families and quiet walks. Where: The highest point of the castle complex. Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the path uphill from the Cloak Bridge. Tip: The gardens are usually closed during the winter months.

Historic Squares and Neighborhoods to Wander

Wandering through the town center is a highlight of any trip. The streets are lined with colorful buildings and unique shops. You can easily spend an afternoon exploring the Latrán district and the Old Town. Each corner offers a new perspective on the town's medieval layout. This is the heart of the UNESCO zone.

The town is very compact and easy to navigate on foot. You will find many small bridges and hidden courtyards as you walk. The atmosphere changes throughout the day as the light hits the ancient stone. If you visit in December, you can enjoy the local Christmas markets for free. The festive decorations make the town feel even more magical.

Name: Náměstí Svornosti (Old Town Square) Type: Sight Why go: The central hub of the town featuring the Plague Column and the Town Hall. Best for: People watching and orientation. Where: Inner Town Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: All main roads in the Old Town lead here. Tip: Check out the small fountain which has been a meeting spot for centuries.
Name: Latrán District Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic area was once home to castle craftsmen and servants. Best for: Exploring medieval alleys. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Cross the Barber's Bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Look for the Budějovice Gate, the only remaining original city gate.
Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: A stunning example of South Bohemian Gothic architecture with impressive vaulted ceilings. Best for: Architecture lovers and rainy days. Where: Kostelní street. Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free (donations welcome) Getting there: A short walk uphill from the main square. Tip: Please remain quiet as this is an active place of worship.

Best Free Viewpoints and River Walks

Finding the perfect vantage point is a must in this scenic town. There are several spots where you can get a panoramic view without paying for a tower climb. These locations are perfect for capturing the red-tiled roofs and the winding river. You can find many scenic viewpoints scattered around the hills. Most are just a short walk from the center.

The Vltava River is the lifeblood of the city. Walking along its banks allows you to see the town from a lower perspective. You can watch rafters navigate the weirs during the summer months. It is a relaxing way to spend an hour or two. This area is also great for families with kids who need space to run.

Name: Seminární Zahrada Type: Viewpoint Why go: A terrace garden offering a postcard-perfect view of the Castle and the Round Tower. Best for: Photography. Where: Next to the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk up Horní street from the main square. Tip: This is the most popular spot for selfies in the whole town.
Name: Vltava Riverbank Type: Experience Why go: Relax by the water and watch the wooden rafts go by. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Various spots along the river loops. Time: 30-60 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the paths that run parallel to the water. Tip: The area near the Barber's Bridge is the liveliest spot for river watching.
Name: Horní Brána Overlook Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers a wide-angle view of the entire town nestled in the river bend. Best for: Seeing the town's unique shape. Where: Near the bus station (AN). Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk toward the main bus station from the center. Tip: This is the first view many visitors see when arriving by bus.

Nature Escapes and Free Day Trips Nearby

If you have more time, explore the areas just outside the town center. The surrounding hills offer great hiking opportunities and fresh air. These spots are rarely crowded and provide a break from the tourist center. You can learn more about outdoor spaces in our garden guide. Nature is one of the best free resources in South Bohemia.

Many beautiful villages are within a short distance of the city. While some require a bus, others are reachable by a long walk or bike ride. You can see the national tourism board site for regional trail maps. Exploring the countryside gives you a deeper look at Czech culture. These trips are perfect for those staying more than one day.

Name: Křížová hora (Mountain of the Cross) Type: Nature Why go: A hike to a white chapel on a hill with sweeping views of the Bohemian Forest. Best for: Hikers and peace seekers. Where: South of the town center. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the blue-marked hiking trail from the town. Tip: Bring water as there are no shops at the top of the hill.
Name: Minorite Monastery Gardens Type: Experience Why go: A peaceful, renovated garden complex that is often overlooked by tourists. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Near the Latrán district. Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Enter through the monastery gates near the castle. Tip: It is a great place to sit and read a book away from the crowds.
Name: Rožmberk nad Vltavou Type: Day Trip Why go: A charming village with its own castle just a short distance away. Best for: Seeing more of the Vltava valley. Where: 20km south of Český Krumlov. Time: Half-day Cost: Free to wander the village. Getting there: A scenic 20-minute drive or a local bus ride. Tip: Walk up to the castle exterior for great views of the river bend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Český Krumlov castle free to enter?

Yes, you can enter the castle courtyards and gardens for free. However, you must buy a ticket for guided tours of the interior rooms, the castle tower, and the museum. Walking through the grounds is one of the best free things to do in Český Krumlov.

When is the best time to find free events in the city?

The best time for free events is during the Five-Petalled Rose Festival in June or the Christmas markets in December. While the festival sometimes requires an entry fee for the center, many smaller performances and the markets themselves are free to browse and enjoy.

Can I see the castle bears for free?

Yes, the castle bears live in the moat between the first and second courtyards. You can view them from the bridge above at no cost. They are usually active during the warmer months, while they may hibernate or stay indoors during winter.

Český Krumlov is a destination that proves you do not need to spend a lot to have a rich travel experience. By focusing on the free things to do in Český Krumlov, you can see the best of this UNESCO site while saving your money for a nice Czech meal. Start your journey at the castle courtyards and end with a sunset at Seminární Zahrada. For more planning tips, read our guide on the best things to do in Český Krumlov. Enjoy your budget-friendly adventure in South Bohemia!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.

Český Krumlov Official Tourism — Official DMO portal. (unverified)
Visit Czechia — National tourism board. (unverified)
UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO listing. (unverified)
Lonely Planet — Major editorial travel guide. (unverified)
State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov — Official landmark site. (unverified)
Egon Schiele Art Centrum — Major city museum. (unverified)