Start at the Main Castle Gate

You should begin your journey at the famous Red Gate near the busy town center. This historic gate serves as the primary main entrance to the entire castle complex. Visitors will find this gate at the very far end of the popular Latrán street. Most visitors choose to start their castle exploration from this specific and historic point.

Walk through the first courtyard and past the tall castle tower with its colors. The path leads steadily uphill toward the inner castle buildings and the higher grounds. You will see clear signs directing you toward the higher courtyards and the bridge. Keep an eye out for the bears living in the castle moat below you.

Check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website for the latest opening hours. Most outdoor castle areas are free to enter during the bright daylight hours. You should wear comfortable walking shoes for this long and steady uphill trek. The path is well-marked and easy to follow for most castle visitors here today.

You will enjoy the historic atmosphere as you walk through the ancient castle stone gates. Take your time to enjoy the unique details of the medieval castle walls and towers. The climb is worth the effort for the spectacular views that await you later.

Navigating the Middle Castle Courtyards

Continue walking through the large stone archways into the beautiful second castle courtyard area. This area houses the historic castle mint and the old dairy buildings for visitors. You can see the castle tower views from this lower and very accessible vantage point. The architecture here dates back several centuries to the early Renaissance period.

Follow the passage into the third and fourth courtyards of the castle complex. These spaces feature stunning Renaissance wall paintings on every single side of the buildings. Take a moment to admire the detailed artwork on the colorful and historic facades. The path continues through a dark and vaulted tunnel toward the next section.

The fourth courtyard is the final stop before you reach the bridge area. It feels much more enclosed and intimate than the previous large courtyard sections. You are now very close to the famous 5th Castle Courtyard bridge view. Follow the growing crowd toward the large stone opening at the very end.

How to Get to 5th Courtyard Bridge Easily

You must cross the massive stone Cloak Bridge to reach your final destination. This multi-story stone bridge connects the residential palace to the large castle gardens. It offers your first major panoramic view of the historic town and river. Many people stop here to take photos of the winding Vltava River below.

Enter the 5th courtyard immediately after you finish crossing the large Cloak Bridge. You will find yourself in a large and open plaza with many buildings. This area leads toward the Castle Theater and the expansive castle gardens beyond. The bridge you seek is located at the far end of this courtyard.

Walk past the historic theater building located on your right-hand side of the path. The path narrows as you approach the rear castle wall and the view. This is the specific spot for the 5th Castle Courtyard bridge view that everyone loves. You will find several small openings in the stone wall for your camera.

Position yourself carefully at the edge of the stone railing for the best castle view. From here, you can see the entire castle complex in one single and perfect frame. It is the most famous photo spot in the entire historic city of Krumlov.

Planning Your Visit in 2026

Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds during your 2026 trip. The 5th courtyard can get very busy by midday with many large tour groups. You will have much better light for your photography during these very early hours. Aim to arrive before 9:00 AM for a peaceful and quiet castle experience.

There is no cost to walk through the courtyards or cross the castle bridges. The outdoor castle grounds remain open until dusk every single day of the year. Check the Visit Czechia site for regional travel updates and news. You can learn about the difference between Cloak Bridge and 5th courtyard before you arrive.

Allow at least 30 minutes for the walk from the main town center area. The incline is steady and requires a moderate level of physical fitness for visitors. Bring plenty of water, especially during the warm and sunny summer months in 2026. This simple preparation will ensure you have a wonderful time at the castle.