Hidden Terraces of the Castle Gardens

The castle gardens cover a massive area high above the town center. Most visitors only see the fountain and the main flower beds. You should walk further into the upper terraces for true peace. These areas offer some of the best secret viewpoints in Český Krumlov away from the noise. The gardens are open daily from April through October.

Look for the Bellarie Summerhouse located deep within the park grounds. This Rococo building provides a beautiful backdrop for your photos. Nearby, you will find the unique rotating theater structure. The elevation here allows you to look down on the castle rooftops. You can see the intricate details of the chimneys and tiles.

Entrance to the main garden area is free for all visitors. It takes about fifteen minutes to walk here from the main gates. Wear comfortable shoes as the paths are made of gravel. The gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site of great beauty. Plan to spend at least one hour exploring these green spaces.

Visit during the late afternoon for the softest lighting conditions. The shadows stretch across the manicured lawns and stone statues. You will find several benches tucked away in quiet corners. These spots are perfect for resting while enjoying the view. It is one of the most romantic places in the city.

Panoramic Vistas from Křížová Hora

Křížová Hora is also known as the Mountain of the Cross. It sits on a high hill overlooking the entire valley. This spot is famous among locals but often ignored by tourists. You must hike Krizova Hora to see the most complete town panorama. The walk takes about twenty to thirty minutes from the center.

The path follows a historic Way of the Cross with small chapels. Each station offers a slightly different angle of the landscape below. At the top, you will find a beautiful white pilgrimage chapel. This building was constructed in the seventeenth century. The atmosphere here is very spiritual and incredibly quiet.

From this height, the Vltava River looks like a silver ribbon. You can see how the water curves around the historic core. The red roofs of the town create a vibrant mosaic. It is the best place to understand the layout of the city. Bring a zoom lens to capture the castle tower clearly.

This viewpoint is especially magical during the autumn months in 2026. The surrounding forests turn bright orange and deep red. There are no entrance fees or closing times for the hill. However, the chapel interior is only open during specific events. Always check the local weather before starting your climb.

Secret Riverbank Perspectives near the Vltava

Many people view the river from the high bridges in town. However, the Vltava river banks offer unique low-angle perspectives. Walk toward the area known as Myší Díra or the Mouse Hole. You will find small wooden docks and stone paths near the water. These spots provide a dramatic view of the castle walls.

The castle seems much larger when you look up from the river. You can see the massive stone foundations built into the cliffs. This perspective is perfect for capturing reflections on a calm day. The water acts like a mirror for the colorful castle tower. It is a favorite spot for local painters and artists.

You can also find great views near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. This museum is located in a historic brewery building. The nearby alleys lead directly to the water's edge. You will find fewer crowds here than on the main bridge. It is a great place to watch the wooden rafts float by.

Riverside cafes offer a chance to sit and enjoy the scenery. You can grab a Czech beer and watch the sunset. The sound of the rushing water is very relaxing. Most of these riverbank paths are accessible throughout the year. Watch your step on the wet stones during the winter.

The Quiet Charm of the Seminary Garden

The Seminary Garden is located right next to the Regional Museum. It is one of the most popular photo spots in the city. However, most people only stay for a quick selfie. If you linger, you can find quiet corners with framed views. The garden features a low stone wall that overlooks the castle.

This garden offers a perfectly centered view of the Castle Tower. You can see the Saint Vitus Church rising above the town. The flower beds are beautifully maintained during the summer months. In 2026, the garden will host several small outdoor art displays. It is a wonderful place to experience the local culture.

• Best time: Early morning before 9:00 AM
• Cost: Completely free to enter
• Location: Horní Street near the museum
• Feature: Perfect view of the castle bridge

The morning sun hits the castle facade directly from this spot. This creates a golden glow that is perfect for photography. You can see the intricate paintings on the tower walls clearly. Many travelers miss the small rose garden at the back. Be sure to explore the entire perimeter of the terrace.

Secret Views from the Fifth Castle Courtyard

The State Castle and Chateau has five main courtyards. Most tourists stop after the fourth courtyard near the bridge. You should continue further to the fifth courtyard for better views. This area is much quieter and feels more private. You can find small stone windows built into the outer walls.

These windows act like natural frames for the town below. Each opening offers a slightly different slice of the landscape. You can see the winding streets and the river from a high angle. This is one of the best secret viewpoints in Český Krumlov for detail shots. The stone masonry provides a rustic border for your pictures.

The Cloak Bridge is another architectural marvel in this section. It is a massive multi-story stone bridge with arched walkways. You can walk across the top level to reach the theater. The views from the bridge arches are iconic and breathtaking. It connects the residential parts of the castle to the gardens.

Take your time to explore the hidden staircases in this area. Some lead to small terraces that are often empty. You can enjoy the view without being pushed by large groups. The castle staff keeps these areas very clean and safe. It is a highlight of any visit to the fortress.

Night Photography Spots in Český Krumlov

The town takes on a completely different mood after the sun sets. The crowds disappear and the historic buildings are beautifully lit. You should look for night photography spots near the main bridge. The illuminated Castle Tower looks like something from a storybook. The yellow lights reflect off the dark river water.

Walking through the empty Latrán district is a unique experience. The cobblestone streets shine under the soft glow of the lamps. You can capture the shadows of the ancient arches on the ground. Use a tripod to get the sharpest images of the night sky. The air is often crisp and clear in the evenings.

Head to the Cloak Bridge for a high-altitude night view. You can see the twinkling lights of the town stretching into the distance. The silence of the night makes the experience very peaceful. It is the perfect time for a romantic stroll with your partner. Most of the castle exteriors remain lit until late at night.

The main square is also very photogenic during the blue hour. This is the time just after sunset when the sky is deep blue. The contrast between the sky and the warm building lights is stunning. You will find that 2026 offers many new lighting installations. Český Krumlov truly never sleeps when it comes to beauty.