Essential Tips for Walking the Cloak Bridge

Walking the Cloak Bridge is a unique experience. This bridge has several levels of arched galleries. The lowest level is an open walkway for the public. It is free to access and stays open all day. You can see the entire old town from this height. The red roofs and church spires look beautiful from here. It is the most popular spot for photography in the city.

The upper levels are enclosed corridors. These were built for the nobility to move privately. You can only access these levels with a guided tour. These tours show the connection between the castle and the theater. It is worth booking a tour to see the architecture inside. The bridge is very high, so hold onto your camera tightly. Strong winds can sometimes blow across the open gallery.

To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning. Sunrise offers a soft light on the castle walls. Sunset is also popular but much busier. Most tour groups arrive after 10:00 AM. If you want a quiet walk, try visiting after 6:00 PM. The bridge is beautifully lit at night. It feels very romantic and peaceful after the day-trippers leave.

10 Best Things to Do Near the Cloak Bridge

There is so much to see around the bridge area. You can easily spend two full days exploring. Most sights are within a short walking distance. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestone. Here are the top activities to include in your itinerary.

1. Name: State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov Type: sight Why go: It is the second largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. The architecture spans several centuries. Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers. Where: Castle District. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour; courtyards are free. Getting there: Walk up from the Latrán area. Tip: Visiting the castle requires booking tours in advance during summer.
2. Name: Castle Gardens Type: nature Why go: These massive gardens feature a revolving theater and a beautiful fountain. It is a peaceful escape from the town center. Best for: Relaxing walks and families. Where: Behind the Cloak Bridge. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge and follow the path up. Tip: Spend time exploring the gardens during the late afternoon for the best light.
3. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: experience Why go: Seeing the town from the water provides a new perspective. You will pass right under the Cloak Bridge. Best for: Adventure seekers and kids. Where: Various launch points along the river. Time: 1–3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Rental shops are located near the town center. Tip: Try rafting on the Vltava for a fun way to cool off in July.
4. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: This gallery honors the famous Austrian painter who lived here. It features modern art and historical exhibits. Best for: Art enthusiasts and rainy days. Where: Široká street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: A five-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Use your visit to the art center to escape the midday heat.
5. Name: Latrán Historic District Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the oldest part of the town. It is filled with colorful medieval buildings and craft shops. Best for: Shopping and photography. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free to wander. Getting there: Cross the Barber’s Bridge from the old town. Tip: Look for the hidden courtyards that house small cafes. Find more ideas in our guide to best things to do.
6. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: museum Why go: This is a perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio. It tells the story of the town through old photos. Best for: History fans and photographers. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Entry fee applies. Getting there: A short walk south of the main square. Tip: Book a tour of the studio to see the original glass plate negatives.
7. Name: The Graphite Mine Type: experience Why go: You can ride a mine train deep underground. It shows the industrial history of the region. Best for: Families and curious travelers. Where: Chvalšinská road. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A 15-minute walk or short bus ride from the center. Tip: Wear a jacket because it is cold inside the mine even in summer.
8. Name: Monasteries Český Krumlov Type: sight Why go: This restored complex offers insight into monastic life. It has beautiful gardens and craft workshops. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Klášterní street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Entry fee for exhibitions. Getting there: Located in the Latrán district. Tip: Visit the official monastery site for workshop schedules.
9. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: Often called the most beautiful castle in the country. It looks like Windsor Castle in England. Best for: A full-day excursion. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou (30km north). Time: 4–6 hours. Cost: Entry fee for tours. Getting there: Take a bus or train from the main station. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby České Budějovice.
10. Name: Holašovice UNESCO Village Type: day trip Why go: This village features unique "South Bohemian Folk Baroque" architecture. It is a very well-preserved historic settlement. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: 25km north of the city. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Best reached by car or local bus. Tip: Visit during the "Peasant Fair" in July for local crafts.

Planning Your Visit to Český Krumlov

Most people visit as a day trip from Prague. However, staying overnight is a better choice. The town becomes magical after the tour buses leave. You can enjoy a quiet dinner by the river. Many hotels are located in historic buildings. Booking early is essential for the summer months.

The weather in South Bohemia is usually mild. Summers are warm but can have sudden rain. Spring and autumn are the best times for walking. The autumn leaves make the castle views look stunning. Winter is cold but very festive. The official tourism portal has info on seasonal events.

Public transport is the easiest way to arrive. Buses from Prague take about three hours. Trains are also available but can be slower. Once you arrive, you do not need a car. The town center is entirely pedestrian-friendly. Just be ready for many stairs and hills near the castle.