10 Best Quiet Places to Sit by Vltava River

Finding a peaceful spot in a popular UNESCO town requires a little walking. Most visitors stay in the main square or the castle courtyards. If you head toward the riverbanks, you will find a different atmosphere. These spots offer a mix of nature and history. Many are just a five-minute walk from the busy streets. Here are the top locations to enjoy the water in silence.

• Best overall: Rooseveltova Street Benches
• Best for families: Městský Park
• Best for sunset: Horní Brána Path
• Best free spot: Rybářská Street Bank

1. Name: Rooseveltova Street Riverbank Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a stunning, low-angle view of the castle towers. Best for: Photographers and couples. Where: Horní Brána neighborhood. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the main bridge and turn left onto Rooseveltova. Tip: Visit during the golden hour for the best light on the castle walls.
2. Name: Městský Park (City Park) Type: Park/Nature Why go: This is a large green space with many access points to the water. Best for: Families and picnickers. Where: Southern edge of the old town. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the main square toward the bus station. Tip: Look for the small stone steps that lead directly into the water.
3. Name: Rybářská Street Benches Type: Experience Why go: This street runs right along the water and feels like a quiet village. Best for: People-watching rafters from a distance. Where: Below the castle rocks. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the bridge near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: This area is one of the best hidden spots in Cesky Krumlov for morning coffee.
4. Name: The "Island" (Ostrov) Type: Sight Why go: A small island near the brewery that feels miles away from the crowds. Best for: Hearing the sound of the river weir. Where: Near the Eggenberg Brewery. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path behind the brewery complex. Tip: Bring a book; the sound of the rushing water masks city noise perfectly.
5. Name: Monastery Garden Lower Terrace Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: The Monasteries Český Krumlov have beautiful gardens that slope toward the river. Best for: Quiet reflection and history lovers. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually free access to gardens. Getting there: Enter through the main monastery gates in Latrán. Tip: The lower terrace is much quieter than the upper courtyard.
6. Name: Myší díra (The Mouse Hole) Steps Type: Experience Why go: A steep, narrow staircase that leads to a tiny rocky beach. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Near the entrance to the park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look for the sign "Myší díra" near the bridge to the park. Tip: The rocks can be slippery, so wear shoes with good grip.
7. Name: Parkán Street Embankment Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic street has small openings between buildings that lead to the river. Best for: A quick escape during a busy sightseeing day. Where: Old Town center. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down Parkán street and look for the small alleys. Tip: Many cafes here have private terraces, but the public docks are free.
8. Name: Horní Brána Lower Trail Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: A dirt path that runs parallel to the river with high-up views. Best for: Walkers and hikers. Where: Above the Rooseveltova area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the trail markers from the regional museum. Tip: This is a great place to see secret viewpoints in Cesky Krumlov.
9. Name: Nové Spolí Riverbank Type: Nature Why go: It is located just outside the main tourist zone. Best for: Watching the local rafting culture. Where: South of the city center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south along the river for about 20 minutes. Tip: There are small kiosks here selling local snacks for much lower prices.
10. Name: Zlatá Koruna Abbey Bank Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning medieval monastery located right on a quiet bend of the Vltava. Best for: A full afternoon of peace. Where: 8km north of Český Krumlov. Time: Half-day. Cost: Small fee for abbey tour; riverbank is free. Getting there: Take a local train or bus (15 minutes). Tip: The walk from the train station to the river is very scenic.

Tips for Enjoying Secluded Riverside Spots Vltava

To make the most of your time, visit these spots early in the morning. Before 10:00 AM, the river is mostly empty of rafts and tour groups. The water is very clean, but you should check if swimming is allowed in Vltava River at your specific spot. Some areas have strong currents near the weirs. Always carry a light jacket, as the air near the water is cooler.

Respect the local environment by taking your trash with you. Many of these quiet spots are maintained by local residents. If you plan to have a picnic, the Český Krumlov Official Tourism site provides updates on local rules. In 2026, expect some riverside paths to have improved seating and lighting. Most spots are safe, but stay aware of the water levels after heavy rain.

Nearby Riverside Escapes Outside the Center

If the town feels too crowded, head toward the surrounding countryside. The Vltava valley is full of hidden gems. You can rent a bike and follow the river path toward the north or south. These trails are mostly flat and offer many places to stop. You will find small wooden docks used by fishermen that are perfect for sitting.

The village of Rožmberk is another excellent choice for a day trip. It has a smaller castle and a very wide, calm section of the river. It is much quieter than the city center. You can reach it by bus in about 30 minutes. It offers a truly authentic Bohemian experience away from the main tourist trail.