Must-See Hidden Gems Inside Český Krumlov Castle

The castle complex is the second largest in the Czech Republic. It features five courtyards and over forty buildings. Most people only see the main tower or the bridge. These items are the true hidden gems inside Český Krumlov Castle. They offer a deeper look at aristocratic life and medieval engineering. Make sure to check the official castle site for seasonal opening times. Some areas are only open during the warmer months.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - The Baroque Theater
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - The Castle Moat Bears
• Quick Pick: Best Views - The Castle Bell Tower
• Quick Pick: Best Free Spot - The Cascade Fountain

1. Name: The Baroque Theater Type: Historic Experience Why go: It is one of the world's most preserved theaters. You can see original stage machinery and scenery from the 18th century. Best for: History buffs and art lovers. Where: Fifth Courtyard. Time: 45-minute guided tour. Cost: Approximately 300 CZK. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge to the far end of the complex. Tip: Book tickets weeks in advance as group sizes are very small.
2. Name: The Wenceslaus Cellars Type: Experience Why go: These vast underground vaults are cool even in summer. They often host contemporary art exhibitions. Best for: Art fans and those seeking a break from the sun. Where: Fourth Courtyard. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee for exhibitions. Getting there: Look for the stone stairs leading down in the Fourth Courtyard. Tip: Bring a light jacket as the temperature stays low underground.
3. Name: The Castle Mint Type: Museum Why go: This building once produced coins for the local lords. Today, it houses fascinating exhibits about castle life. Best for: People interested in local history and economics. Where: Second Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in some museum tickets. Getting there: Located on the left side as you enter the Second Courtyard. Tip: Look at the detailed wood carvings on the ceiling.
4. Name: The Castle Lapidarium Type: Museum Why go: It holds the original Baroque statues from the castle gardens. They are kept here to protect them from the weather. Best for: Photography and sculpture lovers. Where: Near the Cloak Bridge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Accessible via the Fourth Courtyard area. Tip: Compare these originals to the replicas you see outside.
5. Name: The Castle Bell Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: While the main tower is famous, the bell tower offers a different angle. It is one of the top secret viewpoints in Cesky Krumlov. Best for: Photographers. Where: Second Courtyard. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included with tower entry. Getting there: Climb the stairs inside the main tower complex. Tip: Go early in the morning for the best light on the town below.
6. Name: The Upper Tier of the Cloak Bridge Type: Sight Why go: Most people walk across the public level of this bridge. The upper levels are private corridors for the royals. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Connecting the palace to the theater. Time: Part of a guided tour. Cost: Included in Tour Route I or II. Getting there: Only accessible via official guided tours. Tip: Notice how the bridge resembles a Roman aqueduct from afar.
7. Name: The Cascade Fountain Type: Nature/Sight Why go: This grand fountain is the center of the castle gardens. It features beautiful statues of water deities. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: Castle Gardens. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to visit the gardens. Getting there: Walk past the theater into the large park. Tip: Visit in late spring when the surrounding flowers are in full bloom.
8. Name: The Revolving Auditorium Type: Experience Why go: This is a modern theater in the middle of a Baroque garden. The entire seating area rotates during the show. Best for: Fans of unique theater performances. Where: Far end of the Castle Gardens. Time: 2-3 hours for a show. Cost: Varies by performance; usually expensive. Getting there: A 10-minute walk through the gardens. Tip: Shows are usually in Czech but use subtitles or visual storytelling.

Secret Spots and Views Near the Castle

After seeing the hidden gems inside Český Krumlov Castle, explore the surrounding area. The town has many quiet spots that offer peace away from the crowds. You can find lush gardens and industrial history just steps away. For instance, the Minorite monastery gardens are a perfect quiet oasis. These locations provide a full picture of the region's diverse history.

9. Name: Křížová Hora (Cross Hill) Type: Day Trip/Hike Why go: This hill offers the most iconic panoramic view of the castle and town. It is a peaceful pilgrimage site. Best for: Hikers and sunset watchers. Where: Southern edge of town. Time: 1-2 hours for the hike. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the marked trail from the town center. Tip: Check out our guide on the Krizova Hora hike for the best path.
10. Name: The Castle Moat Bears Type: Sight Why go: Bears have been kept in the castle moat since the 16th century. It is a long-standing tradition of the Rosenberg family. Best for: Families with children. Where: Between the First and Second Courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view from the bridge. Getting there: You must cross this bridge to enter the main castle. Tip: Look for the bears early in the morning when they are most active.
11. Name: The Graphite Mine Type: Activity Why go: This is a cool underground adventure near the castle grounds. You can ride a mine train and learn about mining. Best for: Adventure seekers and kids. Where: Short walk from the castle gardens. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: Around 250 CZK. Getting there: Follow the signs for the Graphite Mine tour. Tip: They provide protective clothing, but wear sturdy shoes.

Planning Your Visit to the Castle Complex

Visiting the castle requires some planning. The complex is open year-round, but many interiors close in winter. Most guided tours run from April to October. If you visit in 2026, expect updated ticketing systems. You can often buy tickets online to skip the long lines. The castle is very steep and has many cobblestones. Wear comfortable walking shoes for your visit.

Try to arrive early in the morning. The courtyards are usually quiet before 10:00 AM. This is the best time to photograph the architecture. You can also visit late in the afternoon. Most tour buses leave by 4:00 PM. This gives you a peaceful experience in the gardens. Always check for special events or festivals. The castle often hosts concerts and medieval fairs.