Understanding the Český Krumlov Castle Bears

The tradition of keeping bears at the castle dates back to the 16th century. The noble Rosenberg family claimed a kinship with the Italian Orsini family. Since "orsa" means bear in Italian, they kept the animals to show their status. You can learn more about the history of bear keeping to understand this deep connection. Today, the bears are no longer symbols of power but residents under professional care.

A dedicated bear keeper looks after the animals every day. This specialist manages their diet, health, and habitat. The keeper ensures the bears receive fresh fruit, vegetables, and honey. They also hide food to encourage natural foraging behaviors. While the stone moat looks old, the care behind the scenes is modern. Experts from zoos often consult on their well-being.

The castle management has made several upgrades to the moat recently. They added water features, climbing structures, and shaded areas. These changes help the bears stay active and cool. Visitors often see them swimming or playing with logs. However, the use of a stone moat remains a topic of debate among animal rights groups.

Are the Castle Bears Treated Well?

When asking if are the castle bears treated well, it is important to look at their daily lives. The bears receive regular veterinary checkups. They are vaccinated and treated for any age-related issues. Many of the bears currently living there were rescued from poor conditions elsewhere. For them, the moat provides a stable and safe environment with guaranteed food.

The enclosure is cleaned daily by the staff. The bears are moved to indoor quarters during cleaning for safety. These indoor areas are climate-controlled and private. This gives the animals a break from the public eye. The keepers also use positive reinforcement to manage the bears without stress.

Public opinion on the bears is divided. Some see it as a cruel tradition, while others see it as a rescue mission. The State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov works to balance these views. They focus on education and improving the physical environment. If you visit, avoid throwing food into the moat, as this can harm their health.

10 Best Things to Do in Český Krumlov

Beyond the bear moat, this city offers many unique places in Český Krumlov to explore. Here are the top picks for your 2026 itinerary:

• Best overall: State Castle and Chateau
• Best for families: Vltava River Rafting
• Best rainy-day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• Best free activity: Latrán Neighborhood walk

1. Name: The Bear Moat Type: Iconic sight Why go: See the historic brown bears in their traditional home. Best for: History lovers and families. Where: Between the first and second courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Walk through the main castle gate. Tip: Go at 10:00 AM to see the morning feeding.
2. Name: State Castle and Chateau Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is a massive complex with stunning interiors. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Castle District. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by tour type. Getting there: Follow the signs from the town square. Tip: Buy tickets online to skip the long lines.
3. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get the best 360-degree views of the town. Best for: Photographers. Where: Second courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Approximately 150 CZK. Getting there: Climb the stairs inside the tower base. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb.
4. Name: Baroque Theater Type: Museum Why go: It is one of the best-preserved theaters in the world. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Fifth courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Guided tour only. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Book a Baroque Theater tour early as spots are very limited.
5. Name: Castle Garden Type: Nature Why go: Enjoy a peaceful walk in a manicured park. Best for: A quiet break. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the theater. Tip: Look for the rotating auditorium in the center.
6. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: Explore the oldest part of the town with colorful houses. Best for: Wandering and shopping. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Stop at a local bakery for a ginger cookie.
7. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: Unique experience Why go: See the castle from a different perspective on the water. Best for: Adventure. Where: River banks in town. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK per raft. Getting there: Multiple rental shops near the center. Tip: Be prepared to get a little wet at the weirs.
8. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: See world-class modern art in a historic brewery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Around 200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum cafe for great coffee.
9. Name: The Monasteries Type: Cultural Why go: Discover the religious history and peaceful courtyards. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near Latrán. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for grounds; paid for exhibitions. Getting there: Walk toward the northern edge of Latrán. Tip: Check for local craft workshops held here.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Day trip Why go: Visit a white Tudor-style castle often called the most beautiful in Czechia. Best for: Fairytale vibes. Where: 30km from town. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Bus fare plus tour fee. Getting there: Take a direct bus from the main station. Tip: Walk through the UNESCO listed landscape surrounding the area.