Top 10 Best Castles Near Český Krumlov List

Exploring South Bohemia feels like stepping into a storybook. The region is famous for its dense forests and winding rivers. High on the hills, ancient fortresses keep watch over the Vltava valley. These sites offer a mix of Gothic strength and Renaissance elegance. You should plan for at least one full day for the larger estates. Smaller ruins are perfect for a quick hike and a picnic. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Hluboká nad Vltavou
• Best for families: Rožmberk Castle
• Best for hikers: Dívčí Kámen
• Best free site: Dívčí Kámen (grounds)

1. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: sight Why go: This is the second-largest castle complex in the country. It features a stunning Baroque theater and a unique bridge. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: City center, Český Krumlov. Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: Moderate (tours vary). Getting there: Walking distance from any city hotel. Tip: Visit the castle gardens for a peaceful escape from the crowds.
2. Name: Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle Type: sight Why go: It is often called the most beautiful castle in the Czech Republic. The white walls and ornate towers look like Windsor Castle in England. Best for: Romantic couples and architecture lovers. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A 30-minute drive or bus ride. Tip: Read our full Hluboká day trip guide before you go.
3. Name: Rožmberk Castle Type: experience Why go: This castle sits high above a bend in the Vltava River. It was the ancestral home of the powerful Rožmberk family. Best for: Riverside views and medieval history. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: 25 minutes by car or local bus. Tip: Check out the Rožmberk Castle tour for ghost stories.
4. Name: Dívčí Kámen Type: day trip Why go: These massive ruins sit on a high rock near the river. It is a romantic spot surrounded by nature and hiking trails. Best for: Hikers and nature enthusiasts. Where: Near Třísov. Time: 3 hours (including hike). Cost: Very cheap. Getting there: Take a train to Třísov, then hike 2 km. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the hiking trip to Dívčí Kámen.
5. Name: Třeboň Chateau Type: sight Why go: This Renaissance chateau is located in a famous spa town. It features beautiful courtyards and an English-style park. Best for: A relaxing afternoon combined with spa visits. Where: Třeboň. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 45 minutes by car. Tip: Try the local carp specialty in the town square nearby.
6. Name: Červená Lhota Type: sight Why go: This bright red castle sits in the middle of a lake. You can rent a boat and row around the castle walls. Best for: Families and unique photos. Where: Near Jindřichův Hradec. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Best reached by private car (1 hour). Tip: See the opening hours for Červená Lhota online.
7. Name: Vyšší Brod Monastery Type: experience Why go: While a monastery, this site is a fortified complex with castle-like walls. It houses a world-famous library and the Záviš Cross. Best for: Culture and religious history. Where: Vyšší Brod. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 30 minutes by car or train. Tip: Follow our Vyšší Brod travel guide for logistics.
8. Name: Jindřichův Hradec Castle Type: sight Why go: This is one of the largest castle complexes in Bohemia. It shows a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mannerist styles. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Jindřichův Hradec. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 1 hour by car. Tip: Visit the Roundel music pavilion for its amazing acoustics.
9. Name: Kratochvíle Chateau Type: sight Why go: This is a unique Italian-style Renaissance villa. It is surrounded by a moat and beautiful gardens. Best for: Art lovers and quiet walks. Where: Near Netolice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: 40 minutes by car. Tip: Look for the detailed stucco work inside the main hall.
10. Name: Landštejn Castle Type: day trip Why go: This is a powerful Romanesque fortress near the Austrian border. You can climb the tower for views of the "Czech Canada" region. Best for: Panoramic views and rugged history. Where: Near Slavonice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Cheap. Getting there: 1 hour 15 minutes by car. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the town of Slavonice.

Planning Your Trip to South Bohemian Castles

Visiting the sites on the best castles near Český Krumlov list requires some planning. Public transport in South Bohemia is reliable but can be slow. Trains connect larger towns, while buses reach smaller villages. Renting a car is the best way to see multiple castles in one day. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Many travelers choose to stay in Český Krumlov as their home base. From here, you can reach most sites within an hour.

Check the weather before you head out to the ruins. Sites like Dívčí Kámen or Landštejn are mostly outdoors. They can be slippery during rainy days in spring or autumn. Most chateaux are open from April through October. Some larger sites offer limited winter tours on weekends. Always check the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website for official updates. This ensures you do not arrive at a closed gate.

Food is another important part of your castle day trip. Most castle towns have traditional Czech taverns nearby. You can enjoy hearty meals like goulash or roast pork. These restaurants are often cheaper than those in the center of Český Krumlov. It is a great way to experience local life. If you are visiting Červená Lhota, consider bringing a picnic. The lake shore is a perfect spot for a lunch break.

Important Tips for Visiting Czech Castles in 2026

In 2026, many castles will use digital entry systems. It is wise to book your tour tickets online in advance. This is especially true for Hluboká and Český Krumlov. Popular time slots often sell out during the summer months. Most sites offer tours in English, German, and Czech. English tours may run less frequently than Czech ones. You can often use a printed guide if an English tour is not available.

Photography rules vary between the different sites. Most castles allow photos in the courtyards and gardens. However, many forbid photography inside the historic rooms. This is to protect the delicate fabrics and paintings. Always look for signs or ask your guide before clicking. Some sites may charge a small fee for a photo permit. Respecting these rules helps preserve the history for future visitors.

Accessibility is improving across the South Bohemia region. Older fortresses with steep stairs can still be challenging. However, many Renaissance chateaux have accessible ground floors. Hluboká and Třeboň have relatively flat paths in their parks. If you have mobility concerns, contact the castle office in advance. They can often provide specific advice on the best routes. This makes the best castles near Český Krumlov list accessible to everyone.