Top 12 Sights Near the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre

The upper part of the castle complex holds many treasures for visitors to explore. You should start your journey at the top of the hill and walk downward. This allows you to enjoy the views without getting too tired. Many of these must-see places in Český Krumlov are free to enter. However, some specific attractions require a ticket or a reservation in advance.

The gardens are quite large and cover several hectares of land. You will find hidden paths, historic statues, and quiet corners for resting. It is a great place to escape the crowds of the lower town. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be steep. Here are the top items to include on your itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: The Revolving Theatre
• Best for families: The Castle Pond
• Best rainy-day: Castle Baroque Theatre
• Best free: Cascade Fountain

1. Name: The Revolving Theatre Type: Experience Why go: It is one of the only open-air revolving stages in the world. The audience rotates to follow the action in the garden. Best for: Theater lovers and couples. Where: Center of the Castle Garden. Time: 2-3 hours for a show. Cost: High; check how to get tickets for Revolving Theatre Krumlov early. Tip: Bring a warm jacket even in summer as nights get cold.
2. Name: Cascade Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This stunning Baroque fountain features statues of water deities and sea monsters. It marks the transition between the lower and upper gardens. Best for: Photography. Where: Entrance to the Castle Garden. Time: 15-20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light on the statues.
3. Name: The Summer House Bellarie Type: Sight Why go: This Rococo building serves as a backdrop for theatre performances. It is one of the most beautiful garden structures in Central Europe. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Near the Revolving Theatre. Time: 10 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view from outside. Tip: Look for the unique "flying table" mechanism inside if a tour is available.
4. Name: Castle Pond Type: Nature Why go: A peaceful lake at the very end of the garden. It is surrounded by tall trees and offers a quiet escape. Best for: Families and nature walks. Where: Far western end of the garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: You can often see water lilies blooming here in late summer.
5. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: Sight Why go: This massive multi-story bridge offers the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov. It connects the castle courtyards to the garden. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Between the 4th and 5th courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Walk across the top level for a bird's-eye view of the river.
6. Name: Castle Baroque Theatre Type: Museum Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world. It still contains original stage machinery and scenery. Best for: History buffs. Where: 5th Castle Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour). Cost: Moderate. Tip: Tours are limited to small groups, so book your spot immediately upon arrival.
7. Name: The Fifth Courtyard Type: Area Why go: This area serves as the gateway to the gardens. It has a unique atmosphere with historic stone walls and grand gates. Best for: Casual strolling. Where: Just before the garden entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check the opening hours for Český Krumlov Castle Gardens before walking up.
8. Name: The Bear Moat Type: Experience 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: Kids. Where: Between the 1st and 2nd courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit during feeding times to see the bears more active.
9. Name: Latrán District Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic neighborhood sits right below the castle. Our Latrán district walking guide highlights its colorful medieval houses. Best for: Shopping and dining. Where: Below the castle hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to walk. Tip: Look for the Red Gate which marks the main castle entrance.
10. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight Why go: A late-Gothic masterpiece that dominates the town skyline. The interior is filled with impressive religious art and tombs. Best for: Spiritual and history seekers. Where: Town center, across from the castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Respect ongoing services and visit the Church of St. Vitus landmark during quiet hours.
11. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: This gallery celebrates the life of the famous painter who lived in town. It features modern art exhibitions in a historic brewery. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Široká street in the old town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: The museum shop has excellent prints and unique souvenirs.
12. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Day trip Why go: Often called the most beautiful castle in the Czech Republic. It is an easy drive from Český Krumlov and looks like Windsor Castle. Best for: A full day out. Where: 35 km north of the city. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate for tours. Tip: Take a local bus or rent a car for the most flexibility.

Essential Tips for the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre

Planning a visit to the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre requires some foresight. The gardens are generally open from April to October. During the winter months, the gates are often closed for maintenance. You should check the official castle website for current dates. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon. The sun sets behind the hills and creates a golden glow over the town.

If you want to see a show at the theatre, book months in advance. The performances run from June to September and sell out quickly. Shows take place in the evening and continue even in light rain. You should bring a poncho as umbrellas are not allowed during performances. The revolving mechanism is a marvel of engineering that you must see in person. It moves so smoothly that you might not even notice the change at first.

Accessibility in the gardens can be a challenge for some. The main paths are gravel and can be difficult for wheelchairs or strollers. There are several steep inclines as you move toward the pond. However, the lower part of the garden near the fountain is mostly flat. Take your time and use the benches scattered throughout the park. The views of the Cloak Bridge architecture and views are worth the effort.

Exploring History Beyond the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre

After exploring the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre, head back into town. The historic center is small and easy to navigate on foot. You will find many charming cafes and local craft shops. For more information on the area, visit the Official Tourism portal. The town is famous for its winding streets and medieval charm. It is easy to get lost, but that is part of the fun.

The Vltava River loops around the town center, creating a unique shape. You can watch rafters navigate the weirs from the many riverside terraces. This area is perfect for a relaxing lunch after a morning of sightseeing. Many restaurants offer traditional Czech dishes like roast duck or dumplings. The atmosphere is especially lively during the summer months when festivals take place. You might even catch a street performance near the main square.

If you have extra time, consider visiting the local monasteries. They offer a glimpse into the religious history of the region. The gardens there are also very peaceful and less crowded than the castle. Český Krumlov is a place that rewards those who slow down. Whether you are at the Revolving Theatre or a small cafe, enjoy the moment. The history of this town is visible in every stone and every spire.