Detailed Guide to Český Krumlov Castle Interiors

The castle is the second largest in the Czech Republic. It features five courtyards and many historic buildings. Most of the Český Krumlov Castle interiors are only accessible via guided tours. These tours are divided into specific routes. Route I focuses on the oldest history. Route II explores the later 19th-century life. You should plan your time carefully. Each tour lasts about an hour. Wear comfortable shoes for the stone floors. The interiors are usually open from April to October. Some parts, like the museum, stay open all year.

Here are the top highlights you must see inside and around the castle:

1. Name: Tour I: Renaissance and Baroque Apartments Type: Sight Why go: This is the most popular tour. It shows the original rooms of the Rosenberg and Eggenberg families. Best for: History lovers. Where: Upper Castle. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Moderate (approx. 240 CZK). Getting there: Walk from the second courtyard. Tip: Book this tour first as it sells out quickly.
2. Name: Tour II: Schwarzenberg Apartments Type: Sight Why go: See how the nobility lived in the 1800s. The rooms are filled with personal items and rich tapestries. Best for: Fans of 19th-century luxury. Where: Upper Castle. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is in the third courtyard. Tip: Look for the detailed family portraits in the dining room.
3. Name: Baroque Castle Theater Type: Experience Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world. The original stage machinery still works. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Fifth courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: High (limited entry). Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Tours are very small, so book weeks in advance.
4. Name: The Masquerade Hall Type: Sight Why go: This room features incredible 3D-style murals from 1748. The painted figures look like they are standing in the room. Best for: Art fans and photographers. Where: Part of Tour I. Time: 10 minutes (during tour). Cost: Included in Tour I. Getting there: Follow the guide from the third courtyard. Tip: Try to spot the artist's self-portrait in the murals.
5. Name: The Castle Museum Type: Museum Why go: It is open year-round and offers a deep dive into castle life. You can see rare artifacts and religious relics. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Second courtyard (Little Castle). Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Enter through the Hrádek building. Tip: This is a great alternative if the main tours are full.
6. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Climb 162 steps for the best views of the town. The interior walls show the tower's ancient construction. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Second courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Entrance is next to the Castle Museum. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the narrow stair crowds. Use our guide to best viewpoints in Cesky Krumlov for more spots.
7. Name: The Golden Carriage Type: Sight Why go: A stunning carriage made of gilded walnut wood from 1638. It was used for a diplomatic mission to the Pope. Best for: Seeing royal wealth. Where: Part of Tour II. Time: 5 minutes (during tour). Cost: Included in Tour II. Getting there: Located in the carriage hall section. Tip: Notice the real gold leaf used on the wheels.
8. Name: The Castle Chapel of St. George Type: Sight Why go: A beautifully decorated sacred space with a mix of Gothic and Baroque elements. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Upper Castle. Time: 10 minutes (during tour). Cost: Included in Tour I. Getting there: Part of the main palace walk. Tip: Look up at the ornate ceiling decorations.
9. Name: Wenceslas Cellars Type: Experience Why go: These massive underground vaults host modern art exhibitions. The atmosphere is cool and mysterious. Best for: Unique art experiences. Where: Fourth courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Follow the signs down from the courtyard level. Tip: Bring a light jacket as it is cold downstairs.
10. Name: Cloak Bridge Passage Type: Sight Why go: The bridge has hidden interior corridors connecting the palace to the theater. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Between the 4th and 5th courtyards. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior) / Tour only (interior). Getting there: Walk from the Upper Castle toward the garden. Tip: Read about the Cloak Bridge architecture and views before you go.
11. Name: Castle Garden Type: Nature Why go: A massive 17th-century park with a revolving theater. It is a perfect place to relax after the tours. Best for: Families and walkers. Where: Beyond the 5th courtyard. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Check the castle garden and revolving theatre schedule for summer shows.
12. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight Why go: While not in the castle, its interior is the spiritual heart of the town. It houses the tombs of the castle lords. Best for: Gothic architecture. Where: Town center. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the castle entrance. Tip: Visit the Church of St Vitus landmark for a quiet break from the crowds.

Essential Tips for Your Interior Tour

Booking in advance is the most important rule. The Český Krumlov Castle interiors are very popular. You can buy tickets on the official castle site. Tours are offered in several languages, including English. If you miss the English tour, you can use a printed guide. Photography is usually forbidden inside the historic rooms. This helps protect the ancient textiles and paintings. Please respect this rule to help preserve the history.

Plan your arrival at least 15 minutes before your tour starts. The castle complex is large and involves uphill walking. There are no elevators in the historic parts. Most tours require climbing several flights of stairs. If you have mobility issues, the Castle Museum is the easiest to access. Large bags must be left in lockers near the ticket office. Small purses are usually allowed inside. Always check the weather if you plan to visit the garden too.