Understanding Cloak Bridge Views and History

The Cloak Bridge, or Plášťový most, is a unique multi-story bridge. It spans a deep moat between the fourth and fifth castle courtyards. The bridge was built in several phases starting in the 17th century. Its current stone appearance dates back to 1767. This structure is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It served as a private passage for the nobility.

The bridge features three levels of covered corridors. These corridors allowed the lords to move between the palace and the theater. They could stay warm and dry while walking. Today, the bridge is open to the public for free walking. You can see the town and the Vltava River from its height. The history of the bridge reflects the wealth of the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families. It is a masterpiece of Baroque engineering.

Visiting the bridge is essential for any Czech Republic itinerary. You can learn more about the region at the Visit Czechia portal. The bridge looks different at every hour of the day. Morning light hits the statues on the top level beautifully. Evening shadows create a dramatic look against the castle walls. It remains one of the most photographed spots in the country.

10 Must-See Spots for Cloak Bridge Views and History

To truly appreciate the bridge, you must see it from various angles. Some spots are right on the bridge, while others are across town. Here are the top 10 locations to explore.

• Best overall: The Cloak Bridge walkway
• Best for families: The Castle Bear Pit
• Best for history: Castle Baroque Theater
• Best free view: Seminary Garden

1. Name: The Cloak Bridge Upper Walkway Type: Sight Why go: This is the main bridge level with incredible town views. You can see the statues of Saint Felix and Saint Wenceslaus. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Between the 4th and 5th Courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up through the castle gates from Latrán. Tip: Visit at sunrise to have the bridge to yourself.
2. Name: Castle Fifth Courtyard Type: Viewpoint Why go: This area provides a side-on view of the bridge's massive stone pillars. It helps you understand the scale of the construction. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Just past the bridge crossing. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge from the palace. Tip: Look for the small windows that look into the private corridors.
3. Name: Castle Baroque Theater Type: Experience Why go: This is one of the world's best-preserved Baroque theaters. The bridge corridors were built specifically to reach this building. Best for: Culture and history buffs. Where: Connected to the 5th Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes for a tour. Cost: Paid tour required. Getting there: Follow the path from the bridge. Tip: Book a Baroque Theater tour in advance as spots are limited.
4. Name: The Castle Bear Pit Type: Sight Why go: Bears have lived in the castle moat since the 16th century. It is a unique tradition of the Rosenberg family. Best for: Families with children. Where: Between the 1st and 2nd Courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to look. Getting there: Enter the castle via the main Red Gate. Tip: Learn more about the castle bears before your visit to understand their history.
5. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: This historic district sits right below the castle walls. It offers a looking-up view of the bridge towers. Best for: Exploring narrow streets and local shops. Where: The area directly below the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the town square across the barber's bridge. Tip: Check out these Latran hidden gems while you are there.
6. Name: Minorite Monastery and Gardens Type: Experience Why go: A peaceful complex that offers a different perspective on the town's religious history. The gardens are very quiet. Best for: A break from the castle crowds. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee for interiors. Getting there: A five-minute walk from the castle entrance. Tip: Visit the monastery gardens for a picnic with a view.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: This museum celebrates the famous expressionist painter who lived in the town. It is housed in a former brewery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street in the old town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walk from the main square toward the river. Tip: See the current art exhibitions on their official website.
8. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: Museum Why go: This is a perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio. It tells the story of the town through old photos. Best for: History and photography fans. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walk across the river from the main square. Tip: Use this Seidel museum guide to plan your tour.
9. Name: Graphite Mine Tour Type: Day trip Why go: Experience the industrial history of the region by going underground. It is a fun contrast to the castle. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Just outside the main town center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid tour. Getting there: Take a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Tip: Dress warmly as the graphite mine is cold even in summer.
10. Name: Castle Gardens Type: Nature Why go: These sprawling gardens sit at the very top of the castle complex. They offer views looking down toward the bridge. Best for: Relaxing walks. Where: Beyond the 5th Courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle all the way to the top. Tip: Don't miss the revolving auditorium located deep inside the garden.

Best Photography Spots for Cloak Bridge Views

Finding the perfect shot of the Cloak Bridge is a highlight for many. The most popular spot is the Seminary Garden. This garden is located next to the Regional Museum. It offers a direct, eye-level view of the castle and the bridge. You can see the bridge's arches clearly from here. It is best to visit in the afternoon for good lighting.

Another great spot is from the riverbank near the Barber's Bridge. From here, you look up at the massive height of the bridge. The perspective makes the structure look even more imposing. You can capture the reflection of the castle in the Vltava River. This spot is excellent for long-exposure shots at night. The bridge is beautifully lit after dark.

For a unique angle, head to the 5th Courtyard viewpoint. There are small openings in the wall designed for viewing. These frame the town of Český Krumlov perfectly. You can get a shot of the bridge railing in the foreground. This adds depth to your landscape photos. Always check the official castle site for seasonal opening times of these areas.

Practical Tips for Visiting Český Krumlov Castle

The castle area can get very crowded during the day. Most tour groups arrive between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. To enjoy the bridge in peace, arrive early or stay late. The bridge itself never closes, so you can walk across at night. The atmosphere is very magical when the streets are empty. Wear comfortable shoes because the paths are mostly cobblestone.

Entry to the castle courtyards and the bridge is free. However, you need tickets for the interiors and the tower. You can find detailed visitor info on the official tourism portal. If you plan to visit the museum, allow at least half a day. The climb to the castle tower is steep but worth it. It provides the highest view of the bridge from above.

There are many small cafes near the castle entrance. These are great for a quick coffee before your walk. Be aware that the castle gardens are closed during the winter months. The bridge remains open year-round, even in the snow. Seeing the bridge covered in white is a special experience. Always check the weather before you head out for photography.