Opening Hours for Český Krumlov Castle Gardens in 2026

The castle gardens are seasonal and do not stay open all year. They usually open in early April and close at the end of October. During the winter months, the gates remain locked to protect the grounds. It is important to check the official landmark site for any temporary closures. Most visitors find that the gardens are most beautiful in late spring.

From April 1 to April 30, the gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The same hours apply during the month of October. In the peak season from May 1 to September 30, the hours are longer. You can explore from 8:00 AM until 7:00 PM. This gives you plenty of time for a sunset walk.

• April: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• May to September: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• October: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• November to March: Closed

Entry to the main garden area is free for everyone. You do not need a ticket to walk the paths or see the fountain. However, the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre area may have restricted access during show times. Always plan to arrive at least two hours before closing to see everything.

10 Must-See Highlights in and Near the Castle Garden

Beyond the flowers, there are many specific spots to discover. These items represent the best of the castle grounds and the surrounding area. Use this list to plan your walking route through the complex.

1. Name: The Baroque Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the most famous landmark in the upper garden. Best for: Photographers. Where: Upper Garden. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Look for the detailed stone sculptures of water deities.
2. Name: The Revolving Theatre Type: experience Why go: It is a world-unique outdoor stage that rotates during the play. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Center of the Castle Garden. Time: 2-3 hours for a show. Cost: Varies by performance. Getting there: Follow the main garden path. Tip: You must book tickets months in advance for summer shows.
3. Name: Bellarie Summer Pavilion Type: sight Why go: This Rococo building is a rare architectural gem. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Revolving Theatre. Time: 10 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view outside. Getting there: Located in the middle section of the garden. Tip: It serves as a backdrop for many theatrical plays.
4. Name: The Castle Pond Type: nature Why go: It is a quiet spot at the very end of the garden. Best for: Couples and families. Where: Far end of the garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the highest point of the garden. Tip: It is often covered in beautiful water lilies during July.
5. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the old town. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Between the castle courts and the garden. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Read about the Cloak Bridge architecture to appreciate its multi-story design.
6. Name: Castle Bear Moat Type: experience Why go: Bears have lived in the castle moat since the 16th century. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Between the first and second courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Entry point of the castle. Tip: Visit during the morning feeding time to see them active.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: It features world-class modern art in a historic brewery. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Town center, near the river. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the castle. Tip: The gallery has a great cafe for a break.
8. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: It is often called the most beautiful castle in the country. Best for: Fairy-tale architecture. Where: 30km north of the city. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free for grounds; paid for tours. Getting there: Take a local bus or drive. Tip: The white facade is stunning for photos in the afternoon.
9. Name: Holašovice Village Type: day trip Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for Baroque farms. Best for: Rural history. Where: 25km from the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free to walk the village. Getting there: Best reached by car. Tip: Visit the "Stonehenge" rock formation nearby.
10. Name: Vyšší Brod Monastery Type: day trip Why go: It houses one of the most beautiful historic libraries in Europe. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: 30 minutes south. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Paid guided tours. Getting there: Accessible by train or car. Tip: Dress warmly as the stone buildings are cool even in summer.

Practical Tips for Your Castle Garden Visit

Visiting the gardens requires a bit of physical effort. The path from the town to the garden is quite steep. Wear comfortable walking shoes to handle the cobblestones and gravel paths. Many visitors combine the gardens with a tour of the must-see places in Český Krumlov. This allows you to see the interiors and the greens in one day.

If you want to avoid crowds, go early in the morning. Most tour groups arrive after 10:00 AM. The garden is very large, so it rarely feels packed. However, the area near the Baroque Fountain can get busy. Photographers should aim for the "golden hour" just before the gates close.

There are limited facilities inside the garden itself. You will find a small refreshment stand near the Revolving Theatre. For a full meal, it is better to head back down to the town. Public restrooms are located near the entrance gate of the garden. Keep a few small coins ready for the entry fee.