The Magic of the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre

The Castle Garden dates back to the 17th century. It was originally designed as a private space for the ruling lords. Today, it is open to everyone for free. You can see many different styles of gardening here. There are formal French sections with neat hedges. There are also English-style parks with large meadows. The garden is located at the very top of the Cesky Krumlov castle complex. Walking here feels like stepping back into the Baroque era.

The Revolving Theatre is a modern marvel within this historic setting. It was built in the 1950s. The entire seating area rotates 360 degrees during the performance. This allows the actors to use the garden as a natural stage. It is one of only a few such theaters in the world. Watching a play here is a truly unique experience. The forest and manor houses become part of the story. It creates a sense of immersion that indoor theaters cannot match.

Many people visit for the architecture and the views. The garden offers some of the best viewpoints in Cesky Krumlov. You can look down over the Vltava River and the red roofs of the town. The atmosphere changes with the seasons. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn offers golden leaves. It is a place for quiet reflection and grand entertainment. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk.

10 Must-See Highlights at the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre

To make the most of your trip, check out these top picks. This list includes the best sights inside the garden and nearby spots. Use these top sights in Cesky Krumlov to plan your route. Here are the 10 best things to see and do.

• Best overall: Revolving Theatre
• Best for families: The Castle Pond
• Best rainy-day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• Best free: Cascade Fountain

1. Name: Revolving Theatre Type: Experience Why go: It is a world-famous open-air stage that rotates during shows. Best for: Culture lovers and couples. Where: Upper part of the Castle Garden. Time: 2-3 hours for a show. Cost: High (tickets vary). Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards to the top. Tip: Book tickets months in advance as they sell out fast.
2. Name: Cascade Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This grand Baroque fountain features statues of water deities. Best for: Photography and history fans. Where: The slope between the upper and lower garden. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the main path of the garden. Tip: Visit during the day when the water is running.
3. Name: Bellaria Summer Manor Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Rococo building used as a backdrop for the theatre. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Next to the Revolving Theatre. Time: 10 minutes (exterior only). Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Follow the signs to the theatre. Tip: Look for the unique "magic table" inside during special tours.
4. Name: The Castle Pond Type: Nature Why go: A quiet lake at the far end of the garden with water lilies. Best for: Families and nature lovers. Where: The westernmost point of the park. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the very end of the main garden path. Tip: This is the quietest part of the garden for a picnic.
5. Name: Castle Baroque Theatre Type: Experience Why go: One of the best-preserved theaters of its kind in Europe. Best for: History buffs. Where: Fifth castle courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate (tour required). Getting there: Use the castle baroque theater tour entrance. Tip: You must join a guided tour to see the interior.
6. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: Sight Why go: A massive multi-story bridge with incredible views of the town. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Connecting the castle and the garden. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across it to reach the garden. Tip: Read about the cloak bridge history before you go.
7. Name: Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: The most iconic symbol of the city with 360-degree views. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Second castle courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Follow signs for climbing the castle tower. Tip: There are 162 steps to reach the top.
8. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: A large gallery dedicated to the famous expressionist painter. Best for: Art fans. Where: In the town center, below the castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the castle entrance. Tip: Check out the art centrum visit guide for current exhibits.
9. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: Experience Why go: A peaceful complex with gardens and historical workshops. Best for: Families and craft lovers. Where: Latran district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Varies by activity. Getting there: Use the monastery complex guide for directions. Tip: Great for kids who want to try traditional crafts.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning white Neo-Gothic castle often called the most beautiful in Czechia. Best for: Fairytale vibes. Where: 30km from Cesky Krumlov. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40-minute drive or bus from the main station. Tip: Book your interior tour online before you arrive.

Essential Tips for Your Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre Visit

Planning is key for the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre. The garden is usually open from April to October. During winter, parts of it may be closed for safety. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. This helps you avoid the largest tour groups. The garden is quite large and slopes upward. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and water. There are few places to buy drinks inside the park itself.

If you want to see a show, check the official castle site. The Revolving Theatre season runs from June to September. Shows happen at night, even if it rains lightly. Bring a warm jacket because the garden gets cold after sunset. Most plays are in Czech, but many have English subtitles via tablets. You should arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts. Late entry is usually not allowed due to the moving stage.

Photography is allowed in the garden but restricted during theater shows. Respect the quiet areas near the Bellaria Summer Manor. The garden is a great place for a slow walk. You can enter from the castle or the upper parking lot. Most paths are gravel, so strollers might be a bit bumpy. There are public toilets near the entrance of the garden. Always check the weather forecast before you start your walk.

Best Attractions Near the Castle Garden

After exploring the garden, head back down into the town. The Latran neighborhood is right at the foot of the castle. It is full of medieval charm and small shops. You can find many cozy cafes for a quick break. The Visit Czechia site has great dining tips. Walking through Latran feels like a journey through time. Look for the old wooden doors and stone carvings.

The Vltava River is another major highlight nearby. You can watch rafters navigate the weirs from the bridges. Many people enjoy a short boat trip around the town. This gives you a different view of the castle walls. The river banks are perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. You can find several riverside restaurants with great views. It is the perfect way to end a busy day of sightseeing.

If you have extra time, visit the local museums. The town has a rich history of brewing and crafts. You can learn about the noble families who lived here. The Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg families shaped the entire region. Their influence is visible in every building and garden. Exploring the town center helps you understand the garden's context. It is a small city with a very big history.