Exploring the Minorite Monastery Hidden Gardens

The Minorite Monastery hidden gardens are a true local treasure. These spaces were once used by monks for meditation and herbs. Today, they are open for everyone to enjoy. You can walk through the Tramp’s Garden or the Kitchen Garden. Each section has a different feel and purpose.

The architecture surrounding the gardens is very impressive. You will see Gothic and Baroque elements side by side. The high walls block out the noise of the town. This makes it one of the best local secrets in Cesky Krumlov for quiet reflection. It is a great place to read a book or take photos.

In 2026, the monastery continues to host many cultural events. You might find a small concert or a craft market here. The gardens are especially beautiful in late spring. Flowers bloom and the air smells like fresh herbs. It is a highlight of any trip to South Bohemia.

11 Best Things to Do Near the Gardens

This list includes the best sights within walking distance of the monastery. We have mixed iconic landmarks with quiet local spots. These picks ensure you see the full variety of the city. Here are the top 11 things to do near the Minorite Monastery hidden gardens.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall: Minorite Monastery Gardens
• Quick Pick: Best for Families: Monastery Craft Workshops
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy-Day: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel
• Quick Pick: Best Free: Latrán District Walk

1. Name: Minorite Monastery Gardens Type: Sight Why go: Experience the ultimate peace in the city center. Best for: Nature lovers and photographers. Where: Latrán District. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter gardens. Getting there: Walk from the main square toward the castle. Tip: Visit in the early morning for total silence.
2. Name: Monastery Craft Workshops Type: Experience Why go: Learn traditional Czech crafts like blacksmithing or bookbinding. Best for: Families and creative travelers. Where: Inside the Monasteries complex. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for materials. Getting there: Located directly adjacent to the gardens. Tip: Check the schedule for specific workshop times.
3. Name: Latrán District Type: Neighborhood Why go: Walk through the most historic streets outside the castle walls. Best for: History buffs. Where: North of the Vltava River. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: This is the area surrounding the monastery. Tip: Look for hidden gems in Latran district like small courtyards.
4. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: Museum Why go: See a perfectly preserved 19th-century photography studio. Best for: Art and history lovers. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Entry fee applies. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the monastery. Tip: Read a Museum Fotoatelier Seidel visit guide before you go.
5. Name: Křížová Hora Chapel Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get a panoramic view of the entire city and monastery. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: On the hill south of town. Time: 2 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green trail markers. Tip: Try hiking to Krizova Hora chapel at sunset for the best light.
6. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Art Why go: Explore the life and works of the famous expressionist painter. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Entry fee. Getting there: Cross the bridge from Latrán to the old town. Tip: The museum café is a great place to rest.
7. Name: Castle Quiet Paths Type: Nature Why go: Escape the main castle crowds on these wooded trails. Best for: Quiet walks. Where: Behind the Castle Gardens. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the castle theater. Tip: Use the Cesky Krumlov castle quiet paths to reach the pond.
8. Name: Graphite Mine Type: Activity Why go: Take an underground train into a real mine. Best for: Adventure seekers and kids. Where: Chvalšinská street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the monastery. Tip: Bring a light jacket as it is cold underground.
9. Name: Vltava River Banks Type: Nature Why go: Watch the rafters go by or dip your feet in the water. Best for: Summer relaxation. Where: Along the river edge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from many points in Latrán. Tip: Look for the small park near the wooden bridge.
10. Name: Plesivec Neighborhood Type: Neighborhood Why go: See where the locals actually live away from the tourists. Best for: Authentic atmosphere. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Seidel Museum. Tip: You can find great non-tourist restaurants in Cesky Krumlov here.
11. Name: Moldavite Shopping Type: Experience Why go: Buy a unique green gemstone found only in this region. Best for: Souvenir hunters. Where: Various shops in Latrán. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Varies. Getting there: Many shops are near the monastery entrance. Tip: Ask for a certificate of authenticity for your stone.