The History: Why Was the Cloak Bridge Built Initially?

The Cloak Bridge, or Plášt’ový most, dates back to the 18th century. Its primary purpose was to connect the castle residence with the theater and gardens. Before the stone bridge, wooden walkways existed in this spot. These older paths were often unstable and exposed to the weather. The noble families wanted a more permanent and grand solution.

So, why was the Cloak Bridge built initially with such a complex design? The Eggenberg and Schwarzenberg families needed private access. They wanted to move between the palace and the garden without entering the public streets. The bridge features multiple covered levels. This allowed the lords to walk in comfort regardless of the rain or snow. It also served as a defensive structure for the UNESCO World Heritage site.

The bridge stands on massive stone pillars. These pillars reach high above the castle moat. The architecture is unique because it blends fortification with elegance. You can learn more about this in our guide to Cloak Bridge architecture and history. Today, it remains one of the most photographed spots in the Czech Republic.

10 Essential Sights Around the Cloak Bridge

Planning a trip in 2026 requires knowing the best spots. Here are the top attractions to visit around the castle complex.

• Best overall: Cloak Bridge
• Best for families: Bear Moat
• Best rainy-day: Castle Theater
• Best free: Castle Courtyards

1. Name: Cloak Bridge Type: sight Why go: It offers the most iconic views of the town and river. Best for: Photographers and history lovers. Where: Between the 4th and 5th courtyards. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to walk the open levels. Getting there: Walk up from the Latrán district. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best photo spots near the Cloak Bridge.
2. Name: Baroque Castle Theater Type: experience Why go: One of the best-preserved theaters of its kind in the world. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Just past the Cloak Bridge. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid guided tour only. Getting there: Access via the bridge's upper levels. Tip: Book tickets weeks in advance as tours are very limited.
3. Name: Castle Garden Type: nature Why go: A massive 17th-century garden with a revolving auditorium. Best for: Relaxing walks. Where: Top of the castle hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the upper bridge level. Tip: Check the fountain at the center for beautiful carvings.
4. Name: Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: The highest point in the city for a 360-degree view. Best for: Brave climbers and view seekers. Where: 2nd courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Follow signs from the main castle entrance. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so wear comfortable shoes.
5. Name: Bear Moat Type: sight Why go: Bears have lived in this moat since the 16th century. Best for: Families with children. Where: Between the 1st and 2nd courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Pass through the main red gate. Tip: Look for the bears early in the morning when they are active.
6. Name: Masquerade Hall Type: indoor Why go: Features incredible 18th-century wall paintings. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Inside the main palace. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the main castle tour. Getting there: Join a guided tour at the visitor center. Tip: Look for the painted figures that seem to follow you.
7. Name: Latrán Neighborhood Type: neighborhood Why go: The historic street leading to the castle is full of charm. Best for: Shopping and dining. Where: Below the castle walls. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main town square. Tip: Try the local gingerbread in the small bakeries here.
8. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: Dedicated to the famous Austrian painter who lived here. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Old Town center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the castle. Tip: The museum shop has unique artistic souvenirs.
9. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: experience Why go: A peaceful religious complex with beautiful cloisters. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Near the castle entrance. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Located in the Latrán district. Tip: Visit the craft workshops often held in the courtyards.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning white castle inspired by Windsor Castle. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: 30km from Český Krumlov. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Paid entry for interiors. Getting there: 40-minute drive or local bus. Tip: The park surrounding the castle is perfect for picnics.

Planning Your Visit to the Bridge

To make the most of your visit, start early in the day. The castle complex can get very crowded by noon. Most visitors enter through the main gate and walk upward. You should consult a Cesky Krumlov castle complex guide for map details. This will help you find the different levels of the bridge.

Remember that the bridge has three distinct levels. The lowest level is an open walkway for the public. The two upper levels are enclosed corridors for guided tours. If you want to see the private passages, you must book a tour. Check the official castle website for current prices. The views from the public level are still spectacular and free.

Wear sturdy shoes because the paths are made of old cobblestones. The walk from the river up to the gardens is steep. There are many benches along the way to rest. Bring a water bottle, especially during the warm summer months. Most areas are accessible, but the tower and some cellars have many steps.