Exploring the Cloak Bridge and Castle Gardens

The Cloak Bridge, or Plášťový most, is a unique structure built on massive stone pillars. It connects the fourth and fifth courtyards of the castle complex. The bridge has three levels of covered walkways and open arches. These levels allowed royals to walk from their rooms to the gardens and theater. Today, it serves as a primary pedestrian path for tourists.

Walking across the bridge feels like stepping back into the 18th century. The views change as you move from the lower arches to the upper galleries. You can see the Vltava River winding through the medieval town below. The red-tiled roofs of the Latrán district create a perfect backdrop. Many visitors spend hours capturing the perfect light from these heights.

The bridge leads directly into the expansive Castle Gardens. These gardens are a masterpiece of Baroque and Rococo landscape design. They offer a quiet escape from the busy town center. You will find fountains, statues, and rare trees throughout the park. Exploring both the bridge and gardens is a highlight of any Czech Republic trip.

11 Best Viewpoints from the Cloak Bridge Arches

Finding the right angle is key to great travel photos. These spots offer the best perspectives of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. Here are our top picks for your 2026 visit.

• Best overall: The Upper Bridge Gallery
• Best for families: The Cascade Fountain
• Best rainy-day: The Castle Theater Passage
• Best free: The Lower Archway Path

1. Name: The Upper Bridge Gallery Type: sight Why go: This is the most iconic spot for panoramas. It offers an unobstructed view of the town and the Castle Tower. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: Between the 4th and 5th courtyards. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Visit at sunset for golden hour light on the castle walls.
2. Name: The Fifth Courtyard Balcony Type: viewpoint Why go: Located just past the bridge, this stone balcony offers a side view of the bridge's architecture. It is one of the best viewpoints from the Cloak Bridge arches to see the height of the pillars. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Entrance to the Castle Gardens. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge from the castle. Tip: Look for the small stone statues along the railing.
3. Name: The Lower Archway Path Type: experience Why go: This path runs directly under the massive stone arches. It gives you a sense of the bridge's immense scale. Best for: Unique perspectives. Where: Road connecting the town to the garden entrance. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path from the Latrán district uphill. Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the arches.
4. Name: The Baroque Theater Terrace Type: sight Why go: This terrace provides a close-up look at the bridge's upper covered levels. It is quieter than the main walkway. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Next to the Castle Theater. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (terrace access). Getting there: Follow the signs for the theater from the 5th courtyard. Tip: Check the theater schedule to avoid tour groups.
5. Name: The Cascade Fountain Terrace Type: viewpoint Why go: This is a prime spot in the Castle Gardens. It looks back toward the bridge and the town. Best for: Garden views. Where: Lower section of the Castle Gardens. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes into the gardens from the bridge. Tip: The fountain usually runs from May to October.
6. Name: The Bellaria Summer Palace Type: experience Why go: This Rococo building is a garden centerpiece. The area around it offers elevated views of the garden layout. Best for: History buffs. Where: Middle of the Castle Gardens. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Walk through the center of the gardens. Tip: The revolving auditorium is located right next to this palace.
7. Name: The Castle Pond Path Type: nature Why go: Located at the far end of the gardens, the pond offers a peaceful atmosphere. It is a great place to see local birdlife. Best for: Nature walks. Where: Western end of the Castle Gardens. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main garden path to the very end. Tip: Bring some water as there are fewer shops in this area.
8. Name: The Vltava Riverbank at Latrán Type: sight Why go: This is the best place to see the Cloak Bridge from below. You can see how it spans the valley above the town. Best for: Classic postcard shots. Where: Near the Barber's Bridge in the town center. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the castle into the town. Tip: This spot is beautiful when the bridge is illuminated at night.
9. Name: The Castle Tower Balcony Type: viewpoint Why go: For the highest view in the city, climb the Castle Tower. You can see the bridge, the gardens, and the entire river bend. Best for: 360-degree views. Where: The Second Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Enter through the tower gate in the 2nd courtyard. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so go early to avoid the rush.
10. Name: Rožmberk Castle Lookout Type: day trip Why go: Located just 20 minutes away, this castle offers a different perspective on Bohemian history. It sits high above the Vltava River. Best for: Day trips. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate (for tours). Getting there: Take a local bus or a short train ride. Tip: Visit the torture museum inside if you like dark history.
11. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: Often called the most beautiful castle in the Czech Republic. Its white facade and English-style gardens are stunning. Best for: Fairytale vibes. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40 minutes by car or bus from Český Krumlov. Tip: Book your interior tour in advance during the summer.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Bridge and Gardens

To make the most of your trip, timing is everything. The Cloak Bridge is open 24 hours a day for pedestrians. However, the Castle Gardens have specific seasonal hours. They usually open at 8:00 AM and close at dusk. For the best lighting, arrive at the bridge before 9:00 AM. This helps you avoid the large tour groups that arrive by mid-morning.

Comfortable shoes are a must for this visit. The paths are made of cobblestones and gravel. Some sections near the lower arches are quite steep. If you have mobility issues, stick to the upper levels. You can access the bridge directly from the castle courtyards without many stairs. Always check the official castle website for current opening times.

Photography enthusiasts should bring a tripod for night shots. The bridge is beautifully lit after dark. This creates a dramatic effect against the night sky. In 2026, expect some minor restoration work in the gardens. Most paths will remain open, but some statues might be covered. Always respect the local signage and stay on marked paths.