The History of the Castle Bear Moat Tradition

The Castle Bear Moat tradition dates back to the 16th century. It began with the Rožmberk family, who owned the castle. They claimed a family link to the noble Orsini family of Italy. The name Orsini comes from the Latin word for bear. To honor this bond, they began keeping bears in the castle moat. This practice has continued for over 400 years.

Today, the bears are a symbol of the town’s long history. Visitors can see them in the moat between the first and second courtyards. The castle staff takes great care of these animals. They follow modern animal welfare standards to ensure their health. You can often see the bears playing or resting in their shaded enclosure.

The town celebrates the bears with special festivals throughout the year. On Christmas Eve and during the bear’s birthdays, locals bring treats. These treats usually include honey, fruit, and vegetables. It is a festive time for families and children. You can learn more about the castle's history on the official landmark site.

11 Best Things to Do in Český Krumlov

To help you plan, here are the top picks for your itinerary. This list includes the famous Castle Bear Moat tradition and other hidden gems. We have mixed iconic sights with unique local experiences. Use these tips to make the most of your time in Southern Bohemia.

• Best overall: State Castle and Chateau
• Best for families: Fairytale House Puppet Museum
• Best rainy-day: Moldavite Museum
• Best free: Exploring the Castle Gardens

1. Name: Castle Bear Moat Type: experience Why go: To see the historic Castle Bear Moat tradition in person. It is a unique link to the town's medieval past. Best for: History buffs and families. Where: Between the 1st and 2nd castle courtyards. Time: 15-30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from the bridge. Getting there: Walk up the main castle ramp from the Old Town. Tip: Visit in the morning when the bears are most active.
2. Name: State Castle and Chateau Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic. The interiors are filled with Renaissance and Baroque treasures. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Castle District. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by tour; usually 200-300 CZK. Getting there: Located on the hill overlooking the river. Tip: Book tour tickets online in advance during summer months.
3. Name: Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: For the best 360-degree views of the town and the Vltava River. The tower is a symbol of the city's power. Best for: Photographers. Where: Second castle courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 150 CZK. Getting there: Enter through the castle gate and follow signs to the tower. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so wear comfortable shoes.
4. Name: Baroque Theatre Type: museum Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Baroque theatres in the world. The original machinery and scenery still work. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Fifth castle courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Guided tour required; check Baroque Theatre guided tours for pricing. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge to the upper castle. Tip: Tours are limited to small groups, so book early.
5. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: This gallery honors the famous Austrian painter who lived here. It features modern art and historical exhibits. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Široká Street. Time: 1.5-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main town square. Tip: Check the official museum site for temporary exhibitions.
6. Name: Wooden Raft Cruise Type: experience Why go: See the town from a different perspective on the water. These rafts are modeled after traditional Bohemian vessels. Best for: Relaxing and sightseeing. Where: Docks along the Vltava River. Time: 50 minutes. Cost: Check wooden raft sightseeing cruises for current rates. Getting there: Various boarding points near the town center. Tip: Evening cruises offer a romantic view of the lit-up castle.
7. Name: Minorite Monastery Type: experience Why go: Explore the peaceful courtyards and try traditional crafts. It is a quiet escape from the busy streets. Best for: Hands-on learners. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Varies by workshop; see Minorite Monastery craft workshops. Getting there: Located in the historic Latrán area near the castle. Tip: Great for kids who want to try blacksmithing or baking.
8. Name: Graphite Mine Type: day trip Why go: Take a small train deep underground to see how graphite was mined. It is an adventurous change of pace. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: 15-minute walk from the town center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Check Graphite Mine tour details. Getting there: Follow the signs toward the outskirts of town. Tip: It is cold underground, so bring a jacket even in summer.
9. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Type: museum Why go: A perfectly preserved 19th-century photo studio. It tells the story of the region through old photographs. Best for: History buffs. Where: Linecká Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: See Museum Fotoateliér Seidel visit info. Getting there: Located just south of the main bridge. Tip: The audio guide is excellent and very detailed.
10. Name: Moldavite Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn about the green semi-precious stones created by a meteorite impact. It features interactive displays. Best for: Science fans. Where: Panská Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Check Moldavite Museum interactive exhibits. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: You can buy certified moldavite jewelry in the gift shop.
11. Name: Fairytale House Puppet Museum Type: museum Why go: See a collection of over 200 historic puppets. It celebrates the long tradition of Czech puppetry. Best for: Families with children. Where: Radniční Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Affordable for families. Getting there: Near the Town Hall in the center. Tip: Children can try operating some of the puppets.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to the Castle

When visiting the castle, arrive early in the morning. The gates open before the tour rooms do. This is the best time to see the Castle Bear Moat tradition without crowds. You can walk through the courtyards for free. The castle is very large, so wear sturdy walking shoes. Most paths are made of old, uneven stones.

Ticketing can be confusing because there are many different tours. Tour A focuses on Renaissance rooms. Tour B covers the later history of the Schwarzenberg family. If you only have time for one, choose Tour A. You should also visit the Castle Gardens. They are located at the very top of the hill and are beautiful in spring.

Accessibility can be a challenge in this medieval town. Many buildings have steep stairs and no elevators. If you have mobility issues, stick to the main squares. The town center is mostly pedestrian-only. You can park your car in designated lots outside the historic core. From there, it is a short and scenic walk into town.