Understanding the Red Gate Entrance

The Red Gate serves as the primary gateway from the Latrán district into the first castle courtyard. It is a wooden, crimson-colored gate that marks the start of your castle adventure. You do not need to pay a fee just to walk through this gate. It remains open to the public for most of the day and night.

Once you pass the gate, you will find yourself in the Salt House courtyard. This area includes the castle pharmacy, a lapidarium, and the famous bear moat. While the courtyard is free, the attractions branching off from here require specific tickets. Understanding this distinction helps you plan your budget and time effectively.

If you are looking for quiet places in Český Krumlov, the first courtyard can be quite busy. It is often filled with tour groups and photographers. However, it provides the most direct route to the ticket office and the main castle interiors. Always keep your belongings secure in this high-traffic area.

How to Get Red Gate Entrance Tickets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying tickets for the castle attractions is a straightforward process if you know where to go. Follow these steps to secure your entry to the museum and tower.

1. Step 1: Arrive at Latrán Street. Walk toward the castle from the town center. The Red Gate is impossible to miss. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Common mistake: Searching for a ticket booth outside the gate.
2. Step 2: Locate the Ticket Office. Once inside the gate, look for the "Pokladna" sign on the right side of the courtyard. Time: 10-20 minutes in line. Cost: 150-300 CZK depending on the tour. Common mistake: Forgetting that some tours sell out hours in advance.
3. Step 3: Choose Your Attraction. Decide if you want the Castle Museum, the Tower, or a specific guided tour. You can view the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov official site for current prices. Time: 2 minutes. Cost: Varies. Common mistake: Buying a museum ticket when you only wanted the Tower view.
4. Step 4: Validate Your Entry. Use your printed or digital ticket at the turnstiles for the Tower or present it to your guide. Time: 1 minute. Cost: Included. Common mistake: Losing your ticket before reaching the second courtyard.

• Checklist:
• Valid ID for student or senior discounts.
• Comfortable walking shoes for steep stairs.
• A charged phone for digital tickets.
• Small change for nearby restrooms.

Red Gate Entrance Tickets and Opening Hours for 2026

The Red Gate itself is usually open from dawn until late in the evening. However, the ticketed attractions have much stricter schedules. In 2026, the Castle Tower and Museum typically open at 9:00 AM. During the peak summer season, they remain open until 6:00 PM, while winter hours often end at 4:00 PM.

Guided tours have specific time slots that vary by language. It is vital to check the daily schedule posted at the ticket office. Most tours do not run on Mondays during the shoulder season, though the Tower often remains open. Always verify the latest updates on the official portal before your visit.

If you prefer a late afternoon visit, the crowds tend to thin out after 4:00 PM. This is an excellent time to climb the Tower for golden hour views. Just ensure you arrive at least 45 minutes before the official closing time to allow for the climb. The gate remains accessible even after the museums close, allowing for evening walks through the courtyards.

Finding Peace Near the Red Gate

After navigating the busy castle entrance, you might want a change of pace. The what to see inside the Minorite Monastery complex guide highlights many tranquil spots. The monastery is just a short walk from the Red Gate and offers a spiritual atmosphere.

The monastery gardens are particularly beautiful in the spring and summer. Unlike the castle courtyards, these gardens are often nearly empty. You can sit on a bench and enjoy the view of the castle tower from a distance. It is a great place to process the history you just learned at the castle.

For more information on the monastery's cultural offerings, visit the Monasteries Český Krumlov website. They often host workshops and concerts that provide a deeper look into local life. Combining these two sites gives you a full picture of the city's religious and aristocratic history.

Troubleshooting and Common Entry Problems

Even well-planned trips can hit snags. Here are common issues travelers face at the Red Gate and how to solve them.

• Long ticket lines: If the line at the main office is long, try buying tickets online via your smartphone.
• Sold out tours: Guided tours for the castle interiors often sell out by noon. Book online at least two days in advance.
• Wrong entrance: Some GPS apps lead you to the rear garden entrance. Ensure you are heading to Latrán street for the Red Gate.
• Language barriers: Most staff speak English, but tour times for specific languages are limited. Check the board carefully.
• Closures: The castle interiors are often closed from November through March. The Tower and Museum usually stay open year-round.
• Accessibility: The path through the Red Gate is cobblestoned and steep. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid discomfort.
• Moat bears: The bears are not always visible. They are most active in the morning during feeding times.