Cloak Bridge
A magnificent, multi-arched bridge offering breathtaking free views of Český Krumlov's historic old town and castle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Cloak Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent, multi-arched bridge offering breathtaking free views of Český Krumlov's historic old town and castle.
"Glad to have done both, and again, glad that there is an accessible option for a view."
Free Access Gem 💎
Enjoy the bridge and town views without an entrance fee!
Multiple Viewpoints 📸
See the bridge from above, below, and across for the best photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Arches
Over the castle moat
Admire the multi-arched structure connecting the castle to the town, a true architectural marvel.
Panoramic Town Views
From the bridge
Capture breathtaking vistas of the historic old town and the Vltava River from this elevated viewpoint.
Castle Perspective
From the riverbank
See the grandeur of the castle and the bridge together, offering a different, equally impressive angle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Cloak Bridge
Best Viewing Angles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Access Gem 💎
Enjoy the bridge and town views without an entrance fee!
Multiple Viewpoints 📸
See the bridge from above, below, and across for the best photos.
Combine with Castle Visit 🏰
Walk the bridge, then explore the castle for a full experience.
Rainy Day Charm ☔
Even on a rainy day, the views are captivating.
Cloak Bridge - Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Access Gem 💎
Enjoy the bridge and town views without an entrance fee!
Multiple Viewpoints 📸
See the bridge from above, below, and across for the best photos.
Combine with Castle Visit 🏰
Walk the bridge, then explore the castle for a full experience.
Rainy Day Charm ☔
Even on a rainy day, the views are captivating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cloak Bridge for its stunning, free views of Český Krumlov and its impressive architecture. Many recommend viewing it from multiple angles, including from the riverbank and the castle tower, to fully appreciate its grandeur. While the bridge itself is a highlight, some note that the castle tower offers a superior panoramic experience for a fee.
"I'm grateful that there is no entrance fee so that the view of the town is accessible to everyone. In addition to going over the (short) bridge, it's neat to see it from in front (brown bridge over river) and behind (park).
I also did the castle tower, which has an entrance fee (and a much better view).
Glad to have done both, and again, glad that there is an accessible option for a view."
Corrie Chow
"This place is super nice from high above as you can see from my panoramic photo. Was visiting this place via #EmeraldCruises on its #DanubeRiverCruise. There are two bears in their bear conservation area too. We spent a few hours here just walking around."
Gerald Lao
"I visited this town on a rainy day. However, I wanted to walk outside to soak in the views here. There are plenty of amazing sites and one of them is this bridge. I had taken a photo from the above, and then I walked down to the ground level to get another vantage point of this amazing structure."
gevs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cloak Bridge is centrally located within the Český Krumlov castle complex. You can reach it by walking through the castle courtyards. It's easily accessible on foot from the old town.
Parking in Český Krumlov can be challenging due to its historic nature. It's best to park in designated public parking lots outside the immediate old town and walk to the castle and bridge.
Yes, the Cloak Bridge is a short and pleasant walk from the main squares of Český Krumlov's old town. Follow signs for the castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking on the Cloak Bridge itself is free and accessible to everyone, offering great views of the town.
The Cloak Bridge is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of the castle grounds. Specific hours may vary seasonally.
There is no entrance fee to access and walk across the Cloak Bridge.
Absolutely! Visiting the castle and walking the Cloak Bridge are often done together. Consider purchasing a ticket for the castle tower for an even higher perspective.
📸 📸 Photography
For iconic shots, photograph the bridge from the castle courtyards, from the riverbank below, and from the castle tower. Each offers a unique perspective.
Yes, even on a rainy day, the atmosphere can be dramatic and beautiful. The reflections on wet surfaces can add to the charm of your photos.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow.
Drone regulations can be strict in historic European towns. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in Český Krumlov.
🎫 🏰 Onsite Experience
From the Cloak Bridge, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Český Krumlov's charming old town, the Vltava River, and the surrounding landscape.
Walking across the Cloak Bridge itself is quite short, but you'll likely want to pause to take in the views, so allow a few extra minutes.
Yes, the Cloak Bridge is part of the extensive Český Krumlov Castle complex, which includes numerous courtyards, gardens, and the castle tower.
The bridge is generally accessible, but the castle complex itself has many stairs and uneven surfaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the castle complex has many stairs and uneven paths, so strollers might be challenging. The surrounding castle grounds offer space for kids to explore, and the views of the town can spark their imagination about history and fairy tales.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While the castle tower has a fee, simply walking across the bridge and exploring the castle courtyards provides immense value. Pack a picnic to enjoy with the views, saving money on dining out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of the Cloak Bridge
From a distance, the bridge appears as a grand, multi-tiered structure that seems to float above the landscape. Up close, visitors can appreciate the intricate stonework and the sheer scale of the construction. The bridge offers a unique perspective of the castle's architecture and the surrounding town. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of the architects and builders who shaped Český Krumlov into the UNESCO World Heritage site it is today.
While the bridge itself is a marvel, its primary function is to provide access and enhance the castle's grandeur. It serves as a crucial link within the castle complex, guiding visitors through its various sections. The experience of walking across it is enhanced by the knowledge of its historical significance and architectural ingenuity.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
Consider different vantage points: stand on the bridge itself to frame the town, descend to the riverbank for a dramatic shot of the bridge arching over the moat, or ascend the castle tower for an unparalleled aerial perspective. The tower offers a sweeping panorama that truly showcases the scale of the castle and the picturesque setting of the town.
Don't be deterred by less-than-perfect weather. A rainy day can lend a moody, atmospheric quality to your photographs, with reflections on the wet stone and a dramatic sky. Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand sweep of the landscape and the intricate details of the bridge's architecture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit