Let's start our journey with two of the most iconic viewpoints in Český Krumlov: the castle tower and the Mantle Bridge.

Český Krumlov Castle Tower is undoubtedly the most recognizable part of the city's skyline. Rising to a height of 54 meters, it offers an unparalleled view of the entire city and the surrounding hills. Climbing the tower requires climbing 162 stairs, but the effort is rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view. From the top, you can see not only the picturesque bends of the Vltava River, but also the red roofs of the Old Town and the green hills of Šumava. The tower is open to the public all year round, and tickets can be purchased on site. Note that it can be quite crowded during the summer season, so it is recommended to visit early in the morning or before sunset for the best experience and photos.

The Cloak Bridge, on the other hand, is a unique structure that connects the castle to the castle garden. This three-story arcade bridge, built in the 16th century, is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also an excellent vantage point. The bridge offers a picturesque view of Latrán, the city's historic district, and the meandering Vltava River. The bridge is open to the public free of charge and can be visited at any time of the day, but is particularly captivating at sunset, when the warm light is reflected in the waters of the river.

Comparing the two vantage points, it is worth noting that the castle tower offers a more panoramic view, ideal for those who want to take in the entire city with their eyes. The Coat Bridge, on the other hand, provides a more intimate perspective, allowing a closer look at the architecture of the old town and the life going on along the river. The tower requires the purchase of a ticket and climbing stairs, which can be a challenge for those with mobility problems, while the Mantle Bridge is easily accessible and free.

Regardless of your choice, both sites are a must-see for any visitor to Český Krumlov and guarantee unforgettable experiences and beautiful photographs.

As we continue our tour of the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov, we can't leave out the heart of the city - the historic center with its Fountain and Mora Column and the spiritual hill of Křížová hora.

The Fountain and Mora Column, located on the city's main square - náměstí Svornosti, is not only an important monument, but also an excellent landmark and a place from which to admire the surrounding architecture. The column, erected in the 18th century as a vote of thanks for the cessation of the plague epidemic, is decorated with statues of saints and is the focal point of the square. Standing by the fountain, you can admire the colorful facades of the Renaissance and Baroque townhouses that surround the square. This is an ideal place to feel the atmosphere of the city and take photos of the distinctive architecture of Český Krumlov. It's worth coming here early in the morning, when the square is less crowded, or in the evening, when the lighting highlights the charm of the buildings.

Křížová hora, known as Cross Mountain, is a hill northeast of the city center. At its summit is the Stations of the Cross chapel, which is not only a place of worship, but also a fantastic vantage point. The road to the top takes about a 30-minute walk and leads through a picturesque forest. From the top you have a panoramic view of the entire city, the castle and the meandering Vltava River. It's an ideal spot for those who are looking for peace and quiet and want to admire Český Krumlov from a distance. The peak is especially beautiful at sunset, when the last rays of the sun illuminate the city. Admission to the chapel is free, and the site offers a unique combination of spirituality and scenic beauty.

Comparing the two vantage points, it's worth noting that the Fountain and Morov Column offer a more 'urban' experience, allowing a close look at the architectural details and daily life of the locals. It is easily accessible, ideal for families with children or those with limited mobility. Křížová hora, on the other hand, requires a bit of effort to get there, but rewards you with beautiful panoramic views and tranquility away from the tourist crowds.

Český Krumlov Castle, while a major attraction in its own right, also offers several excellent vantage points. In addition to the aforementioned tower, the castle's garden terraces are worth noting. The castle's extensive gardens, decorated in the Baroque style, are not only stunning in their beauty, but also offer great views of the city. Particularly recommendable is the terrace with a cascading fountain, which offers a picturesque view of the red roofs of the Old Town and the meandering Vltava River. The gardens are open to the public from April to October, and admission is charged.

Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on Český Krumlov, allowing you to discover its many facets, from the bustling center to the peaceful hills surrounding the city.

To conclude our tour of Český Krumlov's best vantage points, we'll visit two places that offer slightly different but equally fascinating perspectives: Seminární zahrada and Latrán Street.

Seminární zahrada, or Seminary Garden, is a hidden gem of Český Krumlov. Located on a hill near the city center, this small park offers some of the most beautiful views of the castle and the old town. This place is less well-known to tourists, making it ideal for those who are looking for peace and quiet and want to avoid the crowds. From the benches set up in the garden, you can enjoy the panorama of the city, with a particularly impressive view of the castle tower towering over the red roofs. The garden is open all year round and admission is free. It's the perfect place to have a picnic or relax after a busy day of sightseeing. It's worth coming here early in the morning, when the fog rises over the city, creating a magical atmosphere, or at sunset, when the warm light highlights the beauty of the architecture.

Latrán Street, although not a typical viewpoint, offers an unforgettable experience and a chance to admire the architecture of Český Krumlov up close. This historic street, leading from the Lazebnický Bridge to the castle gate, is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the city. Walking along the narrow, cobblestone streets of Latrán, you can admire the facades of colorful houses from different eras, from Gothic to Baroque. Each building has its own history, and many of them are decorated with frescoes. Walking up the street, new perspectives of the castle and tower open up every now and then, making for excellent photo opportunities. Latrán is accessible at any time of the day or night, but it is particularly charming in the evening, when lanterns cast warm light on the colorful facades.

Comparing the two places, Seminární zahrada offers a peaceful, panoramic perspective on the city, ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy the view from a distance. It is less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience. Latrán, on the other hand, immerses visitors in the history and architecture of the city, allowing a closer look at the details and a sense of the atmosphere of a medieval town. It is a lively place, full of cafes, stores and galleries, ideal for those who like to explore the city by walking its streets.

To sum up our tour of the best viewpoints in Český Krumlov, it's worth noting that each of these seven sites offers a unique experience and perspective. From panoramic views from the castle tower and Křížová hora, to romantic perspectives from the Mantle Bridge and Seminární zahrada, to intimate glimpses of city life from Svornosti Square and Latrán Street, each location allows you to discover a different facet of this remarkable city. Whether you are a lover of photography, history, or simply looking for inspiring views, Český Krumlov is sure to delight you. Be sure to plan your visit so that you can visit these places at different times of the day - each season offers different light and atmosphere, making each visit unique.