At a Glance: Your Spiritual Journey

This itinerary helps you experience the best of the Mountain of the Cross. You will combine physical activity with cultural discovery. It is perfect for those who enjoy slow travel. The route is not very long but it is quite steep. You should prepare for a moderate climb.

• Day 1: The Pilgrimage Walk, Chapel Visit, and Sunset Views.
• Day 2: Fotoatelier Seidel, Monastery Gardens, and Local Pubs.
• Best Base: Look for hotels in the Horní Brána neighborhood.

The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep roots. Walking this route allows you to see the landscape as locals have for centuries. Most people spend only a few hours here, but two days allow for a deeper connection.

Day 1: The Ascent to Křížová Hora

Start your first day early to avoid the midday heat. The path begins on the southern side of the city. You can learn how to get to Křížová Hora from the main square easily. The walk takes you through a quiet residential area before the forest starts. Look for the white chapel stations along the path.

Day 1: Morning (09:00 - 12:00): Walk the Stations of the Cross. There are six small chapels that lead you up the hill. Each one tells a part of a traditional story. The path is shaded by tall trees, making it very pleasant. Take your time to look at the architecture of each small shrine.

Afternoon (13:00 - 16:00): Reach the summit and visit the Chapel of the Mountain of the Cross. This baroque building is the highlight of the trip. It is often closed, but the exterior and the surrounding porch are beautiful. You can sit on the grass and enjoy the silence of the woods. This is one of the best hidden scenic viewpoints in the entire region.

Evening (17:00 - 20:00): Watch the sun go down from the hill. The light hits the castle tower perfectly at this hour. Afterward, walk back down toward the town center for a quiet dinner. You will find that exploring Český Krumlov at night is a magical experience. The streets are much quieter once the day-trip buses leave.

Day 2: History and Hidden Gardens

On the second day, you should explore the history connected to the pilgrimage. Many local families have walked this route for generations. You can see evidence of this local life in the town's museums. Start your morning near the base of the hill. The atmosphere here is very different from the castle area.

Day 2: Morning (10:00 - 12:30): Visit the Fotoatelier Seidel Museum. This museum is located in an old photographic studio. It shows how people lived in Krumlov a hundred years ago. You can see old photos of the pilgrimage route here. It provides great context for your walk from the day before.

Afternoon (14:00 - 16:30): Head toward the Minorite Monastery hidden gardens. These gardens offer another peaceful escape within the city walls. You can learn about the religious history of the area at the Monasteries Český Krumlov complex. It is a large site with many quiet corners to explore.

Evening (18:00 - 21:00): End your trip by visiting some authentic local pubs. These spots are where the locals go to relax. Order a local beer and some traditional Czech food. It is the perfect way to reflect on your spiritual and physical journey. You might even meet someone who can tell you more local legends.

Tips for Walking Křížová Hora Pilgrimage Route

When walking Křížová Hora pilgrimage route, you must wear good shoes. The path is mostly gravel and dirt. It can be slippery if it has rained recently. In 2026, many of the stations are being carefully preserved. Please stay on the marked path to protect the grass. There are no shops on the hill, so bring your own water.

The best time for photography is late afternoon. The sun will be behind you as you look at the town. This creates a golden glow over the red roofs. If you prefer a quiet experience, go on a weekday morning. Weekends can attract more local families who come for a stroll. You can find more secret places in Český Krumlov if you keep exploring the side trails.

Check the Český Krumlov Official Tourism site for event updates. Sometimes there are special guided walks or religious services at the chapel. These events offer a unique look at local traditions. Most of the route is open all year round. However, winter can be icy, so use caution during the colder months.

Where to Stay in Český Krumlov

Choosing the right place to stay makes your walk easier. The Horní Brána district is the best choice for this itinerary. It is located between the main square and the start of the trail. You will find many charming guest houses in this area. It is much quieter than staying directly next to the castle.

If you prefer more action, look for a hotel in the Latrán district. This area is full of history and close to the river. You will have a longer walk to the pilgrimage route, but the scenery is worth it. Make sure to book your room in advance for the summer season. 2026 is expected to be a busy year for tourism in South Bohemia. Many smaller pensions offer a very personal and friendly service.