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Just a few hours south of Prague, Český Krumlov charms visitors with colorful pastel façades, winding cobblestone streets, and a sprawling castle overlooking the Vltava River. Opt for a guided day tour to skip the planning hassle and explore castle courtyards, wander the Latrán district, and soak in centuries of Bohemian heritage without worrying about transport or long-distance driving.

  • Distance from Prague: Approximately 170km
  • Typical travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours each way by bus or van
  • On-site visit duration: 4 to 6 hours, depending on your tour type and pace
  • Cost range: €40 to €120, varying by inclusions such as castle entry and lunch options
  • Best time to visit: April to October for warm weather, open castle interiors, and lively town streets
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Na Příkopě, Revoluční, or Prague’s City Center, with hotel pick-ups available on small-group tours
  • Key attractions: Český Krumlov Castle, Latrán district, Lazebnicky Bridge, Church of St. Vitus, Vltava riverside viewpoints, and more
  • Recommended tour: From Prague: Český Krumlov day trip, the ideal choice for first-timers, offering a guided walking tour plus free time to explore at your own pace

What to expect on a day trip from Prague to Český Krumlov?

Passengers seated inside an AC coach bus for Nara and Kyoto One-Day Tour.
Traditional wooden cottages surrounded by lush greenery on a day trip from Prague to Český Krumlov.
Tour guide explaining in front of a historic building in Cesky Krumlov.
Cesky Krumlov Castle room with historical paintings and display cases.
Tourists walking through a narrow cobblestone street in Cesky Krumlov.
Greek salad, pita with tzatziki, olives, and potato wedges served on a cruise lunch.
Guide explaining Cesky Krumlov map to tourists during full-day tour.
Evening cruise on Vltava River with view of Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
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A smooth start from Prague

Your day begins with a direct transfer from central Prague in an air-conditioned bus or small-group van, so you avoid the two to three public transport changes normally required to reach Český Krumlov. The ride takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and brings you straight into the medieval center without any transport stress.

Scenic South Bohemian landscapes along the way

As you leave Prague behind, the scenery shifts from rolling farmland to forested hills and river valleys. The approach to Český Krumlov is especially picturesque, with views of the Vltava River winding toward the pastel-colored Old Town.

A guided walk through a maze of medieval streets

Once you arrive, your guide leads you through the Latrán district, castle courtyards, Lazebnicky Bridge, and the Church of St. Vitus while sharing the stories behind each corner. This is especially helpful in a town where winding alleys, steep paths, and hidden lookouts are easy to miss on your own.

Castle experiences that change with the season

From April to October, many day tours include entry to Český Krumlov Castle, allowing you to explore Renaissance halls and historic rooms without waiting in long ticket lines. Between November and March, tours often include the Castle Museum instead, giving you meaningful historical insight even when the interiors are closed.

Free time to explore at your own pace

Most itineraries build in a generous window for independent wandering, so you can follow the riverfront, browse artisan shops, or climb to lesser-known viewpoints for panoramic photos of the town.

Optional lunch that saves time in busy months

Some tours include a traditional Czech lunch at a local restaurant, which is especially useful in summer when the compact Old Town fills quickly and open tables can be scarce.

Comfortable pacing with small-group options

If you choose a small-group Český Krumlov tour, you will explore with around 15 guests or fewer, allowing you to hear your guide clearly, move comfortably through narrow courtyards, and enjoy photo stops without pressure.

A leisurely return to Prague

After a full day of sightseeing, your bus or van meets you at the designated point for a comfortable trip back to Prague. You typically return before evening, giving you a full experience without feeling worn out.

Things to know before booking a Prague to Český Krumlov day tour

  • All Český Krumlov day tours include round-trip transfers from Prague, so you won’t need to rent a car or navigate the two to three public-transport changes required to reach the Old Town on your own. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours each way, offering a direct, comfortable ride into the medieval center.
  • Tours typically depart from central meeting points such as Na Příkopě, Revoluční, or other city-center areas, making it easy to join no matter where you’re staying. Many small-group tours also offer hotel pick-up for a smooth, door-to-door start.
  • With its twisting lanes and steep paths, Český Krumlov’s Old Town can be tricky to navigate alone. A guided walking tour leads you through the Latrán district, castle courtyards, Lazebnicky Bridge, and the Church of St. Vitus, helping you cover the key sights efficiently without looping back.
  • If you’re visiting between April and October, choose a tour that includes entry to Český Krumlov Castle, so you can explore the historic rooms and Renaissance halls without waiting in ticket lines. From November to March, pick a tour that includes the castle museum instead, as the main interiors close for the winter season, but the museum still offers a meaningful look into the site’s history.
  • Small-group tours, usually limited to around 15 guests, offer a more relaxed pace and easier interaction with your guide, especially in narrow courtyards and crowded squares.
  • These tours are not wheelchair accessible, as the route involves cobblestones, mild inclines, and uneven terrain around the castle.
  • Some itineraries include a traditional Czech lunch at a local restaurant, which is especially helpful in the busy June to August months when open tables in the Old Town are hard to come by.
  • Most itineraries offer a relaxed window that lets you enjoy riverside viewpoints, browse artisan shops, or relax in a local bistro before returning to Prague.

Find your perfect day trip

TourBest forStarts fromTransportGuideWhat’s includedExtras
Český Krumlov day trip

First-time visitors who want a balance of guided sightseeing, castle entry, & personal time to explore

Na Příkopě or Prague City Center

Round-trip air-conditioned bus transfers (hotel pick-up on small-group options)

Expert English, German, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide

9 to 11 hour full-day tour, entry to State Castle & Chateau (if selected), 2-hour guided walking tour, free time

Optional castle entry & Kingdom of Railways ticket

Český Krumlov & Budějovice

Travelers who want to see more than one South Bohemian town in a single day, with a mix of culture, architecture, & food

Revoluční, Prague

Round-trip air-conditioned bus transfers

Expert guide-driver in multiple languages

9.5 to 10-hour full-day tour, entry to Castle interiors in summer or Castle Museum in winter, guided walking tour in both towns, lunch (optional)

Optional lunch, visit to České Budějovice

Český Krumlov small-group trip

Visitors who prefer a quieter, more personal experience with door-to-door service & fewer crowds

Prague City Center hotel pick-up

Round-trip air-conditioned van transfers with max 15 guests

English-speaking guide

9 hour tour, guided walking tour, free time, hotel pick-up & drop-off

Small-group comfort, flexible pacing

The Old Town can be confusing at first

Your guide leads you through the trickiest turns, from the castle complex to the riverside lanes, so you see the best spots without trying to navigate the maze yourself.

Tour guide explaining to tourists during a day trip from Prague to Český Krumlov.
Start with a guided route

Top sights to see on a Český Krumlov day tour

Cesky Krumlov Castle room with canopy bed, chandelier, and antique furniture.

Český Krumlov Castle

A sprawling 13th-century castle complex with panoramic hilltop views and lavish Renaissance interiors.

Cesky Krumlov Castle view with Vltava River in foreground, Czech Republic.
Cloak Bridge in Cesky Krumlov with tourists walking below.
Sculptures and fountains in the gardens of Cesky Krumlov Castle.
Tourist walking through cobblestone streets of Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic, with historic buildings in view.

More stops along the way

Rainbow color beer taster tray with six different beers on a wooden board.

Castle Brewery Courtyard (Pivovar Eggenberg)

A calm brewery courtyard tucked behind buildings, great for photos or a quick, untouristy beer stop. If you’re into brews, you can also hop over to České Budějovice, where the original Budweiser is still made using traditional methods.

  • Where is it: Behind the Eggenberg Brewery complex in Latran, 5 minutes from the castle entrance, walking downhill.
Visitors observing exhibits at a museum.

Regional Museum

A compact but rich museum with archaeological finds, medieval artifacts, and an intricate model of the historic town.

  • Where is it: Just above the square on Horní Street, a 2 to 3 minute uphill walk from Náměstí Svornosti.
Mother and son observing exhibit inside museum.

Wax Museum (Muzeum Voskových Figurín)

A family-friendly wax exhibit featuring historical figures and Czech legends in themed rooms.

  • Where is it: Located right off the main square on Kájovská Street, about 1 to 2 minutes from the center.
Girl and grandmother exploring ancient sculptures in a museum exhibit.

Moldavite Museum (Muzeum Vltavínů)

An interactive museum dedicated to the region’s rare green meteorite glass with glowing exhibits and samples.

  • Where is it: On Panská Street, 2 to 3 minutes from the Square, just beside the Old Town’s boutique area.
Film rolls and vintage camera at National Museum of Contemporary Art photography program.

Museum Fotoatelier Seidel

A preserved early-20th-century photography studio with original equipment, glass plates, and historic portraits.

  • Where is it: On Linecká Street, 5 minutes from the main square toward the southern riverside edge of Old Town.
Charles Bridge and Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, with historic cityscape.

Na Letné viewpoint (Vyhlídka Na Letné)

A local favorite overlook giving a sweeping, elevated view of the Old Town’s S-curve river bend.

  • Where is it: Up the steps across the wooden Lazebnický Bridge and left onto the hill path, about 8 to 10 minutes from Old Town.
Walkway lined with autumn trees in Letná Park, Prague, with cityscape views.

Monastery Gardens (Klášterní Zahrady)

A serene garden complex behind the Minorite Monastery with sculptures, herb plots, and quiet benches.

  • Where is it: Right behind the Minorite Monastery in the Latran district, just 3 to 4 minutes from the Castle entrance.
Egon Schiele garden studio with stone wall and path in Cesky Krumlov.

Egon Schiele Garden Studio

A tranquil artist’s garden and former studio, often missed by visitors who only see the museum.

  • Where is it: Behind the Egon Schiele Art Centrum on Široká Street, about 4 to 6 minutes from the town square.
Life jackets and helmets for rent

Myší Díra ('Mouse Hole') riverside spot

A tiny, quirky viewpoint by the rafting rental area that opens to a dramatic castle-side river view.

  • Where is it: Next to the rafting rental area at the end of Parkán Street, about a 3 to 4-minute walk from Lazebnický Bridge.

Your 1-day Prague to Český Krumlov itinerary

  • 7am to 8am: Meet your group at Na Příkopě, Revoluční, or your hotel (for small-group tours) and board a comfortable coach or minivan. Settle in for the 2.5 to 3-hour journey through South Bohemia’s rolling hills and forested countryside.
  • 10am to 10:30am: Your guide leads you straight into the heart of the Old Town, introducing the town’s history and pointing out landmarks as the Vltava River curves around the pastel-colored houses.
  • 10:30am to 12pm: Explore the Latrán district, Lazebnicky Bridge, the main square, and the exteriors of the sprawling castle complex. Your guide shares stories of Bohemian nobles, medieval trade routes, and the town’s Renaissance transformation.
  • 12pm to 1pm: Depending on your tour, you can explore Český Krumlov Castle's interiors (April to October) or visit the Castle Museum (November to March).
  • 1pm to 2pm: Enjoy lunch at a traditional Czech restaurant if included in your tour, or choose from riverside bistros and local taverns offering dishes like roast duck, goulash, or grilled trout.
  • 2pm to 3:30pm: Use this window to wander the cobblestone alleys, walk down to the riverside viewpoints, browse craft shops, or climb to a panoramic lookout for classic castle-over-the-town photos.
  • 3:30pm to 4pm: Regroup at the designated meeting point near the castle or town square. Your guide ensures everyone is accounted for and ready for the journey back to Prague.
  • 4pm to 6:30pm: Relax on the drive as you head back through the South Bohemian countryside. You typically arrive back in Prague by evening, giving you time to enjoy dinner in the city or unwind after the day’s trip.

Best time to visit Český Krumlov

Tourist with camera overlooking Cesky Krumlov's colorful medieval buildings, Czech Republic.
  • Weather: The best time to visit Český Krumlov is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild, skies are often clear, and walking conditions are comfortable throughout the old town and castle area.
  • Events: June hosts the Five Petalled Rose Festival, which brings medieval parades, live performances, and a lively atmosphere across the historic centre. The International Music Festival runs through July and August and features classical concerts in notable venues. December introduces Christmas markets and seasonal events that create a cosy winter atmosphere.
  • Crowds: July and August are the busiest months, with long queues at major attractions and higher accommodation prices. April to June and September to October offer fewer crowds while still maintaining great weather, making them the most balanced seasons for sightseeing. November to February is the quietest period, apart from December weekends, and suits visitors who prefer a calmer experience.

Getting to Český Krumlov | Travel options from Prague

Couple enjoying private car transfer

The easiest and most stress-free way to reach Český Krumlov from Prague, round-trip transfers offer modern, air-conditioned vehicles, removing the hassle of navigating schedules or hauling luggage across stations.

  • Pre-arranged hotel pickup or central meeting points ensure you start your journey smoothly, with no confusion about where to go.
  • Online booking secures your seat instantly, letting you plan your visit in advance without worrying about sold-out buses or trains.
  • Professional drivers or guides share local insights, making your trip richer and more enjoyable compared to DIY travel.
  • This option is ideal for travelers who value comfort, time efficiency, and a worry-free experience, especially on a day trip from Prague.
  • Compared to public transport, transfers are faster, door-to-door, and require zero planning.

Time: Around 2.5 to 3 hours each way
Cost: €45 to €170, depending on tour inclusions
Recommended tour: From Prague: Český Krumlov day trip

Public intercity buses (FlixBus, RegioJet) run from Prague to Český Krumlov several times a day, usually departing from Prague’s Na Knížecí or Florenc stations.

  • Bus travel is best for budget-minded travelers who want a straightforward, direct connection at the lowest cost.
  • The journey usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours each way, depending on traffic and route.
  • Tickets generally cost €8 to €15 one way, depending on demand and operator.
  • Pros: Direct routes, affordable prices, multiple departures throughout the day, free Wi-Fi, and onboard amenities depending on the operator.
  • Cons: Buses can sell out in high season (typically between June and August), luggage storage is limited, and station transfers (to/from departure and arrival points) add extra planning.

There are no direct trains from Prague to Český Krumlov; all routes require a change, usually at České Budějovice.

  • Trains are best for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, scenic journey and prefer the extra space and comfort of rail travel over buses or cars.
  • Most train journeys take 3.5 to 4.5 hours, including the connection.
  • The typical price is €10 to €18 one way, depending on your seats and train timings.
  • Pros: Predictable schedules, more legroom than buses, and scenic countryside views.
  • Cons: No direct train, connecting transfers add complexity, and the final station in Český Krumlov is uphill and about 20 to 25 minutes from the Old Town on foot.

Driving offers flexibility but requires comfort with Czech road rules and parking challenges.

  • Self-driving is best for travelers who want complete independence and plan to explore nearby regions like České Budějovice or Lipno.
  • The drive takes around 2.5 hours each way for roughly 170 km.
  • Expect costs of €40+ per day for rental, plus fuel (€20 to €30) and optional tolls.
  • Pros: Total flexibility to shape your own itinerary, beautiful countryside views, and the freedom to pause at charming towns or viewpoints whenever you like.
  • Cons: Parking in Český Krumlov’s historic center is limited, navigating unfamiliar roads adds stress, and driving in the winter months can be challenging.

A middle-ground between public bus and private transfers, shared shuttles operate set schedules in smaller vans.

  • Shuttles are best for solo travelers or couples who want comfort but at a lower cost than private transfers.
  • Travel time is about 2.5 to 3 hours, similar to buses and private transfers.
  • Prices typically range from €20 to €35 one way.
  • Pros: Door-to-door service, small groups, quicker boarding, and more comfortable than a standard bus.
  • Cons: Fixed departure times, limited daily availability, and may take detours for multiple passenger pickups.

Helpful tips for your Český Krumlov day tour

  • Download an offline map before you arrive because the mobile signal can be patchy in the narrow lanes of the Old Town.
  • Carry a light jacket even in summer because the castle interiors and some riverside spots feel cooler than expected.
  • If you want the least crowded castle tour times, aim for late morning (after 11am) or midday because most group tours arrive either right after opening or mid-afternoon.
  • Use the restrooms near the Information Center in the main square because they tend to be cleaner and less crowded than other facilities in the Old Town.
  • Start your visit by walking through the castle grounds before entering the main complex because the terraces offer the best panoramic views that most visitors miss.
  • Lunchtime is the ideal moment to explore the riverside Old Town lanes because crowds concentrate in restaurants, leaving the alleys and small squares far quieter.
  • Photograph the main square in the late afternoon because the light reflects beautifully off the pastel buildings and crowds thin noticeably.
  • Cross the small footbridge near the Egon Schiele Art Center to enjoy quiet river views away from the busiest parts of town.
  • Seek out handmade crafts on Latrán Street, where smaller studios sell authentic local pieces that are higher quality than items in the busier market areas.
  • Browse the small bookstores on Horní Street for unique Czech art prints and postcards that you will not find in standard souvenir shops.

Frequently asked questions about Prague to Český Krumlov tours

How long does a day trip from Prague to Český Krumlov take?

Most Český Krumlov day tours last 9 to 11 hours, including a 2.5 to 3-hour drive each way and ample time to explore the Old Town, castle complex, and surrounding viewpoints.

Where do the tours depart from in Prague?

Most departures are from central locations such as Na Příkopě or Revoluční, and certain small-group Český Krumlov tours also offer hotel pick-up for added convenience.

Do tours include entry to Český Krumlov Castle?

Some Český Krumlov tours include castle entry during the April to October season when interiors are open, while winter tours substitute entry to the Castle Museum since the main chambers close.

Is a guided walking tour included?

Yes, all tours include a guided walk through the Latrán district, castle courtyards, Lazebnicky Bridge, and the Church of St. Vitus, offering context that is difficult to gather on your own.

Do small-group tours offer any advantages?

​Small-group tours with around 15 guests or fewer provide clearer commentary and a smoother pace through narrow streets and castle courtyards.

What languages are the tours available in?

Tours typically offer live guides in English, German, Italian, and Spanish, with some options providing audio guides in additional languages.

How much free time will I get in Český Krumlov?

Most itineraries offer 1 to 2 hours of free time that you can use for lunch, souvenir shopping, or exploring riverside viewpoints at your own pace.

Are meals included in the tour?

Only select Český Krumlov tours include lunch at a traditional Czech restaurant, which is useful in summer when the Old Town can be crowded, and seating can be difficult to secure.

Can I explore Český Krumlov Castle on my own?

You can visit the courtyards freely, but entry to the interior halls is only available through a guided tour or a ticket that includes access.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

Expect moderate walking on cobblestones and gentle slopes, especially around the castle terraces and the Latrán district.

Is Český Krumlov accessible for wheelchair users?

The steep lanes, cobblestones, and sloped paths around the castle make these day tours unsuitable for wheelchair users.

Are there restrooms on the bus?

Tour coaches typically do not have onboard restrooms, but scheduled stops and facilities in Český Krumlov ensure access throughout the day.

Do tours run in winter?

Yes, tours operate year-round, and although the castle interiors close in winter (November to March), you can still explore the courtyards, museum, and Old Town without summer crowds.

Do tours include the Cloak Bridge viewpoint?

Most guided walks bring you to the Cloak Bridge or nearby terraces for panoramic photos of the Old Town and castle.