Getting Around Cesky Krumlov. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

Cesky Krumlov's historic center is largely pedestrianized. This means no public buses operate directly within the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Old Town and Latrán.

A local bus system operates outside the old town. These buses connect the train station, the main bus station (autobusové nádraží), the designated paid parking lots (P1-P4), and different parts of the wider town.

Ticketing & Frequency

Tickets are usually available directly from the bus driver upon boarding.
Fares are inexpensive, typically around 20 CZK for a single ride. Carry small change.
Buses operate throughout the day, generally from early morning until late evening.
Frequency lessens on weekends and public holidays. Consult posted schedules or local information center for exact timings.

Route Maps

The main bus station serves as the central hub. Route maps show connections from the town’s periphery to the edge of the historic core.

Accessibility

Some newer buses may offer wheelchair accessibility. Older models might not. Cobblestone streets in the old town present considerable challenges for mobility-impaired travelers.

Navigation Tips

The historic center is very compact; exploration on foot is best. Public buses are most useful for reaching the train station or distant parking lots, especially with heavy luggage.

Walking and Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The entire historic center of Cesky Krumlov is highly pedestrian-friendly.
Its cobblestone streets and narrow alleys are best explored on foot.
Walking routes include the Castle grounds, Latrán district, Old Town Square, and picturesque riverside paths.

Cycling Infrastructure

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes exist within the town itself.
Cycling is popular on paths along the Vltava River and on designated routes connecting with nearby towns.
Remain aware of traffic on roads outside the old town. Helmet use is recommended.

Specialized Transport & Rentals

Tour Buses

No hop-on-hop-off services. Tour buses park outside the historic core.

River Activities

Rafting/canoeing popular for sightseeing, not transport. Rental shops are plentiful.

Unique Transport

No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport options.

Car Rentals

Best done from major cities. IDP required for non-EU licenses. Parking outside old town.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis present a convenient option for short distances, especially with luggage or late at night. Ride-sharing apps are less prevalent in Cesky Krumlov.

Taxi Identification & Hailing

Licensed taxis bear "TAXI" roof signs and visible meters.
Calling a taxi or finding them at designated stands is common.
Local hotels and guesthouses can also call a taxi for you.
Stands are near the main bus station or permissible areas of the town square.

Fares & Ride-Sharing Apps

Fares are metered. Short rides within town typically cost 100-200 CZK.
Confirm the fare or agree on a price beforehand if the meter is not clearly visible.
Cash (CZK) is the preferred payment method, though some taxis may accept cards.
Uber and Bolt have limited or no presence in Cesky Krumlov. Local taxi companies are the main alternative.

Taxi Safety & Station Arrangements

Licensed taxis are generally safe. Confirm the taxi company's name and vehicle details if you pre-book.
Always ensure the meter is used or a fare is agreed upon for clarity before the ride begins.
This transparency guards against inflated prices.

Taxis are available at Cesky Krumlov train and bus stations.
The main bus station is a short, walkable distance to most parts of the old town with light luggage.
A taxi might prove useful from the train station, which is further and involves an uphill walk to the historic center.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Best from major cities like Prague or at airports. Major international companies operate. Minimum age 21-25. IDP needed for non-EU licenses. Credit card for deposit.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common in Cesky Krumlov. More likely found in larger cities. Consider local transportation for ease.

Bicycle Rentals

No formal city-wide bike-sharing. Several local shops offer rentals hourly/daily. Useful for exploring areas around Cesky Krumlov.

Driving & Walking Guidelines

The town's unique layout calls for specific navigation approaches.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. Headlights must remain on at all times, day or night.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. The Czech Republic maintains a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol consumption when driving.
Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, 130 km/h on motorways.
Roads to Cesky Krumlov are generally good. Winter driving is challenging due to snow and ice; winter tires are mandatory Nov-Mar.

Parking & Pedestrian Areas

The historic center is mostly pedestrianized. You cannot drive directly to most accommodations within the old town.
Paid parking lots (P1-P4) are located just outside the pedestrianized historic center. Payment occurs at automated machines.
From these lots, you will walk to your accommodation. Factor this walk into your arrival plans if renting a car.
The entire historic center is highly pedestrian-friendly for walking exploration.

Walking Tours & Bicycle Safety

Walking Tour Options

Numerous local operators present guided walking tours focusing on history, architecture, and legends. A guided tour imparts context. Maps from the Tourist Information Center are available for self-guided exploration.

Explore at your own pace.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes exist within the town. Cycling is popular on paths along the Vltava River and on designated routes connecting with nearby towns and attractions.

Scenic routes are abundant.

Safety for Cyclists

Remain aware of traffic on roads outside the old town. Helmet use is recommended, though not always mandatory for adults. No specific "no-go" areas exist regarding safety. Follow local signs and rules.

Prioritize your safety.

Accessibility Services

Mobility Challenges

The historic center's cobblestones and hills present considerable accessibility challenges.
Many older buildings, including some accommodations and attractions, may not be fully accessible.
Some newer buses might be wheelchair accessible, but general infrastructure may not be.

Planning for Accessibility

Travelers with mobility needs should contact specific venues or accommodations in advance to inquire about their accessibility features.
Plan routes that prioritize smoother surfaces where possible.
Local tourist information centers can often provide tailored advice for accessible travel.

Important Accessibility Notes

Cycling is not permitted inside the castle complex itself.
Always follow local signs and rules regarding pedestrian-only zones to avoid issues.
No specialty vehicle options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys exist in Cesky Krumlov.
The town's terrain does not warrant cable cars or funiculars.

Be prepared for uneven surfaces throughout the historic areas.
Consult maps for accessible routes when available.
Consider taxis for shorter distances if walking is challenging.
Some private shuttles may offer better accessibility than public transport.

Walking and Cycling Routes

Cesky Krumlov’s historic core is perfect for exploration by foot, offering intimate discoveries at every turn. Cycling has another way to see the surrounding areas.

Exploring by Foot

The entire historic center is highly pedestrian-friendly.
Walk the cobblestone streets and narrow alleys for the best experience.
Routes include the Castle grounds, Latrán district, and Old Town Square.
Discover picturesque riverside paths.

Cycling Adventures

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes within the town.
Cycling is popular on paths along the Vltava River.
Designated routes connect Cesky Krumlov with nearby towns and attractions like Zlatá Koruna.
Remain aware of traffic on roads outside the old town; helmet use is recommended.

Walking Tour Benefits

Guided walking tours from local operators impart context and stories you might miss on your own. Self-guided maps are also available.

Restricted Areas

No specific "no-go" areas exist regarding safety. Castle interiors require walking; cycling is not permitted inside the castle complex.

Safety Awareness

Always follow local signs and rules regarding pedestrian-only zones to ensure your safety and a smooth experience.

Specialized Transport

Tour & Water Transport

No hop-on-hop-off bus services operate within Cesky Krumlov due to its small size.
Rafting/Canoeing is popular on the Vltava River. It has an unique sightseeing experience.
Rental shops are plentiful along the river for equipment.

Other Transport Types

No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport types exist; the town's terrain does not require them.
The historic center’s cobblestones and hills present considerable accessibility challenges.
Contact specific venues or accommodations in advance to inquire about accessibility.

Final Navigation Tip

Walking is the best way to experience Cesky Krumlov. Allow extra time for navigating cobblestones, especially with luggage.

Ask your accommodation for directions or the nearest bus stop relevant to your needs for local insights.

Getting Around Cesky Krumlov