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How to Get to Cesky Krumlov

How to Get to Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov Bohemia, Czech Republic Travel Guide

Regional Airport Hubs

Prague & Vienna Gateways

Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) is the main international airport in the Czech Republic, approximately 170 km (105 miles) north of Cesky Krumlov. Vienna International Airport (VIE), Austria, around 200 km (124 miles) southeast, has another excellent entry point.

Airlines & Routes

  • PRG: Major airlines like Lufthansa, KLM, British Airways, Air France, Ryanair, EasyJet, Smartwings, Czech Airlines. Direct flights to numerous European cities.
  • VIE: Major European hub served by Austrian Airlines, Ryanair, Wizz Air, and many international carriers, offering extensive connections worldwide.
  • Direct flights to PRG from London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam. VIE from wider global hubs.

Munich & Linz Connections

Munich Airport (MUC), Germany, around 300 km (186 miles) west, is a major hub with global routes. Linz Airport (LNZ), Austria, approximately 75 km (47 miles) south, is the closest international airport but with limited direct flights.

Airlines & Services

  • MUC: Major hub for Lufthansa and other airlines, providing broad international connectivity.
  • LNZ: Fewer airlines (Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, Ryanair), connections mainly to European hubs like Frankfurt or Vienna.
  • All major airports (PRG, VIE, MUC) present a full range of facilities: duty-free, restaurants, car rental desks, currency exchange, ATMs.

Retail and Dining

Duty-free shops, various restaurants, and cafes are available for travelers.

Financial Services

Car rental desks, currency exchange services, and ATMs are on site.

Information Desks

Lounges and information desks cater to traveler needs. LNZ has more limited facilities.

Airport Transfer Options

From Prague PRG

  • Shuttle Bus: Most popular and convenient. Companies like CK Shuttle, Leo Express, or Student Agency (RegioJet) offer door-to-door service. Journey 2.5-3 hours. Book well in advance.
  • Public Transport + Bus: Metro from airport to Florenc bus station, then direct bus (RegioJet or FlixBus) to Cesky Krumlov (approx. 3 hours). Cost-effective.
  • Train: Less direct, longer (4-5 hours). Multiple changes, typically Prague Main Station to Ceske Budejovice, then local train or bus.
  • Car Rental: Services available at airport. Drive 2.5-3 hours. Consider local parking restrictions in Cesky Krumlov.

From Vienna VIE / Linz LNZ

  • Shuttle Bus: Similar services from Vienna and Linz to Cesky Krumlov, offering direct travel.
  • Bus/Train (VIE): Requires transfers. Train to Linz or Ceske Budejovice, then connect to Cesky Krumlov.
  • Bus/Train (LNZ): Easier connections due to closer proximity.
  • Book your airport transfers to Cesky Krumlov in advance to secure your spot and save time upon arrival. Consider Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

High Season June-August

Flight prices generally rise and availability lessens during peak summer months and around major holidays like Christmas and Easter.

Shoulder Season April-May, Sep-Oct

Shoulder seasons often present better fares and availability, balancing good weather with fewer crowds.

Low Season Nov-March

The low season typically has the lowest prices, excluding the Christmas market period. Book flights well in advance for the best rates.

Land Travel

Border Crossings & Train Travel

The Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area. Land border crossings from neighboring Schengen countries are typically open and largely unchecked for Schengen citizens.

Train Connections

  • Non-Schengen citizens will have passports checked upon entry to the Schengen zone. Have all necessary visa documentation ready.
  • Cesky Krumlov has a train station (Český Krumlov nádraží), but direct long-distance connections are limited.
  • Most train journeys from Prague involve at least one change, usually in Ceske Budejovice.

Bus Travel & Self-Driving

Long-distance buses offer an efficient and cost-effective way to travel to Cesky Krumlov from major Czech cities or neighboring countries. Self-driving offers flexibility but has considerations.

Bus Companies & Car Rental

  • Bus Companies: RegioJet (Student Agency) and FlixBus are popular, with frequent direct services from Prague. Book tickets online in advance.
  • Self-Driving: Valid national driving license (IDP required for non-EU licenses), vehicle registration, and Green Card. A road tax sticker (vignette) is needed for motorways.
  • Roads within Cesky Krumlov's old town are mostly pedestrianized; parking is available outside the historic center in designated paid car parks.

Driving Regulations

Adhere to local driving laws for your safety and a smooth journey on Czech roads.

Driving Laws

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Headlights must remain on at all times, day or night.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

Road Conditions & Parking

Roads leading to Cesky Krumlov are generally good. Be aware of parking regulations within the historic center.

Road & Parking Info

  • Roads leading to Cesky Krumlov are generally in good condition.
  • Winter driving can be challenging due to snow and ice; winter tires are mandatory from November to March.
  • Parking in Cesky Krumlov's Old Town is restricted to pedestrians. Paid parking lots (P1, P2, P3, P4) are located just outside the historical center.

Important Driving Rules

  • 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, and 130 km/h on motorways.
  • Factor the walk from parking into your arrival plans if you rent a car.
  • Always prioritize safety and adhere to all traffic laws.
  • Be mindful of pedestrians, especially in the areas bordering the Old Town.
  • For easier navigation, consider using GPS or reliable mapping applications.

River Access & Departure

River Navigation Not applicable

Cesky Krumlov is an inland town. It lacks sea or river ports for large-scale transportation. The Vltava River, flowing through the town, is used for recreational activities.

Recreational River Use

  • The Vltava River is popular for rafting and canoeing.
  • It offers an unique sightseeing experience right through the town.
  • The river does not serve as a means of public transport or arrival for general travel.

Departure Information

Planning your departure from Cesky Krumlov holds the same significance as planning your arrival. Understand the procedures and allow enough time for a relaxed departure.

Exit Procedures

  • No specific exit fees or taxes are levied upon departure from the Czech Republic.
  • For flights from Prague (PRG), arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure for Schengen flights, 3 hours for non-Schengen.
  • For bus/train departures, arrive at Cesky Krumlov station 15-30 minutes before departure.

Ticketing

The price of your flight, train, or bus ticket covers all applicable taxes for departure.

Reconfirm Details

Reconfirm your departure times and transport details the day before you leave for accuracy.

Allow Extra Time

Factor in extra travel time from Cesky Krumlov to Prague Airport, especially during peak hours or adverse weather.

Departure Facilities

Airport Amenities

Major airports present comprehensive facilities for departing travelers.

Airport Services

  • Check-in counters and baggage drop-off.
  • Security checks.
  • Duty-free shopping.

Station Amenities

Bus and train stations in Cesky Krumlov offer essential facilities for your departure.

Station Services

  • Waiting areas.
  • Ticket offices.
  • Basic shops and restrooms.

Departure Logistics

Airport Dining

A range of restaurants and cafes at major airports cater to various tastes.

Airport Lounges

Lounges are available for comfort and relaxation before your flight.

Bus Station Convenience

Cesky Krumlov's bus station is convenient and a short walk from the historic center.

Final Departure Advice

Know which parking lot your shuttle or bus departs from, as some private services use specific lots outside the main bus station.