The Best Day Trips From Český Krumlov: Castles, Nature & More
Český Krumlov is stunning, but the surrounding region is equally magical. You can easily fill a week exploring the best day trips from Český Krumlov. South Bohemia offers white fairytale castles and dense forests. You will find ancient monasteries and vibrant regional cities just a short drive away.
The location is perfect for travelers who love variety. You can hike up mountains in the morning and sip beer in a historic square by noon. Many visitors miss these gems by staying only in the town center. This guide highlights the top excursions worth your time. Transport is generally easy, whether you use a car, bus, or train.
Here are our favorite picks for getting out of town.
Quick Picks: Our Top 3 Favorites
- Best Castle: Hluboká nad Vltavou
- Best for Nature: Lipno Treetop Walkway
- Best City Vibe: České Budějovice
Key Takeaways
- Hluboká Castle is the most popular trip; book tickets ahead in summer.
- Public buses are often faster than trains for local travel.
- Combine nearby stops like Hluboká and České Budějovice to save time.
- Bring comfortable shoes; many sites involve steep walks or cobbles.
Fairytale Castles & Heritage Sites
South Bohemia is famous for its aristocratic history. You will find some of the country's most impressive architecture just outside the city. These locations are perfect for history buffs and photographers.
- Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is often called the prettiest castle in the Czech Republic. The white Windsor-style architecture is breathtaking against the green gardens. You can tour lavish interiors filled with wood carvings and armor. Best for: Romantics and history lovers. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou (30 km north). Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; tours approx. 240–300 CZK. Getting there: Check our guide for a day trip to Hluboká Castle by bus or car. Tip: Book tour tickets online in summer.
- Name: Holašovice Historic Village Type: Outdoor Museum/Village Why go: This tiny village is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It preserves the unique "Rural Baroque" style perfectly. The pastel-colored farmhouses look exactly as they did in the 19th century. Best for: Photographers and architecture fans. Where: Holašovice (24 km north). Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Read more about the Holašovice UNESCO village tour options. Tip: Visit during the July festivities for a lively local market.
- Name: Rožmberk Castle Type: History Why go: This castle sits proudly above the Vltava River. It is inextricably linked to the intense history of the Rožmberk family. The setting is dramatic and less crowded than Krumlov. Best for: Medieval history enthusiasts. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou (25 km south). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Tours approx. 180–220 CZK. Getting there: See details on our Rožmberk Castle day tour page. Tip: The view from the tower offers a great perspective of the winding river.
Nature Escapes & Active Adventures
Need a break from cobblestones and crowds? The countryside around Český Krumlov offers lush forests and river valleys. These trips are great for families and hikers alike.
- Name: Lipno Treetop Walkway Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: Walk slightly above the forest canopy on a massive wooden structure. The view from the top tower overlooks the Lipno reservoir and Austrian border. Kids love the giant slide on the way down. Best for: Families and outdoor fun. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou (30 km southwest). Time: Half-day. Cost: Approx. 350 CZK. Getting there: Plan your Lipno Treetop Walkway day trip by bus or car. Tip: Visit the nearby majestic Lipno Dam afterward.
- Name: Kleť Mountain Type: Hiking/Viewpoint Why go: It is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest nature reserve. You can hike up or take a vintage chairlift to the top. The stone lookout tower is the oldest in Bohemia. Best for: Hikers seeking panoramic views. Where: Holubov (15 km north). Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: Chairlift is approx. 150 CZK one way. Getting there: Learn about hiking Kleť Mountain from Krumlov here. Tip: Rent a scooter for a thrilling ride back down the paved road.
- Name: Dívčí Kámen Ruins Type: Historic Hike Why go: These are the massive ruins of a medieval castle atop a rocky cliff. The site is surrounded by dense forest and the Vltava River. It feels wild, secluded, and very romantic. Best for: Adventure seekers and dog walkers. Where: Near Třísov (15 km north). Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (approx. 60 CZK). Getting there: Take a train to Třísov and walk lush trails. Tip: Bring snacks and water; there are no shops on site.
Spiritual Sites & Monasteries
South Bohemia has a deep spiritual heritage. The monasteries here have shaped the landscape for centuries. They offer peace, art, and fascinating libraries.
- Name: Zlatá Koruna Monastery Type: Culture/History Why go: This is one of the best-preserved Gothic monasteries in Bohemia. It sits peacefully in a bend of the Vltava River. The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative compared to busy Krumlov. Best for: Architecture lovers seeking quiet. Where: Zlatá Koruna (8 km north). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approx. 160 CZK. Getting there: Plan your Zlatá Koruna Monastery visit easily by local bus. Tip: Many rafters stop here for a break; join them by the river for a snack.
- Name: Vyšší Brod Monastery Type: Religious Site Why go: This Cistercian abbey houses a magnificent historic library. It is famous for the intricate Baroque bookshelves and ceiling frescoes. The site also holds the Golden Cross of Vyšší Brod. Best for: Book lovers and art historians. Where: Vyšší Brod (30 km south). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: See our Vyšší Brod Monastery guide for details. Tip: Check the postal museum located within the same complex.
Cities and Regional Gems
Sometimes you want urban energy or a totally different town vibe. These cities offer great beer, spas, and shopping. They are some of the best day trips from Český Krumlov.
- Name: České Budějovice Type: Major City Why go: It is the regional capital and home of Budvar beer. The main square is one of the largest in Europe. You can climb the Black Tower for amazing city views. Best for: Beer tasting and shopping. Where: 25 km north. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate (city prices). Getting there: Visiting České Budějovice from Krumlov is easy by bus (30 mins). Tip: Visit the official Budvar brewery for a fresh tasting tour.
- Name: Třeboň Type: Spa Town Why go: Třeboň is famous for its vast fishponds and Renaissance chateau. It is a relaxing spa town with lovely parks. The local specialty is fresh carp served in many styles. Best for: Relaxing strolls and seafood. Where: 50 km northeast. Time: Full day. Cost: Free to walk; entry fees apply for chateau. Getting there: Consider a day trip to Třeboň by car or bus connection. Tip: Try the local "carp fries" at a square restaurant.
- Name: Linz, Austria Type: Cross-Border City Why go: Explore a different country just an hour away. Linz offers modern art museums and the famous Linzer Torte. The Danube riverfront is modern and vibrant. Best for: Culture vultures and shopping. Where: Linz (70 km south). Time: Full day. Cost: Higher (Eurozone pricing). Getting there: Linz Austria day trip from Krumlov shuttles are popular. Tip: Remember to bring your passport even within Schengen.
- Name: Passau, Germany Type: Cross-Border City Why go: Known as the "City of Three Rivers." The Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet here spectacularly. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the largest cathedral organ in the world. Best for: River views and baroque architecture. Where: Passau (85 km west). Time: Full day. Cost: Higher (Eurozone pricing). Getting there: Driving is best; shuttle vans are available. Tip: Take a short river cruise to see the three waters mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get around South Bohemia without a car?
The public transport network is reliable. Buses are often faster than trains for towns like České Budějovice or Hluboká. For remote spots like Holašovice, schedules are limited, so plan carefully. You can check schedules on official sites like the IDOS system to confirm connections.
Is it worth renting a car in Cesky Krumlov?
Yes, if you want freedom. A car allows you to combine multiple stops, like Hluboká and Holašovice, in one day. Visit Visit Czechia for general driving rules in the region. Parking is generally affordable outside the main tourist centers.
What is the best time of year for day trips?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) are ideal. The weather is mild for hiking Kleť or visiting ruins. Summer can be crowded at major sites like Hluboká. Winter offers a snowy, magical atmosphere but fewer open attractions.
Can I visit Austria from Cesky Krumlov for a day?
Absolutely. Linz is only about an hour away by shuttle or car. It makes for excellent coffee and shopping. Ensure you carry your ID and check specific border regulations if driving a rental car across borders.
South Bohemia is one of the most picturesque regions in Central Europe. The best day trips from Český Krumlov offer a mix of history, nature, and relaxation. You can explore a new castle, hike a forest trail, or enjoy a fresh Budvar in its hometown.
Don't just stay in the city center. Rent a car or hop on a bus to see the real depth of this region. Whether you choose the grandeur of Hluboká or the quiet ruins of Dívčí Kámen, you won't be disappointed.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Český Krumlov Official Tourism — Official DMO portal. (unverified)
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board. (unverified)
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO listing. (unverified)
- Lonely Planet — Major editorial travel guide. (unverified)
- State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov — Official landmark site. (unverified)
- Egon Schiele Art Centrum — Major city museum. (unverified)
- Monasteries Český Krumlov — Official site for major cultural complex. (unverified)