Understanding the Route and Road Conditions

The drive between these two historic cities is one of the most beautiful in Central Europe. You will pass through the heart of the Bohemian Forest and the Sumava National Park. The roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and curvy in the mountains. Expect a mix of regional two-lane roads and faster highways as you approach Germany.

Traffic is usually light during the week but can increase on summer weekends. In 2026, roadwork is common during the spring months, so check local maps before departing. The Visit Czechia portal often provides updates on major regional road closures. Always allow extra time if you are traveling during the peak tourist season.

If you enjoy photography, there are several pull-off points along the way. The landscape transitions from the rolling hills of Southern Bohemia to the dense Bavarian forests. This route is perfect for those who value flexibility over speed. It allows you to stop at small villages or forest trails that buses simply skip.

Step-by-Step Guide for Your Drive to Passau

Following a clear plan will help you manage the driving time from Cesky Krumlov to Passau Germany effectively. This guide ensures you stay on the fastest path while avoiding common navigational errors. Most of the journey follows Route 39 in Czechia and the B12 in Germany.

1. Step 1: Navigation and Prep. Set your GPS for Passau Altstadt. Time: 10 minutes. Typical cost: $0. Where: Your hotel in Krumlov. Common mistake: Not downloading offline maps for the forest areas.
2. Step 2: Exit Krumlov via Route 39. Follow signs toward Volary and the German border. Time: 40 minutes. Typical cost: Fuel. Where: Southern Bohemia. Common mistake: Missing the turn for Route 39 near the city center.
3. Step 3: Cross the Border at Strážný. Drive through the border crossing into Philippsreut, Germany. Time: 5 minutes. Typical cost: $0. Where: Czech-German border. Common mistake: Speeding through the border zone where limits drop sharply.
4. Step 4: Navigate the B12 Highway. Follow the B12 directly into the heart of Passau. Time: 45 minutes. Typical cost: Fuel. Where: Lower Bavaria. Common mistake: Not watching for wildlife, especially during dawn or dusk.

Once you arrive, you can easily find the city's main landmarks. Many visitors head straight to see the St. Stephens Cathedral Passau organ concert. The B12 highway leads you directly toward the Danube river, making the final approach very simple. Keep an eye out for the "Zentrum" signs to find the old town area.

Essential Checklist Before You Leave Krumlov

A successful cross-border trip requires a bit of preparation. While both countries are in the Schengen Area, you must still carry proper identification. Ensure your vehicle meets the legal requirements for both the Czech Republic and Germany to avoid heavy fines.

• Valid Passport or ID: Always carry your physical identification document.
• Driver's License and Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers international travel.
• Reflective Vests: You must have one for every passenger in the car.
• First Aid Kit: A standard European-certified kit is mandatory.
• Cash in Euros: While Krumlov uses Koruna, Passau requires Euros for small shops and some parking.

If you are planning to visit other parts of the region, check out our list of the best day trips from Cesky Krumlov. This will help you decide if you should combine Passau with other nearby stops. Remember that German shops are usually closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping accordingly.

Parking and Arriving in Passau Germany

Finding a spot for your car is the final step in your journey. Passau is a compact city located at the confluence of three rivers. The old town has very limited street parking, so use the dedicated parking garages. The "Parkhaus Zentral" and "Parkhaus Schanzl" are the most convenient for day trippers.

From these garages, you are only a short walk from the riverfront. You might consider booking a three rivers sightseeing boat tour to see the city from the water. Most parking garages accept credit cards, but having a few Euro coins is helpful for older meters. Expect to pay between 10 and 20 Euros for a full day of parking.

Passau is very walkable once you leave your vehicle. The distance from the main parking areas to the cathedral is less than ten minutes on foot. If you have mobility issues, look for the "City-Bus" which loops through the historic center. Before you leave the car, ensure no valuables are visible to prevent opportunistic theft.

Troubleshooting Common Driving Problems

Even the best-planned trips can face challenges. Being aware of potential issues helps you react quickly. Here are the most common problems travelers face on this specific route:

• Sudden Snowfall: The mountains between the two cities can get heavy snow from November to April.
• Mobile Dead Zones: Signal often drops near the border; use a dedicated GPS or offline maps.
• Vignette Confusion: You do not need a highway vignette for this specific route, but you do for Czech motorways.
• Speed Traps: Both countries use automated cameras, especially in small villages along Route 39.
• Fuel Prices: Fuel is often slightly cheaper in the Czech Republic than in Germany.
• Animal Crossings: Deer and boar are very common in the Sumava forest at night.
• Parking Scarcity: During river cruise boarding times, central parking garages can fill up quickly.

If you encounter a breakdown, call your rental agency or the local emergency number (112). For more information on the starting point of your journey, visit the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website. They offer great context on the history of the region you are driving through.