Private Day Trip to Český Krumlov with Your Own Driver
One of Europe’s most beautiful towns, tucked into a meander of the Vltava River — no transfers, no parking, no waiting. A fixed price from Prague or directly from the airport, and the whole day planned your way.
Why This Place
A Medieval Town in a Bend of the Vltava
Český Krumlov sits in a tight meander of the Vltava River in South Bohemia, about forty kilometres south of České Budějovice. Its historic core is so remarkably well preserved that it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. Step through the gate into the old town and you’ll find yourself in a setting that has barely changed in four hundred years — cobbled lanes, arcades, burgher houses with Renaissance gables, and towering above it all, the massive castle with its painted tower.
The first written mention of Krumlov dates back to 1253. Over the centuries, it was shaped by three powerful noble families who succeeded one another here. First came the mighty House of Rosenberg, who turned Krumlov into one of the centres of their vast South Bohemian domain. They were followed by theEggenbergs and finally the Schwarzenbergs, who owned the castle well into the 20th century. Each family added their own layer — Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque — and it’s this unbroken layering of styles that makes the town feel so cohesive and picturesque today. Around thirteen thousand people live here year-round, but in season, tourists from all over the world pour in.
From Prague, it’s about 175 kilometers by car, and the drive via České Budějovice takes roughly two hours and fifteen minutes. Getting here by train or bus involves transfers and hassle — and the last return services leave early. With a private driver, you leave whenever you want, stop off at Hluboká Castle along the way, and the same car takes you back in the evening, shopping bags and tired kids in tow.
What to See in Český Krumlov
The Sights People Come For
The entire historic center is walkable in a day. Here are the must-see spots — from the castle down to the river.
State Castle and Chateau
Krumlov Castle is the second-largest castle complex in the Czech Republic, after Prague Castle. Perched on a rocky promontory above the river, it comprises five courtyards, several palaces, gardens, and service buildings. Guided tours take you through state rooms, family portraits, and the unique Masquerade Hall with its 18th-century wall paintings.
Entry to the grounds and courtyards is free; interior tours and the tower are ticketed separately. In peak season, it’s worth booking ahead or arriving in the morning before the biggest crowds hit.
Castle Tower
The Renaissance cylindrical tower with its richly painted facade is the symbol of the entire town — you can see it from practically anywhere. Climb the narrow staircase to the gallery, and you’ll be rewarded with most iconic view of the Old Town’s red rooftops and the silver meander of the Vltava far below. It’s that postcard shot — and even more breathtaking in person.
The tower has its own entry fee, and in peak season there’s often a line at the ticket booth, so give yourself time. A few dozen steps up, and the payoff is absolutely worth it.
The Vltava — rafts, inflatables, and the weir below the castle
The river wraps around the Old Town on three sides and is one of its biggest draws. Floating the meander on a wooden raft or inflatable right beneath the castle walls is the kind of experience that keeps people coming back. The routes are gentle and family-friendly; boat rentals are right in town, and a short loop takes one to two hours.
Even if you don’t hit the water, at least walk down to see the weir below the castle and the wooden footbridges — it’s one of the most picturesque corners of Krumlov.
Latrán, Svornosti Square, and the Old Town
Between the castle and the center lies Latrán — originally the castle’s foothill district with craftsmen’s houses, now filled with cafés, galleries, and little shops. From there, cross the river to Svornosti Square with its Renaissance town hall and plague column, the heart of the Old Town. Just let the narrow lanes guide you: around every corner there’s an arcade, a niche with a statue, or a view of the river.
This kind of aimless wandering is what Krumlov is all about — the town is small, getting lost is a joy, and everything is just a short walk away.
Cloak Bridge
A multi-story covered bridge on tall pillars connecting the castle to the gardens and theater. An architectural marvel with yet another stunning view over the town.
Baroque Castle Theater
Dating from 1681 — one of the few theaters in the world with its original stage, sets, and working stage machinery still intact. Open for guided tours during the season.
Revolving Auditorium
The famous open-air stage in the castle gardens where the audience rotates to follow the action. Summer performances include drama, opera, and ballet under the stars.
St. Vitus Church
A Gothic church built between 1408 and 1439, the second tallest landmark in town after the castle tower. Its vaulted interior is well worth a stop.
Egon Schiele Art Centrum
A gallery dedicated to the Austrian expressionist who lived in Český Krumlov, along with contemporary art. Housed in a former 16th-century brewery.
Eggenberg Brewery
A working city brewery with a history dating back to the 16th century, now part of the Port 1560 complex. Offers tours and tastings of beer brewed right in the town center.
Sample Itinerary
What your day could look like
A suggested schedule — your driver will always adapt to you. We can easily add a stop at Hluboká Castle or lunch in České Budějovice on the way there or back.
Real-day budget breakdown
What a day like this really costs — no hidden fees
Why go with a private driver
Comfort and peace of mind
No transfers, no waiting at train stations, no surprises at the end. Just tell us the time and how many people.
- Fixed price upfront — you’ll know it when you book, and it won’t change with traffic or jams.
- Your own private car — no sharing with strangers, no detours or waiting around.
- Pickup anywhere — from your hotel, apartment, or right at the arrivals hall of Václav Havel Airport (PRG).
- Free flight monitoring — if your flight is delayed, your driver will wait; we track arrivals.
- Child seats — available on request at no extra charge, just let us know the children’s ages.
- The whole day your way — return trip and waiting time included, stops along the route as agreed.
One‑way price
Fixed price for a one‑way trip. Return journey, waiting time and full‑day excursions are added according to the price list below.
Book your trip →How the price is calculated
Clear pricing for your trip
The base is the one‑way fare to your destination. We add the return trip and any extra waiting time using simple rules — so you always know exactly what you’re paying for.
| Option (sedan, 1–4 pax) | Price |
|---|---|
One‑way transfer — there only Prague → Český Krumlov. Your driver drops you off and returns empty. |
6,300 CZK |
Return trip with up to 2 hours waiting One‑way fare + 2 h waiting included + return trip (+50 %). 6,300 + 3,150. |
9,450 CZK |
Return trip with 5 hours waiting Return base (9,450) + 3 extra hours × 400 CZK (1,200). |
10,650 CZK |
Full‑day trip — driver available ~9 hours Return base 9,450 + ~5 h programme over the limit × 400 (2,000). Includes stops at Hluboká + České Budějovice (on the way, no extra km). Custom‑tailored quote. |
~ 11,450 CZK |
Minivan (5–8 pax): same calculation, higher base — one‑way 8,750 CZK. · Prices shown are indicative examples; we’ll confirm the exact fixed price when you book, based on the date, number of people and your itinerary.
Practical info
Before you go
When to go
Spring and early autumn are the most beautiful – the weather is pleasant and the town is less crowded than in summer. In peak season (July–August) it’s best to arrive in the morning. Krumlov is also magical during Advent.
Parking & the Center
The historic core is pedestrian-only. With a private driver, that’s not your problem — they’ll drop you as close as possible and pick you up at a pre-arranged spot. No circling, no parking fees.
Entry Fees
Entry to the castle grounds and courtyards is free. Interior tours and the tower are ticketed separately. In peak season, we recommend booking tours in advance.
What to Eat
South Bohemia means freshwater fish — carp and trout, plus Eggenberg beer. Grab a strudel or mead at one of the square’s cafés.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for cobblestones and the uphill walk to the castle, layers, and a camera. In summer, a hat and water; for the river, a spare shirt.
How Much Time
Half a day is enough for a quick tour of the center and castle. For a more relaxed visit with the river and gallery, set aside a full day. Rushing here is a waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Top Questions, Answered
How far is Český Krumlov from Prague, and how long does the trip take?
By road, it’s about 175 km via České Budějovice. The drive takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. With a private driver, you go direct — no transfers, no waiting.
Can you pick us up directly at the airport?
Yes. We’ll meet you in the arrivals hall at Václav Havel Airport (PRG) with a name sign. We track your flight, so if it’s delayed, your driver will wait.
Will the driver wait and take us back to Prague?
Yes. We offer a full-day trip with waiting time on-site, as well as a classic return transfer at a pre-arranged time. We’ll fine-tune the option and price when you book, based on your itinerary.
Is the price really final?
Yes. You’ll know the price upfront, and it’s fixed — unaffected by traffic, jams, or detours. No meter, no surprise charges at the end.
Do you have child seats?
Yes, we provide child seats and booster seats on request at no extra charge. Just mention the children’s ages in the booking notes.
Can we stop somewhere along the way?
Of course. Popular stops include Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle or lunch in České Budějovice. Just let your driver know — they’ll be happy to adjust.
How much time should we spend in Krumlov?
Half a day is enough for a basic tour of the center and castle. If you want to add a Vltava raft ride, a gallery visit, or a leisurely lunch, plan for a full day.
Let us tailor your trip to Český Krumlov
Tell us your date, number of people, and preferred time — we'll confirm the fixed price and itinerary right away.
Book your trip →+420 776 508 777