English How to get from Prague Airport to Český Krumlov
The journey is around 172 km south of Prague and normally takes between two and two and a half hours by road. The route follows the D3 motorway towards České Budějovice before continuing on Road 39 to Český Krumlov. It is a straightforward drive with no border crossings, and journey times mainly depend on traffic leaving Prague and the time of year.
Unlike an urban transfer, the challenge is not the journey itself but the arrival. As vehicles are not allowed inside the historic centre, it is worth deciding in advance which parking area on the edge of town is the most suitable drop-off point.
A riverside old town closed to traffic
The Vltava River forms an almost complete loop around the medieval centre, creating a pedestrian peninsula beneath the castle. Within this area, the cobbled streets are reserved for pedestrians throughout the daytime.
For this reason, your transfer does not simply end "in Český Krumlov". It finishes at one of the designated car parks outside the river loop, from where the old town can be reached on foot within a few minutes. The most suitable parking area depends on the location of your accommodation within or close to the historic centre.
Car parks where your transfer will drop you off
Several car parks are located around the edge of the historic centre. The most convenient one depends on where you are staying, as it determines how far you will need to walk with your luggage.
Below the castle
Located beside the castle complex on the northern side of town. Ideal for accommodation close to the castle and the Latrán district.
Close to the centre
Situated below the post office area, with convenient access to the historic centre from the eastern side.
Beside the municipal park
Located next to the town park, this is a popular choice for travellers with more luggage thanks to its proximity to the old town.
Temporary access for unloading luggage
The historic centre remains pedestrianised between 06:00 and 22:00. Only authorised vehicles, such as hotel guests unloading luggage or delivery vehicles, may enter during these hours. If your accommodation has permission for vehicle access, it is worth mentioning this when booking so the nearest possible drop-off point can be arranged. Otherwise, your transfer will finish at one of the designated car parks around the edge of the old town.
Český Krumlov as a stop on the way to Austria
Many travellers booking this route are not returning to Prague but continuing south to destinations such as Linz, Salzburg or Vienna. Český Krumlov lies on the natural route towards the Austrian border, making it an ideal stop rather than the final destination. If that is your plan, it should be included when booking so the total journey time, vehicle and fare can be calculated correctly.
If your journey continues into Austria, you will cross an internal Schengen border where there are normally no routine border checks. Be sure to include your final destination when making your booking.
Vehicle and luggage for a two-hour journey and cobbled streets
The journey is relatively long, and the final part of the trip is on foot along cobbled streets, often uphill towards the castle. A vehicle with generous luggage space and, above all, being dropped off at the car park closest to your accommodation make the last stretch with your luggage much easier.
The number of passengers and pieces of luggage determines the vehicle assigned to your booking. You can view the available options in the Zonetransfers fleet. If you would prefer a driver at your disposal to explore the region or continue to Austria at your own pace, our chauffeur service in Prague is available. Any stops and waiting time are governed by our Terms and Conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to travel from Prague Airport to Český Krumlov?
The journey takes between two and two and a half hours, covering around 172 km via the D3 motorway and Road 39. Journey times depend mainly on traffic leaving Prague and the season.
Can the vehicle drive into the historic centre?
No. The old town, located within the Vltava River meander, is pedestrianised between 06:00 and 22:00. Drop-off takes place at one of the designated car parks around the edge unless your accommodation has authorised vehicle access.
Which car park is best for my drop-off?
That depends on the location of your accommodation. P1 (Jelenka) is below the castle, P2 (Pod Poštou) is close to the eastern entrance to the old town, and P3 (Městský park) is beside the municipal park. Providing your hotel details helps us choose the most convenient drop-off point.
Can I leave my luggage at the hotel before parking?
If your accommodation has authorised vehicle access for guests, it may be possible to enter briefly to unload luggage. It is advisable to confirm this with your hotel and mention it when making your booking.
Does the route cross any borders?
No, not if your destination is Český Krumlov, as the journey remains entirely within the Czech Republic. A border is only crossed if you continue into Austria, where there are normally no routine checks because it is an internal Schengen border.
Can I continue to Vienna, Linz or Salzburg after my visit?
Yes. This is a popular option for travellers using this route. Simply mention it when requesting your quote, as it affects the total journey time, vehicle selection and overall fare.
Should I pay in euros or Czech koruna?
The official currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna (CZK). With a fixed-price private transfer, your fare is agreed in advance regardless of local expenses.
How do I arrange my return transfer to Prague Airport?
Your return journey is booked using the exact pick-up point, usually the same car park where you were dropped off, together with your flight details. Allow around two to two and a half hours for the drive, plus enough time for airport check-in.
Request a quote for your transfer to Český Krumlov
Tell us your travel date, flight number, number of passengers and pieces of luggage, the name of your accommodation in Český Krumlov, and whether your journey will continue to Austria afterwards. We will prepare a fixed quotation and select the most suitable drop-off car park for your destination.
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