Booking choice: The small-group day with hotel pickup, from $126 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
The public bus is the cheapest way to Český Krumlov and drops you a few minutes' walk from the old town. A guided tour costs more but removes the planning, the timetables and the risk of a full return bus.
Here is how the options compare, with fares and times from current timetables.
The quick answer
By bus it takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes and costs roughly 220 to 430 CZK each way, from Na Knížecí (RegioJet) or Florenc (FlixBus). Trains mostly change at České Budějovice and take longer. A guided tour is about two hours each way by van, from $97 per person, with a guide and, on some tours, hotel pickup.
How far is Český Krumlov from Prague?
About 175 km (109 miles) south, roughly two hours by van or car.
The town lies in South Bohemia, near the Austrian border. Tours describe a scenic two-hour drive through the countryside each way.
How do you get to Český Krumlov by bus?
Take RegioJet from Na Knížecí, by Anděl metro station on line B, or FlixBus from Florenc; the ride takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes.
Fares run roughly 220 to 430 CZK one way, depending on the company and the departure. The bus stop in Český Krumlov is about five minutes' walk from the historic centre. Book both directions online: drivers only sell tickets if seats are free, and standing is not allowed.
The range comes from View From Prague (January 2026). FlixBus lists fares from about $13 and RegioJet shows the current fare when you search.
Rather not juggle timetables? The small-group day picks you up at your hotel and brings you back.
Check dates for the small-group day with hotel pickupCan you take the train?
Yes, but it is slower: most trains change at České Budějovice, and there is only one direct train a day.
The direct morning train takes about two and a half hours; other connections take longer with the change. The station is about 20 minutes' walk from the centre. Times and fares are on the Czech Railways site.
Should you drive yourself?
Driving takes about two hours each way, but you will need to park outside the historic centre and walk in.
A car gives you freedom to add Hluboká Castle or Holašovice, but you lose the commentary and the ease of someone else handling the road. Tours leave the van at a car park and lead you in on foot.
How do the costs compare?
The bus is the cheapest; a tour costs more but includes a guide and, on some days, pickup, castle entry or lunch.
| Option | Time each way | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | 2 h 25 to 3 h 20 | 220 to 430 CZK one way | Transport only |
| Train | About 2.5 h direct, longer with a change | See cd.cz | Transport only |
| Lowest-priced guided trip | About 2 to 2.5 h | $97 | Guide, walking tour |
| Small-group day | About 2 h | $126 | Hotel pickup, guide, max 15 |
| Holašovice small group | About 2 h | $159 | Pickup, lunch, Holašovice |
Want a guide at close to bus-and-ticket money? The lowest-priced guided trip includes a walking tour of the UNESCO centre.
Explore the lowest-priced guided tripWhich option gives you more time in town?
Independent travel can, if you take an early bus and a late one back; tours give you about four hours.
An early-morning bus from Na Knížecí and an evening return can give you a full day in town, at the cost of a very long day and the risk of full buses. Tours fix the schedule but take the planning away.
When does a guided tour make more sense?
When you have one day, want context from a guide, or are traveling with people who should not be hunting for bus stops.
Guests repeatedly mention the guide's stories as the highlight, and the small-group tour's hotel pickup means you leave from your door. It is also the easier choice in winter, when daylight is short.
When is the bus the better choice?
When you are on a budget, want to stay overnight, or want to set your own pace all day.
An overnight stay is the best way to see the town quietly after the day-trippers leave. If you are staying more than a day, the bus is the obvious choice. For a single day from Prague, compare the tours side by side.
One day, no planning: check dates for the small-group day with hotel pickup.
Check dates for the small-group day with hotel pickupFrequently asked questions
Is there a direct bus from Prague to Český Krumlov?
Yes. RegioJet runs from Na Knížecí and FlixBus from Florenc, taking about 2 hours 25 minutes to 3 hours 20 minutes.
How much is the bus from Prague to Český Krumlov?
Roughly 220 to 430 CZK one way, depending on the company and the time of day.
Is the train or the bus better?
The bus is usually better: it is direct and drops you closer to the old town. Most trains change at České Budějovice.
Ready to book
Choose your day
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Český Krumlov Small-Group Day Trip from Prague
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Prague (your pickup time is sent before the tour)
- About two hours each way in an air-conditioned van, 175 km (109 miles)
- Guided walk through the five castle courtyards and the historic centre
All-Day Guided Trip to Český Krumlov
The lowest price here, with a guided walk and plenty of free time
Český Krumlov & Holašovice Small-Group Day
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Prague (time confirmed the evening before)
- Minivan for up to 10 travelers, with Wi-Fi and bottled water
- Local guide in English or Spanish, and lunch
