Why Explore Beyond the City Walls?

The town itself is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site. It is beautiful but quite small. Most visitors can see the main sights in just one day. Staying longer allows you to explore the surrounding countryside. South Bohemia has a very unique charm. It is full of rolling hills and deep forests. You can visit the official tourism board for more regional ideas. These trips help you see the authentic side of the country. You will find fewer tourists in these hidden gems. Many spots are reachable by bus or train.

Top 10 Best Day Trips from Český Krumlov

The following list includes the most popular and rewarding excursions. Each spot offers something unique for every traveler. Whether you love history or hiking, you will find a great option here. These are the best day trips from Český Krumlov to add to your itinerary.

1. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: sight Why go: This is often called the most beautiful castle in the Czech Republic. It features white walls and ornate towers. You can enjoy a Hluboká castle tour to see the wood-carved interiors. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate for tours; gardens are free. Getting there: Take a direct bus or drive for 35 minutes. Tip: Book your interior tour tickets online during the summer.
2. Name: Lipno nad Vltavou Type: activity Why go: This lakeside town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can walk on the famous Treetop Walkway. It is a great trip to Lipno nad Vltavou for families. Best for: Families and active travelers. Where: Lipno Reservoir. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Use a local bus or a private car. Tip: Rent a bike to cycle around the lake path.
3. Name: České Budějovice Type: city Why go: This is the regional capital and home to Budweiser Budvar. The main square is one of the largest in Europe. A visit to České Budějovice offers great dining and beer. Best for: Beer lovers and urban explorers. Where: 25km north of Krumlov. Time: 5-7 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Frequent buses and trains run all day. Tip: Climb the Black Tower for a great city view.
4. Name: Šumava National Park Type: nature Why go: Known as the "Green Heart of Europe," it offers vast forests. You can find glacial lakes and peat bogs here. Follow a Šumava hiking guide to find the best trails. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: Along the German border. Time: Full day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Best reached by car for flexibility. Tip: Visit Lake Laka for a peaceful and easy hike.
5. Name: Holašovice Type: experience Why go: This village is a UNESCO site for its "Peasant Baroque" style. It looks like a living museum of rural life. A Holašovice village visit is very relaxing. Best for: Architecture fans and culture seekers. Where: 30 minutes north. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free to walk; small fee for museums. Getting there: Bus or car is required. Tip: Visit during the July Rural Festival for local crafts.
6. Name: Třeboň Type: sight Why go: Třeboň is a charming spa town surrounded by fish ponds. It is famous for its historical center and carp specialties. Use a Třeboň itinerary to see the local brewery. Best for: Slow travelers and foodies. Where: East of České Budějovice. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus via České Budějovice. Tip: Try the local "carp fries" at a lakeside restaurant.
7. Name: Linz, Austria Type: city Why go: This Austrian city is surprisingly close and offers a modern vibe. It is famous for the Linzer Torte and the Ars Electronica Center. A trip to Linz is a great international addition. Best for: Art lovers and shoppers. Where: Across the Austrian border. Time: Full day. Cost: High. Getting there: Take a shuttle bus or a train. Tip: Use the Pöstlingbergbahn for a scenic view of the city.
8. Name: Kleť Mountain Type: viewpoint Why go: This is the highest peak in the Blanský Forest. It features an old stone lookout tower and an observatory. Best for: Hikers and families. Where: Just outside the city. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Hike up or take the chairlift from Krasetín. Tip: The chairlift is a fun way to save your legs.
9. Name: Rožmberk Castle Type: sight Why go: This medieval fortress sits high above the Vltava River. It feels much more rugged than the Krumlov castle. Best for: Fans of medieval history. Where: 20km south. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Local bus or river raft. Tip: Visit the "English Tower" for the best river views.
10. Name: Salzburg, Austria Type: city Why go: While further away, it is a world-class destination. It is the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music. Best for: Music fans and history enthusiasts. Where: 2.5 hours south. Time: Long full day. Cost: High. Getting there: Shuttles like CK Shuttle are the fastest way. Tip: Start your day very early to maximize your time.

Practical Transport Tips for Your Excursions

Getting around South Bohemia is generally very easy. Public buses are the most popular way to travel. They are often faster than the local trains. You can check the official castle site for local event dates. This helps you avoid traffic on busy festival weekends. Renting a car offers the most freedom for nature trips. If you go to Austria, consider a shared shuttle service. These are door-to-door and very convenient for tourists. Always carry some Czech Koruna for smaller bus fares.