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Trip to Linz from Český Krumlov: 10 Best Things to Do

Plan your trip to Linz from Český Krumlov with our expert guide. Discover the best sights, transport tips, and must-see attractions for 2026. Book your visit now!

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Trip to Linz from Český Krumlov: 10 Best Things to Do
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Planning the Perfect Trip to Linz from Český Krumlov

A trip to Linz from Český Krumlov is a popular choice for travelers in Central Europe. These two cities are only about 70 kilometers apart. You can transition from a medieval fairy tale to a modern Austrian hub quickly. Linz offers a unique blend of industrial history and cutting-edge technology.

Many visitors use Český Krumlov as a base to explore the region. While the UNESCO World Heritage site of Krumlov is stunning, Linz provides a different vibe. It is the third-largest city in Austria and sits right on the Danube River. This guide will help you plan every detail of your journey.

Whether you want art, history, or cake, Linz has something for everyone. The travel time is short, making it an ideal day excursion. You can leave after breakfast and be back by dinner time. Let's dive into the best ways to experience this cross-border adventure.

How to Plan Your Trip to Linz from Český Krumlov

Getting to Linz is very straightforward from South Bohemia. Most travelers prefer using a private shuttle bus from Český Krumlov to Linz. These shuttles offer door-to-door service and take about 1.5 hours. It is much faster than taking multiple trains or local buses.

If you choose to drive, the route is scenic and easy to navigate. You will head south toward the Austrian border. Remember that you need an Austrian highway vignette if you use the motorways. These can be purchased at gas stations near the border. Parking in Linz is plentiful in underground garages near the center.

For those looking for more variety, consider other best day trips from Český Krumlov during your stay. Linz is often a gateway for people heading further into Austria. It is a key transport hub for the entire region. Planning your transport in advance ensures a stress-free experience.

10 Best Things to Do on Your Trip to Linz

Linz is a city that surprises many first-time visitors. It was a European Capital of Culture and focuses heavily on the future. Here are the top attractions to include in your itinerary. These picks cover history, technology, and beautiful views.

Our list includes a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. This ensures you have a great time regardless of the weather. Use this one day itinerary for Linz from Czech Republic to maximize your time. Each spot is unique to the Austrian landscape.

  1. Name: Hauptplatz Linz Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the largest enclosed city squares in Europe. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: City Center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main station. Tip: Visit the Old Town Hall located right on the square.
  2. Name: Ars Electronica Center Type: Museum Why go: Known as the "Museum of the Future," it features interactive tech exhibits. Best for: Families and tech enthusiasts. Where: North bank of the Danube. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Cross the Nibelungen Bridge. Tip: Don't miss the 8K Deep Space theater presentations.
  3. Name: Pöstlingbergbahn Type: Experience Why go: This is one of the steepest adhesion railways in the world. Best for: Scenic views and kids. Where: Starts at Hauptplatz. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Round-trip ticket required. Getting there: Take the tram from the main square. Tip: Visit the Grottenbahn at the top for a fairy-tale ride.
  4. Name: Mariendom (New Cathedral) Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest church in Austria by capacity. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Herrenstraße. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: 10-minute walk from Hauptplatz. Tip: Look at the stained glass windows depicting local history.
  5. Name: Lentos Art Museum Type: Museum Why go: It houses a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Danube riverfront. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Standard museum pricing. Getting there: Short walk from the Nibelungen Bridge. Tip: The building glows with different colors at night.
  6. Name: Schlossmuseum Linz Type: Museum Why go: This castle museum offers the best overview of Upper Austrian history. Best for: History buffs. Where: On a hill overlooking the Danube. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk up from the Old Town. Tip: The terrace offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
  7. Name: Mural Harbor Type: Experience Why go: It is one of the largest graffiti and street art galleries in Europe. Best for: Urban explorers. Where: Industrial port area. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free to view; paid boat tours available. Getting there: Bus or taxi to the harbor. Tip: Book a boat tour to see the best murals from the water.
  8. Name: Voestalpine Stahlwelt Type: Unique Why go: Learn about the steel industry that shaped modern Linz. Best for: Industrial history fans. Where: Voestalpine-Straße. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Tram or bus from the center. Tip: Check the tour times for the plant factory floor.
  9. Name: Linz Botanical Garden Type: Nature Why go: It features over 10,000 species of plants and beautiful greenhouses. Best for: Relaxation and nature lovers. Where: Roseggerstraße. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Bus from the main station. Tip: The cactus collection is particularly impressive.
  10. Name: OK Center for Contemporary Art Type: Museum Why go: It hosts experimental art installations and the famous "Höhenrausch" walk. Best for: Creative minds. Where: Dametzstraße. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the pedestrian zone. Tip: Check if the rooftop walkway is open during your visit.

Where to Eat and Drink in Linz

No trip to Linz from Český Krumlov is complete without tasting the local food. You must try the Linzer Torte, often called the oldest cake in the world. Many bakeries in the city center claim to have the original recipe. It is a shortcrust pastry with nuts and redcurrant jam.

For a hearty meal, look for traditional Austrian taverns. They serve dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Tafelspitz. If you want something modern, the riverside cafes offer great views and light bites. You can learn more about what is Linz famous for tourists to find more food spots.

The craft beer scene is also growing in Linz. Several local breweries offer tasting rooms near the port and the old town. Coffee culture is just as strong here as it is in Vienna. Spend an hour people-watching at a cafe on the Hauptplatz.

Practical Tips for Your Austrian Adventure

Crossing the border from the Czech Republic to Austria is very easy. Since both countries are in the Schengen Area, there are no passport checks. However, you should always carry your ID or passport just in case. The currency in Austria is the Euro, unlike the Czech Koruna.

Most shops in Linz are closed on Sundays. This is a major difference from the Czech Republic. Plan your shopping for Saturday or a weekday. Restaurants and museums usually stay open on Sundays to accommodate tourists. This is a great time to visit the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov before you head out.

Language is rarely a barrier in Linz. Most people in the tourism industry speak excellent English. Knowing a few German phrases like "Guten Tag" is always appreciated. For more regional ideas, check out weekend trips from Český Krumlov to expand your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

🌟 Local Expert Tip: Get the most out of your Cesky Krumlov visit with guided tours!

How long does it take to travel from Český Krumlov to Linz?

The journey typically takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1.5 hours. This depends on whether you take a private shuttle or drive yourself. Public transport by bus and train can take significantly longer, often requiring transfers in České Budějovice.

Is a day trip to Linz from Český Krumlov worth it?

Yes, it is definitely worth it. Linz offers a modern, technological contrast to the medieval charm of Český Krumlov. You can see the main highlights, enjoy a Linzer Torte, and explore a world-class museum like Ars Electronica all within a single day.

Do I need a visa to travel from the Czech Republic to Austria?

No, you do not need a visa if you are traveling within the Schengen Area. Both the Czech Republic and Austria are members. Travelers with a valid passport or EU ID card can cross the border freely without stopping for immigration checks.

A trip to Linz from Český Krumlov is a rewarding experience for any traveler. You get to see two different cultures in a very short amount of time. From the tech-heavy museums to the historic squares, Linz is a city of contrasts. It provides a perfect balance to the historic streets of South Bohemia.

Make sure to book your transport early, especially during the summer months. Whether you choose a shuttle or a rental car, the drive is pleasant. Don't forget to try the famous local cake before you leave! For more inspiration on nearby destinations, explore our guide on best day trips from Český Krumlov.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.