If you’re planning a Central European itinerary, a short trip from Vienna to Český Krumlov is a must-add. This charming village in South Bohemia feels like stepping into a fairytale, and its compact size means a day or two is all you need to fully enjoy it.
Whether you’re heading north after Český Krumlov, perhaps to Prague or Brno, returning to Austria, or exploring elsewhere, this journey from Vienna to Český Krumlov is definitely worth your time.
After spending a few days in Vienna, we found that traveling by train to Český Krumlov is straightforward and delightful. The scenic views of the Austrian and Czech countryside, combined with the comfort of the trains, make the journey enjoyable.
Taking the train enhanced our travel experience rather than detracting from it, especially given our general aversion to unnecessary bus travel. While there are a few steps involved, they are easy to navigate.
Here’s everything you need to know before boarding your train from Vienna to Český Krumlov!
Step-By-Step Guide to Traveling from Vienna to Český Krumlov By Train
Step One: Vienna to Linz
Trains from Vienna to Linz run frequently, so once you’ve decided on your travel date, check the schedule and start planning!
Vienna’s main train stations are large, so double-check which station you’ll depart from (most likely Vienna HBF) and allow plenty of time to get there.
Step Two: Linz to České Budějovice
After arriving in Linz, prepare to cross the border into Czechia. Trains from Linz to České Budějovice depart roughly every two hours.
The Linz HBF station is easy to navigate, with a few restaurants and shops where you can grab a bite to eat. You’ll want to avoid being hungry at the small České Budějovice station.
Step Three: České Budějovice to Český Krumlov
Trains from České Budějovice to Český Krumlov are generally timed to match the arrivals from Linz, so while it’s good to check the schedule, you can expect a short wait in České Budějovice.
Unlike the other trains on this route, the one between České Budějovice and Český Krumlov is smaller, so be prepared for potential crowds. On our journey, the train was standing-room-only on the way to Český Krumlov and nearly empty on the return trip.
How to Reach the Center of Český Krumlov from the Train Station
The easiest way to reach the center of Český Krumlov from the train station is by taxi.
Taxis usually gather in the parking lot in front of the station when trains arrive. If there aren’t any available, you’ll find large advertisements with phone numbers for local taxi companies on the side of the building across the street.
It’s essential to have a phone that works in Czechia for this part of your trip!
We used Green Taxi a couple of times while in Český Krumlov and had friendly, fair drivers each time. The fare is about 100 Czech koruna, or a higher rate of 4-5 Euros if your driver accepts Euros instead.
Alternatively, you can walk about 25 minutes downhill into the town center, or catch the bus from the nearby Špičák stop, which will shorten the walk.
Tips for Traveling from Vienna to Český Krumlov By Train
- Start by planning your train from Linz to České Budějovice and work backward. Trains from Vienna to Linz run frequently, and the connections from České Budějovice to Český Krumlov are generally well-timed with arrivals at České Budějovice. Focus on scheduling the middle leg of your journey first.
- Have your passport ready. Although Austria and Czechia are both within the Schengen Zone and there are no formal border crossings, random identity checks can happen at any time. Keep your passport and any necessary visas accessible.
- Don’t plan to eat lunch at the České Budějovice station. The station is small, with just a few stands offering snacks, coffee, and pastries. It’s better to pack something from Vienna or plan to enjoy a hearty Czech meal once you arrive in Český Krumlov.
- Allocate about 4.5 hours for the journey. The three train rides, including transfers, typically take around 4.5 hours. While there are many great day trips from Vienna, this isn’t one of them!
- Remember to change currencies. Czechia uses the Czech koruna, not the Euro. While Euros are often accepted in Český Krumlov, the exchange rate is generally poor. You’ll save money by using koruna. Credit cards are sporadically accepted, so check before you sit down for a meal if you plan to pay by card.
- These are all regional train routes, so no reservations are required. If you’re planning a last-minute trip from Vienna to Český Krumlov, don’t worry—none of these trains require reservations. You can buy tickets for the first two legs at the Vienna station before departure, and for the České Budějovice to Český Krumlov leg either at the České Budějovice station or on the train itself.
Where To Stay in Český Krumlov
Penzion TOP
The rooms were clean and comfortable, the view of Český Krumlov was stunning, and it was a quick and easy walk into the city center. The owner was incredibly friendly, and the prices were very affordable.
Check rates & book your stay at Penzion TOP!
