2-Day Hluboka and Cesky Krumlov Tour from Prague

Exploring South Bohemia: 2-Day Hluboka and Cesky Krumlov Tour from Prague

Taking a short escape from Prague, this 2-day tour offers a taste of South Bohemia’s fairy-tale castles, historic towns, and scenic vistas. With organized transport, guided sightseeing, and an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel, it’s a convenient way to see some of the Czech Republic’s most picturesque spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What really makes this experience stand out is the combination of guided city tours and free time to soak in the atmosphere—perfect for those who want a mix of expert insights and independent exploration. Plus, staying overnight near Hluboká Castle adds a touch of luxury and comfort that many travelers appreciate.

One thing to keep in mind is the itinerary’s flexibility, especially on Day 2, when you’re left to your own devices at Hluboká. For some, this allows a peaceful break to relax or explore at their own pace, but if you prefer a highly structured schedule, it could feel a little loose. This tour suits travelers eager for a scenic, relaxed escape, with enough guided moments to learn about the sites and free time to enjoy them on your own.

Key Points

• Convenient multi-city experience: Visit Cesky Krumlov, Ceske Budejovice, and Hluboká nad Vltavou in just 2 days.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Cesky Krumlov’s Old Town and castle are highlights, offering authentic medieval charm.
• Beautiful castles: Hluboká Castle impresses many with its fairy-tale appearance, and the guided tour provides great insights.
• Flexible day in Hluboká: Day 2 allows for independent exploration or relaxation, ideal for a slower pace.
• Comfortable overnight stay: Accommodation at the 4-star Stekl Hotel near Hluboká Castle offers comfort and convenience.
• Small group size: With a maximum of 18 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, making it easier to connect and ask questions.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Cesky Krumlov

Your adventure begins at 9:00 am from Prague’s Staré Město district. The journey by air-conditioned coach takes you into the heart of South Bohemia, where the first stop is Cesky Krumlov—a town that looks like it belonged in a storybook. Walking through its narrow, winding streets, you’ll feel transported back centuries, with pastel-colored buildings, quaint shops, and lively squares.

The guide will point out notable sights during the roughly three-hour walking tour, which is mostly free to explore at your own pace afterward. If you’re a history buff, the highlight will be the Cesky Krumlov Castle, with its imposing 13th-century structure and stunning views over the Vltava River. Inside, the castle’s interior is only available during summer months, but even from outside, its architecture is striking. When open, the interiors reveal detailed frescoes and ornate furnishings, adding layers to the town’s fairy-tale aura.

In winter, the castle’s interior is closed, so you’ll just admire the exterior views—still worth it, but worth noting for winter travelers. The evening ends with a short stop in the city center, allowing for dinner or to browse local shops, setting the stage for a cozy overnight stay.

Day 2: Hluboká nad Vltavou and Personal Exploration

The second day kicks off with breakfast and your transfer to Hluboká nad Vltavou, about an hour’s drive from Cesky Krumlov. This is the day to appreciate Hluboká Castle—a true highlight of the trip. Many reviewers, including those who have stayed at the nearby hotel, describe Hluboká as one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic, with its fairy-tale towers and lush grounds.

While the group tour doesn’t include a guided interior visit during winter, most visitors agree that even admiring the castle’s exterior is worthwhile. If you visit during warmer months, short interior tours are available, offering insight into the castle’s history and architecture. Many guests have found Hluboká to be a romantic and impressive spot, with some reviewers calling their stay “unforgettably romantic.”

The afternoon is entirely yours. You can revisit the castle grounds, relax at your hotel, or wander the surrounding parklands. For those who love a leisurely pace, this free time is gold. As one reviewer noted, the hotel stay was “wonderful and very comfortable,” making it a nice contrast to busy city life.

Transportation, Guides, and Group Size: What Travelers Should Know

The tour uses an air-conditioned coach, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites, and the group is kept small—up to 18 travelers—which helps keep things personal. The guide, Petr, received praise for his knowledge and friendliness, offering valuable context that brings the sites alive. Reviewers appreciated his ability to blend historical facts with engaging storytelling.

While some found the guide’s style a bit dry or understated, most agreed that his insights added depth to the experience. The tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point in Prague at 9:00 am.

Meals and Accommodation

Breakfast and lunch are included, with the hotel providing a comfortable base for overnight stays. The Stekl Hotel in Hluboká offers double and single rooms, and the overall value is considered good, especially when factoring in the guided tours, accommodation, and meals.

Cost and Value

Priced at around $377.82 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but it offers a comprehensive experience that covers transportation, guide services, lodging, and meals. Reviewers highlighted the good value, especially for the quality of the hotel and the scenic sites.

What Travelers Say: Real Experiences and Insights

Several reviewers expressed high satisfaction, especially with Hluboká Castle, calling it “simply amazing” and “well worth seeing.” The guide, Petr, was praised for his friendliness and knowledge, making the historical sites more engaging.

However, some noted the less structured second day, with one reviewer mentioning that they were the only person left at Hluboká’s hotel after the group departed, highlighting that the free time might not suit those expecting a full guided day. Others appreciated the chance to relax and explore independently, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations for this laid-back day.

Challenges and Considerations

• The Cesky Krumlov Castle interior is only open during summer; during winter, you’ll only see the exterior.
• The second day offers no guided activities, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with independent exploration.
• The group size is small, creating a friendly atmosphere but requiring early booking (average booking is 50 days in advance).

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic getaway that combines guided sightseeing with free time. It’s perfect for history lovers, castle enthusiasts, and those wanting to see UNESCO World Heritage sites without the hassle of self-organized travel. The overnight stay in a high-quality hotel adds a layer of comfort and makes it suitable for travelers seeking a bit of luxury.

However, if you prefer a highly structured, full-guided day with interior tours, or if you’re traveling during winter when castle interiors are closed, this might not be the best fit. It’s also great for couples or small groups wanting an intimate experience with authentic Czech charm.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into South Bohemia’s most enchanting spots. The combination of guided tours, scenic towns, and a luxurious overnight stay makes it a strong choice for travelers who want a balance of activity and relaxation, without the stress of planning all the details themselves.

You’ll love the views, the historic atmosphere, and the chance to see two of the country’s most celebrated castles—especially Hluboká, which many find breathtaking. The small group size and knowledgeable guide help ensure a personal, engaging experience that leaves a lasting impression.

While the schedule can be a bit loose on Day 2, this flexibility is a plus for those who prefer a slower pace or want to customize their afternoon. Overall, a good value for those seeking a memorable, scenic escape from Prague.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at a designated meeting point in Prague, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting location.

What is the main highlight of the trip?
Most travelers agree that Hluboká Castle and Cesky Krumlov are the main attractions, with many describing Hluboká as “simply amazing” and Cesky Krumlov as charming and picturesque.

Can I visit the interiors of Cesky Krumlov Castle?
Only during summer months; in winter, the castle is closed inside, so you’ll only see the exterior.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at the 4-star Stekl Hotel near Hluboká Castle, which most guests find comfortable and well-located for exploring the castle grounds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children up to 2 years old in a room with two paying adults can join free of charge. The relaxed pace and scenic sites make it family-friendly.

How much free time do I get?
On Day 2, you are free to explore Hluboká Castle or relax at your hotel for about 12 hours, with no guided activities scheduled.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and if visiting in winter, be prepared for cold weather. A camera and some cash for extras are also recommended.

This 2-day journey offers a blend of guided insights, breathtaking sights, and leisure, making it an appealing option for anyone eager to experience a slice of Czech fairy-tale scenery without the fuss of full self-guided travel.