Cesky Krumlov to Calais Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

The drive from Cesky Krumlov to Calais spans 850 km along the E55 and A1 through Czech Republic, Germany, and France. The route crosses three major river basins: the Vltava, the Danube, and the Rhine. One curious fact: near the Czech-German border at Rozvadov, the highway splits into a unique dual-carriageway system where trucks must use a separate lane for several kilometers due to a steep gradient of 6%.

how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities is essential reading before you set off. Our guide covers every aspect: from the medieval alleys of Cesky Krumlov to the bustling ports of Calais, with curated stops in between.

Is it worth driving Cesky Krumlov to Calais? Absolutely — you'll pass through UNESCO sites, lush forests, and enjoy culinary contrasts from Czech dumplings to French moules-frites. Plan for a multi-day trip to savor the journey.

The route transitions from Bohemian forest (Šumava) to the rolling hills of Franconia, then the Rhine Valley vineyards, finally the flat plains of northern France. The Czech section features dense forests and fishponds. Germany's A9 runs through the Thuringian Forest, with a viewpoint at Hermsdorfer Kreuz.

• Natural Landscapes: Šumava National Park (deer, boar), Franconian Switzerland (rock formations), Rhine terraces (UNESCO).
• UNESCO Sites: Cesky Krumlov (medieval town), Regensburg (old town), Speyer (cathedral), Reims (Notre-Dame).
• Local Commerce: In Cesky Krumlov, buy Bohemian garnet jewelry; in Bavaria, lebkuchen gingerbread; in Champagne region, bring wine.

Things to do between Cesky Krumlov and Calais include hiking in Šumava, visiting the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds in Nuremberg, or a champagne house tour in Épernay. Each stop enriches the cultural tapestry.

How long to drive Cesky Krumlov to Calais? The non-stop drive is about 9 hours without breaks. However, with recommended stops, budget 10–12 hours. Key highways: E55 (Czech), A9 (German), A6 (French). Toll roads in France: A26 requires electronic payment (télépéage) or cash. Fuel prices as of 2025: Czech Republic €1.50/L, Germany €1.80/L, France €1.70/L.

• Tolls: Czech Republic €12 (electronic vignette required), Germany none (except some tunnels), France €30–40.
• Fuel stations: Major brands along A9/A6 (Shell, Aral, Total). In Czech Republic, EuroOil and Benzina stations are cheaper.
• Failing to buy a Czech vignette before entering D5 near Plzeň results in fines up to €200.

Best stops Cesky Krumlov to Calais include Plzeň for Pilsner Urquell brewery, Nuremberg for its medieval castle, and Reims for Champagne tasting. Each adds a unique flavor to the journey.

Road quality: Excellent on German and French highways, variable in Czech Republic (some sections of E55 need resurfacing). In winter, expect snow between January and February, especially in the Šumava region. Family suitability: Kid-friendly stops include the Zoo in Plzeň, Playmobil FunPark in Nuremberg, and the Cité de l'Automobile in Mulhouse.

• Pet-Friendly Framework: Most German rest stops (Raststätte) have designated pet areas. In France, many hotels accept dogs (check ahead). Les Loges en Champagne is pet-friendly.
• Hidden Off-Route Spots: The abandoned ironworks in Železná Ruda (CZ), the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber (near A6), and the Lac du Der-Chantecoq (bird sanctuary) in France.
• Fatigue Management: Rest zones every 50 km on German Autobahn. Recommended stops: Rozvadov border stop (24/7 services), Nuremberg Süd rest area, and near Reims at Aire de la Champagne.

Culinary Infrastructure: Czech highway stops offer smažený sýr (fried cheese); German ones serve currywurst; French aires route with croissants. For a proper meal, detour to Nürnberger Bratwurststand in Nuremberg's Hauptmarkt.