Cesky Krumlov to Krems an der Donau: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The 160-kilometer drive from Cesky Krumlov to Krems an der Donau crosses the historic border between Bohemia and Lower Austria via the scenic B310 and B37 roads, bypassing the A1 motorway for a more intimate journey along the Danube’s tributaries. One curious detail: the road near the border at Dolni Dvořiště follows an old imperial route where 19th-century customs posts still stand as ruins. This route connects two UNESCO World Heritage sites—Cesky Krumlov’s medieval core and the Wachau valley’s terraced vineyards—making it one of Europe’s most culturally dense short road trips. Driving time is roughly 2 to 2.5 hours without stops, but the journey deserves a full day.

• Distance: 160 km (100 miles)
• Estimated driving time: 2–2.5 hours
• Primary roads: B310 (CZ), B37 (AT), briefly S3 expressway
• Border crossing: Dolni Dvořiště / Wullowitz

South of Cesky Krumlov, the road winds through the Sumava foothills, lush with beech forests and meandering rivers. Near the border, the remote Novohradske Hory mountains offer hiking trails to abandoned medieval castles like Pohansko. Crossing into Austria, the landscape opens into the Waldviertel region, a granite highland dotted with ponds and tiny villages. The real treasure is the Wachau valley approach: just before Krems, the B37 drops into the Danube gorge, revealing terraced vineyards and apricot orchards. Local commerce thrives in small wineries (Heurigen) where you can taste Grüner Veltliner directly.

Key stops for culture and nature

• Zwettl Abbey (Stift Zwettl) – a Cistercian monastery with a stunning Baroque library, 10 min off B37
• Grafenegg Castle – a Renaissance palace with gardens and classical concerts
• Dürnstein – a Wachau village with blue church tower and Richard the Lionheart legend
• Krems’ historic old town – wine museums and art galleries along pedestrian zone

The B310 between Cesky Krumlov and the border is narrow with sharp bends; during autumn, fog is common. On the Austrian side, B37 is safe but has occasional deer crossings – headlights on at all times. For families, the Waldviertel offers interactive farm parks like Erlebnisbauernhof Purgstall with petting zoos. Child-friendly restaurants in Zwettl (e.g., Gasthof zur Post) serve schnitzel and play areas. For pet owners, many Heurigen in Wachau allow dogs on leashes; the hiking trail along the Danube in Krems is ideal for pit stops. Fatigue management: take breaks at the Raststation Heinrichs bei Weitra (km 55) or the Espresso bar in Gföhl. Rest zones are every 20 km with picnic tables.

• Emergency: 112 (EU) or 122 (CZ fire), 144 (AT ambulance)
• Winter warning: Snow chains may be required between November and March
• Family tips: Pack snacks – limited fast food; bring a stroller for Dürnstein cobblestones
• Pet-friendly: Accommodations like Hotel Krems offers dog beds for €15 extra

The route can be broken into three distinct segments: the Bohemian hills, the Austrian plateau, and the Danube descent. Fuel stations are sparse on the Czech side; fill up at the Shell station in Ceske Budejovice (exit 149 on E55) before the border. Once in Austria, the B37 has frequent gas stations in Zwettl and Gföhl. Tolls: Czech highways require a vignette (www.edalnice.cz); the Austrian B37 is toll-free, but if you opt for the A1, an Austrian vignette is mandatory (€9.50 for 10 days). Currency changes from Czech koruna to euro; have cash for rural cafes.

• Fuel: Cesky Krumlov to border (no stations for 25 km) – fill up before
• Border crossing: Open 24/7, random passport checks
• Road quality: B310 is narrow with curves, B37 is well-maintained two-lane
• Best time: May–October for greenery; winter requires snow tires
• For more tips on discovering stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.