Regensburg to Cesky Krumlov: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The road from Regensburg to Cesky Krumlov is a 160-kilometer journey that traverses the border between Bavaria and South Bohemia, crossing the Danube at Regensburg's Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke) and climbing into the Bohemian Forest. Unlike the autobahn, the B16 and E53 provide a more intimate view of rural landscapes, though the final 30 kilometers on Czech road 39 wind through hills with occasional narrow passages.

This route was once part of the Salt Road linking Salzburg to Prague, evidenced by the fortified churches in Cham and Furth im Wald. Plan 2.5 hours of driving time, but budget 4-6 hours to fully absorb the highlights. The journey poses the question: is it worth driving Regensburg to Cesky Krumlov? Absolutely, for those who value scenic drives over speed.

Route at a Glance

how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities - a resource for customizing your own detours.

Geographical Shifts and UNESCO Highlights

Leaving Regensburg, the route follows the Danube valley through flat agricultural land, then climbs into the Bavarian Forest (Bayerischer Wald), a dense woodland of spruce and beech. After crossing into Czechia, the landscape opens into the Bohemian Forest (Šumava), a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The entire region is dotted with medieval towns.

• UNESCO: Regensburg's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cesky Krumlov's old town is also UNESCO-listed. No additional UNESCO sites directly on the route, but a short detour to Klatovy (30 min east) features the Baroque pharmacy.
• Natural attractions: Lake Osser (Großer Arbersee) near Lam offers a stunning glacial lake with a hiking trail. On the Czech side, Lipno Reservoir is a popular water sports spot.

Local Commerce and Delicacies

Roadside stalls in Bavaria sell fresh produce and schnapps. In Cham, the weekly market (Wednesdays) offers local cheese and smoked fish. In Furth im Wald, the Drachenstich festival (August) celebrates medieval lore with artisan sausages.

• Czech side: In Volary, stop at a 'hospoda' (pub) for 'knedlíky' dumplings and 'svíčková' cream sauce. Near Cesky Krumlov, buy 'trdelník' (chimney cake) at a roadside stand.
• Best stop Regensburg to Cesky Krumlov for culinary experience: Gasthof Fraunhofer in Bad Kötzting serves wild game stew and locally brewed beer.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel costs along the Regensburg-Cesky Krumlov route are moderate. In Germany, a liter of petrol (E10) costs about €1.80, while in Czechia, it drops to roughly CZK 36 (€1.50). The topography is hilly, particularly after Furth im Wald, so fuel efficiency dips by about 15% on the Czech side. Diesel vehicles get better mileage uphill.

• Fuel stations are dense in Germany: Aral, Shell, and Total stations along A3 and B16. After the border, stations are less frequent; fill up in Furth im Wald (Shell station at the border) or in Volary (only one station).
• Estimated total fuel cost for a standard car: €25-€30 (one way).
• Czech highways require a vignette (electronic toll) for motorways; however, the route mainly uses secondary roads (no toll needed).

Road Quality and Safety

The German sections (B16, B20) are well-maintained, two-lane roads with asphalt in excellent condition. After the border, Czech road 39 is narrower, with occasional potholes and patched surfaces, especially near Volary. Night driving is not recommended on Czech roads due to poor illumination and wildlife crossings (deer, wild boar).

• Speed limits: Germany (100 km/h on B-roads), Czechia (90 km/h on single carriageways).
• Police presence is minimal except near border crossings. Radar traps are common in German towns.
• Winter tires are mandatory in both Germany and Czechia from November to April.

Family and Child Suitability

The route offers several child-friendly stops. In Regensburg, the Danube Park has a large playground. In Cham, the Berndorfer Drachensee lake is ideal for a splash. For interactive museums, the Bayerwald-Tierpark zoo in Lohberg (near Lam) features native animals and a petting area.

• Pet-friendly stops: Dogs are allowed on leashes at the Großer Arbersee lake trail. In Cesky Krumlov, 'Cafe Labyrint' welcomes dogs.
• Fatigue management: Rest zones with picnic tables at parkplatz near Roding (B16) and at the border gas station in Furth im Wald. For a nap, the dedicated rest area 'Am Bühl' (B16) has shaded parking.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Five minutes off B20, the village of Miltach is home to a beautifully preserved Baroque church (St. Johannes Nepomuk) with frescoes. On the Czech side, the abandoned ironworks in 'Kokšín' (north of Volary) is a haunting industrial ruin accessible via a short forest walk.

• Things to do between Regensburg and Cesky Krumlov: explore the 'Burgruine' castle ruin in Neukirchen beim Heiligen Blut, which offers panoramic views.
• Climatic conditions: The Bavarian Forest often experiences fog in autumn mornings. Sunset at the Großer Arbersee is spectacular, with reflections on the lake.