If you’re an adventurous traveler looking for the perfect way to explore the picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich history of the Czech Republic, there’s no better way to do it than embarking on a road trip in a campervan. With its well-maintained roads, diverse landscapes, and a plethora of fascinating destinations, the Czech Republic offers an ideal setting for a memorable campervan adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through seven incredible road trips that will let you experience the very best this enchanting country has to offer.
Road Trip 1: Prague to Český Krumlov
Distance: Approximately 170 kilometers
Duration: 2-3 days
Our adventure begins in the heart of the Czech Republic, Prague, a city known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. Start your road trip by picking up your campervan rental in Prague and heading south towards Český Krumlov.
Key Stops:
- Prague: Spend a day or two exploring the capital city’s iconic attractions, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square.
- Karlštejn Castle: Make a stop at this picturesque medieval castle on your way out of Prague.
- České Budějovice: Known for its famous Budweiser beer, this town is worth a visit.
- Český Krumlov: Explore the charming UNESCO-listed town with its well-preserved medieval architecture and the stunning Český Krumlov Castle.
Route Details:
- From Prague, head south on the D1 motorway towards České Budějovice.
- After visiting České Budějovice, continue on to Český Krumlov, located just 25 kilometers away.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Campsite Camping Frymburk (near Český Krumlov): A tranquil campsite situated on the banks of Lake Lipno, providing stunning views and modern facilities.
Road Trip 2: Bohemian Switzerland National Park
Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers
Duration: 2-3 days
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, a campervan road trip to Bohemian Switzerland National Park is an absolute must. This park, located in the northern part of the country, offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe.
Key Stops:
- Hřensko: A charming village at the entrance to the park, perfect for starting your adventure.
- Pravčická Gate: Hike to this iconic sandstone arch, the largest in Europe.
- Tisa Rocks: Explore the unique rock formations known as “Tiské stěny.”
- Děčín: Visit the historic town of Děčín, located on the banks of the Elbe River.
Route Details:
- Start your journey in Prague and head north towards Děčín.
- From Děčín, follow the signs to Hřensko and enter the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Autocamp Hřensko: A convenient campsite situated at the entrance to the national park, offering basic amenities and a lovely setting.
Road Trip 3: The Moravian Karst
Distance: Approximately 250 kilometers
Duration: 3-4 days
Venture eastward to explore the mesmerizing landscapes and underground wonders of the Moravian Karst. This region is famous for its limestone formations, caves, and captivating natural beauty.
Key Stops:
- Brno: The second-largest city in the Czech Republic is an excellent starting point. Don’t miss the Špilberk Castle and the vibrant food scene.
- Punkva Caves: Explore the stunning underground world of the Punkva Caves, including the Macocha Abyss.
- Moravian Karst Nature Reserve: Discover the hiking trails and unique geological features of the area.
- Cave of the Dead Bats (Sloupsko-šošůvské caves): Visit this intriguing cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Route Details:
- Begin your journey in Brno and head north towards the Moravian Karst.
- Follow the signs to the various attractions within the Moravian Karst Nature Reserve.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Autocamp Jedovnice: A well-equipped campsite located near the Punkva Caves and the beautiful Jedovnice Reservoir.
Road Trip 4: The Golden City and Beyond
Distance: Approximately 300 kilometers
Duration: 3-4 days
This road trip takes you to the “Golden City” of Prague and beyond, allowing you to explore the historical and cultural gems of Western Bohemia.
Key Stops:
- Prague: Begin your journey in the enchanting capital city, Prague.
- Karlovy Vary: Visit the famous spa town known for its thermal springs and stunning architecture.
- Mariánské Lázně: Another charming spa town with beautiful parks and colonnades.
- Plzeň: Home to Pilsner beer, explore the city and tour the Pilsner Urquell Brewery.
Route Details:
- Start in Prague and head west towards Karlovy Vary.
- Continue to Mariánské Lázně, and finally, make your way to Plzeň before returning to Prague.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Autocamp Osek: Located just outside Karlovy Vary, this campsite offers a peaceful setting and essential amenities.
Road Trip 5: South Bohemia’s Lakes and Castles
Distance: Approximately 350 kilometers
Duration: 4-5 days
Experience the charm of South Bohemia as you explore its serene lakes and majestic castles on this scenic road trip.
Key Stops:
- České Budějovice: Begin your journey in this charming town famous for Budweiser beer.
- Český Krumlov: Visit the picturesque town with its stunning castle and historic center.
- Lipno Dam: Relax by the beautiful Lipno Lake and enjoy water activities.
- Hluboká Castle: Explore the fairytale-like Hluboká Castle, often referred to as the “Czech Windsor.”
- Třeboň: Discover the spa town of Třeboň and its lovely Renaissance architecture.
Route Details:
- Start in České Budějovice and head to Český Krumlov.
- Continue to Lipno Dam, Hluboká Castle, and Třeboň, following the well-marked roads.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Autocamp Na Kopci: A campsite located near Český Krumlov, offering beautiful views of the town and modern facilities.
Road Trip 6: The Wine Roads of South Moravia
Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers
Duration: 4-5 days
Indulge your senses in the wine country of South Moravia, where rolling vineyards, charming wine cellars, and picturesque towns await.
Key Stops:
- Brno: Begin your journey in Brno, where you can explore the city’s vibrant wine bars.
- Mikulov: Visit the picturesque town of Mikulov, known for its wine production and stunning castle.
- Wine Cellars of Znojmo: Explore the extensive wine cellars beneath the town of Znojmo.
- Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape: Discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens and castles.
- Valtice: Visit the town of Valtice and sample some of the region’s finest wines.
Route Details:
- Start in Brno and head south towards Mikulov.
- Continue to Znojmo, the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, and Valtice, following the wine roads of South Moravia.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Autocamp Tři Dvory: A peaceful campsite located near Mikulov, offering a tranquil setting and basic amenities.
Road Trip 7: The Bohemian Paradise
Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers
Duration: 2-3 days
Our final road trip takes you to the enchanting Bohemian Paradise, a region characterized by dramatic rock formations, lush forests, and fairytale castles.
Key Stops:
- Turnov: Begin your journey in Turnov, a gateway to the Bohemian Paradise.
- Hrubá Skála Castle: Explore this impressive castle perched atop a sandstone rock.
- Prachov Rocks: Hike through the breathtaking rock formations of Prachov Rocks.
- Kost Castle: Visit the well-preserved Gothic Kost Castle.
- Český Ráj: Explore the stunning landscapes of Český Ráj, including the Trosky Castle.
Route Details:
- Start in Turnov and explore the various attractions within the Bohemian Paradise.
Places to Stay with a Campervan:
- Autocamp Sedmihorky: A campsite conveniently located near Turnov, offering a peaceful atmosphere and essential facilities.
Czech Republic in a Campervan
Embarking on a campervan road trip around the Czech Republic is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the country’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and charming towns. Whether you choose to explore the natural wonders of Bohemian Switzerland or the wine roads of South Moravia, each road trip offers a unique adventure waiting to be experienced. So, pack your bags, rent a campervan, and hit the road to discover the beauty and culture that the Czech Republic has to offer.
Now, it’s time to plan your epic Czech campervan adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!