A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bratislava vs. Cesky Krumlov for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Where Should I go: Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov?

Bratislava

The capital and largest city of Slovakia, Bratislava is set on the shores of the Danube River near the borders of Austria and Hungary. While the city is skirted by mountains and vineyards, its 18th century old town center is crossed with cobbled walkways and surrounded by historic landmarks and architecture. One such monument is the Bratislava Castle, set atop a hill overlooking it all-the old town, the river, and the bustle of people in the charming city below.

Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful town located in Southern Bohemia in the Czech Republic. It sits along the Vltava River and is home to just over 13,000 residents. The town has many Baroque buildings as well as many pleasant cafes, restaurants and bars. It also has the second largest castle in the Czech Republic, and a beautiful old town square. The town remains very similar to how it was in the 18th century. Many of the buildings are well maintained, and many have been restored to their original beauty. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and has become a very popular tourist destination. During the summer months tourists may outnumber the local population.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Czech Republic, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Cesky Krumlov or Bratislava?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bratislava is €122, while the average daily cost in Cesky Krumlov is €58. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bratislava and Cesky Krumlov in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bratislava 49
    Cesky Krumlov 34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bratislava 98
    Cesky Krumlov 68
Compare Hotels in Bratislava and Cesky Krumlov

Looking for a hotel in Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bratislava


Hotels in Cesky Krumlov


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bratislava Hotel Prices and Cesky Krumlov Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bratislava 26
    Cesky Krumlov 2.73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bratislava

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bratislava:

  • Vienna Airport VIE to Bojnice Resorts Round Trip Private Transfer: $132
  • Private transfer from Bratislava to Vienna: $265
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Bratislava (hotel OR airport pick-up): $29
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest, English-speaking driver: $138
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava to Budapest with 2h of Sightseeing: $204
  • Private Transfer from Bratislava City to Vienna City: $99
  • Private Transfer Vienna Airport Hotel in Bratislava or vice versa: $101
  • Private Transfer From Bratislava To Vienna, 2h Stop in Schlosshof: $126
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bratislava to Vienna City Center: $88
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Service: $24
  • Bratislava-Budapest One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $297
  • Bratislava Airport (BTS) to Bojnice Resorts - Round Trip Transfer: $132

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cesky Krumlov

Also for Cesky Krumlov, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague, English-speaking driver: $123
  • Private Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Hallstatt with 2 hours for sightseeing: $149
  • Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing: $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov?

Prices for flights to both Cesky Krumlov and Bratislava change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bratislava 45
    Cesky Krumlov 20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bratislava

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bratislava.

  • Local Beer & Food Tour: $132
  • Bratislava Traditional Food Tour: $165

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cesky Krumlov

For Cesky Krumlov, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2h Town Tour with Czech Food Lunch/Dinner: $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bratislava 30
    Cesky Krumlov 6.10

Tours and Activities in Bratislava

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bratislava are as follows:

  • Bratislava Premium Private Walking Tour, 4 hours: $215
  • 2 Hour Sightseeing Tour of Bratislava: $45
  • Banska Stiavnica from Bratislava, UNESCO Day Tour: $219
  • Bratislava - Bike Tour: $54
  • Bratislava - Grand City Tour: $86
  • Bratislava Card with Public Transport Option & Walking Tour: $23
  • Bratislava Castle Tour by Presporacik: $18
  • Bratislava Classical Walking Tour: $20
  • Bratislava Danube River Evening Sightseeing Cruise with Prosecco: $32
  • Bratislava Foodie Tour: $121
  • Bratislava Grand City Tour: $93
  • Bratislava Grand City Tour with Devin Castle: $175

Tours and Activities in Cesky Krumlov

For Cesky Krumlov, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cesky Krumlov Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Český Krumlov Free Tour: $20
  • Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area: $61
  • 2h Chateau Collections and Tower Tour with Coffee & Dessert: $76
  • Český Krumlov Private Walking Tour: $86
  • Private Night tour of Český Krumlov: $86
  • Český Krumlov 20th century tour: $86
  • Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour: $94
  • Touristic highlights of Český Krumlov on a Private half day tour with a local: $169
  • Private tour of best of Český Krumlov - Sightseeing, Food & Culture with a local: $169
  • Walking private guided tour in Cesky Krumlov with local certified guide: $176
  • A day in the life of Český Krumlov - Private tour with a local: $198

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bratislava 19
    Cesky Krumlov 3.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Bratislava

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bratislava:

  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $8.58
  • Quick Wine Tasting in Michalská: $8.70
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier in Bratislava: $14
  • Wine Tasting with Sommelier: $15
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Wine Tasting IN THE DARK!: $16
  • Craft Beer Pub Tour Bratislava by Team Beer Drink: $73
  • Bratislava 3-Hour Wine Tasting: $105
  • Devin Castle Tour with Currant Wine Tasting: $145
  • Devin Castle Tour with Wine Tasting: $154
  • Bratislava Food and Wine Tour: $176
  • Little Carpathian Wine Tour: $203


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bratislava and Cesky Krumlov, we can see that Bratislava is more expensive. And not only is Cesky Krumlov much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cesky Krumlov would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesky Krumlov and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bratislava would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bratislava than you might in Cesky Krumlov.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bratislava Expensive? and Is Cesky Krumlov Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov?

Bratislava has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cesky Krumlov. When comparing the sizes of Bratislava and Cesky Krumlov, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov in the Summer?

Both Cesky Krumlov and Bratislava during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bratislava for the family-friendly experiences.

Bratislava is a little warmer than Cesky Krumlov in the summer. The daily temperature in Bratislava averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cesky Krumlov fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Cesky Krumlov, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bratislava. In the summer, Bratislava often gets more sunshine than Cesky Krumlov. Bratislava gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cesky Krumlov receives 227 hours of full sun.

Bratislava usually gets less rain in July than Cesky Krumlov. Bratislava gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bratislava 23°C (73°F) 
    Cesky Krumlov 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bratislava and Cesky Krumlov. Many visitors come to Bratislava in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bratislava is a little warmer than Cesky Krumlov. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bratislava in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Cesky Krumlov averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Bratislava usually receives more sunshine than Cesky Krumlov during autumn. Bratislava gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Cesky Krumlov receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bratislava usually receives less rain than Cesky Krumlov. Bratislava gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bratislava 12°C (54°F) 
    Cesky Krumlov 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bratislava as well as Cesky Krumlov. Most visitors come to Bratislava for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

The weather in Cesky Krumlov can be very cold. Bratislava can be very cold during winter. In January, Bratislava is generally much warmer than Cesky Krumlov. Daily temperatures in Bratislava average around 2°C (36°F), and Cesky Krumlov fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Bratislava often gets more sunshine than Cesky Krumlov. Bratislava gets 65 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cesky Krumlov receives 44 hours of full sun.

Bratislava usually gets less rain in January than Cesky Krumlov. Bratislava gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bratislava 2°C (36°F) 
    Cesky Krumlov -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Bratislava or Cesky Krumlov in the Spring?

Both Cesky Krumlov and Bratislava are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bratislava because of the natural beauty.

Bratislava is a little warmer than Cesky Krumlov in the spring. The daily temperature in Bratislava averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cesky Krumlov fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bratislava. Bratislava usually receives more sunshine than Cesky Krumlov during spring. Bratislava gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Cesky Krumlov receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bratislava usually receives less rain than Cesky Krumlov. Bratislava gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bratislava 13°C (55°F) 
    Cesky Krumlov 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Cesky Krumlov and Bratislava

Bratislava Cesky Krumlov
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)