Which place is cheaper, Cesky Krumlov or Lucerne?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Cesky Krumlov. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Where Should I go: Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov?
Lucerne
Lucerne is a relatively small city in the center of Switzerland. It is located across the lake from Altdorf and it has a thriving tourism industry. It's close proximity to many of the major sights in the country make it a great base for exploration. Many people use it as a jumping off point for exploring Mount Rigi and the Rutli Meadow.
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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Prague.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayLucerne $214Cesky Krumlov $62
The average daily cost (per person) in Lucerne is $214, while the average daily cost in Cesky Krumlov is $62. 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 Lucerne and Cesky Krumlov in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personLucerne $137Cesky Krumlov $37
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomLucerne $274Cesky Krumlov $74
Compare Hotels in Lucerne and Cesky Krumlov
Looking for a hotel in Lucerne 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.
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: Lucerne Hotel Prices and Cesky Krumlov Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Lucerne $13Cesky Krumlov $2.92
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne
Also for Lucerne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
- Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
- Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
- Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
- Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
- Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
- LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
- INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744
- From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
- Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cesky Krumlov
Also for Cesky Krumlov, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing: $156
- Private Transfer from Cesky Krumlov to Prague, English-speaking driver: $122
Is it cheaper to fly into Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov?
Prices for flights to both Cesky Krumlov and Lucerne 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
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Food Meals for one dayLucerne $62Cesky Krumlov $22
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne
For Lucerne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
- Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
- From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Lucerne $34Cesky Krumlov $6.53
Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne
For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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1 Day Bicycle Rental$34
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The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee$35
Tours and Activities in Lucerne
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.
- A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $275
- A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $534
- Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Luzern: $563
- Alpine Majesty:Luzern to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
- Basel: Swiss Alps Glacier Express Train Ride & Lucerne Tour: $760
- Best of Lucerne Walking Photography Tour: $179
- Burgenstock Private Tour: Mt. Rigis & Lake of Lucerne Cruise: $585
- City tour plus Lucerne: $95
- Day Trip from Grindelwald First Mountain Adventure: $174
- Day Trip to Swiss Villages from Lucerne - Small Group tour by Car: $200
- Early morning tour: $213
- Exploring Lucerne with Friends: A Local Experience ❤: $159
Tours and Activities in Cesky Krumlov
For Cesky Krumlov, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 2,5h Chateau Collections and Tower Tour with Coffee & Dessert: $71
- A day in the life of Český Krumlov - Private tour with a local: $196
- Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour: $93
- Cesky Krumlov Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $209
- Cesky Krumlov Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
- Cesky Krumlov Tour 4 hours : $278
- Enchanting Český Krumlov Walking Tour: Echoes of the Past: $95
- First white water experience with Tomáš Kobes: $218
- Private Night tour of Český Krumlov: $85
- Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area: $60
- Private tour of best of Český Krumlov - Sightseeing, Food & Culture with a local: $168
- Touristic highlights of Český Krumlov on a Private half day tour with a local: $168
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayLucerne $22Cesky Krumlov $3.36
Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:
- 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
- Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lucerne and Cesky Krumlov, we can see that Lucerne 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne 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 Lucerne Expensive? and Is Cesky Krumlov Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov?
Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cesky Krumlov. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov?
Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
Should I visit Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Cesky Krumlov. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Cesky Krumlov. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lucerne in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Cesky Krumlov averages at about 20°C (68°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cesky Krumlov this time of the year. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cesky Krumlov during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Cesky Krumlov receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cesky Krumlov. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyLucerne 21°C (70°F)Cesky Krumlov 20°C (68°F)
Should I visit Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Cesky Krumlov. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In October, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Cesky Krumlov. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 13°C (56°F), and Cesky Krumlov fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).
In the autumn, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Cesky Krumlov. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cesky Krumlov receives 108 hours of full sun.
Lucerne usually gets more rain in October than Cesky Krumlov. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberLucerne 13°C (56°F)Cesky Krumlov 11°C (52°F)
Should I visit Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov in the Winter?
Both Cesky Krumlov and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
It's quite cold in Cesky Krumlov in the winter. The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. Lucerne is much warmer than Cesky Krumlov in the winter. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Cesky Krumlov fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).
Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Cesky Krumlov during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Cesky Krumlov receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Cesky Krumlov. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryLucerne 3°C (37°F)Cesky Krumlov -0°C (31°F)
Should I visit Lucerne or Cesky Krumlov in the Spring?
Both Cesky Krumlov and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.
In the spring, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Cesky Krumlov. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lucerne in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Cesky Krumlov averages at about 11°C (51°F).
In the spring, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cesky Krumlov. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cesky Krumlov receives 155 hours of full sun.
Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Cesky Krumlov. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cesky Krumlov receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilLucerne 12°C (53°F)Cesky Krumlov 11°C (51°F)
Typical Weather for Cesky Krumlov and Lucerne
| Lucerne | Cesky Krumlov | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 3°C (37°F) | 77 mm (3 in) | -0°C (31°F) | 56 mm (2.2 in) |
| Feb | 5°C (40°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 2°C (36°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Mar | 8°C (46°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) | 6°C (43°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
| Apr | 12°C (53°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
| May | 16°C (60°F) | 101 mm (4 in) | 15°C (59°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) |
| Jun | 19°C (66°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
| Jul | 21°C (70°F) | 89 mm (3.5 in) | 20°C (68°F) | 91 mm (3.6 in) |
| Aug | 21°C (69°F) | 104 mm (4.1 in) | 19°C (67°F) | 93 mm (3.6 in) |
| Sep | 18°C (64°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
| Oct | 13°C (56°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| Nov | 7°C (45°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) | 5°C (42°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| Dec | 4°C (39°F) | 83 mm (3.3 in) | 1°C (35°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.