Quick Picks for Budget Travelers

Are you in a hurry to book your stay? Here are the top choices for different types of travelers. These spots consistently rank high for value and experience.

• Best Overall: Hostel 99
• Best for Solo Travelers: Krumlov House
• Best River Views: Hostel Merlin
• Best for Peace and Quiet: Hostel Postel

Each of these options provides a unique way to experience the town. You can find more details on where to stay in Český Krumlov to match your personal travel style.

9 Best Cheap Hostels in Český Krumlov for Backpackers

The following list includes the most popular and affordable spots in town. Most are located within the historic center or just a short walk away.

1. Name: Hostel 99 Type: Hostel Why go: It is located in a beautiful historic building right by the gate. Best for: Socializing and meeting other travelers. Where: Latrán neighborhood. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $18–$25 per night. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the main bus station. Tip: The attached restaurant serves excellent food with a backpacker discount.
2. Name: Hostel Merlin Type: Hostel Why go: This hostel sits right on the Vltava River bank. Best for: Views and central access. Where: Kájovská street. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $15–$22 per night. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the town square. Tip: Ask for a room facing the river for the best experience.
3. Name: Hostel Postel Type: Hostel Why go: It offers a very relaxed and quiet atmosphere. Best for: Travelers who value sleep and a homey feel. Where: Just outside the noisy center. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $17–$24 per night. Getting there: Walk 8 minutes from the castle entrance. Tip: Use the garden area for a morning coffee.
4. Name: Krumlov House Type: Hostel/Guesthouse Why go: It is consistently rated as one of the best hostels in Europe. Best for: Solo backpackers and long-term travelers. Where: Rooseveltova street. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $20–$28 per night. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the town center. Tip: Book several weeks in advance as it is very popular.
5. Name: Hostel Havana Type: Hostel Why go: It has a fun, colorful theme and a great riverside terrace. Best for: Groups and social vibes. Where: Linecká street. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $16–$23 per night. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the town square. Tip: They offer raft rentals for the river.
6. Name: Travel Hostel Type: Hostel Why go: It is located in a massive old building in the heart of town. Best for: Large groups and being near nightlife. Where: Soukenická street. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $14–$21 per night. Getting there: Located right in the pedestrian zone. Tip: Check out the courtyard bar in the evenings.
7. Name: Pension Danny Budget Rooms Type: Guesthouse/Hostel Why go: They offer simple rooms at hostel prices near the castle. Best for: Budget travelers who want more privacy. Where: Latrán neighborhood. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $22–$30 per night. Getting there: Near the official castle entrance. Tip: Breakfast is often included in the price.
8. Name: Hostel Skippy Type: Hostel Why go: A small, intimate hostel with a friendly owner. Best for: Budget travelers looking for local advice. Where: Plešivecká street. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $15–$20 per night. Getting there: A 12-minute walk from the center. Tip: It is very close to the river for swimming.
9. Name: U Vodníka Budget Stay Type: Experience/Stay Why go: A quirky spot with a traditional Czech feel. Best for: Unique local experiences. Where: Near the river bend. Time: Overnight stay. Cost: $18–$25 per night. Getting there: Walk from the main square toward the southern bridge. Tip: Try the local beer at the nearby tavern.

Budget Planning and Local Tips

Staying in cheap hostels in Český Krumlov for backpackers is just the start. You can save more money by eating like a local. Avoid the restaurants on the main square. Instead, look for "polední menu" or lunch specials in side streets.

Many attractions are free to see from the outside. You can walk through the castle courtyards without a ticket. This is a great way to see the UNESCO World Heritage architecture. The castle gardens are also free to enter during the day.

Public transport is affordable if you arrive from Prague. Most travelers use the Prague to Český Krumlov travel bus routes. These buses are modern and very cheap if booked early. Walking is the only way to get around the town center itself.

Easy Day Trips for Backpackers

If you stay for a few days, explore the surrounding area. There are several budget-friendly trips nearby. These add variety to your backpacking itinerary.

• Hluboká Castle: A stunning white castle that looks like Windsor. It is a short bus ride away.
• Lipno Lake: Great for hiking, swimming, and outdoor sports in summer.
• České Budějovice: The regional capital and home to the original Budweiser brewery.

For more detailed planning, see our Český Krumlov castle guide. It covers the best times to visit and how to avoid the biggest crowds. Most day trips cost less than $10 for the round-trip bus fare.