Top 10 best canoe and raft rentals in Český Krumlov

Choosing a reliable rental company ensures your safety and comfort. Most providers offer transport back to the city after your trip. Here are our top picks for your river adventure.

• Name: Maleček Rafting & Canoe Type: Rental service Why go: They are one of the most established providers in the city. Best for: Families and first-timers. Where: Near the city center at Rooseveltova street. Time: 2–6 hours depending on route. Cost: Moderate (approx. 800–1200 CZK per raft). Getting there: Walkable from the main square. Tip: Book their night rafting tour for a magical view of the Český Krumlov Castle.
• Name: Rafting Krumlov (Petr Janoušek) Type: Rental service Why go: They offer very personal service and high-quality equipment. Best for: Small groups wanting flexibility. Where: Near the P3 parking lot. Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: Competitive rates. Getting there: Easy access from the southern edge of the center. Tip: Ask for their waterproof maps of the river weirs.
• Name: Ontário Rafting Type: Rental service Why go: They have a large fleet and very efficient transport logistics. Best for: Large groups and corporate events. Where: Spolí district. Time: Full day or half day. Cost: Standard pricing. Getting there: Short taxi or shuttle ride. Tip: Their rafts are particularly stable for beginners.
• Name: Vltava Sport Service Type: Rental service Why go: They offer a wide variety of boat types, including professional canoes. Best for: Experienced paddlers. Where: Latrán district. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Located near the castle entrance. Tip: Check their website for combo deals with bike rentals.
• Name: Ingetour Type: Regional rental network Why go: They have the largest network of docks along the entire Vltava. Best for: Multi-day trips down the river. Where: Main base at the city campsite. Time: 1–3 days. Cost: Varies by distance. Getting there: Located at the northern edge of the city. Tip: You can drop your boat at any of their many stations.
• Name: Rafting Půjčovna Krumlov Type: Rental service Why go: Excellent reviews for friendly staff and clean gear. Best for: Couples and small families. Where: Near the U Trojice area. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Best reached by local shuttle. Tip: They offer great advice on the best riverside bars.
• Name: Rafting Vltava Type: Rental service Why go: Known for reliable pick-up services from your hotel. Best for: Tourists without a car. Where: Central Krumlov. Time: Flexible. Cost: Includes transport. Getting there: They often come to you. Tip: Ask about their "City Loop" for a quick 1-hour experience.
• Name: Rafting Lord Type: Rental service Why go: A smaller, local company with great prices. Best for: Budget travelers. Where: Southern outskirts. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Short walk from the bus station. Tip: Their gear is well-maintained and perfect for the Zlatá Koruna route.
• Name: My-Raft Krumlov Type: Rental service Why go: Very easy online booking system. Best for: Tech-savvy planners. Where: Near the brewery. Time: 2–5 hours. Cost: Transparent online pricing. Getting there: Easy walk from the Latrán area. Tip: Check for early bird discounts during the spring.
• Name: Viking Rafting Type: Experience/Rental Why go: They focus on the fun aspect of the river. Best for: Bachelor parties or young groups. Where: City center. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Central pickup points. Tip: They provide dry bags for your cameras at no extra cost.

Popular Vltava River routes from Český Krumlov

Most visitors choose the route from Český Krumlov to Zlatá Koruna. This trip takes about 3 to 5 hours. It features several exciting weirs that you can slide down. You should consult a rafting map Český Krumlov to Zlatá Koruna route before starting. This helps you identify the safest spots to navigate.

For a shorter trip, try the city loop. This allows you to see the historic center from the water. It usually takes about one hour. You will pass under the famous Cloak Bridge. The view of the castle from below is breathtaking. It is perfect for those with limited time.

Longer trips can take you all the way to Boršov nad Vltavou. This is a full-day commitment of 6 to 8 hours. The river becomes calmer and more scenic. You will see lush forests and quiet meadows. Most rental companies will pick you up at the end point.

Essential rafting tips for your 2026 trip

Always wear a life jacket, even if you are a strong swimmer. The river currents can be deceptive near the weirs. Most rentals provide these for free. Ensure your life jacket fits snugly before you leave the dock. Safety should always be your top priority.

Book your rental in advance during the summer months. July and August are very busy on the Vltava. Weekends are especially crowded with local tourists. Using an online booking system saves time. It also guarantees your boat will be ready when you arrive.

Pack waterproof sunscreen and plenty of water. The sun reflects off the river and can cause quick burns. Wear shoes that can get wet and won't fall off. Flip-flops are not recommended for the rocky riverbed. A waterproof bag is essential for your phone and wallet.

Best day trips near Český Krumlov for adventure

If you enjoy the water, consider other day trips near Český Krumlov. The town of Vyšší Brod is a great starting point for longer river journeys. It features a stunning monastery and a higher water flow. It is about a 30-minute drive from Krumlov.

Another excellent stop is the Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle day trip. While not for rafting, the castle is located near the river. You can take a boat cruise in the nearby area. The architecture is inspired by Windsor Castle in England. It is one of the most romantic spots in South Bohemia.

Zlatá Koruna is the most popular finish line for rafters. It is home to a beautiful Gothic monastery. You can tour the monastery after you return your raft. The village has several riverside kiosks for a quick lunch. It is a peaceful place to relax after a day on the water.