If you're based in Prague and looking for a short but fulfilling weekend getaway with your furry friend, this route is a great option!
🚗 Friday Afternoon: Road Trip from Prague to Lipno
We left Prague around 2 PM and arrived in Lipno nad Vltavou in about 3.5 hours by car. It’s a beautiful drive through rolling countryside and small villages. Our dog was comfortably strapped in with his seatbelt harness and had his favorite blanket in the backseat.
We stayed at a dog-friendly guesthouse just a short walk from the lake. After checking in, we took an evening stroll along the waterfront promenade. The area was quiet, peaceful, and full of clean air which is a big contrast to city life!
Tip: Many hotels in Lipno accept dogs, but always confirm pet fees in advance.
🐾 Saturday: Enjoying Nature in Lipno (Outside the Treetop Walkway)
We started our day with breakfast on the terrace while our dog soaked up the sun at our feet. Although we originally planned to visit the Treetop Walkway (Stezka korunami stromů), we found out that dogs are not allowed, even on a leash or in carriers. If you're traveling with someone, you could take turns visiting while the other stays with your dog at the base or skip it and explore the area instead, like we did.
Instead, we opted for a beautiful forest hike nearby and explored the Lipno lake trail, which runs along the shoreline and offers stunning views, shaded paths, and plenty of benches for breaks. Our dog loved sniffing around the wooded areas and taking in the fresh air.
Later in the day, we relaxed by the lake and grabbed a bite at a dog-friendly café with outdoor seating. The locals were welcoming, and our dog even got a bowl of water without us asking!
🏰 Sunday: Day Trip to Český Krumlov
On our way back to Prague, we made a stop in Český Krumlov, which is just 45 minutes from Lipno. The town is like something out of a storybook, with cobblestone streets, colorful baroque buildings, and the famous Český Krumlov Castle watching over the Vltava River.
Even though the castle interiors aren’t dog-friendly, we had a great time walking around the castle grounds, gardens, and along the riverbanks. Our dog loved the ducks (a little too much), and we enjoyed a light lunch at a riverside café that allowed pets on the terrace.
Parking tip: Park outside the town center and walk in. Most places are within walking distance, and it's easier than navigating the narrow streets.
🐶 Dog Travel Essentials We Brought
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Waste bags (always!)
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Blanket for the car
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Tick repellent (important in summer)
Dry Shampoo (removes all surface dirt, disinfects the fur and gives it a pleasant scent)
🏁 Back to Prague by Sunday Evening
We were back in Prague by around 7 PM, tired but full of memories. Lipno and Český Krumlov offer the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and charming culture and best of all, both are very welcoming to dogs.
If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away with your four-legged best friend, this route is highly recommended. Just pack smart, plan ahead and book a dog-friendly hotel, and enjoy the slow pace of South Bohemia.