Exploring Czech Republic by caravan or motorhome offers unparalleled freedom to discover the country at your own pace. The well-maintained road network, numerous campsites equipped for larger vehicles, and diverse landscapes make Czech Republic an excellent destination for caravan travel. This comprehensive guide covers everything from road regulations to practical tips for making the most of your journey.
Road Regulations for Caravans
Understanding Czech traffic laws is essential for safe and legal caravan travel. The country follows European Union standards with some specific national requirements.
Speed Limits
Speed limits for vehicles towing caravans or motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes differ from standard passenger vehicles:
- Motorways (Dalnice): 80 km/h for vehicles with trailers, 130 km/h for motorhomes under 3.5t
- Expressways: 80 km/h for vehicles with trailers, 110 km/h for motorhomes under 3.5t
- Outside built-up areas: 80 km/h for all caravans and motorhomes
- Within built-up areas: 50 km/h for all vehicles
Toll System (Vignettes)
Czech motorways require electronic toll payment. The system changed from physical vignettes to electronic registration in 2021:
- Vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes purchase electronic vignettes online or at border crossings
- Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes use the satellite-based toll system
- Vignettes are available for 10 days, 30 days, or 1 year
- Register your vehicle at edalnice.cz
"Czech roads are well-suited for caravan travel. The key is proper planning and respecting the regulations designed for vehicle safety." - Czech Road Authority
Required Equipment
All vehicles in Czech Republic must carry specific safety equipment:
- Warning triangle (two for vehicles with trailers)
- First aid kit (Czech specification preferred)
- High-visibility vest for each occupant
- Spare bulb set
- National identification sticker if not on EU plates
Planning Your Route
Czech Republic's compact size makes it possible to explore multiple regions in a single trip. However, thoughtful route planning enhances the experience significantly.
Recommended Entry Points
Depending on your origin, consider these border crossings optimized for caravan travel:
- From Germany (West): Rozvadov (D5), Pomezi (R6) - good road conditions
- From Germany (North): Cinovec (D8) - direct to Bohemian Switzerland
- From Austria: Dolni Dvoriste (E55), Hate (E59) - scenic southern routes
- From Poland: Nachod (E67), Harrachov (local roads) - mountain crossings
Popular Caravan Routes
These tried-and-tested routes offer excellent camping infrastructure and attractions:
The Bohemian Circle (7-10 days)
Prague - Bohemian Paradise - Bohemian Switzerland - Prague. This route covers the most iconic natural areas with numerous well-equipped autocamps.
Southern Bohemia Explorer (5-7 days)
Prague - Cesky Krumlov - Lipno Lake - Sumava - Prague. Combines UNESCO heritage sites with pristine nature and excellent lakeside camping.
Mountain Trail (7-10 days)
Prague - Krkonose - Jeseniky - Moravia. For those seeking mountain experiences with stops at high-altitude campsites.
Campsite Facilities for Caravans
Czech campsites vary in their caravan-specific amenities. Understanding the classification helps select appropriate stops.
Autocamps vs. Standard Campsites
Autocamps are specifically designed for motorized camping and typically offer:
- Larger pitches suitable for caravans and motorhomes
- Electrical hookups (usually 16A CEE connections)
- Fresh water connections at individual pitches
- Grey water disposal points
- Chemical toilet disposal stations (service points)
Standard campsites may have limited caravan facilities or none at all. Always verify before arrival.
Service Stations
Specialized service stations for motorhomes and caravans are located throughout Czech Republic. Services typically include:
- Fresh water refilling
- Waste water disposal
- Chemical toilet emptying (cassette and portable)
- LPG refilling (at some locations)
Major fuel stations on motorways increasingly offer basic caravan services. The Mapy.cz application marks these facilities for route planning.
Practical Travel Tips
Fuel and Gas
Fuel availability is excellent throughout Czech Republic. However, caravan-specific considerations apply:
- Diesel: Widely available, often cheaper than neighboring countries
- LPG: Available at many stations, but verify adapter compatibility
- Propane bottles: Czech bottles differ from some European standards; adapters may be needed
Parking and Overnight Stays
Important rules regarding caravan parking in Czech Republic:
- Overnight parking outside designated areas is generally prohibited
- Rest areas on motorways allow short stops (max 2-3 hours) but not camping
- Some municipalities operate designated motorhome parking areas
- Always use official campsites for overnight stays
Navigation and Communication
Enhance your journey with proper tools:
- Mapy.cz app: Excellent offline maps with caravan-friendly routing
- ACSI Camp app: European campsite database with user reviews
- Mobile coverage: Generally excellent, EU roaming applies for EU citizens
- WiFi: Available at most modern campsites
Seasonal Considerations
Summer Season (June-August)
Peak season brings the best weather but also the highest demand:
- Book popular campsites well in advance
- Expect higher prices and more crowded facilities
- Longer daylight hours ideal for exploration
- Some mountain roads may have restrictions for large vehicles
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)
Often the best time for caravan travel:
- Lower prices and better availability
- Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
- Beautiful spring blooms or autumn colors
- Some smaller campsites may have limited hours
Winter Considerations
Winter caravan travel requires special preparation:
- Many campsites close November through March
- Winter tires mandatory from November to April
- Mountain roads may be closed or require chains
- Limited services and facilities available
Emergency Information
Keep these contacts accessible during your journey:
- European Emergency: 112
- Police: 158
- Medical Emergency: 155
- Fire Service: 150
- Roadside Assistance: 1230 or 1240
For official road conditions and traffic information, check the Czech Road and Motorway Directorate website before your journey.
Last updated: February 2, 2026