Best Pizza Places in Cesky Krumlov: Where to Go for a Proper Slice

A Local's Honest Guide to the Best Pizza Places in Cesky Krumlov

I have lived in Cesky Krumlov for over a decade, and I will tell you something right away: this town is not exactly overflowing with dedicated pizzerias the way Naples or even Prague might be. But the best pizza places in Cesky Krumlov are scattered across the Old Town and the newer districts, and once you know where to look, you will find slices and whole pies that genuinely surprise you. I have eaten at every spot on this list more than once, some of them dozens of times, and I am writing this so you do not waste a single meal wandering past the tourist-trap menus on the main square. Cesky Krumlov is a small UNESCO town, and the food scene reflects that, intimate, personal, sometimes inconsistent, but occasionally brilliant. Let me walk you through where to eat pizza in Cesky Krumlov the way a local would.

1. Pizzerie a Restaurace Laibon: The Old Town Favorite on Linecká Street

Tucked along Linecká Street, just a short walk from the castle complex and the bend in the Vltava River, Laibon has been serving pizza to both locals and visitors for years. It is not trying to be fancy. The dining room is straightforward, wooden tables, a bit worn in, with the kind of no-nonsense atmosphere you find in Czech neighborhood restaurants that have survived precisely because the food is reliable. The pizza here is thin-crusted, baked in a proper oven, and the toppings are generous without being overthought. I always order the pizza with ham, mushrooms, and a heavy hand on the garlic, and it arrives bubbling and slightly charred at the edges, exactly how I like it.

What to Order: Pizza Diavola with extra jalapeños, and the house salad on the side, which comes with a simple vinaigrette that cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Best Time: Weekday evenings around 6:00 PM, before the after-work crowd from the nearby offices fills the place up. Weekends get loud and the wait can stretch past 30 minutes.

The Vibe: Casual, family-run energy. The owner sometimes comes out to chat with regulars. The only real drawback is that the ventilation is not great, so by 8:00 PM the dining room can feel a bit smoky and warm, especially in summer.

Local Tip: Ask for the daily lunch menu, which often includes a smaller personal pizza with a drink for a fraction of the dinner price. Most tourists never see this because it is only advertised in Czech on a chalkboard near the entrance.

2. Restaurace a Pizzerie Dlouhá No. 73: Where Locals Actually Go on Friday Nights

Dlouhá Street runs through the heart of the Old Town, and number 73 is one of those addresses that locals know but guidebooks rarely mention. This place is technically a full restaurant with a broad Czech menu, but the pizza section is where I always land. The crust here is slightly thicker than what you find at Laibon, almost a cross between a Neapolitan base and a Czech-style flatbread, and the cheese blend they use has a tanginess that I have not encountered anywhere else in town. The portions are large, almost comically so, and I have never once finished a whole pizza here without taking a box away.

What to Order: The pizza with smoked cheese, bacon, and a drizzle of honey on top. It sounds unusual, but the sweetness against the smokiness works perfectly. Pair it with a local Budvar Budweiser, which they keep properly cold.

Best Time: Friday or Saturday evening, but arrive by 5:30 PM or expect a wait. This is where Cesky Krumlov residents come for a proper sit-down dinner, and the place fills fast.

The Vibe: Warm, slightly cramped, with the hum of Czech conversation all around you. The service is friendly but can slow down noticeably during the dinner rush between 7:00 and 8:30 PM, so patience is required.

Local Tip: In winter, they set up a small heated terrace in the back courtyard. It seats maybe 12 people, and it is one of the most peaceful spots in the Old Town to eat. Just ask the server if it is open.

3. Pizzerie Ruzová: The Quiet Spot Near the Church of St. Vitus

The Church of St. Vitus dominates the skyline of Cesky Krumlov, and the streets immediately around it are some of the most photographed in the country. Ruzová Street, just south of the church, is quieter, and that is where you will find this small pizzeria. It is easy to miss because the signage is modest and the entrance is narrow, but step inside and you will find a cozy room with maybe eight tables and a wood-fired oven visible from the dining area. The owner is a quiet, focused man who clearly takes pride in his dough, which has a pleasant chew and a slightly sour note that suggests a longer fermentation process.

What to Order: The Margherita, made with San Marzano-style tomatoes and fresh basil. It is the simplest thing on the menu, and it is the best test of a pizzeria's skill. Here, it passes easily.

Best Time: Early afternoon, between 1:00 and 2:30 PM, when the lunch crowd has thinned but the dinner prep has not yet begun. You will often have the place nearly to yourself.

The Vibe: Intimate and unhurried. The drawback is that the space is small, so if a group of four or more walks in while you are eating, the noise level jumps considerably and the room feels tight.

Local Tip: They make their own limonade in summer, flavored with fresh mint from a small herb box outside the back door. It is not on the menu, but if you ask, they will bring you a glass.

4. Pizzerie a Restaurace Na Plášti: The Castle District Option

Na Plášti is the area just below Cesky Krumlov Castle, and it is one of the most atmospheric parts of town, with cobblestone paths and medieval walls framing every view. This pizzeria sits right in that zone, and it benefits enormously from the setting. The food is solid, not extraordinary, but the experience of eating pizza while looking up at the castle towers is something you will remember. The menu leans toward Czech-Italian fusion, which means you will find things like pizza topped with edam cheese and Czech-style pickles alongside more traditional options.

What to Order: The pizza with gorgonzola, pear, and walnuts. It is a combination that works better than it sounds, and the sweetness of the pear against the sharpness of the blue cheese is genuinely good.

Best Time: Late afternoon, around 4:00 PM, when the castle tour groups have mostly dispersed and the light on the cobblestones turns golden. This is also a good time to snag an outdoor table.

The Vibe: Touristy but not aggressively so. The prices are slightly higher than what you pay in the Old Town proper, which is the trade-off for the location. The outdoor seating gets uncomfortably warm in peak summer, especially between noon and 3:00 PM, so plan accordingly.

Local Tip: If you are visiting the castle anyway, buy your ticket for the tower climb first, then walk down to this pizzeria afterward. The descent takes you right past the entrance, and you will be hungry by then.

5. Pizzerie Latrán: The Neighborhood Joint Across the River

Latrán is the district on the south bank of the Vltava, connected to the Old Town by a footbridge near the castle. It is where many of Cesky Krumlov's actual residents live, and the restaurants here tend to cater to locals rather than visitors. This pizzeria is a perfect example. It is unpretentious, the kind of place where the tables are covered in checkered cloths and the wine comes in carafes. The pizza is straightforward, well-made, and priced fairly. I have been coming here for years, and the quality has never dropped, which is more than I can say for some of the places closer to the main square.

What to Order: The Quattro Stagioni, which they divide into four clearly defined sections with distinct toppings. It is a classic done well, and the artichoke hearts they use are from a jar but are surprisingly good.

Best Time: Sunday evening, when the place is quiet and the owner's wife often takes over the kitchen. Her pizzas are slightly more generous with the toppings, a detail I have noticed over many visits.

The Vibe: Neighborhood warmth. The Wi-Fi drops out near the back tables, which is either a drawback or a blessing depending on your perspective. I happen to like it.

Local Tip: Walk along the river path on your way here. The view of the Old Town from the Latrán side, especially in the evening light, is one of the best in Cesky Krumlov, and it costs nothing.

6. Pizzerie a Restaurace Město: The Modern Option on the Edge of the Old Town

Město means "town" in Czech, and this restaurant sits on the transitional edge between the historic center and the newer commercial district. It is more modern in design than any other pizzeria on this list, with clean lines, an open kitchen, and a slightly more ambitious menu. The pizza here leans toward contemporary interpretations, with toppings like arugula, parmesan shavings, and balsamic reduction appearing alongside more traditional combinations. The dough is good, with a nice blistering from the oven, and the ingredients taste fresh.

What to Order: The pizza with prosciutto crimo, fresh arugula, and shaved parmesan. It arrives looking almost too pretty to eat, and the salty-sweet-bitter balance of the toppings is excellent.

Best Time: Weekday lunch, between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, when they run a business lunch special that includes a drink and a side salad with your pizza for a very reasonable price.

The Vibe: Sleek and modern, a bit of a departure from the medieval character of Cesky Krumlov. Some people love the contrast; others find it jarring. The music can be a touch loud for a quiet conversation, especially when the after-work crowd arrives.

Local Tip: They have a small selection of Czech craft beers on rotation that you will not find at the more traditional pizzerias. Ask what is on tap.

7. Pizzerie u Švelchů: The Family Spot on the Road to the Sports Complex

This one is a bit of a walk from the center, located on the road that leads toward the town's sports and recreation area. It is not a place you will stumble upon by accident, which is precisely why I am including it. The Švelch family has been running this spot for years, and it has the feel of a place that exists for the community rather than for passing trade. The pizza is hearty, the portions are enormous, and the prices are the lowest on this list by a noticeable margin. Families with children fill the place on weekend afternoons, and the noise level reflects that, but there is a genuine warmth to the atmosphere.

What to Order: The pizza with ham, corn, and double cheese. It is not sophisticated, but it is deeply satisfying, especially after a long walk along the river or a visit to the nearby sports facilities.

Best Time: Saturday or Sunday lunch, when the whole family atmosphere is at its peak and the energy is high. If you prefer quiet, avoid weekends entirely.

The Vibe: Loud, family-friendly, and unapologetically simple. The decor has not been updated in years, and the plastic chairs are not winning any design awards. But the value is outstanding.

Local Tip: They sell takeaway pizza by the slice from a small window on the side of the building during summer months. It is perfect for a quick lunch if you are heading to the nearby park or river beach.

8. Pizzerie a Restaurace Pod Kamnem: The Riverside Hideaway

Pod Kamnem, which translates to "Under the Stone," sits along the riverbank in a spot that feels almost secret. The building itself is old, with thick stone walls that keep it cool in summer and retain heat in winter. The pizza here is made with care, and the menu is smaller than most, which I actually prefer because it suggests the kitchen is not trying to do too many things at once. The crust is thin and slightly crispy, the sauce is bright and not overly sweet, and the toppings are applied with restraint.

What to Order: The pizza with roasted vegetables and goat cheese. The vegetables are cooked properly, not just thrown on raw, and the goat cheese adds a creamy tang that ties everything together.

Best Time: Early evening in summer, around 5:00 PM, when you can sit on the small terrace right above the river and watch the water flow past. This is one of the most peaceful dining experiences in Cesky Krumlov.

The Vibe: Quiet and contemplative. The stone walls give the interior a cave-like coolness that is wonderful in July and August but can feel chilly in spring or autumn. The service is attentive but the kitchen is small, so orders take a bit longer than average.

Local Tip: In autumn, the trees along the river turn gold and red, and the view from the terrace becomes genuinely spectacular. This is the time of year I recommend most highly for a visit.

When to Go and What to Know About Cesky Krumlov Pizza

Cesky Krumlov is a small town, and the top pizza restaurants Cesky Krumlov has to operate within that reality. Most pizzerias open around 11:00 AM for lunch and stay open until 10:00 or 11:00 PM, though some of the smaller family-run spots close earlier on Sundays. Cash is still king at several of the more traditional places, so always carry some Czech koruny with you, even though card acceptance has improved significantly in recent years. Summer, from June through August, is peak tourist season, and the Old Town pizzerias will be at their most crowded. If you can visit in May or September, you will have a much easier time getting a table anywhere.

Tipping is not obligatory in the Czech Republic, but rounding up the bill or leaving 10 percent is standard practice and appreciated. Most pizzerias in Cesky Krumlov do not take reservations for small groups, so your best strategy for weekend dinners is to arrive early or be prepared to wait. If you are visiting with a larger group, calling ahead is always a good idea, especially at the smaller places like Ruzová or Pod Kamnem.

For this Cesky Krumlov pizza guide, I have focused on places that serve actual pizza rather than just listing Italian-adjacent dishes. You will find pasta and risotto at many of these spots, and some of it is quite good, but I am here for the pizza, and that is what I have evaluated. Where to eat pizza Cesky Krumlov depends on what you are after, a quick slice, a riverside experience, a family dinner, or something more refined. This list covers all of those bases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any specific dress codes or cultural etiquettes to keep in mind when visiting local spots in Cesky Krumlov?

There are no formal dress codes at any restaurant or pizzeria in Cesky Krumlov. Casual clothing is universally acceptable, even at the more modern establishments. The one cultural etiquette worth noting is that Czech diners typically greet staff with "Dobrý den" (good day) upon entering and say "Děkuji" (thank you) when receiving food or the bill. Tipping by rounding up to the nearest 10 or 20 koruny, or leaving roughly 10 percent, is standard but not mandatory.

How easy is it to find pure vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based dining options in Cesky Krumlov?

Vegetarian options are widely available at nearly every pizzeria and restaurant in Cesky Krumlov, with most offering at least two or three vegetarian pizzas on the menu. Fully vegan options are more limited but growing, with several pizzerias now offering vegan cheese as a substitute, usually upon request. Dedicated vegan restaurants are rare in the town, but the broader trend toward plant-based dining has reached Cesky Krumlov, and staff are generally accommodating when asked about ingredients.

Is the tap water in Cesky Krumlov safe to drink, or should travelers strictly rely on filtered water options?

Tap water in Cesky Krumlov is safe to drink and meets Czech and EU quality standards. The water supply comes from treated municipal sources and is regularly tested. Most restaurants will serve tap water for free if you ask, though some may default to bringing bottled water unless you specify otherwise. There is no need to rely exclusively on filtered or bottled water, though personal preference varies.

Is Cesky Krumlov expensive to visit? Give a realistic daily budget breakdown for mid-tier travelers.**

A mid-tier daily budget for Cesky Krumlov runs approximately 1,500 to 2,500 Czech koruny per person, which is roughly 60 to 100 euros. This covers a lunch and dinner at casual restaurants (300 to 500 koruny per meal), a coffee or drink (50 to 100 koruny), castle entry (around 200 koruny for the tower), and local transportation or parking (100 to 200 koruny). Accommodation varies widely, but a mid-range hotel or guesthouse room typically costs 1,200 to 2,000 koruny per night. Cesky Krumlov is generally less expensive than Prague but slightly more costly than smaller Czech towns.

What is the one must-try local specialty food or drink that Cesky Krumlov is famous for?

The must-try local specialty is Budvar Budweiser Budvar, the Czech lager brewed in nearby České Budějovice, just 25 kilometers north. It is served fresh on tap at nearly every restaurant and pizzeria in Cesky Krumlov and is widely considered superior to the American beer that shares its name. For food, the local trdelník, a cylindrical pastry rolled in sugar and walnuts, is ubiquitous in the Old Town, though it is more of a tourist snack than a traditional Czech dish. A more authentic local food to try is svíčková na smetaně, marinated beef sirloin in cream sauce with cranberries and bread dumplings, which appears on menus across town.