Prague is a fantastic city to visit, and it’s also an amazing gateway to the Czech Republic. From beguiling World Heritage towns like Český Krumlov and Kutná Hora to some of the most formidable castles in Europe, the country is crammed with outstanding places to visit. In this article I’m going to show you the best 20 or so day trips from Prague you can take.
We lived in Prague for over four years, so have been privileged to have visited all of these places – some many times over – and many more. I’ve divided the article into the Essential Prague day trips and Additional. If you have limited time in Prague I suggest opting for one or more from the first section.
The places I describe in the second section are as compelling as those in the first – but the places in the first are mostly easier to visit, with more in the way of guided tours from Prague.
I’ve also included tips on tours to everywhere mentioned in the article, and advice on how to get to each by public transport or car. I hope you find it helpful!
Travelling Independently On Day Trips From Prague?
It’s easy – let’s help you get started on your way. Check out my guides to Prague Main Train Station and Florenc Bus Station Prague, the two main departure points for travel around the Czech Republic and beyond.
And if you’re planning to drive in the Czech Republic, check out discover cars for the best car rental deals while you’re there.
Essential Day Trips From Prague
Český Krumlov
One of the most beautiful towns in Europe – and one of the longest day trips from Prague
Český Krumlov, deep in the forests of southern Bohemia, is a perfect medieval time capsule. The fact that history tended to happen elsewhere helped save it in near original condition. Its cobbled streets, sgraffito-decorated houses and stunning riverside Castle are as beautiful as anywhere else you’ll see in Central Europe.
I first visited Český Krumlov on a day trip from Prague back in 1991. I was blown away, wished I had much longer there and yearned to return (it just took me 29 years!). Many visitors agree that it deserves at least an overnight stay, but if a day tour from Prague is all you can do, then I’d day to go for it. Something is far better than nothing!
Český Krumlov is very touristed, with plenty of souvenir shops and a range of museums, covering everything from puppets to Czech shops to medieval torture. The best of them is the outstanding Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, a museum of the early 20th century seen through the lens of the town’s main portrait and landscape photographer.
After staying in the town for a few days a few years ago, my son and I opted to do another Český Krumlov day trip from Prague last winter. We had barely five hours in the town, trudging through the snow up to the Castle to enjoy the fairytale view over the centuries-old white rooftops of the Old Town. Even for a few minutes of magic like this, it’s so worth the trek there and back. Check out my Český Krumlov in Winter article to see it at its snowy, magical best.
Tours To Český Krumlov From Prague
There are many options for Český Krumlov tours from Prague. This small group tour includes a guided walk around the Castle and Old Town, and free time to explore by yourself.
This tour departs from the centre of Prague, giving you five hours in Český Krumlov including the option of visiting the Castle and Baroque theatre on a guided tour.
Getting To Český Krumlov From Prague
If you decide to travel independently from Prague to Český Krumlov, do what we did and catch the bus. Regiojet coaches depart from the bus station at Na Knížecí, close to the Andel Metro stop. The journey takes 2 ½ to 2 ¾ hours each way, and it’s a more convenient option as the bus station (autobusové nádraží) is only a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.
Trains also run from Prague to Český Krumlov, and take a around 2 ¾ to 3 hours each way. There are very few direct trains – you usually have to change at České Budějovice.
Driving to Český Krumlov takes between 2-2 ½ hours.
See Also: Things To Do In Český Krumlov
Karlštejn Castle
The most imposing of all Czech Castles, built to house the Bohemian Crown Jewels
Karlštejn Castle is a medieval behemoth, a vast fortress dominating a forested valley less than an hour from Prague. If you’re a bit wary about venturing too far or spending much time away from Prague, then Karlštejn is the ideal place to dip your toes in the water and get your first taste of the Czech Republic beyond the capital.
This massive castle was built by Bohemian King and Holy Roman emperor Charles IV to house the Bohemian Crown Jewels. They were kept in the staggering Chapel of the Holy Cross, which can only be visited on special tours between May and October. For these you need to call the Castle a day or more ahead to make arrangements.
The standard Castle tour is excellent, taking you around the Imperial Rooms where Charles IV sometimes lived. My son’s favourite is the Great Tower Tour, taking you 289 steps to exhilarating views of the countryside below.
Tours To Karlštejn Castle
Several operators run tours from Prague to Karlštejn Castle. They also tend to include attractions nearby, including Koněprusy Caves and the Velka Amerika quarry. Bear in mind that these package Karlštejn tours only include the standard Castle tour – they do not include the Holy Cross Chapel.
This guided tour from Prague is a straight there-and-back trip to the Castle, with a guided tour of the Imperial Residences.
Alternatively this option includes a visit to Koneprusy Caves. And this self-guided tour is by e-bike from Prague to Karlstejn.
Getting To Karlštejn Castle From Prague
Trains to Karlštejn take around 40 minutes from Prague main train station. The train station is around d a 30-minute walk from the Castle, and no buses run the route from the village. So you either need to walk it (the second part of it is uphill) or you can ride by horse and cart (it cost us €10 for the two of us one way) from the car and coach park just outside the village.
For more information, check out my Karlštejn Castle guide.
Kutná Hora
World Heritage gem best-known for its remarkable Chapel of Bones
This former silver mining town an hour or so east of Prague is best known for the Sedlec Ossuary, a cemetery chapel with the bones of over 40,000 souls, many of them likely plague victims from the Middle Ages. What makes the Kutna Hora Bone Church really stand out is its 19th-century decoration, with skulls and bones used to make ornate sculptures including candelabras.
The town is also home to two amazing Cathedrals. The Cathedral of Our Lady in Sedlec is very close to the Bone Chapel, and it’s a simple, serene mixture of Gothic and Baroque. In the town centre, the Cathedral of St Barbara is one of the outstanding Gothic churches of Central Europe, a forest of flying buttresses outside and soaring Gothic vaults within.
The rest of the town is full of treasures, from the statue-lined Barborska street leading to the Cathedral to the Czech Museum of Silver Mining. The underground tour takes you down into the tunnels to the silver ore that made Kutna Hora’s fortune. But it’s slow going down there if you’re 6’4” like me!
Tours To Kutna Hora From Prague
Most Prague to Kutna Hora tours take six to seven hours, including getting there and back. This tour visits the town by train, taking in all the main sights – the Sedlec Ossuary, the two Cathedrals and the gorgeous Old Town.
Alternatively, this tour from Prague includes hotel pickup if you book more than 24 hours in advance.
Getting To Kutna Hora From Prague
The easiest way to get from Prague to Kutna Hora is by train. Regular services from Praha hl n (Prague main station) take less than an hour. From there, the Sedlec Ossuary and Cathedral are a 15-minute walk. You can either get an onward bus (802) from there to the town centre, walk it yourself (20-25 minutes) or walk past the Cathedral to Kutna Hora-Sedlec station and catch the hourly onward train to Kutna Hora mesto station.
From there it’s a 10-15 minute, partly uphill walk to the Italian Court, Silver Mining Museum and St Barbara’s Cathedral.
For the full low-down on getting to Kutna Hora, check out my Prague to Kutna Hora guide.
See Also: The 18 Best Things To Do in Kutna Hora
Bohemian Switzerland
Gorges and rock cities in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains
The Elbe Sandstone Mountains which straddle the Czech-German border are the basis of two National Parks – the Bohemian Switzerland on the Czech side and the Saxon Switzerland in Germany. The area got its name from Swiss two painters who were based at the Dresden Academy of Art, who were reminded of their home country by the mountainous landscape.
Bohemian Switzerland is similar to a few other landscapes in the Czech Republic, including the wonderful Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) with its stunning sandstone rock cities, towers of rock rising from forested valleys. It’s smaller than the Saxon Switzerland part of the range, and around an hour and a half from Prague.
If you’re visiting on a day trip from Prague, it makes sense to join a tour. Public transport only gets you so far – you might be able to get to the iconic Pravčická brána and back from Prague, but you won’t get much further. Ideally it’s somewhere to stay for a few days – perhaps at the popular touristy village of Hřensko or the nearby town of Děčín.
Bohemian Switzerland Tours From Prague
I heartily recommend this tour from Prague, which includes a trip across the border to the astounding Bastei Bridge and viewpoint over the Elbe, the Pravčická Gate and a one-hour boat cruise through the Kamenice Gorge. You cover far more ground than you would by yourself.
Getting To Bohemian Switzerland From Prague
The easiest way to get there is by train from Prague to Děčín, an hour and a half journey. From there you can catch a bus to Hřensko, or a local train to Schöna, from where you can catch the ferry across the Elbe to Hřensko. The Pravčická Gate is around 3 miles (5 km) from Hřensko – and a bus also stops below the arch.
Křivoklát Castle
Fantastic forest castle in wonderful countryside west of Prague
Křivoklát is one of the great Czech castles, located in hilly forest country an hour or so west of Prague. It started out as a hunting lodge in the 12th century, but gradually expanded to become one of the most important royal castles in Bohemia. Its round white tower with red conical roof is one of the most recognisable Czech landmarks, one you’ll see on many postcards, calendars and book covers in souvenir shops in Prague.
It’s a magnificent site overlooking a remote valley in the Křivoklátsko forest near the town of Rakovnik. It’s not as busy as Karlštejn or Konopiště, but it’s a wonderfully atmospheric spot. The tour takes you down into dungeons before reaching a glorious Gothic chapel and, eventually, an outstanding centuries-old library.
GOOD TO KNOW: If you’re driving, you may be able to combine Křivoklát and Karlštejn on a single day trip. You could also do this by train, as both are a short ride from the town of Beroun, but you’d need to get to Karlštejn for opening time at 10.00 am, and get on the first available tour there. It’s not impossible, but you’d have a full day!
Tours To Křivoklát Castle From Prague
This private tour by car from Prague takes you door to door, and includes a guided tour of the Castle.
And this Křivoklát Castle tour also includes the Motorcycle Museum in the village, and the option of a forest walk (I did it – well worth it).
Getting To Křivoklát Castle From Prague
Křivoklát Castle is around 1 ½ hours from Prague by train. Regular trains run from Prague main station to Beroun (which is on the busy Plzeň line). You need to change there for the S75 train to Rakovnik, which leaves from platform 1.
The stop you need for the Castle – Křivoklát – is a request stop, so you will need to press one of the red ‘Na Znameni’ buttons in the carriage after you depart the preceding station, Roztoky na Křivoklátu. From the station it’s a 10-minute walk via the steep hill (with not much in the way of pavement) to the Castle entrance.
You can also drive to Křivoklát – it’s on Route 227, around 50 km (30 miles) from Prague.
Mariánské Lázně or Karlovy Vary
World Heritage Spa Towns in the country’s west
These famous spas in the west of the Czech Republic are part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe UNESCO World Heritage Site. I’ve included them together as they’re similar, both with grand 19th century architecture and hotels in a superb setting. Many visit both for the same reason – in search of a cure or convalescence after an illness. And both have attracted many famous names down the years.
Mariánské Lázně (Marienbad in German) is my favourite of the two. I love its Art Nouveau architecture, which you see everywhere from its grandest hotels to its humble guesthouses. It also has a fine ornate Colonnade and Singing Fountain, some wonderful parks and walks through the forests to superb viewpoints over the town. If it doesn’t cure your body, it can certainly lift your soul.
Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad) is the larger of the two towns, and also the older, with origins back in the reign of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. There are over 80 hot springs around the town, and plenty of high-end luxury hotels (Grand Hotel Pupp, Hotel Bristol among others). It also has some astounding views, especially from the Diana Lookout above the town.
Tours To Mariánské Lázně or Karlovy Vary From Prague
There are far more tours to Karlovy Vary from Prague than there are to Mariánské Lázně. This day tour from Prague includes a visit to the Vridlo Spring, the Diana Observation Tower and around 4 hours to wander the town by yourself.
Getting To Mariánské Lázně or Karlovy Vary From Prague
Mariánské Lázně is at the upper end of what’s possible to visit on a day trip from Prague. Trains run from Prague main station (Praha hl n) to the town, and take on average between 2 ½ to 2 ¾ hours to reach Mariánské Lázně. Trolleybus 7 takes you the last mile or so up the hill from the station to the spa area and hotels.
Karlovy Vary is much easier to reach from Prague, with the Flixbus taking 2 hours 10 minutes from UAN Florenc bus station in Prague.
You could drive to Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně in a day from Prague, but you’re not going to get much time to appreciate either.
Plzeň
Beer lovers’ mecca with a secret up its sleeve
Plzeň is better known by its similar German name, Pilsen, and the type of beer named after it. Czech beer is up there with the best in the world, and Plzeň is the home of the Pilsner Urquell brewery. It’s one of the most prestigious Czech beer brands, but the brewery also produces Gambrinus – which I think is the best of all Czech beers.
The brewery tour is the most popular thing to do in Plzeň, but there’s much more to the city than this. I’ve been on a day trip and only really scratched the surface in the time available.
Start at the main square, Náměstí Republiky, where you’ll find the imposing St Bartholomew’s Cathedral and some of the city’s finest townhouses. You can also climb the cathedral tower for a superb view of the city. Nearby, Plzeň’s Great Synagogue is one of the largest in Europe, and with its twin domes is reminiscent of the Great Synagogue in Budapest.
The city also has several cultural venues including Papirna, a network of underground tunnels and tow great attractions for kids – Dino Park (very similar to the one in Prague) which is part of Plzeň Zoo on the outskirts of town.
Tours To Plzeň From Prague
Plzeň tours inevitably focus on the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. This tour from Prague includes transport there and back, a lunch stop and a visit to a Bohemian glassworks. Another option – which gives you more time in Plzeň – is this guided tour of the brewery. With this option you make your own way to Plzeň, which is straightforward.
Getting To Plzeň From Prague
This is a very easy journey by train, taking an hour to an hour and a half from Prague main station. You need to alight at Plzeň hlavni nadrazi (Plzeň hl n on timetables).
Alternatively, Flixbus services take an hour from Florenc bus station in Prague.
Mělník
Lovely wine town and starting point for Elbe River cruises into Germany
Mělník, an hour north of Prague, is where the Vltava and Elbe rivers meet. It’s a beautiful historic wine-producing town with a famous chateau, and the starting point for cruises on the Elbe River into Germany.
It’s a very easy introduction to the Czech Republic beyond Prague. It’s barely 20 miles from the capital, probably the closest of the beautiful Central Bohemian towns worth visiting. Its old town is stunning, with a fine square, several picturesque streets and some great cafes including one near the top of a medieval tower!
The Castle (Zamek Mělník), owned by the Lobkowicz family, is home to a fascinating, atmospheric Wine Museum. Here you can wander among the vast vats of wine, each named after a saint. The interior of the Castle is also well worth seeing, with several outstanding paintings, among them works by Karel Skreta and Paolo Veronese. And don’t miss the superb collection of 17th-century maps of European cities in the Great Hall.
The ensemble of the Church of SS Peter and Paul and the Castle next door is one of the most famous Czech landmarks, well worth a walk down the river or a ride on the tourist train to see.
Tours To Mělník From Prague
This private tour includes a trip to the Castle and tour of the wine cellars and Museum. It also includes a walking tour of the Old Town.
Getting To Mělník From Prague
The most convenient way of getting from Prague to Mělník is by bus. Service 369 runs from close to Ladvi Metro station (on red line C) in the north of the city. It takes an hour to get to the town centre, which is at the top of the hill. You can buy tickets from the driver.
Be sure to alight at the Fibichova stop, which is a 5-minute walk from most of the sights. If you miss this stop, the bus runs nearly a mile down the hill to the bus station, where it terminates. So try not to miss the stop!
The train isn’t as convenient a way of reaching Mělník, as you have to change at Všetaty to get there. And the station is also over a mile down the hill from the Old Town, so it’s not ideal.
See Also: Mělník Czech Republic – The Complete Guide
Konopiště Castle
Opulent favoured residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination triggered the outbreak of World War I
Along with Křivoklát and Karlštejn, Konopiště is one of the ‘big three’ castles within an hour or so of Prague.
The original military castle was similar to the Chateau de Saumur in the Loire Valley in France. It was gradually remodelled into more of a chateau-style country house, and became the favoured residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand d’Este, the final heir to the Austro-Hungarian Imperial throne.
Most people know Franz Ferdinand as the man whose assassination helped plunge Europe into the First World War of 1914-18. You can tour his quarters as part of your visit – and see just a small proportion (but vast quantity) of his collection of hunting trophies, mainly deer antlers.
Tours To Konopiště Castle From Prague
This tour runs from central Prague to the Castle, and includes a guided tour of the interior. Make sure you also wander the Gardens while you’re there.
GOOD TO KNOW: You can combine your visit to Konopiště with a trip to Vyhlidka Maj, the amazing viewpoint over a bend in the Vltava River. Bus 438 connects the two locations. Otherwise it’s a short drive by car to the car park for the viewpoint – more details can be found in the Vyhlidka Maj entry later in this post.
If driving, you could also visit the nearby Český Šternberk Castle.
Getting To Konopiště Castle From Prague
The easiest way to get from Prague to Konopiště Castle is by train to Benešov u Prahy, less than an hour south of the capital. From there you can either get the 438 bus or, as my son and I did, walk the 20-25 minutes through the outskirts of the town and countryside to the Castle.
Alternatively you can drive there in around 45 minutes via the E55 motorway and national route 3.
See Also: Konopiště Castle – How To Visit and What To See
Terezín Concentration Camp
World War Two Nazi holding camp, cynically used by the Nazis for propaganda films
Visiting Terezin Concentration Camp – also known as the Theresienstadt Ghetto – is a grim experience. The Small Fortress, and much of the Austrian Empire’s garrison town, served as a holding camp for around 144,000 Jews during World War Two.
Of these, 88,000 were deported to the death camps in Nazi-occupied Poland, and around 33,000 perished in the dreadful conditions within the Ghetto.
The Nazis cynically portrayed Theresienstadt as a safe refuge for the Jews, where cultural life flourished. They made several propaganda films there, and even invited the Red Cross there in 1944 to inspect conditions. But the people living there never knew when their turn would come to be sent on a train to Auschwitz or Treblinka.
The Small Fortress just outside the town was the original prison for Jewish deportees, while the town of Terezin is home to the excellent Ghetto Museum and several other important sites.
Tours To Terezín Concentration Camp
This tour from Prague covers the main sights in Terezin, including the Small Fortress and Ghetto Museum. It’s a very convenient way of seeing the Terezin Memorial, with pick-up from the centre of Prague.
Getting To Terezín From Prague
Regular buses depart from Letňany bus station, which is the northern terminus station of Prague Metro line C. The number 413 bus takes around an hour to reach Terezín – the final destination of the bus is the nearby town of Litoměřice.
The bus stops twice in Terezin. I recommend getting off at the first stop, Terezin U Pamatniku, which is a request stop (zastavka na znameni). A screen and announcements keeps you well informed about upcoming stops, so it’s pretty hard to go wrong. This stop is around 200 metres past the Small Fortress – I suggest that you head there first, then walk back into the town (ten minutes away) from there.
Later in the day, return to Prague from the bus stop on the main square.
GOOD TO KNOW: If you want to visit all the outlying sites around Terezin, I suggest travelling there independently. The tours only cover the main locations. Check out my article on visiting Terezin Concentration Camp for more detailed information.
TOP TIP: You could extend your day by a few hours and visit the gorgeous town of Litoměřice, less than 3 miles away across the River Elbe. It’s full of beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, and couldn’t be more different in feel from Terezin.
See Also: Jewish Prague – 16 Essential Places To Visit
Brno
The Czech Republic’s second city, slowly muscling its way onto the Prague-Vienna-Budapest tourist route
Like Český Krumlov and Dresden (see below), Brno really warrants an overnight stay of at least one night. But in our time-poor world a day trip from Prague to Brno is far better than missing out on the country’s second city,
Brno is the capital of Moravia, and located near the Austrian border, closer to Vienna than Prague. It’s a fascinating place, with a gorgeous Old Town, partly medieval Gothic Cathedral and some of the finest Functionalist architecture in Central Europe. This includes the outstanding Villa Tugendhat, a 1920s-1930s private house that was the most expensive in the world when constructed.
The mixture of different architectural styles is wonderful, and the city – which has a huge student population – is also full of great cafes and bars. Brno got well under our skin over several visits, and if you don’t visit on a day trip from Prague, I’d consider fitting one day in Brno into any Central Europe itinerary, including the much-frequented Prague-Vienna-Budapest route.
Getting To Brno From Prague
The train is the easiest and quickest way to get from Prague to Brno. The quickest trains from Prague main station (Praha hl n) to Brno main station (Brno hl n) take 2 hours 35 minutes. Buses – operated by Flixbus and RegioJet – take between 2 ½ and 3 hours each way.
It makes for a long day, but Brno is very much worth the visit.
Dresden
The Florence of the Elbe is the nearest major city to Prague
Dresden is one of the best places to visit in Germany, its restored Baroque old town now complete following its obliteration by Allied bombing near the end of World War II. It’s also within relatively easy reach of Prague, by both train and bus, making it an ideal introduction to this fascinating part of eastern Germany.
We made a couple of day trips to Dresden from Prague while living in the Czech capital, before using the city as a base to explore Saxony for several weeks. A day is enough to give you a good introduction to the city, allowing time to see the superb Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), the famous Historic Green Vault and Residenzschloss.
There are also several outstanding museums in Dresden, from the Old Masters Gallery in the Zwinger Palace to the German Hygiene Museum, which has a superb section for kids.
See Also: 19 Stunning Dresden Landmarks Not To Miss and Prague To Dresden – 5 Easy Ways To Get There
Tours To Dresden From Prague
There are several great tour options from Prague to Dresden. This tour includes a stop at the magnificent Bastei Bridge in the Saxon Switzerland National Park before continuing to Dresden for a few hours.
If you’re visiting during late November and December, then this Dresden Christmas Market and Bastei Bridge tour is well worth considering. Just make sure you don’t miss the medieval Christmas Market in the Castle (Residenzschloss) as well as the more famous Striezelmarkt.
Getting To Dresden From Prague
Although it’s an easy two-hour drive, I recommend either the train or Flixbus coach from Prague to Dresden.
The train takes around 2 ½ hours to Dresden from Prague main train station (Praha hlavni nadrazi, or Praha hl n on timetables and station display boards).
Alternatively, the Flixbus takes around two hours from Prague Florenc bus station (Praha UAN Florenc on timetables).
See Also: 30 Best Places To Visit On The River Elbe
Prague Day Trips – The Best Of The Rest
Prague Zoo
Great day out for the family, with a gorgeous Baroque chateau and garden across the street
Prague Zoo (Zoo Praha) is regularly voted one of the best zoos in Europe, indeed the world. It’s a very short trip from the centre of Prague – as little as half an hour by Metro or tram then bus, and there’s easily enough to see there to make a full day of it.
We’ve visited Prague Zoo 40-50 times – it’s by far my son’s favourite place to visit in Prague. The Gardens are a beautiful place to walk, and there are plenty of places for kids to stop and play.
The highlights are far too many to list here, but I strongly recommend the new Dja Reservation, home to a wonderful troop of gorillas, two species of monkey and the marvellous red river hog. We also make a regular beeline for the Indonesian Jungle exhibit, which includes Komodo dragons (beware: their poo stinks…) and the amazing Sumatran orangutans.
If you make it to the top of the hill, don’t miss the beautiful Przewalski’s Horses. Prague Zoo has been breeding them for many years, and recently reintroduced them to the wild in Mongolia and Kazakhstan.
Getting To Prague Zoo
Bus 112 from Nádraži Holešovice takes you to the Zoo entrance. The bus stop is near to the exit of the Metro station of the same name on line C of the network.
Bus 234 also takes you to the main entrance, and continues to the Zoo Praha – Sklenářka request stop. This is right next to the Dja Reservation and gorillas, which also makes a great place to start.
See Also: How To Visit Prague Zoo – One Of The Best Zoos In Europe
Litoměřice
One of the most beautiful towns in Europe that you’ve never heard of
Litoměřice – Leitmeritz in German – is one of the loveliest small towns in Central Europe. It’s amazing that it has stayed under the radar for so long – you’re only likely to have heard of it if planning an Elbe river cruise from Prague to Berlin. We used it as a base for a few weeks while slow travelling from Prague to Germany, and fell in love with it.
There are many places like Litoměřice around the Czech Republic. It’s an architectural treasure trove with Gothic and Renaissance townhouses and some stunning Baroque churches, including the tent-roofed All Saints Church on the main square, Mírové náměstí. You can also venture below ground to explore some of the fascinating network of tunnels built below the town.
Litoměřice is a popular wine-growing town. We didn’t get to see this side of it when we stayed (December), but there’s a small exhibition on viticulture in the town’s Castle. In summer, there are some lovely walks and cycle rides around the vineyards, especially around the village of Velké Žernoseky, just to the west of the town.
Litoměřice is also the gateway to the České Středohori, a range of conical volcanic hills either side of the Elbe Valley.
See Also: Things To Do In Litomerice and A Czech Country Christmas – A Short Story
Tours To Litoměřice From Prague
Litoměřice is rather overshadowed by nearby Terezin concentration camp when it comes to visitors from Prague. This tour of Terezin includes an hour or so in Litoměřice, with a lunch stop in the beautiful main square.
Otherwise, Litoměřice is a stop on Elbe river cruise routes and self-guided cycle trips from Prague to Dresden.
Getting To Litoměřice From Prague
Travelling to Litoměřice from Prague is easier by bus than train. If you’re going by bus, the 413 service runs from Letňany bus station, adjacent to the Metro station of the same name. The bus passes through Terezin a few minutes before it reaches Litoměřice.
You have to change trains at Všetaty to get to Litoměřice – the whole journey takes an unnecessary two hours each way. Don’t bother – catch the bus!
If driving, take the E55 / D8 motorway from Prague, turning off at the Lovosice exit, around 5 miles from Litoměřice.
Kokořin Castle
Gorgeous romantic castle hidden in an enchanted forest north of Prague
Kokořin Castle isn’t among the most widely known Czech castles to international visitors, but it’s very popular among the Czechs. Following a revival of interest in the 19th century, it was the first of the ruined Bohemian castles to get a full restoration, which was completed in 1918.
The Castle is quite well concealed, surrounded by the Kokořinsko Forest, around ten miles from Mělník. It’s a magnificent landscape of sandstone rock formations, forests and lakes, again much loved by locals yet scarcely visited by foreigners. You only get to see the Castle from up close or from a single roadside viewpoint about half a mile away.
It’s a fairly small Castle – the tour (Czech only, with English text) takes only 30 minutes, but you also get to walk the ramparts and climb the tower by yourself afterwards.
Note that the Castle is only open from April to October.
Tours To Kokořin Castle
Unfortunately, no tours run from Prague to Kokořin Castle. It’s somewhere you have to get to by yourself.
Getting To Kokořin Castle From Prague
To reach Kokořin Castle, you need to catch two buses from Prague but it’s a fairly easy, smooth process.
Firstly, head to Ladvi Metro station in Prague, and cross the road to the 369 bus stop. This service runs to Mělník Mělník aut nadr on timetables). Stay on until the service terminates.
Then walk a few metres across station platform to the stop for the 695 service. You’ll need to alight at the Kokořinsky dul Podhradi request stop, which is a 10-minute walk down the hill from the Castle. The 474 bus runs a different route to Kokořin village, which is a mile away from the Castle. Check the idos.cz transport website for bus times.
See Also: Kokořin Castle – Complete Guide To This Romantic Bohemian Castle
Telč
Exquisite Moravian country town with one of the most beautiful squares in Europe
The quiet Moravian country town of Telč is one of the most beautiful in the country. Its location a fairly long way from anywhere else adds to the feel that it’s a bit of a time capsule, which has saved it from becoming heavily touristed like Český Krumlov.
Telč (pronounced ‘telch’) doesn’t take very long to see. The main sight is the exquisite main square, Náměstí Zachariaše z Hradce, one of the loveliest squares in Europe. The long, narrow marketplace is lined with Renaissance-era houses, each of which is decorated differently. The effect is stunning, and I’d go as far as saying that it’s worth travelling all the way to Telč just to photograph it.
The other main attraction in Telč is the Castle, which was also built by Zacharias of Hradec. Take a walk around the fish ponds just down the hill from the square, then enjoy the view of the town reflected in the still waters. The Castle – part of the Telč UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the square – don’t miss the lavish Golden Hall on Tour 1.
Tours To Telč From Prague
At the time of writing there are no tours from Prague to Telč. So if you plan to visit you’ll need to make your own way there as we did. While there, it’s well worth downloading this excellent self-guided audio tour, which tells the story of the Painted Ladies of Telč, the gorgeous houses on the main square.
Getting To Telč From Prague
Telč is in the central south of the Czech Republic, roughly halfway between České Budějovice and Brno. It’s 160 km (100 miles) from Prague, and driveable in little more than two hours via the D1 / E65.
The only public transport option for reaching Telč from Prague is the train. It’s a 3 ½ hour journey each way, and it’s pretty slow going. This includes a change of trains in Havličkuv Brod, with a 5-minute changeover.
We opted to stay in Telč, which made the whole experience more enjoyable. But if you’re a lover of beautiful European towns, the good news is that you can get there and back in a day from Prague. But you might want to bring a good book with you for the journey.
See Also: Telč Czech Republic – The Complete Guide
České Budějovice
Greatly underrated capital of South Bohemia, and home to the superb Budvar beer
České Budějovice (Budweis in German) has always been in the shadow of nearby Český Krumlov when it comes to day trips from Prague. Český Krumlov is one of the most beautiful towns in Europe, so it’s natural that visitors are going to want to see it. With limited time available, České Budějovice tends to get bypassed, except for tours to its iconic Budvar brewery on the northern edge of town.
České Budějovice has a gorgeous Old Town, centred around one of the largest squares in the country, Náměstí Přemysl Otakar II. It’s a beauty, with the fine Samson Fountain, ornate Town Hall, landmark Black Tower and arcaded walkways completing the scene.
I recommend wandering around the river area, which has beautiful views to the Dominican Church. The city also has several excellent restaurants, from Masne Kramy (which serves Budvar) to the new Solnice, in a former saltworks near the river.
See Also: 15 Best Places To Visit In South Bohemia
Tours To České Budějovice From Prague
České Budějovice is not well-served by tours from Prague. Český Krumlov is much more popular, so České Budějovice tends to be included as a short stopover, as on this tour. You normally get an hour at the most in České Budějovice, so if you want to explore it in any depth, my tip is to travel there yourself.
Getting To České Budějovice From Prague
As it’s on the way to Český Krumlov, you get to České Budějovice exactly the same ways – by bus or train.
The train takes two hours from Prague (Praha hl n), and the bus (from Na Knížecí station, near Anděl Metro) around 2 hours 15 minutes.
See Also: České Budějovice – The Complete Guide
Tábor
Gorgeous historic South Bohemian town rich in medieval architecture
Tábor is another of those beautiful off the beaten path Bohemian towns that is still undiscovered by visitors from abroad, but loved by Czechs in the know. It’s only 1 hour 15 minutes from Prague, an easy train ride, and we were eventually lured by its charms.
Tábor is one of the younger Czech towns, founded in 1420 by members of the Hussite movement. They opposed many practices of the Roman Catholic church, and the town became their headquarters, where their version of an ideal, free and fair society came into being. They also built one of the loveliest late medieval towns you’ll find in the country, on a hill above the gorge of the Luznice river.
Make a beeline for Žižkovo náměstí, the main square and the focal point of the Old Town. Enjoy a drink or meal at one of the restaurants and bars on the square, with views of the superb Deanery Church and Town Hall. Then just wander, exploring the hilly cobbled streets and nearby park, with its stout bastions that defended the town in its early years.
Tours To Tábor From Prague
Nobody seems to operate tours to Tábor from Prague, so it’s one you’ll need to visit independently.
Getting To Tábor From Prague
The trip from Prague to Tábor is a straightforward 1 ¼ hour train ride from Prague main station (Praha hl n on timetables).
The station is on the eastern edge of the town, a 20-25 minute walk from the Old Town. The hourly bus 61 runs from outside the bus station across the street to Žižkovo náměstí. Otherwise the twice-hourly number 30 bus runs to Na Parkanech, a 5-minute walk from the square.
Vyhlidka Maj
A locals’ favourite, a little-known viewpoint over a horseshoe bend of the Vltava River south of Prague
This viewpoint is one of the hidden gems of the Czech Republic, the country’s answer to the Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River in Arizona.
The Czechs’ national river, the Vltava (Moldau in German) meanders through hilly forests south of Prague. You can see this sublime river bend from the forest above, close to the hamlet of Teletin.
When you reach the viewing area, you won’t be able to see the whole of the river bend. To do so you need to walk further down the slope to where the full view opens out. There is also another great viewpoint – Vyhlidka Mařenka – a ten-minute walk away through the forest.
GOOD TO KNOW: I visited Vyhlidka Maj by bus, and was able to combine it with a short trip to Konopiště Castle on the 438 bus which runs from Teletín to Benešov u Prahy. You can then return to Prague main train station by train from Benešov.
Tours To Vyhlidka Maj
Unfortunately no tours run to Vyhlidka Maj – you’ll either have to drive, take a taxi or go by public transport as I did.
Getting To Vyhlidka Maj
If you’re driving, take the follow the west side river to the south of Prague along Strakonicka, then at the large junction with the D0/E50 motorway near Zbraslav take the 102 road. This follows the river to Štěchovice.
From there, turn left onto the 106 road and cross the river. At Krňany, turn right on the minor road to Teletín and Vysoký Újezd. You’ll then see a small car park – with spaces either side of the road – just before the hamlet of Teletín.
It you’re travelling by bus, catch any of the 360, 361 buses from Stand D outside Smíchovské nádraží (Smichov station) to Štěchovice. Alight there – the 438 bus usually connects with it. You then stay on the bus until Krňany-Teletín. From there, walk 20 metres back up the hill and follow the signs to the viewpoint.
See Also: Vyhlidka Maj – Complete Guide To The Stunning River Vltava Viewpoint Near Prague
Průhonice Park
Little-known landscaped park that’s part of the Prague World Heritage Site, stunning in all seasons
Relatively few visitors get to experience all of the Prague World Heritage Site – that’s because one component of it is hidden away just beyond the city boundary in the Bohemian countryside.
Průhonice Park is a magnificent landscaped park, the lifetime’s work of Count Arnost Emanuel Silva-Tarouca. It’s set in the valley of the Botic stream, with a lake and impressive Renaissance Revival Castle.
His design of the Park was well ahead of its time, especially the way in which he combined woodland plants with open spaces including meadows and ponds.
It’s also designed and planted in such a way that it’s wondrous year-round. We’ve only visited in springtime and summer, and plan to return there in autumn and winter too when we get then opportunity.
Tours To Průhonice Park From Prague
No organised tours run to the Park – this is another one you have to visit by yourself.
Getting To Průhonice Park From Prague
Průhonice Park is just outside the Prague city limits, on the southeastern edge of the city, and is quick and easy to reach.
Take the red Metro line C to Opatov, then head upstairs to the bus stops where you can catch one of the hourly 363 or 385 services to Průhonice. It’s a 15-minute journey from Opatov, and the screens and announcements on board the bus keep you well informed of where you are. You can buy your ticket from the driver of the yellow machines at Opatov station. Select ‘Prague and suburbs’ then Zone 1, and buy a second ticket for your return journey.
See Also: Průhonice Park Prague
Olomouc
Beautiful off the beaten path Moravian city
Prague is heavily over-touristed these days, and if you want an idea of what it was like when I first visited in 1991, then I can’t think of a better place to go than Olomouc.
This Moravian city is easy to reach, on the main train line between Prague, Ostrava and Krakow. One of the best things to do is wandering the streets of the Old Town, a joy without the crowds you get in Prague. The architecture is similar, but it’s much quieter.
Olomouc is home to one of the Czech Republic’s 17 World Heritage Sites – the remarkable Holy Trinity Column on Horni náměstí. It’s one of the greatest Baroque buildings in Europe, and even contains a small chapel. If you love Baroque architecture, than don’t miss St Michael’s Church as well.
Possibly the quirkiest thing to see in Olomouc is the Astronomical Clock on the wall of the Town Hall. The original was destroyed in the Second World War, so a new one was built in the Socialist Realist style! Do everything you can to be there at noon when you visit, as there’s a display of various labourers and manual workers. All that’s missing is a dictator in a limousine!
Tours To Olomouc From Prague
Surprisingly there are no tours from Prague to Olomouc- it’s one to do independently.
Getting To Olomouc From Prague
Regular trains run the 250 km (150 miles) from Prague (Praha hl n on timetables to Olomouc main station (Olomouc hl n). The journey takes 2 ½ hours. When scanning the departure boards for your train, the final destination is usually Ostrava, and sometimes Krakow in Poland.
Český raj – Bohemian Paradise
Fairytale forests and castles and fantastic rock formations barely an hour east of Prague
This wonderful area to the east of Prague is really more like 4 or 5 day trips from Prague. It’s a glorious landscape, with several ‘rock cities’, labyrinths of sandstone rock pinnacles, forests and some of the most spectacular castles in the Czech Republic.
To dip your toes in the water with a day trip from Prague, I suggest heading to Jičín, a gorgeous market town an hour or so east of Prague. From there it’s a few minutes’ drive or bus ride to the entrance to the trails around Prachov Rocks, an awe-inspiring series of rock towers in a forest gorge. There’s a similar landscape to the north around Hruba Skala, with a Castle now used as a Hotel.
There are also several other great castles around the Český raj, including the striking Trosky Castle, each of its two towers improbably built on an outcrop of volcanic rock. And Kost Castle is another medieval masterpiece, in a valley north of the town of Sobotka.
For more information, check out my guide to the best places to visit in Bohemian Paradise.
Tours To Bohemian Paradise From Prague
This e-mountain biking trip from Prague is a brilliant way to explore the Bohemian Paradise. You’re picked up in Prague and once you’re on the bike you follow an easy route taking in two of the castles in the area.
And this guided hiking tour takes you to the awesome Hruba Skala area via Turnov (see the first image in this section).
Getting To Bohemian Paradise From Prague
Normally I’m not an advocate of hiring a car from Prague, as the public transport system will get you to and from all the places in this article and many more. However, in this instance, I recommend hiring a car for a day.
Most of the Bohemian Paradise is within a triangle of land between Mnichovo Hradiste, Turnov and Jičín – with as small extension north of Turnov to Mala Skala. You can cover a lot of ground by car within a day. From Prague, head towards Mlada Boleslav, Mnichovo Hradiste and Turnov on the E65 / D10 motorway. Route 16 heads from Mlada Boleslav to Jičín.
If you want to go by public transport, trains run direct from Prague (Praha hl n) to Mnichovo Hradiste, Turnov and Mala Skala. You can change at Turnov for trains to Hruba Skala and Jičín. Alternatively, you can catch a direct bus from Prague Černý Most bus station to Jičín, and an onward bus to Prachov Rocks.
Day Trips From Prague – Final Thoughts
I hope this article has whetted your appetite for exploring the Czech Republic beyond Prague.
While living in Prague, the things I have found most surprising are the astonishing number of places to visit near Prague, and how little visitors from abroad know about them. I could easily have doubled the length of this article – but this is more than enough for you to be going on with!
And while in the Czech capital, check out my guide to the Best 50 Things To Do In Prague, and 27 Best Hidden Gems in Prague to discover.
David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times. David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.