cities to visit near prague

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• 18 Must-Visit Places Around Prague For A Dreamy Escape In 2024

23 Mar 2023

A visit to Czech Republic implies a visit to Prague for sure, since this beautiful European city is bejeweled with Baroque marvels, happening pubs and more! Thanks to its easy connectivity, people tend to start and conclude their Czech sojourns in Prague, often staying limited to the boundaries of this capital city. Be it the famous sights like the Prague Castle, the Old Town Square, or a simple evening out at a cool European style cafe; the itinerary is mostly similar. But, if you are an explorer, you’d love to tour these places around Prague !

You’d have never thought that there are so many gems near Prague that are waiting for you to explore them and pamper the adventure enthusiast in you. May it be a castle or a town, you will find some magnificent spots to conquer! 

18 Best Places Around Prague

So, do you know what awaits beyond Prague? Perhaps, it is a good idea to start exploring places to visit around Prague by train and get to know Czech Republic tourism in its entirety . Here are some wonderful add-ons to the Prague trip itinerary you have been planning:

• Cesky Krumlov: Witness The Magnificence
• Karlovy Vary: Absorb The Vibrancy
• Kutna Hora: Feel The Old World Charm
• Krivoklat Castle: Sense The Grandeur
• Terezin Concentration Camp: Learn History
• Vienna: A Beautiful City
• Nuremberg: For History Buffs
• Dresden: A Winter Wonderland
• Leipzig: A Blissful Staycation Awaits
• Wroclaw: A Chocolaty Town
• Karlstejn Castle: Grandeur At Its Best
• Pardubice: The Perfect Day Trip
• Pilsen: For Beer Lovers
• National Park Bohemian Switzerland: A Unique Park
• Krkonose : Cross-Border Adventure
• Adrspach-Teplice Rocks : For Unusual Set Of Sandstone
• Třeboň : A Picturesque Destination
• Znojmo : A Paradisaical Town

1. Cesky Krumlov: Witness The Magnificence

Image Credit: peter89ba for Pixabay

The medieval town of Cesky Krumlov, at a short distance from Prague, is one of the most recommended cities near Prague Czech Republic. It perfectly complements the taste of the tourists in Prague. Another castle awaits your attention here, full of the old-world charm splendour , but with a difference. The bastion is mounted on a hill overlooking the Vltava River. It is one of the best places around Prague .

Cesky Krumlov Castle has a beautiful exterior facade, consisting of a large Rococo-style garden attached to an elaborate fountain in place. The interiors of this place are a pleasant walk down the history of the town during the 17th and the 18th century. The castle takes you through the life of the Royalty here including their dining etiquette, as well as details of their wardrobe or the Royal Pink upholstery. There is a stunning Baroque  theater  inside, giving a glimpse of entertainment during those years. It is, hands down, one of the best cities to visit near Prague .

Expect yourself to be in a town full of life, with people roaming around at a leisurely pace and finding enough space and time to pick up small souvenirs, or having coffee, beer, Mediterranean food in comfort of a boutique cafe and long-drawn conversations surrounding the beauty of the place. You can also eat at one of the best restaurants in Czech Republic .

Distance from Prague: 175 km (2.5 hours)

Things to do : If you are into photography, you are gonna want to visit to Museum Fotoatelier Seidel which was an actual photography studio of Joseph Seidel. Take a tour around the museum which has been decorated in Art Nouveau style. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee at Castle Cafe which not only brews amazing coffee and beers but also provides stunning views of the whole city. Another one of the things to do in Cesky Krumlov is kayaking or canoeing on Vltava River in summers.

Tips: It is cheaper if you buy a Cesky Krumlov Card which provides access to most of the attractions in the town which includes castle museum and tower, Museum Fotoatelier Seidel, Egon Schiele Art Centrum, Monasteries Český Krumlov. It costs less than $15 (INR 1,000). If you think you can’t visit all the places in one day, don’t worry because the card is valid for 12 months.

Tourist attractions: State castle, Egon Schiele art centrum

Best time to visit: March to May, September to November

Places to stay: Hotel Ruze, Hotel Oldinn, Hotel Dvurak

Places to eat: Krumlov fountain, Tavern of the two maries, Le jardin restaurant 

How to reach: Nearest airport is Linz airport

Must Read: Shopping In Prague: 13 Places Where You Can Indulge In Shopping Therapy

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2. Karlovy Vary: Absorb The Vibrancy

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If you are wondering where else to visit near Prague then, head straight to Karlovy Vary for an extension which is famous for its cool architecture.

Amongst all the incredible places to visit around Prague, Karlovy Vary remains at the pinnacle throughout. This city was discovered in 1370 and is a popular tourist site for its architectural brilliance and hot springs. It must be an eyesore for people who enjoy Prague and still visit Karlovy Vary for its colourful and imaginative architecture. If you cannot have enough of the special display from Prague, be here and enjoy another exquisite architectural splendour from Czech Republic. It is one of the best places to visit near Prague .

Of all the places around Prague , Karlovy Vary is a grand destination and very picturesque naturally. The hot springs destination is famous for its spa treatments , which has been on offer for the past six centuries. The spa complex offers physical and mental rejuvenation, which is a good option if you please so. It is one of the best places near Prague to visit

Distance from Prague: 130 km (2 hours) Things to do: One of the things to do in Karlovy Vary is get a bird’s eye view from Diana Observation Tower which offers stunning views of the city from the height of 18,00 ft. Visit the Moser Museum and Glasswork Factory where you can learn a lot about the renowned Moser glass art. Get a drink of Mother nature’s soda recipe aka mineral water from the one of the 5 hot springs in the city. It is one of the unique experiences this place has to offer. Also, check out the 1970’s Hot Spring Colonnade which spurts hot water 40 ft above the ground.

Tips: The best way to get around the city is by public transport. If you wish to buy antiques and artwork from the city, make sure your paperwork is in order since export of objects of cultural value is prohibited

Tourist attractions: Mill Colonnade, Diana Observation Tower, Museum of Glass MOSER

Places to stay: Dvorak spa & Wellness hotel, Savoy westend hotel, Grand hotel Ambassador

Places to eat: Sklipek, Staroslovanska kuchyne, Le Marche

How to reach: Nearest airport is Karlovy vary airport

Suggested Read: Prague Honeymoon Guide: 13 Sizzling Recipes To Spice Up Your Trip To The Land Of 100 Spires

3. Kutna Hora: Feel The Old World Charm

Located at distance of about 80 km from Prague, this 13th-century mine town is full of surprises. The famous bone church, yes, you read it right- a skeleton house called Sedlec Ossuary is located here.

This small Roman Catholic Chapel uses only human bones for interior decorations. There is a big chandelier hung at the centre-top, made of only human bones . If that sounds strange to you, wait until you experience it all. It looks beautiful and the intent is noble too. The chandelier, for example, has been constructed to commemorate people who died during the plagues and wars in Europe. The single piece of chandelier contains at least one bone of every person who died during this time. it is estimated that 70,000 people died due to plague and wars. It is one of the most historical places around Prague .

Kutna Hora has other attractions like the Cathedral of Saint Barbara which has an exquisite vaulted ceiling and ornate frescoes. A must visit is the historic silver mining site. The cave mine tour is a bit of an adventure plus its visitors get to learn a lot about how coins were minted inside. It takes you through the complete journey of coin mining, through the caves. Otherwise too, Kutna Hora has a pretty hill-view and a lot of space to walk to visit every corner of the town in pleasure.

Distance from Prague: 85 km (1.5 hours)

Things to do : Known as the mining city, do not miss out on visiting the medieval silver mine where you will learn how silver was mined and processed inside the ‘donkey gin’. After that, grab a fancy lunch at 400-year old Restaurant Dačický where you can gorge on lip-smacking Czech cuisine. Visit the Italian Court where silver coins were produced during the rule of a king. In the evening, take a stroll in the charming streets of Kutna Hora which seem right out of a fairy-tale. It makes one of the beautiful places to visit around Prague .

Tips: You will need not more than two days in Kutna Hora since all the attraction can be visited in a day. If you are travelling on a train, the station is near to Sedlec Ossuary from where you can begin the trip.

Tourist attractions: Sedlec Ossuary, St Barbara’s Cathedral, Italian Court

Places to stay: Hotel U Kata, Hotel Opat, Hotel Medinek

Places to eat: Dacicky restaurant, V Ruthardce, Ctyri Sestry

How to reach:  Nearest airport is Pardubice airport

Suggested Read: In Pictures: 35 Most Beautiful Cities In Europe Will Make You Want To Trip There

4. Krivoklat Castle: Sense The Grandeur

Located in the Berounka River Valley, Krivoklat Castle is one of the places close to Prague will take you back in time. The castle tour is a must for travelers who are looking to experience the serenity of hill by own. Krivoklat Castle rests on a forested hill and was originally a royal residence built in the 13th century .

The castle was founded in the 12th century and built in Gothic style and its interiors are still the same, full of paintings , art and a massive section of books (the collections is over 50,000). A walk inside the castle will take you through dark patches of the political prisoners captured here; their sentiment finds expression through beautiful cravings in the Royal Chapel today. These carving show angels holding instruments of torture. It is one of the best places to see around Prague .

Distance from Prague: 60 km (1 hour)

Things to do: A Krivoklat Castle tour will let you enjoy the unspoilt beauty of its surrounding highlands . It is a well-preserved landscape, which has most of its tourist attraction in order, carefully preserved and most importantly, it is still not crowded.

Tips:  If you are looking for a Gothic experience, do not miss a trip to Krivoklat Castle.

Places to stay: Wood castle, White castle, Hotel Doon castle

Places to eat: Hotel Sykora, U Jelena restaurant, Nad Hradem

How to reach: Nearest railway station is Krivoklat

Suggested Read: 14 Places To Visit In Prague For A Fab Vacation In The Czech Republic

5. Terezin Concentration Camp: Learn History

A must-visit for the history buffs, about a one-hour drive from Prague, is Terezin Concentration Camp. The campsite was constructed by the Nazis to hold war prisoners around the time of World War-2.  It is one of the unique and heartrending  places to go around Prague .

There are similar concentration camp builds to be seen in Munich or Poland , for example. The Terezin Concentration Camp is notorious for housing many Jews imprisoned by the Nazis . The majority of the camp prisoners were from the community who underwent a lot of torture. A guided walk through the camp is enough to give you the chills and imagine what a hard task life it was for the Jews under the Nazi regime, led by Adolf Hitler.

Things to do: The Terezin camp area also has ghettos where most of the camp prisoners went torture during interrogations during the 18th century. People who are curious to know more about Hitler and his regimen can specifically find a lot to observe and watch out during the camp visit-it is an equivalent of ‘life at the site’.

Tips: A trip to the Terezin Concentration Camp , located about 60 kilometres from Prague, will take about an hour. Make sure to leave early to avoid crowd. 

Places to stay: Park hotel, Arnestino, Apartment Mary

Places to eat: Atypik restaurant, Dobra Basta, Klobouk

How to reach: Nearest railway station is Praha Masarykovo station 

Suggested Read: 5 Gorgeous Annual Festivals In Prague That’ll Make It Your Favorite City In The World

6. Vienna: A Beautiful City

On a Vienna city tour travelers find out eventually that there’s more to Vienna or Wien than classical music and legacy of monarchs. With independent bookstores and bistro culture, Vienna attracts a surprising number of younger tourists to Austria. An amusement park and a world-famous zoo entertains travelers who are young at heart. Hands down, this majestic city forever remains one of the best places to visit around Prague.

Distance from Prague: 333 km (3 hours 45 minutes)

Things to do: Whether travelers are interested in the history of Habsburg family or a live classical music performance that was composed by Vienna’s own Mozart, Vienna is a musical wonderland in Central Europe.

Tips:  Vienna is plastic-free, so make sure you bring your own bag when you’re going out to shop.

Tourist attractions: : Schonbrunn Palace, The hofburg, St Stephen’s 

Places to stay: Meininger, arion, Geblergasse hotel

Places to eat: Ef16, Ariston Hellenic, Restaurant rote bar

How to reach: Vienna airport is the nearest airport

Suggested Read: 8 Most Adventurous Things To Do In Prague For An Action-Packed Holiday

7. Nuremberg: For History Buffs

Visitors can discover beautiful Nuremberg — the site of Hitler’s propaganda rallies, if they are thinking where to go from Prague . While relaxing on the comfortable train ride to Nuremberg a guided tour of city attractions like Congress Hall and the medieval old town can be taken as well. You will have the time of your life and will not be disappointed by the bevy of activities that take place here.

Distance from Prague: 298 km (3 hours 14 minutes)

Things to do: You can visit Nuremberg Castle which stands tall even after suffering huge demolition during the times of WWII. A prominent seat of the Roman Empire, this place has a trail leading up to the entrance.

Tips: One has to take the steep trail to reach Nuremberg castle from where the panoramic views of the city are just surreal. Don’t miss to climb the steep steps that lead to the top of the Sinwell Tower.

Tourist attractions: Imperial castle of Nuremberg, 

Places to stay: Le Meredien, Novotel, Pak Plaza

Places to eat: Gregor Samsa, Cocoon Nuremberg, Wurzhaus 

How to reach: Nearest airport is Nuremberg airport

Suggested Read: New Year In Prague: Welcome At The Land Of World’s Finest Brews

8. Dresden: A Winter Wonderland

Plan a visit to Dresden during winter as it is one of the most beautiful places near Prague . This historic city is home to a number of museums, palaces, and iconic buildings that are open in winter. Castle Moritzburg – a spellbinding water castle, in particular, is a must visit. You will be spellbound by the beauty of the place and astounded by how terrific everything looks.

Distance from Prague: 149 km (1 hour 53 minutes)

Things to do: Visit Zwinger Palace or take a Frauenkirche Day trip to Meissen, among other things.

Tips: Germany winter temperature can dip to about -50 deg F, and a number of attractions shut down after Christmas. Make sure you carry adequate clothing.

Tourist attractions: Zwinger, Semperoper, Dresden castle

Places to stay: Hilton Dresden, Hotel Ibis, Schloss Eckberg

Places to eat: Restaurant Genuss-Atelier, Kastenmeiers, Turtle Bay Dresden

How to reach: Nearest airport is Dresden airport

Suggested Read: Prague In October: A Detailed Guide To Take You Through Prague In Autumn

9. Leipzig: A Blissful Staycation Awaits

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. A famous saying that holds true to this day in almost every walk of life including travel. Germany is home to numerous lakes, and the locals love to go on vacations at a lakeside house. One of the top villas in Germany is located on the outskirts of Leipzig and on the banks of Lake Störmthaler.

Distance from Prague: 262 km (2 hours 45 minutes)

Things to do: The lakeside villas in Leipzig are surrounded by luxurious sailboats, high-end resorts and an effervescent presence of mother nature to add a surreal experience to your vacation.

Tips:  Make sure you book villas in Leipzig in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

Tourist attractions: Zoo Leipzig, St Thomas church, Museum of city history

Places to stay: Radisson blu, Intercity hotel, 5Elements hotel

Places to eat: Mein Leipzig, Restaurant Weinstock

How to reach: Nearest airport is Leipzig airport

Suggested Read: Christmas In Prague: A Beautiful, Enchanting, And Festive Sight To Behold

10. Wroclaw: A Chocolaty Town

Image Credit: Michal for Wikimedia

Wroclaw is the cultural and economic hub of Poland. Attracting modern-day businesses and at the same time latching on to its varied and complicated history, Wroclaw simply never stops giving joy to its residents and tourists alike. It is one of the best places to visit near Prague. It has some splendid sights for you to see!

Distance from Prague: 335 km (3 hours 54 minutes)

Things to do: The country’s finest chocolate is manufactured here.  Do not leave without sampling it.

Tips: Make sure you buy souvenirs for your family before you leave.

Tourist attractions: Market square, Centennial hall, Wroclaw town hall

Places to stay: Sofitel Wroclaw, Radisson Blu, Doubletree by Hilton hotel

Places to eat: Konspira, Jadka

How to reach: Nearest airport is Wroclaw airport

Suggested Read: Head To Prague In Winter For A Chill Vacay In The Land Of Baroque Buildings

11. Karlstejn Castle: Grandeur At Its Best

Karlstejn castle is one of the most beautiful places near Prague . Located at a distance of 30 kms from the country, the castle attracts innumerable visitors and the credit goes to its grandeur and opulence. There are three kinds of tours that you can take for exploring the castle. One will take you to the magnificence of the castle, another one about the jewels and the last one about its history.

Distance From Prague: 30.9 km ( 52 m )

Tips: Do take the guided tour for a soul-satisfying experience  

Places to stay: Hotel Koruna, Hotel Karlestejn

Places to eat: Pod Hradem, Palacinky Karlestejn

How to reach: Hlavni Nadrazi is the nearest railway station

Suggested Read: 10 Finest Prague Restaurants To Let You Taste Heavenly Czech Cuisine

12. Pardubice: The Perfect Day Trip

Just a half an hour drive from Prague, Pardubice is a gorgeous town that will give you another reason to explore the places around Prague. The town offers picturesque views and has a beautiful castle, museums, a chateau in its kitty. The best part about the town is that it is not crowded which makes it perfect to spend some good time with family or friends. If you are looking for cities near Prague , then note this down.

Distance From Prague: 124.6 km ( 1 h 37 m )

Things To Do: A city tour is one of the best things to do in P

Tips: Do not forget to visit the famous chateau

Tourist attractions: Kunětice Mountain Castle, Zámek Pardubice, Green gate

Places to stay: Hotel Arnost, Hotel Euro, Hotel Golden Pike

Places to eat: Restaurant Plzeňka, Restaurace nejen DVOREK jo, Restaurant a penzion Steak Station

How to reach: Nearest airport is Pardubice

Suggested Read: Prague Travel Guide: Your Handy Cheat Sheet For Planning An Ultimate Czechian Holiday

13. Pilsen: For Beer Lovers

Beer beer everywhere, too many drops to drink! This is perhaps the motto of Pilsen, one of the famous cities around Prague . The town is known to offer beers and if you are into beer then this is paradise for you. Pilsner Urquell started his brewery back in 842 and since then has treated all the beer lovers. You can experience the best of nightlife in Czech Republic at Pilsen due to its casual culture.

Distance From Prague: 98.4 km ( 1h 26 min )

Things To Do: Trying Pilsner Beer is one of the best things to do here

Tips: Do not forget to visit the brewery to learn how beer is made

Tourist attractions: Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, Great Synagogue, Historic Underground of Plzen

Places to stay: Hotel Purkmistr, Luft garden, Vienna house easy

Places to eat: Dusek’s board & beer, Sky, Honky Tonk BBQ

How to reach: Nearest airport is Karlovy Vary airport

Suggested Read: 6 Unique Museums In Prague That Will Draw You Towards The Enticing City!

14. National Park Bohemian Switzerland: A Unique Park

If you are still thinking what to see around Prague , then fret not. One of the most famous national parks in Czechia that is located near Prague, Bohemian Switzerland should be on your list of places to visit near Prague . The park is home to amusing attractions like canyons, castles, sandstone arch and much more that will leave you awestruck. So, make sure you visit it on your next trip near Prague.

Distance From Prague: 127 km (2 hours)

Things To Do: Hiking is the best thing to do in the park

Tips: Read about the various aspects of the park before visiting. 

Places to stay: Beautiful view guesthouse, Forester park resort, Garden hotel Mezna

How to reach: Dresden is the nearest airport 

Suggested Read: 7 Stunning Beaches In Czech Republic For Relaxing Like A Local!

15. Krkonose: Cross-Border Adventure

We now come across  this amazing range, also known as Giant Mountains located to the north of Czech Republic. Consider this to be one of the fine places to go near Prague, if you are looking for the right adventure-filled activities including hiking, skiing or cycling. This is your place to be! The highest peak in the mountain ranges is called Sněžka, which happens to be Czech Republic’s highest point as well. The mountains divide the country of Poland and Czech Republic and across both sides of the border, national parks are located. 

Distance from Prague : 160 km (3 hours)

Things to do: Fishing, cross-country skiing, hiking

Tips: Make sure that you are accompanied with full gear and equipment while on a trip as mountains can be dangerous.

Tourist attractions: Elbe River,  Chojnik Castle, Szklarka Waterfall, Karkonosze National Park

Places to stay: Spindler’s Mountain Hotel, Pension Slunečnice, Hotel Savoy Špindlerův Mlýn

Places to eat: Lomnice Hotel & Restaurant, Bakchus Steak Restaurant & Café, Restaurace Lebeda

How to reach: Pardubice is the nearest airport

Suggested Read: Top 10 Theme Parks In Czech Republic That Will Bring Out Your Inner Child

16. Adrspach-Teplice Rocks: For Unusual Set Of Sandstone

So, are you wondering now about what to see around Prague? Well, there is no dearth of destinations and attractions including the Adrspach-Teplice Rocks, an unusual set of sandstone formations. Named after 2 Czech municipalities, Adršpach, and Teplice nad Metují, this is one of the best places to visit in Czech Republic . Squeeze through the magnificent gorges and take a boat ride around the rocks. It would be a truly breath-taking experience for you. 

Distance from Prague : 180 km (3.5 hours)

Things to do: Boating, sightseeing, rock climbing

Tips: Always have a guide with you as this is a sight less unfamiliar to tourist exploration

Tourist attractions: Zamek Adrspach, Teplicke skaly, The Broumov Monastery, Centrum Walzel

Places to stay: Adršpach U Meier, Hotel Javor Restaurant, Pension Adršpach 

Places to eat: Hostinec U Tošováka, Kovářova Kobyla,Jídelna u Skal

How to reach: Closest airport is in Wroclaw 

Suggested Read: 10 Castles In Czech Republic To Witness The Charm Of The ‘Castle Capital Of The World’

17. Třeboň: A Picturesque Destination

It is  one of the best places to visit from Prague and is a historical town in the South Bohemian Region of Czech Republic. It is one of the most picturesque destinations in all of Czech Republic and is a true delight to the eyes. If you want to explore the paradisaical countryside, like you see in movies, well, this is the place. You can find small islands, wetlands, marshes that provide a habitat for rare flora and fauna. There are a lot of scenic lakes in Czech Republic located here, thanks to the transformation of the region since the 14th century.

Distance from Prague : 140 km (2.5 hours)

Things to do: Admire the fortresses, towns and UNESCO’s special biosphere reserves

Tips: No tip. Just wander around this beautiful town

Tourist attractions: Třeboňsko Protected Landscape Area, Rožmberk Pond, State Chateau Trebon, Svět, Zlatá stoka

Places to stay: Rodinný hotel Myslivna s.r.o., Apartments Radka, Garnihotel Trebon

Places to eat: Šupina a Šupinka, Krčma U Kellyho, Restaurace Beseda

How to reach: The closest airport is the Linz Airport 

Suggested Read: The Czech Republic In January: A Mini Guide To Explore This Country’s Magnificent Views

18. Znojmo: A Paradisaical Town

One of the best places around Prague and an important town in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic. It is a major wine making region and a walled town, known for the hilltop Znojmo Castle, one of the most romantic places in Czech Republic . The South Moravian Museum has some fantastic displays of archaeological artifacts like weapons and historical coins of the Far East. You can also admire the Renaissance architecture in some of the buildings at Znojmo. Explore the cobble stoned lanes, romantic scenes and picturesque countryside overlooking the river Dyje. 

Distance from Prague : 203 km (5 hours)

Things to do: Fishing, museum exploration and trying local cuisine

Tips: Take proper time out of your schedule to completely explore the Znojmo

Tourist attractions: St. Nicholas Church, Podyjí National Park, Znojmo Catacombs, Znojmo Rotunda, Znojmo Town Hall Tower 

Places to stay: HOTEL KATERINA, Hotel Bermuda, Premium Hotel

Places to eat: Restaurace Bermuda, La Casa Navarra, La Familia Café

How to reach: Nearest airport is in Vienna 

Further Read: Here’s How To Spend A Weekend In Most Beautiful European Cities

So, you see there are so many places around Prague that are worth a visit. It’s always a good idea to go beyond boundaries, see the places that are often left unseen. So, now you know where else to visit in Czech, other than Prague. For a hassle-free trip planning customizable Europe holiday will be around for rescue too, you just have to be the one who’s determined to go!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places Around Prague

What countries are close to Prague?

Slovakia, Poland, Germany, and Austria are close to Prague.

Is Prague good for couples?

Yes. Prague is among the most romantic cities of Europe. This year-round destination is quite popular as a romantic getaway for couples especially the newlyweds.

What is the closest German city to Prague?

Dresden is the closest German city to Prague that you can visit on your 3 day Prague trip.

Are there mountains near Prague?

Yes. The Czech Republic has the largest ski resort which is located on the Czech mountain range.

Is it better to use euros or koruna in Prague?

The Czech crown is the official currency of Prague and is the best currency for making all payments. Though the Czech Republic is still a part of the European Union, the euro is not always accepted here.

Why is Prague famous for shopping?

Prague is popular when it comes to shopping as there are a lot of things you can buy in Prague. Some of the things you can buy are souvenirs such as glassware, crystal jewelry, decor, liquors, Garnet & Moldavite jewelry, traditional ceramics, antiques, and wooden toys.

What is the best time to visit Prague?

Prague usually has a colder temperature and sees maximum tourists during summers. But if you want to avoid the crowd, the best time to visit Prague is in the spring and early fall.

Where is the best neighborhood to stay in Prague?

Prague 1, or the Prague Municipal District is one of the best places to stay in Prague. As it has all the Prague highlights located within close proximity. You can also get to almost anywhere without taking a metro or a tram. Malá Strana and Staré Město are some other beautiful areas to stay in Prague.

Is Prague a safe city?

Prague is a very safe city. The violent crime rate is pretty low in most areas of Prague and it is safe to walk around even after dark. But be careful on Wenceslas Square as the area is prone to pickpockets.

What are the best day trips from Prague?

Kutna Hora, Karlovy Vary, and Dresden are the best day trips from Prague.

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11 Breathtaking Day Trips From Prague By Train

• March 17, 2022
• 11 minute read

So many visitors come to Czech Republic…and never leave Prague. I love Prague with all my heart (you know that), but it’s a little bit of a bubble. And staying within the comforts of the capital city means you are only seeing one small part of Czech Republic. Enter: Prague day trips. If you’re planning a trip to Prague and have a few extra days on the itinerary, why not explore nearby day trips from Prague? Prague makes for a great base to explore the nearby countryside, no matter if you take public transit OR opt for tours.

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There is so, so much to do in Prague , but without visiting the rest of the Czech Republic, you’re missing out on all the wonderful sights that the country has to offer. Czech Republic has countless cute towns, romantic castles, rolling hills, soft peaks and valleys…it’s truly a magical, unexplored area of Europe.

So let’s talk about my qualifying factors for the best day trips from Prague.

Well, first and foremost, you need to be able to access the Prague day trip listed by public transit. Secondly, the spot needs to offer great value for visitors. Most people only have a few days in Prague , and they don’t have enough time to see the small, tiny spots (that’s for another list, and a longer trip). This list focuses on some of the most beautiful day trips from Prague that you just can’t miss.

What to Pack for Prague Day Trips

You’re leaving your hotel for the day…and venturing off into the Czech countryside. What do you need to pack? Good question! Let’s dive into everything I pack for a day in the countryside.

• Totes Unisex Rain Poncho, because you’ll need rain gear for unpredictable weather because it CAN be unpredictable
• An insulated water bottle because I never leave home without my Hydroflask
• An extra sweater, in case it gets chilly. In the summertime, it can get cold in the evenings (especially if it rains)
• Sunglasses or a hat to block the sun
• A small bag like a crossbody bag to carry the basics
• The sun gets strong in some areas so I always recommend sunscreen

Not sure what to pack for your Prague trip? Need more guidance? Check out  my full packing guide for Prague and Czech Republic here . It’s filled with useful tips about weather, different region, a complete checklist for every season, and more!

Best Day Trips from Prague by Public Transit

If you’re not planning to rent a car, these are some of the most beautiful spots around Czech Republic that you cannot miss – accessible by bus or train. However, if you’d prefer to rent a car, I’d always recommend RentalCars.com with free cancellation . Without further ado, my favorite day trips from Prague.

1. Konopiště Castle

Okay, okay, so I may be biased here, but Konopiště Castle is by far one of the most beautiful day trips from Prague – and it’s super easy with the train! I grew up visiting Konopiště every year and I now live nearby, so this place is near and dear to my heart. But aside from the emotional attachment, I always recommend people visit this beautiful little spot if they have a little extra time. 

This impressive castle was the residence of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand d’Este, heir to the Austrian throne and one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. The Archduke hated court life in Vienna so much that he chose to spend most of his time in Czech Republic with his Czech wife, Sophie. 

If you do plan to visit, you can opt to take a guided tour through the interior of the castle. You will see the family rooms as well as the many, many hunting-related artifacts the Archduke left behind. If you’d prefer to do a tour in English, I personally love this tour (with transport to the castle included!) because Lucy is really well educated on the castle — you spend a lot of time exploring Konopiste Castle!

However, if guided tours aren’t your thing, you can still tour the chateau gardens (the Rose Garden with its amazing peacocks is my favorite), walk around the lake, and tour the former hunting grounds. Another bonus: the Stará Myslivna restaurant down the hill offers some delicious Czech food with a menu consisting of game meat. 

How to get to Konopiště Castle

From Prague’s main train station, take a train down to Benesov. There are two options: the S9, a slow train that stops in every small town, and the R17, a fast train that goes direct to Benesov. The former takes around an hour and the latter takes around 35 minutes. 

2. Karlovy Vary

This gorgeous spa town, located west of Prague, is one of my all-time favorite day trips from Prague. Karlovy Vary is a riverfront city known for their thermal springs (you can drink from them in town!) and spa resorts, but you don’t have to head to the spa to really enjoy this town. The never-ending rows of spectacular buildings along the river make this town so special and so scenic.

While you stroll around, you’ll encounter some of the city’s many colonnades with hot spring foundations inside. This town also offers some great hiking nearby. If you’re looking to take your Karlovy Vary trip to the next level, consider booking a tour with a local ( this one is my favorite! ) who will show you around Karlovy Vary and take you to ALL the best food spots. Come for the views, but stay for some of the most authentic Neapolitan pizza in Czech Republic . 

How to get to Karlovy Vary

Looking to go from Prague to Karlovy Vary? The easiest and most direct way to get to Karlovy Vary is by bus. Student Agency and FlixBus both offer affordable fares. You can also take a train to Karlovy Vary, but it takes well over three hours as it’s not a direct train. I’d recommend the bus! If you’re looking for more flexibility, book a private transfer for the most customized experience.

The picture-perfect town of Telč is an idyllic day trip from Prague by train. This well-preserved town is frequently rated one of the most beautiful towns in Czech Republic, and it’s home to the well-reserved Jewish Quarter and Jewish Cemetery. Both these spots are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Telč’s old town features renaissance and baroque architecture with a picturesque main square. The colorful townhouses and galleries are completely unforgettable, and one of the many charms of this small city. Nearby, there’s a gorgeous 17th-century chateau with a gorgeous lookout spot and surrounding park. 

How to get to Telč

You can take a train from Prague with one switch, or plan on taking a bus. 

Brno is Czech Republic’s second largest city, and the town marks the start of Moravia, a gorgeous area known for its rolling hills and wine production. Brno is much smaller than Prague but still offers a punch. Check out the 13th-century Špilberk Castle, which offers picturesque views and the City Museum right nearby. The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is home to some amazing Baroque architecture. Don’t miss the Moravian Gallery, either. If you love walking tours, I recommend this one — the guide is awesome and takes you to the best sights in Brno.

If you’re a foodie, Brno is a great place for you, too! On top of the endless history (often skipped over by Prague tourists!), Brno is home to some of the most amazing little foodie spots and coffee spots. Check out INDUSTRA , Eggo Truck , Monogram Espresso Bar , and SO much more.

If you happen to plan a long weekend in Brno, I’d highly recommend booking a tour to visit more of Czech Republic’s Moravia region. In this area, Czech Republic’s wine country flourishes. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful castles in the area. I always recommend this option for people looking to see cute Czech towns, the gorgeous Lednice Castle and of course Moravian wineries.

How to get to Brno

To get to Brno, take a speed train from Prague’s main train station. It takes around 3 hours, but it’s a direct train and it is well worth the trip. 

5. Karlštejn

If you’re all about castles, this one’s for you. Karlštejn Castle, located southwest of Prague, is a popular tourist spot – but that doesn’t mean you should just skip it all together. This gorgeous castle was built back in 1348 and has since been home to many influential kings in Czech history. If you love to walk or hike, Karlštejn has plenty of long (and short) hikes around the castle grounds. 

How to get to Karlštejn

Take a train from Prague’s main train station. It’s less than an hour away. 

6. Kutná Hora

The historic town of Kutná Hora is just 80 kilometers east of Prague. Kutná Hora is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the country: the Baroque St. Barbara’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in 1338, Kacina Chateau, built in 1822 and the Gothic All Saints Chapel, known as the Bone Church. 

I know, I know…A bone church sounds a *little* creepy. But hear me out! This unusual attraction is home to more than 70,000 remains of people that died during the 1380 plagues. Other bones are from victims who died during the Hussite Wars of the 15th century. 

If a bone church isn’t your thing, why not check out the rest of the town? The Baroque St. Barbara’s Cathedral has an extravagant interior with frescoes featuring minting and mining and a mural of the Vision of St. Ignatius. Don’t forget to check out the Italian Court and the former residence of Bohemian King Vaclav IV.

If you happen to have a car, Kacina Chateau is a few minutes drive away from town. It features  a private theater, pharmacy, library, and so much more!

How to get to Kutná Hora

The fastest way to reach Kutná Hora is by train from the main train station. 

7. Plzeň (or Pilsen)

The town of Plzeň – known to many as Pilsen – is located southwest of Prague and easily accessible by train. This cute town has a number of historical sites to see, including Square of the Republic (Námestí Republiky), home to Cathedral of St. Bartholomew (katedrála sv Bartolomeje) and its 100-meter-tall spire. If you have time, make sure to visit the Great Synagogue, built in the 19th century. It’s the third largest synagogue in the world. 

Of course, who can visit Plzeň without stopping at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. This brewery is universally seen as the home of the Pilsner Lager, and they’ve been brewing it for the last 150 years. If you’re a beer lover, you can tour the brewery and of course taste test their beers. I always recommend this small group tour , which includes a full tour of this gorgeous and often-overlooked historical gem. –and of course includes a brewery tour and tasting ( book it here ). You might find these beers… they taste a little better than in the U.S. 

How to get to Plzeň

Take a train from Prague’s main train station right to Plzeň. 

8. Cesky Krumlov Day Trip From Prague

Český Krumlov, a small village located about an hour and a half south of Prague, is one of the most beautiful villages in the country. This fairytale spot is nothing short of stunning: a winding river, old streets with colorful buildings, a castle perched right above the city… The Cesky Krumlov day trip from Prague is an absolute must-visit. It’s also the most famous day trip from Prague, thanks to all the aforementioned beauty. 

This town has become increasingly popular with international visitors in recent years thanks to a series of viral social media videos. But who can blame anyone for wanting to visit this stunning spot? This UNESCO town can get very crowded during peak hours, so I’d recommend spending one night here if you can. That being said, if you only have a day, don’t count this place out because of the crowds. There’s still plenty of little nooks and crannies to get lost in. 

How to get to Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is accessible by train or by bus. In my opinion, it’s much faster to take a direct bus (with Flixbus, for example). Make sure to come early as this little town can be almost two hours away with traffic. If you can swing it, I always recommend taking a private tour to Cesky Krumlov ( this one is my favorite! ) — this lets you avoid some of the masses of crowds taking the train or bus and lets you set your own schedule to enjoy the city. This tour is the perfect option because it also stops in the nearby Ceske Budejovice, another beautiful city.

9. Olomouc 

I never see Olomouc mentioned on any lists for popular day trips, and it’s genuinely surprising. This town, located in the eastern part of the country, is known for its iconic 18th-century Holy Trinity Column, a monument adorned with religious sculptures, as well as its six baroque fountains. The town is also home to the beautiful Gothic St. Wenceslas Cathedral and the Romanesque Bishop’s Palace. Olomouc is also home to another astronomical clock, similar to the one in Prague. Why should you visit? It’s less popular than some of the other destinations on this list, and it packs a lot of historical punch. 

How to get to Olomouc 

Take a direct train from Prague to Olomouc. There are multiple trains each day, and the journey time is around 2 and a half hours. 

Tabor is another beautiful spot that never makes any lists. This small town, located an hour south of Prague, is a perfect day trip spot for those looking for some history. Tabor was founded in 1420 by Radical Hussites known as Taborites; these separatists from the medieval Catholic Church built a town that could be easily defended, hence Tabor’s beautiful hilltop location overlooking the rolling hills and the countryside. 

The founders of the town also built a system of underground tunnels, which are now open for public tours. It’s such a cool experience to see these tunnels. But if you’re more interested in above-the-ground history, make sure to visit their beer museum. Tabor is also home to Restaurant Goldie, named one of the best restaurants in the country. If you want to check it out, you’ll need to book in advance in the summer. 

The best part about Tabor? It’s oftentimes overlooked by tourists, and you can really experience an authentic Czech town. 

How to get to Tabor

You can take an express train from Prague to Tabor (the R17) and get there within an hour and 15 minutes.

11. České Budějovice

České Budějovice is the provincial capital of South Bohemia, but many people will only stop here for a little before heading to Český Krumlov. This town has so much to offer, though, and it’s totally worth its own stop. Start your adventures in the town’s main square, Přemysl Otakar II main square. This square is home to the ornate 18th-century Samson’s Fountain, and it’s also surrounded by colorful Baroque buildings. The Town Hall is gorgeous, as is the 72-meter-tall Black Tower (make sure to go up for the best views). Another can’t-miss activity: walking along the city’s waterfront, at the confluence of the Vltava and Malse rivers. 

How to get to České Budějovice

There are a number of direct trains that run to České Budějovice each day. You can also take a RegioJet train directly if there’s no Czech Railways train running. If you’re planning to visit the nearby Cesky Krumlov, you can book a tour to combine the two trips ( this one is my favorite! ) for maximum efficiency.

Samantha Tatro is a Czech-American third culture kid who grew up living and traveling abroad. Many years later, after living in California and working as a journalist, she decided to take the leap and move abroad again…this time to Prague, Czech Republic. Samantha started Undiscovered Path Home to help couples and solo female travelers find the courage to visit countries – and locations – off the beaten path. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, NBC News , The Adecco Group , and more .

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10 Most beautiful Villages to visit just outside of Prague

This is a photo of a cultural monument of the Czech Republic, number: photo by Petr1888

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1. vysosky ujezd, practical information, distance from prague: a short 20-minute drive or 30 minutes from the prague zlin bus stop., book with us prague  hidden gems walking tour, 2. pruhonice.

This is a photo of a cultural monument of the Czech Republic, number: photo by Petr1888 Wikimedia

Practical Information;15 minutes or 6 miles on a local bus from the Opatov Metro stop

Practical  information, distance from prague:   trains depart from praha hlavni nadrazi every 30 minutes; distance from prague. there are additional buses from prague an florenc, although they take a little longer., distance from prague: bus 350 from dejvická is the distance from prague (42 mins), book a tour with us prague airport arrival private transfer, 5. karlstejn.

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Distance from Prague: 40 minutes by commuter train from Prague central station

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Distance from Prague 35 minutes by bus from the Nemocnine Motol stop to Prague

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15 Best Day Trips from Prague (According to a local!)

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There are so many fantastic day trips from Prague! I’ve been living in Prague for several years now, and have been exploring the Czech Republic in depth — including many, many day trips from the city.

So many people visit the Czech Republic and don’t leave the Prague city limits — but there are so many beautiful places worth visiting.

Planning your trip to Prague last minute?

Prague is always a busy city for travel, even in the winter months! Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

🏰 Top Day Trips from Prague:

• Český Krumlov Day Trip from Prague (GORGEOUS town you’ll love!)
• Kutná Hora Day Trip from Prague (Bone church!)
• Bohemian Switzerland Day Trip from Prague (Best nature day trip)

🛌  Top-Rated Hotels in Prague:

• Cosmopolitan (super-nice five-star)
• Hotel Salvator (nice mid-range hotel)
• Hotel Adler (great budget option)

🚗 Renting a car on your Prague trip? Find deals on car rental rates here.

So what are the best places to visit on a day trip from Prague? My top recommendation is always the town of Kutná Hora, a pretty town home to an interesting church made of human bones, but on this list you have everything from natural wonders to interesting overlooked cities!

Keep in mind that for an optimal day trip, I recommend a journey of two hours each way or less. You can go a bit beyond — like to Brno, Český Krumlov, or Olomouc — but I also think you should consider staying overnight if it’s a longer journey.

Every trip on this list is either doable by train (often direct train), bus, or guided tour.

(Planning a trip to Prague? Be sure to check out my favorite unusual things to do in Prague , best Prague restaurants , and what NOT to do in Prague !)

This post was published in March 2024.

Table of Contents

Kutná Hora is my personal pick for the best day trip from Prague. I always recommend it to Prague visitors because it’s a really pretty Bohemian town with a fascinating chapel built of bones; it’s a short, 50-minute journey from Prague; tickets are easy to buy; and tours are aplenty.

The bone church — its real name is Sedlec Ossuary — is the main sight worth visiting. It’s creepy and fascinating, while being an architectural marvel. (Know that photography is now allowed here.)

But beyond the ossuary, the town of Kutná Hora is so underrated! It’s painted in beautiful Bohemian pastel colors, with lovely churches, cute restaurants, and flowers blooming everywhere. The perfect easy getaway that lets you see Bohemian life beyond Prague.

Best things to do in Kutná Hora: Visit the bone church, of course! But also take time to stroll around the city center, and grab a nice Czech lunch (I enjoyed the food and setting at Staročeská restaurace V Ruthardce).

The Cathedral of St. Barbara is a spectacular gothic masterpiece, and don’t miss the Czech Museum of Silver and the Church of St. James. But Kutna Hora is a great place to get lost.

Should you book a tour or go independently? I think Kutná Hora is pretty easy to do on your own via public transit, but if you’d rather have the ease of going with a tour guide, you can do that!

Book a tour to Kutná Hora from Prague: This top-rated Kutná Hora tour from Prague includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Prague, a tour of Kutná Hora town, and admission to Sedlec Ossuary.

How to get to Kutná Hora from Prague independently: Head to Prague’s main train station, Hlavní nádraží (the station is abbreviated as Praha hl. n). Use the machines to buy a ticket to Kutná Hora hl.n. The journey is 50 minutes direct; there are also trains that have a transfer in Kolín, which are closer to 90 minutes each way.

From the station it’s about a 15-minute walk to the bone church, then an additional 30-minute walk (or 15-minute walk-and-bus journey) to the city center.

If you have a rental car , Kutná Hora is about an hour’s drive from Prague.

Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is absolutely spectacular — a gorgeous medieval city in South Bohemia that looks plucked straight from a fairy tale, cliches be damned. The city is encircled by a river and topped with a castle overlooking the gorgeous town. Spending time in a small city like this makes a wonderful foil to the big city of Prague.

Honestly, I urge people to stay overnight in Český Krumlov , rather than do a day trip. Overnighting is so much better — the city is so peaceful and lovely when the day-trippers leave, plus you’ll have more time to explore, and it is a pretty far journey each way.

But I understand that many travelers only have time for a day trip. If that’s all you have, that’s fine. Start your day early, end it late, and you’ll have a great time. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Prague for a reason.

Best things to do in Český Krumlov: Head up to the castle for a postcard-perfect photo of the town (and the light is best in the late afternoon). Hire a raft and go paddling along the Vltava River. Explore all the artsy little shops, and have a meal at a restaurant on the banks of the river. And head to Apoteka, one of my favorite bars in the Czech Republic — they are a cocktail bar with a menu of quirky craft cocktails. Try the popcorn sour!

Should you book a tour or go independently? If you’re an experienced traveler, you’ll be comfortable getting yourself there by public transportation. But if you’d rather relax and have someone else handle all the logistics, taking the tour is a great idea, especially since it’s faster to drive to Krumlov than take public transportation.

Book a tour to Český Krumlov from Prague: This top-rated Český Krumlov tour from Prague includes round-trip transportation via shuttle, as well as a tour of Český Krumlov and some time to explore on your own.

How to get to Český Krumlov from Prague independently: You can either take the train or the bus, but I recommend the bus because it’s direct and the bus station is much closer to town. (A few trains to Český Krumlov are direct, but most require a change in Ceské Budjevice, and the train station is about a 20-minute walk from the city center.)

Buses to Český Krumlov leave from Na Knížecí, a bus station right by the Anděl metro stop in Prague. The bus takes just under three hours.

If you have a rental car , Český Krumlov is about two hours and 15 minutes from Prague.

Read More: Guide to Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Bohemian Switzerland

Despite its name, Bohemian Switzerland isn’t Switzerland at all — this is the name for a gorgeous natural region in the Czech Republic, right on the German border. (The German side is called Saxon Switzerland.)

If you’re looking to escape Prague for the day to experience nature, Bohemian Switzerland National Park is home to the most awe-inspiring mountain views in the Czech Republic. Come here for dense forests, deep gorges, and fresh mountain air.

The Tiské stěny — the Tisna Rocks — is a spectacular area with misty, high-piled rock formations and cliffs, and served as a mystical backdrop in The Chronicles of Narnia movies.

Bohemian Switzerland is a great spot to visit year-round, and tour operators adapt their trips to the current weather conditions. Make sure you wear good hiking shoes!

Best things to do in Bohemian Switzerland: Hike three miles to Pravčická Gate, the largest sandstone arch in Europe (pictured above). Take a boat through the gorges of the Kamenice River. Cross the German border to visit the Bastei Bridge and the spa town of Bad Schandau. And if you want to be independent, there are so many hiking trails! Czechs LOVE to hike.

Should you book a tour or go independently? I strongly recommend going with a tour, as it’s not easy to do by public transportation.

Book a tour to Bohemian Switzerland from Prague: This top-rated Bohemian Switzerland day trip from Prague includes round-trip transportation from Prague, and your choice of two options: you can either do a moderate hike to Pravčická Gate, or take a boat journey down the gorge. After you’ll have lunch and a visit to the German side of the park to visit Bastei Bridge and Tiské stěny, the Tisna Rocks, before heading home.

How to get to Bohemian Switzerland from Prague independently: Driving is your best option, as it’s much faster and easier. Bohemian Switzerland National Park is about one hour and 45 minutes from Prague. If not, take a train from Prague’s main train station, Praha hl.n., to the town of Děčín, and from there take a bus to the town of Hřensko. Get off at Hřensko–Pravčická brána or Mezní, and from here you have a three-mile hike to the gate.

Karlštejn Castle

If you’d like to see more of the Czech Republic besides Prague, but don’t want to go too far or commit too much time, Karlštejn is an excellent day trip from Prague. This castle dates back to the 14th century, when King Karel IV ruled Bohemia.

The castle is filled with works of art and history today, and the architecture is interesting. Tours of the castle leave continuously, and they always have tours in English.

Should you book a tour or go independently? Karlštejn Castle is easy to get to by public transportation, but tours often add on a visit to another site, like the Koneprusy Caves.

Book a tour to Karlstejn Castle from Prague: This group tour to Karlštejn Castle also includes a visit to the stalagmite- and stalactite-filled Koneprusy Caves, a visit to Big America canyon, and lunch at a traditional Czech tavern.

How to get to Karlštejn Castle from Prague independently: From the main train station in Prague, Praha hl.n., take the S7 train in the direction of Karlštejn. The journey is direct and takes about 41 minutes. This will drop you in the town of Karlštejn; from here you can walk up to the castle.

Are you a huge fan of Czech beer? You’ll be delighted with Plzeň (Pilsen). This town is home to the Pilsner Urquell brewery, and many a Czech and tourist have made the pilgrimage out to try the world’s best beer at its source.

Not a beer drinker? You can still have fun in Plzeň if you want to, but you might have more fun in one of the aforementioned cities on this list. Even so, you can take in the best views of Plzeň from the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew — or head underground to explore the tunnels that have been beneath the city for centuries!

Should you book a tour or go independently? If you’re just visiting the brewery, just book yourself a train ticket — but if you want to add on glassblowing, I recommend booking a tour.

Book a tour to Plzeň from Prague: This group tour from Prague to Plzen includes transportation from Prague, admission to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, lunch in a Czech pub, and a visit to the Bohemia glassworks in Nizbor, which is a nice cultural way to supplement your day trip from Prague!

How to get to Plzeň from Prague independently: From the main train station in Prague, Praha hl.n., book one of the many trains to Plzeň, and that journey takes about 90 minutes. Alternatively, you can book a Flixbus departing from the main bus station in Florenc, and that journey takes about 50 minutes.

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is one of the most elegant towns in the Czech Republic, made famous due to the rich geothermal waters surrounding the city. Today Karlovy Vary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe — and there are plenty of spas you can visit (my favorite is Hotel Thermal, with a warm outdoor pool you can enjoy year-round).

In addition to the thermal springs, Karlovy Vary has nice hiking trails surrounding the town, the Moser glass works, good restaurants and shopping, beautiful arcades where you can sample all the spa waters with your signature cup, and they even put on a world-renowned film festival in the summer!

My husband and I went to Karlovy Vary for a mini-moon right after we did our legal wedding in Prague. It couldn’t have been a better choice — though we had the benefit of enjoying a relaxed three-day visit rather than a quick day trip from Prague! I’d recommend staying overnight if you can, but a day trip is still worth it, too.

Should you book a tour or go independently? It’s easy enough to get to Karlovy Vary by public transit; if you’re doing it on your own, I recommend going early and coming back late, as there’s so much to do.

Book a tour to Karlovy Vary from Prague: This Karlovy Vary day trip from Prague includes transportation from Prague, a city tour, and four hours to explore on your own.

How to get to Karlovy Vary independently: There are both trains and buses running from Prague to Karlovy Vary — but there are a LOT more buses than trains. Both buses and trains take about two hours each way.

If you’re looking for a nice little town that is more popular with Czechs than international visitors, I’m a big fan of Tábor. This pretty little town in South Bohemia is home to about 34,000 inhabitants — just big enough for finding a bunch of things to do.

In Tábor, you can wander the colorful streets of the town center; climb the tower of Kotnov Castle, with the best view of town; and for a delicious and unusual meal in the Czech Republic, the restaurant Rafariz dishes up sumptuous Uyghur-style noodle dishes.

Another great option is to hike along the Lužnice River. There’s an easy trail along the river’s edge, and I really enjoyed this! Once you get to the town of Malšice, simply hop on the train back to Tábor.

Should you book a tour or go independently? Independently, as it’s easy on public transportation and this is not a popular tour destination.

How to get to Tábor independently: There are plenty of trains from Prague to Tábor. From Prague’s main train station, you can expect a journey of an hour and 15 minutes on the local train, making it an easy day trip.

Posázavská Stezka

Czechs LOVE getting out of the city on the weekends to hit the hiking trails. And while there are so many hiking day trips from Prague you can do by train, one I love to recommend is the Posásavska Stezka, located south of the city.

This is a really nice hike along the river, with some moderate up-and-down segments. Altogether you should expect 2.5-3 hours of hiking — and make time for a beer at the pub outside Petrov u Prahi station! Czechs pretty much hike to the pub; it’s what they do!

If you do this hike on the earlier side, you’ll have plenty of time in the afternoon to spend in Prague. It’s more of a half day trip than a full day trip from Prague.

Should you book a tour or go independently? Go independently. I don’t know of any tours doing this route.

How to get to the Posásavska Stezka independently: Take the train from Prague’s main train station to Kamenny Přivoz station and take it back to Prague from Petrov u Prahi. Each way it’s just under 90 minutes.

Not all day trips from Prague are about fun and games — and if you’re looking to understand one of the darkest chapters in Czech history, I recommend a visit to Terezín, a former concentration camp. Terezín (Theresienstadt Ghetto) is a camp where Jews from all over Europe were sent between 1941 and 1945.

Terezín wasn’t explicitly an extermination camp — but it was designed to be a holding place before sending prisoners on to Auschwitz or Treblinka to be killed. Many died from illness, starvation, and poor living conditions. Around 150,000 Jews passed through here altogether; only 17,000 were saved after liberation.

Creepily, this camp also served as a propaganda piece and was filled with flowers and pretty buildings, serving as a backdrop about what a nice place it would be for Jews to go.

Should you book a tour or go independently? I strongly recommend booking a tour to Terezín from Prague. The sites are spread out all over the town, and it’s a much better experience if you have a local guide.

Book a tour to Terezín from Prague: This top-rated Terezín tour includes transportation from Prague (including optional hotel pickup) and a guided three-hour historic tour of Terezín. It’s a half-day tour, so you’ll have most of your afternoon back in Prague.

How to get to Terezín independently: To get to Terezín, head to Letňany station in Prague (not the main bus station) and get on Bus 413. Tell the driver you’re going to Terezín, pay for your ticket, and get off at the stop Terezín U Památniku, and the small fortress is a short walk from the bus stop. From there the other sites in town are up to a 15-minute walk away.

One unusual day trip from Prague is the town of Liberec (LEE-ber-ets), a city close to the German and Polish borders. In Liberec you’ll find a pleasant small city with a wonderful collection of architecture, including an unusual Neo-Renaissance town hall!

The best part of visiting Liberec is simply exploring the streets. While it isn’t a tourism powerhouse like Český Krumlov or even Brno, I find wandering around to be a worthwhile activity here. Don’t miss the villas behind the town hall, and there are some nice cafes tucked into the colorful streets of the old town.

You could simply visit Liberec town — but for a treat, consider visiting Ještěd Tower, an unusual hotel and restaurant in a space ship-like shape, with windows overlooking the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. I loved visiting this place; the pumpkin soup was GREAT and it was a fun little excursion!

Should you book a tour or go independently? Definitely go independently; I don’t think any tours from Prague exist.

How to get to Liberec independently: To get to Liberec from Prague, head to Černý Most Station (the end of the B line) and take a bus to Liberec, which takes a little over an hour. If you want to get to Ještěd Tower, public transportation doesn’t go there — you’ll either need to drive from Prague or take a taxi from Liberec (about a 20-minute drive).

Mariánské Lázně

If you like the idea of Karlovy Vary, but want to visit a spa town that’s a little more quiet, Mariánské Lázně makes a good choice for a (slightly far) day trip from Prague. Another of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Spa Town of Europe, Mariánské Lázně is a quiet, bucolic getaway where natural hot springs abound.

If you’re spending a day here, you should make a reservation at the spa at the Hotel Nové Lazné, which has a gorgeous, elegant, Roman-style bathing area with multiple pools, along with saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunges. You can book spa treatments, too.

That said, 2.5 hours each way is a bit long for a day trip, and you might get more out of your time if you overnight here (or visit Karlovy Vary, which is a bit closer).

Should you book a tour or go independently? Go independently. I don’t know of any tours that exist.

How to get to Mariánské Lázně from Prague independently: Take the train from Prague’s main train station to Mariánské Lázně. Trains run hourly, but every other hour it’s an indirect train that requires changing in Plzen. The journey is about 2.5 hours. From the station I suggest hopping on the bus to the city center, as it’s a 30-minute uphill walk otherwise.

Dresden, Germany

Are you visiting Prague for Christmas market season? I absolutely recommend taking a day trip to Dresden, Germany! (Just make sure that the markets are actually on — Christmas market season in Germany is shorter than Prague’s, usually running from December 1-23.)

Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the best in Germany, with several markets stretching across different neighborhoods. Come here for gluhwein, lebkuchen, and all kinds of tasty goodies (and be sure to read my guide to planning a German Christmas Market trip !).

Is Dresden worth it if it’s not Christmas market season? Honestly, unless you have something specific you’ve wanted to visit in Dresden, I would choose somewhere else on this list. (I did really enjoy visiting the VW Golf factory, watching all the cars being manufactured!)

Finally, if you’re intent on visiting Germany on a day trip from Prague, Dresden is your best bet — it’s close by with tons of transportation options. Nuremberg and Berlin are too far.

Should you book a tour or go independently? Definitely go independently. Transportation couldn’t be easier.

How to get to Dresden independently: You can either go by train or bus, and both ways take about two hours and 15 minutes, though buses are cheaper. You can take a train direct from Prague’s main train station or a bus from Prague’s main bus station in Florenc.

The second-largest city in the Czech Republic is often overlooked by travelers — but Brno (BUR-no) has so much to offer. The largest city in the Moravia region of the eastern Czech Republic, Brno feels like a small, slightly shabbier version of Prague — but cheaper and a lot of fun, too!

My absolute favorite thing to do in Brno is visit Villa Tugendaht, a REALLY cool modern residence. If you’re interested in design or architecture in the least, you will love it! You should book tickets ahead .

Other than that, be sure to check out the Brno Ossuary (bone church!), see the “Brno Dragon” in the town hall (it’s a crocodile!), and hit up the cool restaurants and bars in Brno (including my favorite, “The Bar that Doesn’t Exist,” an internationally lauded cocktail bar).

Honestly, I think that Brno is better as an overnight destination. And if you’re traveling from Prague to Vienna or vice versa, it’s a nice place to stop in between.

Should you book a tour or go independently? Go independently. Transportation is very easy.

How to get to Brno independently: From Prague’s main train station, there are constant trains to Brno. Trains take about 2.5 hours. You can also find many buses along this route that take about the same amount of time.

Olomouc (o-lo-MOATS) is one of my favorite places in the Czech Republic, and you never see it mentioned on “best of” lists! Honestly, there aren’t a ton of things to do, but I think the city has a really great vibe and some nice restaurants and cafes.

The city’s main square is home to a Holy Trinity Column that itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, there are lots of fountains, an astronomical clock similar to Prague’s, lots of churches and parks, and a few museums.

Olomouc also makes their own signature cheese. Full disclosure — I love cheese, but this cheese is not my favorite, so I recommend trying a small plate, not ordering it for your main meal!

Olomouc isn’t the kind of city you visit with a checklist — it’s more of a place to soak up the vibe. And considering that it takes 2-2.5 hours to get here, this is also a place that you might prefer staying overnight.

Should you book a tour or go independently? Go independently. Transportation is easy and this isn’t a popular tour destination.

How to get to Olomouc independently: From Prague’s main train station, there are constant trains to Olomouc. If you want a treat, the Leo Express trains run this route and have a NICE business class. You can book those at leoexpress.com . Trains take 2-2.5 hours each way. There are also plenty of buses along this route.

Too Far for a Day Trip from Prague

I know that it’s so tempting to fit in as many day trips as possible — but I encourage you not to day trip to the following destinations within Central Europe. I’d recommend spending two nights in them, minimum, or perhaps a single night if you don’t mind the long journey.

Bratislava, Slovakia — 4:15 by train.

Berlin, Germany — 4:30 by train.

Vienna, Austria — 4:30 by train.

Nuremberg, Germany — 4:45 by bus.

Munich, Germany — 4:45 by bus.

Wroclaw, Poland — 4:45 by bus.

Salzburg, Austria — 5:30 by bus.

Budapest, Hungary — 6:45 by train.

More on the Czech Republic:

• 21 Quirky and Unusual Things to Do in Prague
• What NOT to Do in Prague
• 17 Best Prague Restaurants
• Visiting Prague in Winter: Worth It or Not?
• How One Prague Cafe Survived the Pandemic
• A Guide to Cesky Krumlov, the Prettiest Town in the Czech Republic

Have you been to Prague? What’s your favorite day trip? Share away!

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Home » Travel Guides » Czech Republic » 15 Best Day Trips from Prague

15 Best Day Trips from Prague

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague , is an incredible city to explore.

A city popular with the European mini-breaker, travellers seldom explore more of this versatile and vibrant country.

Within a day trip from Prague you can explore castles, charming historic cities and more.

Being at the heart of Eastern Europe, Prague provides the perfect base for travellers who want to cross borders and take a peak at Switzerland and even Austria.

Once you have crossed Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and Mala Strana off you can escape the city and broaden your experience of the Czech Republic.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Prague .

1. Kutna Hora

Kutna Hora is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in the Czech Republic and it really is extraordinary.

Kutna Hora itself is a collection of very interesting historic buildings but it is the Chapel of Bones that causes the most amount of intrigue for visitors.

Also known as the Sedlec Ossuary the Chapel of Bones houses the skeletal remains of 40,000 to 70,000 people.

The bones are used as ornate decoration within the chapel.

Not for the faint hearted the Sedlec Ossuary is one of the most fascinating chapels in all the world.

When in Kutna Hora ensure to make time to visit Hrádek Castle and Sankturin House too.

2. Terezín Concentration Camp

Although harrowing and deeply upsetting for many a day trip to Terezín Concentration Camp is humbling and insightful.

The Terezín Concentration Camp was used during the Nazi regime to house Jews before they were forced onto trains and transported to Auschwitz.

The Terezín Concentration Camp tells a story of life and death.

Those who were imprisoned here found innovative ways to keep their culture alive amidst the trauma.

Terezín Concentration Camp is best understood when experienced with the assistance of a tour guide who can convey the story of this dreadful place in a respectful and informative way.

3. Český Krumlov

Magical and magnificent Český Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that could easily provide the setting for a fairytale.

Situated in South Bohemia, Český Krumlov lies either side of the Vltava River and the focal point is Český Krumlov Castle.

Originally built in the 13th-Century the castle features influences from Gothic, Renaissance and baroque designers.

The gardens span and impressive 11-hectares and are immaculately kept.

Art lovers should find time to visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum which houses contemporary pieces of art in a historic building.

4. Karlovy Vary

Quintessentially Czech Karlovy Vary is a popular spa town that lies 126 km from Prague city centre.

With a wealth of Bohemian history and culture can be discovered here; starting with the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral.

With buildings that date back to the 14th-Century there many architectural gems to enjoy in Karlovy Vary.

There are a number of amazing natural spas to explore, so remember to bring your swimming gear.

Karlovy Vary is home to the greatest number curative hot springs in the world.

5. České Budějovice

České Budějovice is another of the Czech Republic’s cultural gems.

The largest city in South Bohemia there is a wealth of history to explore.

The Black Tower is the most iconic landmark in the city that was built in the 1500s.

České Budějovice is best known in the modern day at least, as the home of Budvar beer and it is possible to have a tour of the brewery.

There is no better way to taste the local brew than straight from the tap, is there not? Visitors can learn how Budvar beer is brewed and how it’s distinctive taste is created from those who have dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of the beer.

6. National Park Bohemian Switzerland

We’ll confirm right now that National Park Bohemian Switzerland is not in Switzerland and is very much within the Czech Republic.

A trip to National Park Bohemian Switzerland involved jumping on the train to Decin and a short transfer to the park entrance.

During the day you can roam this picturesque national park and learn about the flora and fauna of Bohemia.

Hikes start at 1-2 hours and there are routes that take up to 7-hours to complete.

National Park Bohemian Switzerland is growing in popularity so now it the time to visit before everyone finds out about this little gem.

7. Aquapalace

Aquapalace is a fun waterpark for all the family.

With a complex of waterslides for the kids and a spa for the grown ups there is something to keep everyone entertained on a day trip from Prague.

Admittedly Aquapalace is best enjoyed in the summer months as a Czech winter is a force to be reckoned with.

Panic not, there is a vast indoor waterpark complex that is great fun when the grey winter descends.

If you need a taste of adrenaline when in Prague Aquapalace is the place to head.

Vienna is the culture capital of Europe and can be easily accessed from Prague by train.

The Schönbruun Palace is a breathtaking baroque palace with opulent and historic decor that is simply exquisite.

St Stephen’s Cathedral is a spectacle and the highlight of a day trip to Vienna.

By no means the cheapest city day trip Vienna is worth every penny.

If you’re going to break the bank do it in Vienna.

There is a wonderful array of typically Austrian cafes and restaurants that provide a welcome respite from the cultural medley that lies waiting to be explored.

9. Karlštejn Castle

Karlštejn Castle is one of the best castles in the Czech Republic and is a truly magical specimen.

An incredibly popular tourist hotspot, don’t let the potential crowds put you off.

Built way back in 1348 Karlštejn Castle has stood the test of time and was the home of many an influential King.

Karlštejn Castle is surrounded by lush, dense forest and there area a number of wonderful hiking routes to explore should the buzzing crowds become too much.

Naturally this honeypot is most busy in the summer months.

It is possible to reach Karlštejn Castle by train, it’s just 40-minutes away from Prague city centre and so is one of the more easily accessible day trips from Prague.

10. Dresden

Crossing over the border into Germany, Dresden offers visitors the opportunity to tick off another European country from their bucket list.

Dresden is best known as the home of the Frauenkirche whose grand dome can be seen for miles around.

Rebuilt after near demolition during WWII the Frauenkirche is an architectural gem.

Dresden Castle provides close competition, however, for being the most impressive building in the city.

The castle was too restored and is now a state art museum.

Art lovers must take the time to explore Zwinger for it houses true masterpieces such as Raphael’s “Sistine Madonna.”

11. Český ráj

If you’re seeking to explore the Czech Republic’s incredible landscapes and perhaps reconnect with nature then a visit to Český ráj is surely the order of the day.

This park land features enchanting rock formations and offers amazing panoramic views of the rugged landscape.

You can hike to your heart’s content from dusk until dawn and head back to Prague once the sun has set.

Make sure to hike out to the Prachov Rocks, arguably the Czech Republic’s best kept secret.

The rock towns of Český ráj are really interesting and are not to be missed either.

Český ráj gives you the opportunity to experience authentic Czech culture and rural life.

Beer lovers listen up, no visit to the Czech Republic would be complete without visiting Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner lager.

The drive from Prague to Pilsen is a trip in its own right.

Watch as the city falls by the wayside and the road opens up into the picturesque Czech countryside.

The Pilsner Urquell Brewery is universally considered to be the factory where the best Pilsner in the world is produced and they have been pioneering their field for the last 150 years.

It is possible to team a visit to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery with a tour of the Ruckle Crystal factory but perhaps visit Ruckle first then Pilsner Urquell Brewery; their Pilsner is pretty potent.

13. Monínec

Monínec is the much loved ski resort of the Czech people and is one of the country’s best kept secrets.

If you want to get your adrenaline thrill or merely want to feel the snow beneath your boots then a day trip to Monínec is just the ticket.

It is possible to hire your ski equipment from the town at the foot of the Monínec ski field for a very reasonable price.

There are a number of different runs at Monínec ranging from beginner to pro.

There is a run for everyone to enjoy and wonderful apres-ski refreshments waiting for you in the small town of Sedlec-Prčice.

14. Koněprusy Caves

The Koněprusy Caves can be found in the Protected Area of Český Kras in Bohemia.

Famed for being the longest cave system in Bohemia the Koněprusy Caves make for a great day trip from Prague.

During the visit travellers have the opportunity to inspect the Roses of Koněprusy which is an exhibit featuring the significant archaeological discoveries from the cave complex.

The caves are well lit and the walking routes are safe and secure.

It is possible to couple a visit to the Koněprusy Caves and Karlstejn Castle if you are short on time or want to diversify your visit to Bohemia.

15. Wrocław

Prague is a transport hub and as such many other European cities are very easily accessed, particularly by train.

Wroclaw is the largest city in the west of Poland and is home to just 638,000 people.

Wrocław Town Hall is one of the gems of the city and is rather photogenic.

Now an art museum Wrocław Town Hall is built in typical Gothic style.

Just as Prague, Wroclaw too has an astronomical clock that is pretty amazing to see.

The Panorama of Racławice is a must-visit for any budding historian.

The panoramic painting depicts Poland’s 1794 battle for independence.

15 Best Day Trips from Prague:

• Terezín Concentration Camp
• Český Krumlov
• Karlovy Vary
• České Budějovice
• National Park Bohemian Switzerland
• Karlštejn Castle
• Koněprusy Caves

• Czech Republic

32 Best Day Trips from Prague

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Are you looking for the best day trips from Prague? 

Prague is a hot touristic destination in Europe and, besides all the incredible places to visit within the city, there are many other amazing locations to visit around Prague.

Here you’ll find a list of the best destinations to spend your day out of the city: natural parks, castles, historic towns and water parks are waiting for you!

Take a look and start to plan your trip! 🙂

1 –  Velká Amerika

Take a day to explore the natural beauty of this region. Hit the road to Velká Amerika, abandoned limestone quarry at 30 km from Prague. Velká Amerika, which means Big America, is also called the Czech Grand Canyon. There are two interconnected lakes which have clear water and become an attraction in the summer period. A great day trip for outdoor and nature lovers! How to get there

2 –  Brno

3 –  Kutna Hora

The charming little town of Kutna Hora is unique and probably among the best option for a day trip from Prague. It is home to the Sedlec Ossuary , the “Bones chapel”, decorated using the bones of over 40,000 people died during the Black Plague in the 1400s. Further, it also hosts the Gothic St. Barbara’s Church, a UNESCO world heritage site, famous for its flying buttresses and medieval frescoes. How to get there

• Kutna Hora day trips from Prague

4 –  Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is known as the Fairytale city of the Czech Republic. It is the second most popular destination in the Czech Republic after Prague, but it is not difficult to understand why. Walking through the cobblestones streets of this Bohemian gem will leave you speechless! Admire the large Renaissance castle and impressive theaters and check the calendar to take part in one of the numerous festivals held here throughout the year. How to get there

• Cesky Krumlov day trips from Prague

5 –  Karlovy Vary

For a relaxing day, what better than the world-renown spa town of Karlovy Vary! It is best known for its 12 natural hot springs and thermal baths, which offer a lot of health benefits. However, it is also worth visiting the city to see Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral or the Moser Glassworks museum. Finally, if you want to enjoy the natural environment of these places, head up into the hills around town for some hiking and incredible views. While packing, do not forget to bring your swimwear! How to get there

• Karlovy Vary day trips from Prague

6 –  Terezin Concentration Camp

Visiting Terezin Concentration Camp is undoubtedly a different day trip from the others, but a significant one for its historical meaning. During the Nazi regime, it was used to house Jews before they were forced onto trains and transported to Auschwitz. Part ghetto and part concentration camp, today it hosts a memorial to all the victims of Nazi rule in the Czech Republic. Admittedly, this day trip from Prague will give you strong emotions! How to get there

• Terezin Concentration Camp day trips from Prague

7 – Bohemian Switzerland

Just a couple of hours outside of Prague, this natural beauty is an alternative to escape to cities and fresh breath air. Bohemian Switzerland National Park got its name thanks to two Swiss painters who traveled in the area in the 18th century. Enjoy gorgeous and picturesque scenarios, go hiking or admire the sunset from Mary’s Rock. Take a walk to Europe’s most massive sandstone arch at Pravcicka Gate, or step through scenes from the Chronicles of Narnia that were filmed here. How to get there

• Bohemian Switzerland day trips from Prague

8 –    Vienna

While in the Czech Republic, take the chance to discover the capital of Austria for your day trip. Vienna is very close to Prague and is a cultural and architectural masterpiece in Europe. Visit the breathtaking baroque Schönbruun Palace, the spectacular St Stephen’s Cathedral, the State Opera, the building of Parliament and the History Museum. Be delighted by the numerous Austrian cafes and restaurants spreading across the streets. What are you waiting for? How to get there

• Vienna day trips from Prague

9 – Karlstejn Castle

Located only 40 kilometres away from Prague, Karlstejn Castle is one of the best castles in the Czech Republic. Built in 1348, the castle was the house of many Kings, and over time it has been through several reconstructions. The interior of Karlstejn Castle is only accessible through guided tours, and it is an incredibly popular tourist hotspot. Despite this, it deserves a visit! Don’t be discouraged and book your trip. Moreover, the landscape and nature surrounding Karlstejn are stunning. How to get there

• Karlstejn Castle day trips from Prague

10 – Dresden

Opt to visit a city in a different country: hit the road to the near Dresden in Germany! This city was almost destroyed during the Second World War. Fortunately, many of the beautiful 18th-Century buildings have been rebuilt to their original designs. The must-see attraction is the Frauenkirche, an architectural gem. Visit also the Dresden Castle, the Hofkirche, the Semperoper, and the Zwinger.

How to get there?

• Dresden day trips from Prague

11 –  Český ráj

12 –  Wrocław

The colourful and pretty Wrocław perfectly makes for a day trip from Prague. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland and is also the largest one in the west of Poland. Admire Rynek, the medieval market square in the heart of Wrocław. See the old town area, the Gothic architecture in Ostrów Tumski and go dwarf hunting: the city is home to more than 350 dwarf statues that are found in the most unusual places. How to get there

13 – Konopiště Castle

Go and visit Konopiště, an impressive castle set in the beautiful Czech countryside outside Prague. Dating from the 13th century, this castle is a fantastic window in time to the old regime of Bohemia. It is surrounded by a forest, that contributes to giving it this magical atmosphere. Konopiště is also known for its vast collection of Ferdinand of Austria’s hunting trophies, antique furniture and art objects, as well as its Rose Garden. How to get there

• Konopiste Castle day trips from Prague

14 –  Marianske Lazne

Marianske Lazne, also known as Marienbad, is a historic spa town, the second largest on in Czechia after Karlovy Vary. Here, you can relax and enjoy spa treatments or go for a walk by the beautiful colonnades admiring the fantastic architecture from the 19th century. How to get there

• Marianske Lazne day trips from Prague

15 –  Sazava River

For an exciting and adventurous day trip, Sazava River is for you! Leave the city behind and immerse yourself in nature. Discover the deep gorge in Sazava. It has dense forests and dramatic rocks but also little cabins that locals built in the late 20th century. Here you can relax or taking adventures. From biking, hiking or kayaking day trips to adrenaline alternatives such as canyoning or scuba diving. How to get there

• Sazava River day trips from Prague

16 –  Hluboka Castle

Visit the Hluboka Castle, the most beautiful castle of the Czech Republic! Initially a Gothic castle, it experienced three reconstructions over time. The Windsor castle inspires the present look. The complex is enormous and also includes a chapel, a riding hall and a vast English-style park. It is undoubtedly worth visiting. How to get there

• Hluboka Castle day trips from Prague

17 –  Olomouc 

Visit Olomouc is one of the best choices among the possible destination for a day trip from Prague. This charming city has historical importance, being once the centre of the Kingdom of Moravia. Its highlights are the Holy Trinity Column, that is a Unesco Heritage site, and the Astronomical Clock. Take your time to admire the beautiful Baroque architecture, the historical buildings and the stunning churches. How to get there

18 – V elke Popovice

For an unconventional day out discovering the pleasures of the beer and its production, head to Velke Popovice. Visit the Kozel brewery and consider to take a tour. You will see the process of the beer making, and you will be informed of all ingredients used to make this excellent beer. An authentic Kozel degustation is required! How to get there

• Velke Popovice day trips from Prague

19 –  Auschwitz

Taking a day trip from Prague to Auschwitz has a different meaning compared to the other destinations. However, Auschwitz has a substantial historical weight and visiting it could change your life. Located approximately 500 km east of Prague, Auschwitz Concentration Camp was responsible for the death of thousands of people. You can visit those horror places, the gas chambers and you can feel the cruelty lived in there. How to get there

20 – Prague canyon

If you are not willing to visit a city or being surrounded by many people, preferring to fresh breath air and enjoy beautiful natural panoramas, go to the Canyon Divoka Sarka. For hiking and nature lovers, the Divoka Sarka Nature Reserve is perfect. In this spectacular landscape, you will enjoy magnificent vistas over rocky cliffs, while walking along pleasant footpaths, woods and pastures. How to get there

21 –  Cesky Sternberk 

Located about 45-60 minutes east of Prague, there is the Český Šternberk Castle. This impressive castle looms over the Sázava River and is situated on a hill. It was founded in 1241 to be a fortress, and it has been held by the same family since its founding. The exterior has a late Gothic look, while the interiors were mainly redone in a baroque style. The only way to visit the interior, however, is through a tour. Consequently, make sure to book a trip to enjoy the stay fully. How to get there

22 –  Pilsen

Beer lovers will be pleased to hear that close to Prague there is Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner lager. Discover this Czech beer at its home and stop by Plzeňský Prazdroj for a brewery tour on the history of beer production. After that, take a walk in the little old town. There is more than just beer in this place. How to get there

23 – České Budějovice

A right solution for a comfortable and beautiful day trip from Prague is to go to the southern Bohemian city of Ceske Budejovice. The historic central square is stunning, lined with Renaissance and Baroque houses and dominated by the Black Tower. The best part is that you won’t find crowds of tourist there so that you can admire the city in a different and peaceful setting. How to get there

24 –  Bastei 

Discover the beauty of the Bastei Bridge, a breathtaking rock formation located in Germany above the River Elbe. Created first a wooden bridge, then replaced with a medieval-looking stone bridge, it will let you experience incredible views on this stunning landscape. This magic place attracts many tourists every year, and it is not difficult to understand why. Bastei Bridge is one of the most impressive spot of the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park. How to get there

• Bastei day trips from Prague

25 – Aquapalace

It’s summer, and all you want to do is to relax and escape from the hot wheater and the horde of tourists in Prague? Enjoy the rides and slides of Central Europe’s largest water park. Aquapalace park is located in the city of Čestlic, close to Prague. Among the many slides, there is also the Sauna World, where you can enjoy a wide variety of wellness services. You’ll be only spoilt for choice. How to get there?

• Aquapalace tickets

26 – Moninec

If you are looking for the perfect day trip from Prague in the winter period, go to Moninec! Escape from the chaos of the city and enjoy a day at the Monínec Ski Resort. The ski centre is very close to Prague, at about 85 km south of the Czech capital. Admire the scenery, grab your ski pass and experience the ski and snowboard activities. How to get there

27 – Koneprusy caves

Take a trip deep into the heart at the Koněprusy Caves, in the Protected Area of Český Kras in Bohemia. Those caves are known to be the most extended cave system in Bohemia! Discover these mystery caves with marvellous dripstone decoration. Look at the Roses of Koněprusy, featuring the archaeological discoveries from the cave complex. This is undoubtedly an unconventional and intriguing journey. How to get there

28 –  Vysočina

29 –    South Moravia Wine Region

Take a break and spend a day in the countryside while having a great wine. Beer is not the only tasty beverage in the Czech Republic. The excellent Czech wine will delight you! The Wine region of Moravia, (often called the Moravian Tuscany), boasts a rich wine heritage. Go to explore the most beautiful chateaus in South Moravia, its extensive labyrinth of wine cellars and medieval corridors. How to get there

30 – Tabor

Spend time in the medieval town of Tabor, walk the cobblestone streets and narrow alleys of this gem in the Czech Republic. This small hilltop town has an ancient history and is easy to see in a day. Among the highlights, see Žižka Square, the Gothic Town Hall and the catacombs from the 16th century. How to get there

31 –  Nizbor

Do you want to experience something unusual and particular? Consider taking a day trip to Nizbor. There, you can visit one of the most famous Czech glass factories and witness an age-old art of crystal glass forming. Learn about glass production in Bohemia, including the history and all the stages of this incredible art. How to get there

• Nizbor day trips from Prague

32 – Liberec

Liberec is considered a real gem in the Czech Republic. Located on the Neiße River and surrounded by the Jizera Mountains, it is a famous skiing location. The highlight is the impressive Ještěd Tower on the top of the mountains, where you can eat with a view at the restaurant on the top. It also boasts old squares full of colorful houses in the old town. How to get there

• See all day trips from Prague

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Prague and beyond: five of the Czech Republic’s most beautiful towns and cities

Its magnificent capital is justly famous but there are other lovely places to visit that are only a train ride away from Prague

The Czech Republic’s capital remains one of the most beautiful eastern European cities, with iconic sights such as the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and elegant Wenceslas Square. The best way to explore is to walk; the city is famous for its street musicians, and many of the city’s churches hold concerts and recitals. Alongside the Old Town, the Jewish quarter is dotted with synagogues, historic buildings and traditional cafés. Pop into U Rotundy ( urotundy.cz ), which serves up hearty Czech staples – pork knuckle, dumplings – and excellent local beer. Visit Letná Park at sunset for gorgeous views across the city, and in the evening take a glass-topped boat trip along the Vltava to see the city’s elegant buildings picked out in warm, golden light. No trip to Prague is complete without a visit to a cellar bar – the modern city is built on top of the old, creating a network of caves, tunnels and cellars. Try U Sudu (Vodickova 677).

Where to stay: the Innside by Meliá is situated on a quiet street and has a young, hip vibe with crisp unfussy bedrooms and a buzzy restaurant and bar. Doubles from £103 room only, melia.com .

Around 45 miles from Prague, this small town in Central Bohemia punches well above its weight thanks to its wealthy past. In medieval times, the nearby silver mines saw Kutná produce a third of all Europe’s silver, leaving a legacy of imposing Gothic churches, a stunning Baroque Jesuit College and the 13th-century Italian Court, a sprawling palace that once contained the royal mint. Dip into Hrádek , the town’s museum of silver, and brace yourself for the macabre Sedlec Ossuary, where bones and skulls are worked into the fabric of the chapel. For traditional dishes – dumplings and roasted pork – head to Dacicky ( dacicky.com ), with its long trestle tables and tremendous portions; or for something more contemporary try Factory ( factorybistro.cz ) for excellent burgers, pizza and pasta.

Getting there: one hour 20 minutes from Prague by train.

Where to stay: the quirky MuzeumLega has comfortable rooms with small kitchenettes and Lego sets, a sunny garden and free entry to the adjoining museum, home to the largest private Lego collection in the world. Slightly surreally, the spooky ossuary is right next door. Doubles from £70 room only, hotel.muzeumlega.cz

Cesky Krumlov

As beautiful as Prague but less crowded, Cesky is located among the rolling hills of the South Bohemia region. Bisected by the sinuous Vltava river, the city escaped bombing during the Second World War, leaving a perfectly preserved Old Town. The cobbled streets and elegant main square are lined with houses in sugar-almond colours (powder blue, mint green, egg-yolk yellow) and dominated by the grandiose 13th-century castle. The 162-step climb up the castle’s tower is worth it for the amazing views, and the 17th-century baroque theatre housed within its walls is one of the most complete in Europe. Pair history with art with a visit to the Egon Schiele Art Centrum , and indulge in a long lunch on a riverside terrace; the Vltava restaurant ( restauracevltava.cz ) serves classic Czech dishes with stunning castle views.​

Getting there: two hours 50 minutes from Prague by train.

Where to stay: the Bellevue is a mid-16th century Cesky institution, with a brick-vaulted wine cellar, charming summer garden and chic modern rooms. Doubles from £110 B&B, bellevuehotelkrumlov.cz .

Karlovy Vary

Also known as Carlsbad, Vary (as the Czechs call it) is best known for the thermal spa waters that have made the town a popular resort since the 19th century, and the elegant colonnades that run beside the river. The best way to familiarise yourself with the town is to follow the “Becher Drinking Cure”; buy a porcelain “sipping cup” from one of the spas and drink from each of the 13 springs located around Vary. For a quicker overview, take the funicular up to the Diana Observation Tower which gives spectacular views over the city – or hike up, and reward yourself with a soak in the thermal waters at one of the town’s many spas. Counteract the healthiness with a visit to the oldest café in town, the Elefant ( cafeelefant.com ) which has been serving up lipsmacking cakes for over 200 years.

Getting there: two hours by train from Prague.

Where to stay: made famous by its starring role as the Hotel Splendide in Casino Royale , the fin-de-siècle elegance of the Grandhotel Pupp can be seen everywhere from the Grandrestaurant to the Czech country-house bedrooms. Doubles from £118 B&B, pupp.cz .

The Czech Republic’s second-largest city, Brno boasts an excellent night life, thanks to a large student population, and a fascinating mix of architecture, from modernist buildings by Mies van der Rohe to the medieval Spilberk castle, home to the city’s museum. The city is renowned for its coffee, with cafés on every corner of the Old Town’s picturesque streets; locals drink turek , the Czech version of espresso, often standing at the counter, like Italians. But it’s in the evenings that Brno really comes alive. Kick off with a visit to The Bar That Does Not Exist ( barkteryneexistuje.cz/bar ), where rare bottles fill the shelves; follow up their killer cocktails with hearty steaks at Pavillon ( pavillonsteakhouse.cz ), or lighter veggie dishes at the popular Soul Bistro ( soulbistro.eatbu.com ).

Getting there: two hours 30 minutes from Prague by train.

Where to stay: Brno’s most upscale place to stay, the Grandezza has formal but comfortable rooms and offers a good buffet breakfast. But it’s the location you stay for; book a room overlooking the square, where the lively fruit and veg market takes place each morning. Doubles from £113 B&B, grandezzahotel.com .

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Red White Adventures

11 must do weekend trips from prague.

There’s a reason we chose to move back to Prague! We love the city and all the different weekend trips from Prague you can do. We love exploring and travelling to new places big and small, so the fact that Prague is in the heart of Europe is one of the many reasons why we love having this city as a base.

It’s so easy to go by plane, bus, or train to tons of different weekend trips from Prague. We’ve done so many of them, in and out of the country. So now we’re going to hype up Prague even more and share with you a bunch of epic weekend trips to do from Prague!

If you’re into hiking, then it might be worth checking out the tallest mountain in the Czech Republi c . If you’re more of a city traveller, spending 48 hours in Vienna might be the best option for you. 

There are so many awesome options so hopefully, our list will help narrow it down for you and help you choose the one that fits best for what you’re looking for out of a weekend trip. Essentially your options are limitless where you could go for a weekend – especially in Prague where trains, busses, and planes can get you to most countries in Europe quite quickly.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links which means that if you decide to use them we get a small commission from the platform. Thank you <3

Table of Contents

Here are 11 epic weekend trips from Prague

In this post, we’re sticking to some local places right in the Czech Republic and other destinations in neighbouring countries that aren’t too far away from Prague.

We love to take trains around the country and to other countries because of the convenience and comfort factor. So most of these trips are doable by train. Otherwise, you can go by bus since it may be cheaper, or by a short flight!

Down below you’ll be able to find out how to get there and the time it takes to get to each destination. We also include the price of the transportation there.

Have the best time exploring these unique and beautiful cities, national parks, and much more!

#1 Weekend trip to the fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov

Distance/time from Prague: 180 km and 2:45 hours away Best way to get there: Bus is the quickest and cheapest Price: Roughly $7-11 / 140-185 CZK each way Where to stay: Apartment by the castle

If you’re looking for a weekend trip in the Czech Republic that’s not too far from Prague then Cesky Krumlov is worth visiting. It’s a beautiful fairytale town in the southern Czech Republic. It’s famous for its gothic-styled castle and the famous Vltava River flowing through the town. 

There are so many great view points and pretty places around the city that you need to spend a weekend in Krumlov. And did we mention that the historic centre of Cesky Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Enjoy all the panoramic views of the city and the cute shops around the old town. Here you can find an awesome guide of a bunch of different things to do in Cesky Krumlov . We spent 2 days in Cesky Krumlov and it was enough to go river rafting , exploring, coffee drinking, and walking through all the historic streets and shops around the city.

Things to do in Cesky Krumlov:

• Cesky Krumlov Castle
• Hiking up Mt Klet
• Visit all the unusual museums in town
• Explore the old town 
• Have lunch on the Vltava 
• Take some cool pictures with the awesome panoramic views  

#2 Weekend trip to Austria’s capital Vienna

Distance/time from Prague: 400 km and 4 hours away Best way to get there: Train is the best option Price: Roughly $15-25 / 300-500 CZK each way Where to stay: Hotel Mocca in downtown Vienna

Yes, you can go to Vienna for the weekend! If you have 48 hours then you can explore a bunch of Vienna in a weekend. Like we said, being in the center of Europe you can travel to these different countries in just a few hours and explore different cities for a weekend. 

It’s always fun experiencing a new place for a few days.

The food, culture, and architecture is quite different from Prague too so you’ll feel in a completely different place even though it’s only four hours away from Prague.

There’s so much to do and see and if you’re looking for a cool little hidden gem to eat at you can find more in this post about Vienna . Here you can find the best ways to get from Prague to Vienna .

Things to do in Vienna:

• Explore the grounds of Belvedere Castle 
• Walk around the beautiful gardens in the Schonbrunn Palace
• Check out the gothic Stephansdom castle
• Hundertwasserhaus is something you just have to see
• Explore the old town and town hall
• Have a bite to eat at the unique Der Wiener Deewan

#3 Weekend trip to Czech’s tallest mountain in Pec Pod Snezkou 

Distance/time from Prague: 200 km and 3 hours away Best way to get there: Bus is the best option Price: Roughly $10 / 200 CZK each way Where to stay: Pension Certice

Snezka Mountain near Pec Pod Snezkou is a fantastic weekend trip from Prague if you’re looking to spend some time outdoors in the mountains.

The Krkonose National Park is incredible and even has the tallest mountain in the Czech Republic . It’s a great place to just go and enjoy some peace and quiet that you don’t get living in the big city. 

There are tons of awesome and fun hikes to do in Pec Pod Snezkou. It’s one of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Besides spending time outdoors there are plenty of other fun activities to do. 

Things to do in Pec Pod Snezkou:

• Hike the tallest mountain in Czech Republic • Ride the wild bobsled track • Go skiing in the winter • Walk around town and check out the local shops  • Enjoy a nice meal in the center of town  • Relax at a wellness spa

#4 Weekend trip from Prague to the High Tatras in Slovakia

Distance/time from Prague: 600 km and 7 hours away Best way to get there: We recommend taking the train Price: Roughly $25-49 / 268-489 CZK each way Where to stay: The House Apartment in Poprad

This was hands down one of our favourite weekend trips from Prague . Exploring the High Tatras was amazing. There are so many wonderful hikes in the area that we stayed in. It’s crazy thinking you can go to the High Tatras from Prague in just a weekend but it’s absolutely doable.

We recommend making this trip on a long weekend when you have a Friday or Monday off to give yourself that extra day. We spent three nights in Poprad next to the High Tatras and got so much hiking and exploring that we found the trip absolutely worth it!

There’s a train that goes directly from Prague to Poprad and there are even options for overnight trains to maximize your weekend if you want to do it that way. Enjoy the beautiful Slovakian mountains.

Things to do in the High Tatras:

• This easy hike to a beautiful waterfall in the High Tatras
• Explore the mountain town of Stary Smokovec
• This moderate hike to a beautiful alpine lake
• Enjoy a yummy pizza in Poprad
• Ride the scenic train around the mountain towns
• Hike up this hard hike to a beautiful cottage

#5 Weekend trip from Prague to Brno

Distance/time from Prague: 250 km and 2.5 hours by train Best way to get there: Train is definitely the best option Price: Roughly $8-20 / 108-205 CZK each way Where to stay: ADC Design Apartment in Brno

Brno is the second biggest city in the Czech Republic and also one of the most beautiful. Brno is known for being a student city with a fantastic vibe. There are tons of cute coffee shops , bakeries, and markets around the city.

It’s great that Brno is only a few hours away from Prague by train. It’s a convenient little weekend getaway inside the Czech Republic that’s only a few hours away.

We did a weekend trip to Brno back in March 2019 and explored a bunch of places downtown and around the city. It’s the perfect little getaway for a few days. It’s super easy to get from Prague to Brno and there are multiple different types of public transport you can take.

Things to do in Brno:

• Check out the old town square
• Visit the fruit and flower markets
• Have a bite to eat at the Buchek food truck downtown
• Brno has underground labyrinths…
• You have to visit Vycep Na Stojaka for a delicious beer

#6 Weekend trip to Poland’s culture capital Krakow

Distance/time from Prague: 530 km and 7 hours away Best way to get there: We recommend going by train Price: Roughly $19 / 321 CZK each way Where to stay: Yellow Peaked Shoe Apartment

We recommend going to Krakow by train because it’s so relaxing sitting on a train reading a book and enjoying the countryside. But, if you can score a cheap flight ticket then maybe it’s better to fly because it will save you time especially if you only have a few days.

If you plan on going to Krakow we recommend doing this trip on a long weekend as well, since it takes 7 hours to get there and Krakow has so much to see and do. If you go out partying one of the nights, the weekend will go by too quickly. Take an extra day off from work if you can and spend a few extra nights in Krakow. 😉

The food, culture, and party scenes are fantastic in Krakow. It may give off Prague vibes but it has its own style to it. The architecture is beautiful, the perogies are delicious, and the city just screams to be photographed.

Bring some walking shoes and explore all the beautiful streets, shops, and historic monuments for a few days while trying all the delicious local food that you won’t get back in Prague.

Things to do in Krakow:

• Explore Wawel Castle
• Find the salt mines
• Check out the Jewish quarter
• Walk through the Schindlers List passage
• Enjoy the sunset from Kopiec Krakusa

Also read: The Best Ways to Get From Prague to Krakow

#7 Weekend trip to Cesky Raj near Prague

Distance/time from Prague: 100 km and 2 hours away Best way to get there: We recommend going by bus Price: Roughly $10 / 300CZK each way Where to stay: EA Hostel Hruba Hostel (private rooms available)

Cesky Raj is one of our favourite outdoor paradises in the Czech Republic. And it is only an hour and a half away from Prague. If you’re looking for some mountain biking, exploring, and hiking then you have to spend a weekend in Cesky Raj.

It’s one of the best outdoor places for climbing, hiking, and biking in all of the Czech Republic. In case you want something else to do there are a few amazing castles and ruins to explore there too.

On top of all that, the EA Hostel we recommend is actually in a castle that overlooks a lot of Cesky Raj. What a way to make the best of a fun weekend in Cesky Raj.

Things to do in Cesky Raj:

• Visit Hruba Skala Castle
• Enjoy some nice wine and beer in the countryside
• Explore all the great walking trails
• Check out the ruins from Vranov Castle
• Go biking on the bike trails
• Enjoy the peace and quiet in Cesky Raj

#8 Weekend trip to the city of Berlin

Distance/time from Prague: 350 km and 4.5 hours away Best way to get there: We recommend going by bus Price: Roughly $57-80 / 380-600 CZK each way Where to stay: New Hostel Berlin Mitte

How do you even begin to describe Berlin? If you’re looking to have FUN for a weekend with some friends or just want to go experience something new (and old) then head to the city of fun in Germany.

Berlin is just one of those cities you have to visit at least one time in your life. The city has completely evolved from its past and transformed into this absolute hotspot for young people to visit.

We do recommend trying to find a hostel like the one we mentioned above to stay at. Berlin is really expensive because it is such a popular place to visit.

Try to book this weekend trip in advance if you can in order to save some money.

You’ll definitely make some memories in Berlin that you will never forget.

Enjoy the hipster vibe and delicious coffee that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Things to do in Berlin:

• Get your dance on at SO 36
• Eat as many döners as you possibly can
• Explore the Neun Market
• Check out the East Side Gallery
• So many museums to visit
• Klunkerkranich rooftop bar
• Endless hippy coffee shops to indulge in

#9 Weekend trip to Bohemian Switzerland (in Czech)

Distance/time from Prague: 150 km and 2 hours away Best way to get there: We recommend taking a train Price: Roughly 6-45$ / 200CZK each way Where to stay: Apartment Under the Castle

This is another one of those nature lover paradises. Don’t get confused by the name, Bohemian Switzerland is in fact in the Czech Republic.

We recommend taking a train to the town of Decin which is right next to the national park. 

In this national park, you will be surrounded by sandstone mountains with a ton of awesome hiking trails and lookout points. There are so many beautiful views along the hikes and it’s just a fantastic place to go and relax for a weekend away from Prague. 

Decin is also a cute little town that you can explore.

So have the option to go and explore the national park during the day and then come back into town for some yummy Czech food in the evening. 

Things to do in Bohemian Switzerland:

• Hike up to Pravcicka Gate • Explore the sandstone mountains all around you • Take a boat down the river • Go on a scenic train ride around the mountain • Visit Decin Castle. • Eat some local food in Decin’s old town

Also read: How to Hike the Famous Pravčicka Brana Trail in Bohemian Switzerland

#10 Weekend trip from Prague to Dresden, Germany

Distance/time from Prague: 150 km and 2 hours away Best way to get there: We recommend taking a bus Price: Roughly $13-15 / 270-321 CZK each way Where to stay: Goldener Reiter

Dresden is another city outside of the Czech Republic that is fun for a weekend trip.

Dresden is known for having some incredible Christmas markets, so this may be a good weekend trip to do during the winter.

Dresden was heavily damaged during WW2 but has been restored over the years.

So there is tons of history but also new and modern shops and cafes around the city to explore.

If there’s one thing you need to remember before visiting Dresden is the name Kunsthofpassage.

It’s this fascinating building that you have to see with your own two eyes.

Enjoy all the history, museum, and WW2 memorabilia around Dresden. Germany was obviously a big part of it and you can see how it left its mark on the city of Dresden!

You get the combination of old and new and it makes for a very interesting city to visit.

Check out this post if you want to know how to get between Prague and Dresden .

Things to do in Dresden:

• Check out Kunsthofpassage on a rainy day
• Looking for a panoramic view then go to the Parometer
• Enjoy the Dresden Cathedral
• Visit the biggest porcelain museum in the world
• Semperoper is a gorgeous opera house
• Take the Schwebebahn cable-car for cool views

#11 Weekend trip to Plzen (or Pilsen)

Distance/time from Prague: 100 km and 1 hour away Best way to get there: We recommend taking the bus Price: Roughly $5 / 98-108 CZK each way Where to stay: Cozy studio downtown

That name sounds familiar, doesn’t it? You got it right, the city is named after the delicious beer you’ve been drinking for years. Or actually, the beer is named after the city! The original Pilsner Urquell brewery is right in town and absolutely worth visiting.

The best way to visit the brewery is by going on a guided tour. The guide will show you around the brewery and teach you about the beer-making process. The tour will finish off in the beer cellar where you get to try the unfiltered and unpasteurized version of Pilsner. It is SO GOOD!🍻

Besides the beer, you can eat arguably the best pizza in the world at Pizzeria Da Pietro right downtown Pilsen. You have to try it before you have a say because it truly is absolutely delicious!  

So if you want to learn, taste, and surround yourself with beer then Plzen is your go-to city in the Czech Republic. There are beer spas, beer tours, brewery crawls, and of course, pub crawls! So get ready for a wild one in the beer capital of the world!

Things to do in Plzen:

• Visit the second largest synagogue in Europe – Moorish
• Eat a delicious pizza downtown – Da Pietro 
• Visit the original Pilsner Urquell Brewery
• People watch at Cafe Regner
• Beer spa? Why not!
• Go on a Gastronomy tour in the Old Town of Plzen
• Learn about Plzen’s history being a frontier town during WW2.

You might also like…

• 38 Exciting Things to Do in Prague
• How to Find and Hike to Vyhlidka Maj near Prague
• 13 Sunset Spots in Prague That You Will Love
• Prague to Brno – A Beautiful Weekend Trip
• How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Prague (Off the Beaten path)

Recap of all the best weekend trips from Prague

So there you have it! Some of the most awesome weekend trips from Prague. Some are right here in the Czech Republic and a few are in neighbouring countries only a train, bus, or plane ride away.

For each trip, we mentioned the best and most affordable way to get there using Omio since they compare and find the cheapest way to get to each destination. 

We also included accommodation that is central so you don’t need to rent a car or anything. All the places are where public transport and your two feet can reach. In case they are booked we recommend checking Booking.com for other great options. 

Enjoy these trips and let us know in the comments which ones you end up doing and which are your favourites!

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7 Czech Towns You Should Visit Besides Prague - International Living

The Czech Republic is quite a popular destination for travelers who want to explore more than just clichéd tourist destinations. This Eastern European country is perfect for those who like to admire the diverse beauty brought by the different nations that owned this piece of land throughout history, and left their unique architectural influence. If the Czech Republic is on your travel list, here are the most picturesque and interesting towns to visit other than Prague .

1. Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is located about 108 miles from Prague in the south of Bohemia. Besides Prague, this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Czech Republic, mostly because of the unique architecture protected by UNESCO World Heritage. The magnificent State Castle of Český Krumlov, surrounded by the Vltava river, gives this Czech city a fairytale-like appearance.

Although Český Krumlov has a lot of museums, taking a walk down the historic part of the city feels like visiting a museum thanks to the pedestrian-only streets and old but very charming buildings. For those seeking adventure, rafting and kayaking down the Vltava river is an exciting experience worth trying.

2. Lednice and Valtice

Lednice and Valtice are the highlights of South Moravia, located about 161 miles from Prague. These small wine-making towns are way closer to Vienna and Bratislava, so don’t hesitate to make a trip. The main attraction in these outstandingly beautiful towns are the castles and the area that surrounds them known as ‘Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape,’ protected by UNESCO.

The area consists of Lednice Castle (Zámek Lednice), Valtice Castle (Zámek Valtice), blooming royal gardens, temples, chapels, ponds, minaret, and other significant monuments. Besides admiring the architectural wonders, here you’ll find landscapes full of vineyards and the Czech Republic’s 100 best wines (the selection changes annually) available for tasting in the basement of Valtice’s chateau.

Telč is another city with a rich historical heritage filled with Gothic and Renaissance houses that will make you feel like you stepped into a fairytale from another time. Interestingly enough, this town was nothing special until it burnt down in a great fire in the 16th century leaving a blank canvas for a man called Zacharias of Hradec who took over Telč at the age of 23 with a vision to reinvent it.

Thanks to him, visiting this city nowadays is one relaxing experience where you can admire the unique architecture without being bothered by crowds of tourists. Although it’s not a touristic spot, Telč is absolutely worth your time and attention. The fact that it is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a good enough reason for you to leave Prague at least for a day and explore this interesting town.

4. Harrachov

Harrachov is the perfect place to venture into the Czech countryside with its magnificent Mumlava waterfalls and impressive mountain scenery. Located 80 miles north of Prague, this is one of the most famous winter sport centers in the western part of the Giant Mountains offering everything from hiking and biking trails to downhill ski runs. There is no wrong time to discover the hidden beauty of Harrachov especially because the Mumlava waterfalls look different in ifferent seasons of the year.

5. Kutná Hora

The Bohemian town of Kutná Hora is only a short bus ride away from Prague which leaves you with no excuse to get stuck in the capital. Known as the “City of Silver”, Kutná Hora was built on top of exhausted silver mines.

Its architecture is a magnificent blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque structures, among which the most notable is the stunning gothic Saint Barbora's church, the bizarre Sedlec Ossuary Church adorned with human skeletons, the Bohemian Museum of Silver, and the Italian Court. Just like the rest of the towns on this list, Kutná Hora is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

6. Holašovice

This charming Czech village will take your breath away with its rural Baroque style and amazing scenery. Don’t expect to see much activity in Holašovice as there are no shopping centers, large hotels, or rumbling squares. There are 23 farmyard-style houses in the center of this small village, and all of them are worth your attention. Holašovice still has the authentic appearance of centuries ago which is a perfect representation of the traditional Central European villages that have lost the battle with the big cities and have now disappeared. No need to mention that UNESCO has recognized the authentic beauty of this quiet village and included it on its World Heritage List.

7. Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary has everything from superb hot springs, relaxing green areas, and cobblestone streets which make it one of the most beautiful spa towns in Central Europe. Visitors can soak, steam, and drink the waters of the 13 main springs and 300 smaller ones taking full advantage of their healing attributes.

However, Karlovy Vary is not only a place to relax and unplug but also admire the colorful spa-influenced architecture that includes Neoclassical and Art Nouveau structures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The likes of Peter the Great, Beethoven, Karl Marx, Goethe, Chopin, and Schiller had visited Karlovy Vary building up the rich historical heritage of this charming Czech city. If you happen to visit in July, you can also see the famous International Film Festival.

The Takeaway

As you can see, the Czech Republic has much more to offer than just Prague, so don’t hesitate to go off the mainstream tourist map and see more of this beautiful country. Keep in mind that prices are usually lower outside of the capital which means you can explore and experience

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Would be spending around 2-3 days in Prague and had 2-3 more days in hand, wanted to know which are the neighboring cities/towns (In neighboring countries) which i can visit which is easily accessible by train.

I can even explore a morning evening trip from Prague to any of these destinations if its practical. Kindly help me plan my itinerary.

it depends what you want to see, for inspiration about other places in czech republic then prague you can use this site:

http://czechtourism.com/home/

Or any of these UNESCO towns/sites

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rw3T11jffao

Thanks for the suggestions

Budapest overnight.. I am not a fan...it takes 2hrs longer and barely saves you a couple of hours. You would arrive at 8:35am..and what to do with luggage, early check-in etc.

day train, leave PRAG at 5:51am be in BUD by 12:19pm

Regular train, tickets about $24 USD pp, one way...

I prefer Budapest over Vienna...just my 2cts.

Budapest and Prague over some edginess... VIE is more stately, manicured, galleries, classic music.

I am a fan of the thermal spas in BUD so BUD for me every time.

Hi Tejashombre & Dominik,

Thanks a ton for your suggestions, its helping me plan my travel better. I guess i will try and cover both the places, else i might have to drop one considering time constraints.

You can ask on the respective boards re: accomodations

in BUD, I've used here a few times. https://mavericklodges.com/ 2 metro stops.

favorite in BUD is theremal spa.... also find the Shoe Memorial, basilica, Heroes' Square, Chain bridge, Great Market

Also did Kutna Hora to see the bone church/historic centre by train.

Finally we did another half day trip by train to Karlstejn Castle.

Getting to Dresden by bus was a bit of a slog to be honest and with hindsight we should have paid the extra and taken the train. It was a lovely city though and well worth seeing, they did a wonderful job of reconstruction after the war.

Kutna Hora was gorgeous and involved a very straightforward change of train at a small town along the way. I seem to remember it only took about an hour to get there.

Karlstejn Castle was the easiest and quickest place to get to, it took about 45 minutes on train through lovely scenery. The castle is simply breathtaking and looms right over the village below! It beats many other big European Castles we have seen such as Bran, Coburg and Malbork.

Personally I wouldn't do Vienna / Budapest as short trips as both are fantastic destinations in their own right. You could easily spend a week in each as they are big with loads to see. If it were me I'd stick to smaller places like Cesky Krumlov & Karlovy Vary which are both supposed to be stunning.

Thanks Tejashombre for all your valuable your suggestions and Thanks to Seacreature99 for the detailed recommendation, really appreciate it.

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9 suggestions what to do and see around Prague

Magic Prague will keep you busy for sure for several days with its beautiful monuments. But if you decide to visit the Czech Republic, it is definitely worth also seeing other places. Thanks to its great location and many great places nearby, it is quite easy to plan a trip.

The trip into the history, the beautiful nature or the beer that are the symbols of the Czech Republic – this is just a fraction of what to expect if you decide to get to discover destinations outside Prague. We’ve selected a few inspiring places near Prague to visit also with the description of how to reach the sites.

1. Bohemian Switzerland

The National Park in the northwestern part of the country is a perfect escape from the noise of the city as it is the opposite of mass tourism. Even though the area is not large, it houses several unique treasures. 52 feet high Pravčická Gate – the largest natural bridge in Europe. Enjoy a fantastic nature experience while sailing through the river Kamenice, which stretches between the steep rocky gorges.

The impressive is the canyon of the Elbe River , which is 985 feet deep. Enjoy beautiful views of the surroundings and if you want to spend your holiday actively, the area itself offers many hiking and cycling trails. Moviemakers showed the beauty of Bohemian Switzerland also on the film screen. Tisa Rock Labyrinth became the scene of The Chronicles of Narnia.

How to get there: For a truly local experience, we recommend you to discover Bohemian Switzerland with us and book one of our tours from Prague . Our guides grew up in Bohemian Switzerland and know all the treasures. We also support the local community and take care of the environment.

If you decide to travel by yourself, the most comfortable way to get to Bohemian Switzerland is by car. The more convenient option is to travel through villages in a national park. The journey takes about 2 hours. If you cannot travel by car, there are both bus and train lines to Prague from Děčín and from there by local lines between the individual sites in the national park. 

2. Karlštejn

The fairytale castle from the 14th century was built by Charles IV. as a place to preserve the crown jewels at the beginning of the Hussite Wars. They have been stored in the castle for more than 200 years.

Since its construction, the castle has undergone several reconstructions, the latter being from the 19th century. During the tour, you can see replicas of the coronation jewels of the Czech kings and also the largest gallery of monarchs portraits in the Czech Republic or a unique castle well. The castle was also mentioned in the popular Czech movie of Noc na Karlštejne.

How to get there : From Prague, the easiest way is by train, which takes about 45 minutes.

3. Kutná Hora

An essential medieval economic, political and cultural intersection that is known for silver mining and coin production. In the 13th century, ⅓ of European silver production was produced exactly in Kutná Hora. Every year the city holds a traditional silver mining festival that commemorates the great years of the town in the Middle Ages.

The dominant feature of the town is the large Gothic church of St.Barbara from the 14th-century and also impressive to visit is a small church in Kostnice in the neighboring village of Sedlec, where 40,000 to 70,000 bones are hidden, decorating the entire church. Both monuments are listed by UNESCO.

How to get there: There is a regular train connection with Kutná Hora from Prague Main Station. The journey takes about 1 hour.

4. Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary was founded in the 14th century and is famous for its healing springs. There are 13 main thermal springs in the city and over 300 smaller springs, which are considered to be water sources in the elegant spa hotels.

Every July, film fans, filmmakers and actors meet in Karlovy Vary at one of Europe’s most prestigious film festivals. It is the biggest film event not only in the city but also in the whole country.

Karlovy Vary is ideal for spending a pleasant day walking, tasting the traditional herbal liqueur Becherovka, which is produced here, good food and unique atmosphere that adds to the city’s charm.

How to get there: Karlovy Vary is connected with Prague by bus lines from Florenc station. The journey takes just over 2 hours.

5. Krkonoše

The buzz of the city is best to be avoided in nature. The Krkonoše Mountains have the highest point in the Czech Republic, Sněžka. It is certainly impressive when visiting the country to climb to its highest point, in this case, it will not be difficult, because Sněžka has about 5260 feet, which is compared to other mountains tolerable for people who usually do not go hiking . There is also the foundation of Elbe River, which also passes through the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.

In winter, the Krkonoše are an excellent place for skiing. Especially popular are sites of Špindleruv Mlyn or Pec pod Snezkou. In the summer, you can enjoy all the benefits of a pleasant forest environment providing the relax from the city noise.

How to get there: From Prague’s Černý most station, you can get to the Krkonoše (Špindleruv Mlyn stop) by bus. The journey takes about 3 hours.

6. The Máj Viewpoint

Would you say that there is a place in the Czech Republic that reminds us of the American Grand Canyon at first glance? One of the most beautiful views of the Vltava can be enjoyed from Vyhlídka Máj at the village of Teletín. The Vltava makes its way through a high canyon and turns into a horseshoe shape, which you can see from the top of the rock.

How to get there: The easiest route is by car to Teletín. The bus leaves the Smíchov Train Station, but you will have to change once. Plan your journey here. From Teletín, you reach the viewpoint by following the yellow hiking trail for about 1 mile.

7. Pilsner Tour

It would be a pity to visit the Czech Republic and do not see how great Czech beer is brewed. Pilsner has been cooking in Pilsen since 1842 and has inspired the whole world. Beer lovers will get a perfect overview of what makes Pilsner a beer legend – through brewery history, beer bottling, ingredients, beer-brewing buildings, beer barrels, and staff cooking the beer. The final phase is tasting.

The tour is in multiple languages, we suggest to check the timeslot for the language you are interested in.

How to get there: You can get to Pilsen from Prague by bus from Zličín station or by train from Hlavni nadrazi. The journey takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.

8. Adršpach – Teplice Rocks

About 250,000 people visit famous rock formations every year. They are located near the villages of Teplice nad Metují and Adršpach, according to which they got their name. The Metuje River, the surrounding lakes, waterfalls and tall rocks, offering the magnificent views, will get you with no doubts. If you feel like having an active day in nature, visit this place.

Lovers of climbing, hiking, cycling or walking will find their dream place, but the location is also suitable for families with children who can enjoy a boat trip on the river.

How to get there : Traveling by bus or train is complicated with at least one transfer. Plan your trip here , it takes up to 4 hours. Therefore, we recommend traveling by car and reach Teplice nad Metují in 2 hours 45 minutes.

9. Český Krumlov

Not only the Czech nation but also international travelers consider Český Krumlov to be the most beautiful thing to see in the Czech Republic. The medieval town on the banks of the Vltava River is home to more than 300 preserved, authentic medieval buildings, creating it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historical sights neighbor with typical pubs, restaurants, where you can enjoy a good meal or a refreshing beer after a walk.

If you have more time, we recommend to plan a weekend trip to Český Krumlov and see also its surrounding nature or try rafting on the Vltava River, which is also popular among the locals.

A few years ago we would recommend you to go there but nowadays it is sad how this beautiful city became saturated with tourists. However, it still worth to visit. Just try to avoid the main street and don’t go there just for one hour to take one picture for Instagram. It is the perfect time and place to enjoy some slow traveling. 

How to get there: From Prague get to Český Krumlov most conveniently by bus from the stop Na Knížecí at Smíchov and the journey takes about 3 hours.

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21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Prague

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Diana Bocco Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Prague has been nicknamed the "city of a thousand spires" for good reason: as you glance over its 1,100-year-old skyline, you'll be rewarded with splendid views of lovely domed churches and soaring old towers that combine to make Prague one of the world's architectural gems. Everywhere you look, fine examples of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles dot the city, providing a dramatic contrast to the sturdy old Prague Castle.

Possessing one of the best-preserved historic city centers in Europe, the narrow laneways of Prague's delightful Old Town open up onto spectacular squares, each home to well-preserved historical buildings just waiting to be explored. Must-sees include the famous Charles Bridge over the Vltava River, the splendid Jewish Quarter with its old synagogues, and, of course, the city's many historic churches.

Discover the best places to visit in this enchanting city with our list of the top attractions in Prague.

1. Walk the Grounds of Prague Castle

2. stroll across charles bridge, 3. discover wenceslas square, 4. explore the treasures at the national museum, 5. visit the clementinum and the national library, 6. stop by the old town square and the astronomical clock, 7. st. vitus cathedral, 8. the church of our lady before týn, 9. see world-class exhibitions at the national gallery in prague, 10. enjoy free art at the municipal house, 11. spend a day at the prague zoo, 12. walk the streets of josefov: the jewish quarter, 13. marvel at the beauty of the strahov monastery and library, 14. walk to the top of the petrín lookout tower, 15. leave your mark at the lennon wall, 16. st. nicholas church, 17. catch a performance at the national theatre, 18. people-watch from the roof of the dancing house, 19. admire the views from the hilltop fortress: vyšehrad, 20. discover modern art at kampa island, 21. spot famous names at the olšany cemetery, where to stay in prague for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to prague, map of attractions & things to do in prague, best time to visit prague, czech republic.

Located in Prague's Hradcany neighborhood, Prague Castle (Pražský hrad), once the home of Bohemia's kings, is today the official residence of the Czech Republic's President and one of the city's most visited tourist attractions.

Originally built as a walled fortress around AD 870, the castle has changed dramatically over the years and contains examples of most of the leading architectural styles of the last millennium. Within the castle walls are a number of Prague's most popular tourist sites, including St. Vitus Cathedral , St. George's Basilica , the Powder Tower , the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane .

The largest castle complex in the world , this vast fortress requires considerable time to tour, but it's time well spent (particularly rewarding are the excellent views over the Vltava River with the old town and its many beautiful spires in the background).

Highlights include the Old Royal Palace's main hall, the Vladislav Hall, so large it could be used for jousting tournaments, and staircases wide enough to allow mounted knights to use them. Be sure to also spend time in the Royal Garden , dating back to 1534 and home to a number of superb old buildings, including the Ball Game Pavilion, the Royal Summer House with its Singing Fountain, and the Lion's Court.

The best way to fully explore the castle is on a Prague Castle Walking Tour Including Admission Tickets . Also check the castle's official website for news and updates regarding cultural events, such as classical music concerts, lectures, and workshops.

One of the top things to do at night in Prague is to find a good spot from which to enjoy the castle illuminations that light this magnificent structure in a range of hues. In fact, basing yourself in a hotel in the vicinity of Prague Castle is a good idea, so you can experience the city highlights by day and night.

Address: 119 08 Praha 1

Official site: www.hrad.cz/en/prague-castle-for-visitors

• Read More: Visiting Prague Castle: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

One of the most recognizable old bridges in Europe, magnificent Charles Bridge ( Karluv Most ) boasts 32 unique points of interest along its 621-meter span. Built in 1357, the bridge has long been the subject of a great deal of superstition, including the builders having laid the initial bridge stone on the 9th of July at exactly 5:31am, a precise set of numbers (135797531) believed to give the structure additional strength. For added good measure, it was constructed in perfect alignment with the tomb of St. Vitus and the setting sun on the equinox.

The bridge is particularly famous for its many fine old statues. Among the most important are those of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and John of Nepomuk, the country's most revered saint, unveiled in 1683 (a more recent superstition involves rubbing the plaque at the base of the statue for the granting of a wish).

Other highlights include spectacular views over the River Vltava and the structure's superb Gothic gates. Viewing Charles Bridge at night is also highly recommended (an added benefit are the smaller crowds, particularly after the spectacular sunset).

Address: Karluv most, 110 00 Praha 1

A highlight of Prague's New Town (Nové Mesto) district-an area that grew out of the city's need to expand as it prospered-is the wonderful Wenceslas Square (Václavské námestí), home to the National Museum and numerous other architectural treasures.

Named after the patron saint of Bohemia, whose statue can be seen here, Wenceslas Square was created in the 14th century during the reign of Charles IV as a horse market and has since become one of the city's most important public spaces, still used for demonstrations and celebrations alike.

A visit today is a fun experience and undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in Prague, and will introduce visitors to some of the city's best dining and restaurant experiences, as well as great shopping. If you are visiting Prague in December, it's also the site of the city's largest Christmas Market.

Address: 110 00 Praha 1

Fresh from a seven-year-long renovation, the National Museum (Národní Muzeum) in Prague is spread across a number of locations and houses numerous important collections representing a variety of fields, with literally millions of items covering mineralogy, zoology, anthropology, and archaeology, as well as the arts and music. The entomology collection alone numbers more than five million specimens. The oldest museum in the Czech Republic, it was established in the early 1800s before moving to its current location in 1891.

A particularly enjoyable highlight is the archaeology exhibit with its extensive collection of 1st-and 2nd-century Roman artifacts, along with numerous Bronze and Early Iron age finds. (For a comprehensive list of all locations and collections, visit the National Museum's website, below.)

Another museum to include on your must-visit list is the excellent National Technical Museum (Národní technické museum), which documents the many technological advances the country has contributed to, including displays of machinery and equipment built here over the years, from automobiles to aircraft.

Address: Václavské námestí 68, 115 79 Praha 1

Official site: www.nm.cz/en#all

The Clementinum (Klementinum), one of the largest collections of historic buildings in Europe, is home to the National Library of the Czech Republic. These beautiful Baroque buildings were originally part of a Jesuit College, and later came to house the Jesuit book collection, as well as the collection from the Karolinum. The library eventually became the property of the state after the Jesuits were expelled, and the Clementinum became a public library in 1782 shortly after being constituted as the National Library.

With more than six million books, the Clementinum's collection is huge and includes copies of every book published in the Czech Republic. A highlight is the exquisite Baroque Library Hall with its beautiful ceiling artwork, the 68-meter-tall Astronomical Tower with its spectacular views over Prague, and the splendid Mirror Chapel with its exquisite décor. English language guided tours are available and last approximately 50 minutes.

For a truly memorable experience, the Clementinum is also used as a venue for jazz events, classical concerts, and festivals.

Address: Mariánské námestí 5, 110 00 Praha 1

The historic center of Prague, the Old Town (Staré Mesto) is where you'll find the splendid Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí), one of the best places to begin exploring the city. Here, you'll find the Tyn Church and the Clementinum , along with numerous other fine old churches, as well as splendid old architecture dating back as far as the 11th century, while the Jewish Quarter , Josefov , is just a short walk north.

A highlight is the Old Town Hall (Staromestská radnice), home to the wonderful early 15th-century Astronomical Clock (orloj). Each hour, it springs to life as the 12 Apostles and other figures appear and parade in procession across the clock face.

Other Old Town Hall highlights are the Gothic doorway leading to its splendid interior with its art exhibits and displays, a chapel built in 1381, and an old prison. Be sure to make the ascent (by stairs or elevator) to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower for its fine views over Prague.

Address: Staromestské námestí, 110 00 Praha 1

Situated within the grounds of Prague Castle , the Roman Catholic St. Vitus Cathedral (Katedrala St. Vita) is the Czech Republic's largest and most important Christian church. Seat of the Archbishop of Prague, it's also home to the tombs of numerous saints and three Bohemian kings.

Founded on the site of a Romanesque rotunda built in AD 925, the cathedral was started in 1344 and took more than 525 years to complete, resulting in a mix of modern Neo-Gothic and 14th-century Gothic styles, along with Baroque and Renaissance influences (be sure to keep an eye out for the impressive gargoyles adorning the exterior of the cathedral).

Interior highlights include stunning stained glass windows depicting the Holy Trinity, a mosaic from 1370 ( The Last Judgment ), and the St. Wenceslas Chapel (Svatovaclavska kaple) with its spectacular jewel-encrusted altar with more than 1,300 precious stones.

Also of note, although rarely displayed, are the Czech crown jewels (on average, they're exhibited just once every eight years). Be sure to make the climb up the cathedral's 97-meter main tower for splendid views over Prague. Visitors are also welcome to attend cathedral mass.

Address: III nádvorí 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1

Official site: www.katedralasvatehovita.cz/en

One of Prague's most recognizable buildings is the Church of Our Lady before Týn (Kostel Matky Boží pred Týnem), often abbreviated to simply Týn Church. Unmistakable for its twin 80-meter-tall spires flanking each side of the building (each supporting four smaller spires), its main entrance is through a narrow passage past the houses obscuring its façade.

Although completed in the 15th century, the church was altered numerous times through the centuries as the city's allegiances changed, and while interior renovations are ongoing, there's still much worth seeing, including numerous fine tombs, the superb Gothic northern portal with its Crucifixion sculpture, early Baroque altarpiece paintings dating from 1649, and one of Europe's finest 17th-century pipe organs.

Afterwards, be sure to explore the 11th-century Ungelt Courtyard behind the church with its many fine restaurants and cafés. Another splendid old church worth visiting is the Baroque Church of the Virgin Mary with its famous statue of the infant Jesus, said to have been responsible for miracles and still a point of pilgrimage.

Spread across some of the city's most important architectural landmarks, the National Gallery in Prague (Národní galerie v Praze) is home to some of Europe's most important art collections. The bulk of the collection is housed in the Veletrzní Palace (Veletrzní Palác), a relatively modern structure built in 1925 that holds the 19th- to 21st-century works. While there's a strong emphasis on Czech artists, foreign artists such as Monet and Picasso are included, as are other art forms such as photography, fashion, applied arts, and sculpture.

Other notable works are held in the Kinsky Palace (Palác Kinskych), home to Asian art, art from the ancient world, and the gallery's Baroque collections, and at the Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia, where you'll find European art from the Middle Ages.

Finally, the splendid 17th-century Sternberg Palace (Sternbersky Palác) houses some of the gallery's most famous pieces, focusing on European art from the Classical era to the end of the Baroque period and including important ancient Greek and Roman pieces; 14th- to 16th-century Italian masterpieces; and 16th- to 18th-century works by artists such as El Greco, Goya, Rubens, van Dyck, Rembrandt, and van Goyen.

Address: Staromestské námestí 12, 110 15 Praha 1

Official site: www.ngprague.cz/en/

The Prague Municipal House (Obecní dum) is widely considered one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau in the city. Built in 1912, this splendid civic building is also home to one of Prague's most important (and largest) concert venues, Smetana Hall , and boasts numerous striking features, from its sumptuous façade with a large mural on the arch above the second floor balcony, to the large dome that rests behind and above the arch.

The interior is equally impressive and includes many fine stained glass windows and important paintings. While English language guided tours are available (including a chance to see otherwise closed ceremonial rooms), one of the best ways to enjoy this landmark is to take in a concert or sample its café, restaurants, and luxury boutique shops.

Address: námestí Republiky 5, 111 21 Praha 1

Official site: www.obecnidum.cz/en/

Opened in 1931, the superb Prague Zoo (Zoologická zahrada hl. m. Prahy) is not only one of the top tourist attractions in the city, it also ranks among the world's top zoological parks.

Located in the Troja suburbs just a short distance north of the city center, this 140-acre attraction is an especially fun outing for those traveling with kids. Highlights for younger children include a fun petting zoo, which offers pony rides and opportunities to feed the animals, and a large adventure playground.

Along with its more than 4,200 animals representing some 650 species-including many considered close to extinction-the zoo is notable for its role in saving the native (and endangered) Przewalski's horse.

Things to do here include riding a chairlift with great views of many of the animal enclosures, as well as visiting the huge giraffe exhibit, the superb salamander display, and the steamy indoor tropical jungle. Be sure to check the zoo's website for other details, including feeding times.

English-language guided tours and educational workshops are available. On-site dining is also offered, as well as several gift shops.

Address: U trojského zámku 3/120, 171 00 Praha 7

Official site: www.zoopraha.cz/en

Prague's Jewish Quarter was originally located in the Castle District, but by the 1200s had spread to the city's Josefov area and was for centuries regarded as a ghetto. Its transformation into one of the city's most important and interesting districts took place in the late 1800s, when large sections were demolished to make way for Art Nouveau apartment buildings.

Today, Josefov is a pleasant area to stroll around and includes the Jewish Museum in Prague (Židovské muzeum v Praze), an important attraction that consists of the Maisel Synagogue, the Spanish Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Ceremonial Hall, and the Klaus Synagogue.

One of the top free things to do in Prague is to explore the Old Jewish Cemetery, notable for its weathered tombstones, many leaning in a disorderly fashion due to their age. Josefov is also popular for its great kosher restaurants.

Address: U staré školy 141/1, 110 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.jewishmuseum.cz/aindex.php

The Strahov Monastery and Library (Strahovsky kláster) dates back to the 12th century and is the second oldest monastery in Prague. While its imposing gateway and churches are impressive enough, its most important buildings are its two beautifully decorated Baroque libraries. The Philosophical Library contains a variety of extraordinary furnishings, along with an exquisite ceiling painted by Franz Anton Maulbertsch entitled Enlightenment .

The second library, the Theological Library , consists of a splendid Baroque room with a beautiful ornate painted ceiling by Siard Nosecky, a Strahov Monk, along with superb ceiling frescoes framed by detailed stucco work. The libraries contain many rare old volumes and manuscripts, including the famous 9th-century Strahov Gospel , while in the cellars are old printing presses along with the remains of St. Norbert, founder of the Premonstratensian Order.

Also of note are the cloisters, which house a religious art collection and treasury, as well as the fascinating Strahov Cabinet of Curiosities, notable for its displays of historic artifacts from science. English-language tours are available. If you want to linger a little longer, consider dining at the Great Monastery Restaurant, or participate in one of the daily masses.

Address: Strahovské nádvorí 1/132, 118 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.strahovskyklaster.cz/en/

Named after the hill on which it stands, the 63.5-meter-high Petrín Lookout Tower (Petrínská rozhledna) is a little like a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower in Paris that offers panoramic views over Prague. Although only a fifth the size of its French counterpart, the tower's elevation creates the illusion that it's bigger than it actually is.

Built in 1891 for the Prague Exhibition from disused railway tracks, it was later moved to Petrín Hill in the 1930s, where it became one of the city's major tourist attractions.

Today, visitors can either make the 30-minute climb up the Petrín hill to the base of the tower or take a leisurely trip aboard the funicular railway before tackling the structure's 299 steps to the top (there's also an elevator, as well as a café). Be sure to visit the nearby Mirror Maze , a fun diversion also built in 1891.

Address: Petrínské sady, 118 00 Praha 1

Perhaps one of the city's most unlikely attractions, Prague's Lennon Wall has stood since the 1980s as a tribute to former Beatle and peace campaigner John Lennon. Things got started almost immediately after the singer's murder in 1980, when this otherwise unassuming wall near the Charles Bridge became a place for fans to demonstrate their grief, painting pictures, lyrics, and slogans attributed to the star.

Despite police efforts to erase the graffiti-Czechoslovakia, as it was then, was still under communist rule-the memorial wall kept reappearing, and the site became a symbol of hope and peace for the city's population. The tradition continues to this day, and along with gatherings on the anniversary of Lennon's death, tourists can frequently be observed adding their sentiments to the wall.

Address: Velkoprevorské námestí, 100 00 Praha 1

On picturesque Little Quarter Square in the Old Town area stands St. Nicholas Church (Kostel svatého Mikuláše), one of Prague's newer churches. Built by Jesuits in the 18th century, it's a fine example of High Baroque and is notable for its splendid interior with its unique 19th-century chandelier, as well as the large Baroque paintings by Czech artist Karel Skreta that adorn the huge cupola. Of particular note are the church's two historic organs, the oldest of which was built in 1745.

The church also features a bell tower, which visitors are permitted to climb, from the top of which are great views over the church's huge dome and the old city. Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the regular organ concerts held here, including Mozart's Requiem and other notable classical pieces. English language guided tours are available.

Address: Malostranské námestí, 118 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.stnicholas.cz/en/

Idyllically perched on the banks of the River Vltava, Prague's National Theatre is a must-visit for lovers of the performing arts. Home to the country's top opera, ballet, and drama performances, the National Theater was opened in 1881 as a symbol of Czech national identity and to promote the Czech language and culture.

Despite a somewhat checkered past that saw the building destroyed by fire and even closed by the communists, this stunning theater has undergone extensive renovations and stands as a monument to the city's rich talent and cultural significance. (English-language guided tours are available).

Another Prague theater of note is the Estates Theatre (Stavovské divaldo), built in the late 18th century in Neoclassical style and once a favorite of Mozart, who chose to premier Don Giovanni here.

Address: Národní 2, 110 00 Praha 1

Official site: www.narodni-divadlo.cz/en

The Dancing House (Tancící dum), Prague's most outstanding modern architectural creation, was built between 1992 and 1996 to designs by Frank Gehry. Consisting of two adjoining towers, this splendid structure features unique curves that resemble two dancing figures, an effect heightened by the fact one of the towers is shaped like a woman wearing a skirt (hence the nickname "Fred and Ginger" after famous American dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers).

While the building consists largely of offices and a hotel, great views can be enjoyed from the top floor restaurant (a café is also located on the main level).

Address: Jiráskovo námestí 1981/6, 120 00 Praha 2

Looking like something out of a fairy tale, the Vyšehrad fortress-literally translated as the "Upper Castle," or the "Castle on the Heights"-stands high above the Vltava River overlooking Prague. Known to have been in existence as far back as the 10th century, it has long been the subject of myth and legend, including the foretelling of an ancient princess of the rising of a great city around it.

Once the royal residence of Vratislav II, Vyšehrad also played a role as part of the original Royal Route taken by kings about to be crowned, who would have to stop here to pay tribute to their predecessors (the route led from Vyšehrad to Hradcany).

Although now largely ruins, the fortress is a wonderful place for a stroll or picnic and offers superb views of the surrounding city. During the summer months, the attraction's open air theater hosts musical and theatrical performances. English language guided tours can be arranged.

Address: V pevnosti 159/5b, 128 00 Praha 2

Official site: www.praha-vysehrad.cz/?l=9

A small island in the Vltava River, Kampa is located at the Mala Strana end of Charles Bridge. Because of its location, some of the best views of Prague are found on the shores of Kampa Island. Get here as the sun sets over the water, and the swans come to the shore to sleep, to snap some of the most romantic evening photos of Prague.

One of Kampa Island's most famous sights is the giant baby sculptures of famous Czech artist David Černy, which take center stage at Kampa Park. Just a few steps away is the Kampa Modern Art Museum , housed in a converted riverside mill and filled with stunning work by 20th-century European sculptors.

The island's only square, Na Kampe, is home to a charming traditional Christmas market every December. In summer, make your way to the Čertovka canal (also known as the Devil's Stream), which separates the island from Lesser Town. Only the water wheels remain of the many mills that once dotted the island, but you can take a boat tour of the canal to admire the colorful old houses lining up on the shore.

Address: Malá Strana, 118 00 Prague 1

Created in 1680 to accommodate Prague's many plague victims, the Olšany Cemetery (Olšanské hrbitovy) served as the city's main burial ground for centuries and is the final resting place of countless victims of disease and war.

Large enough to hold an estimated two million graves and divided into sections, the graveyard consists of the Jewish Cemetery, which includes the grave of writer Franz Kafka, and the Christian Cemetery, where you'll find the final resting place of a more recent notable Czech, Jan Palach, who set himself on fire in 1968 in protest against the Soviet invasion. Although his body was taken from Olsany Cemetery in 1973 to prevent his grave from becoming the site of organized protests, his coffin was returned in 1990.

Despite its somewhat morbid history, it remains a wonderful place to explore due to its many mysterious old tombs and Art Nouveau monuments.

Address: Vinohradská 1835/153, 130 00 Praha 3

If you're visiting Prague for the first time and want to see the city's top attractions, the best area to stay is Prague 1 . The city is divided into numbered districts, and Prague 1 is home to the city's historical center and top tourist sites such as the Old Town (Staré Mesto); the New Town; the Lesser Town or Little Quarter (Malá Strana); and Prague Castle. Basing yourself in Prague 1 means you're never more than a short walk from these prime areas and attractions, and if you want to venture further afield, Prague's public transport system is excellent. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations for sightseeing:

Luxury Hotels:

• The sumptuous boutique Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa , in a 16th-century Baroque mansion, lies only a short hop from Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge, while Hotel Residence Agnes lavishes its guests in a superbly restored historic building only 600 meters from the Old Town Square.
• Also in Prague 1, the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Prague overlooks the Vltava River just steps away from Charles Bridge.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In a quiet location near Prague's largest park, the boutique Questenberk offers beautiful views of the city and Strahov Monastery and sits only a short stroll from Prague Castle.
• Across the river, a five-minute walk from lively Wenceslas Square, the Design Hotel Jewel Prague is a popular mid-range option with its heritage-listed gold-painted ceiling and thoughtful personal touches.
• If you're seeking the facilities of a chain hotel close to tram and metro stations, Prague Marriott offers a swimming pool and gym and lies a short stroll from the Old Town Square.

Budget Hotels:

• To save money on accommodation, it's worth staying a little farther away from the main tourist areas. Close to a tram stop, Aparthotel City 5 offers modern apartment-style accommodation a 10-minute drive from Prague Castle.
• Other popular budget options include Miss Sophie's Hotel and the modern B&B Hotel Prague City . Both lie about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town Square.

Prague Sightseeing Tours:

• For first-time visitors, taking a tour of the city is a great idea. This is a good way to see the layout and learn some of the history. A worthwhile introductory tour is the Prague in One Day Sightseeing Tour , a popular 3.5-hour guided tour with coach transport and a walking tour of some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the famous Prague Castle.
• Another great option is the Full-Day Prague Tour with Vltava River Cruise, Prague Castle, and Lunch . This seven-hour tour combines the best of a bus tour, two walking tours, and a Vltava River cruise. You'll take in some of the most important Prague sights from an air-conditioned coach before following your guide on a walking tour of the castle grounds. After a three-course meal at a nearby restaurant, you'll hop on a sightseeing cruise that takes you past stunning sights and then end the day with a walk through Old Town and the Jewish Quarters.

Prague Day Trips:

• If you have time for only one day trip and have not already been to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, the Cesky Krumlov Day Trip from Prague is a must-do. This is an all day tour, with a scenic drive through the countryside and plenty of time to explore this beautiful medieval town.
• The Kutna Hora Day Trip from Prague is a six-hour excursion and includes a visit to the famous Sedlec Ossuary, known more commonly as the Bone Church, ornately decorated with human skulls and bones.
• For a different type of historical road trip, the Terezin Concentration Camp Day Tour offers a chance to see this WWII camp and the Terezin Memorial. This is a five-hour tour that includes transport to and from the site.

For most people, the best time to visit Prague is early fall . The city is vibrant year-round, but the months of September and early October offer mild weather in the 18 to 20 degrees Celsius range. This is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the crooked little streets that make up this ancient city.

While you might encounter some rain in spring and fall , these are ideal months for sightseeing , as there are fewer tourists around, and you don't have to deal with the humid heat of the summer months. Bonus points for spring and fall offering better prices and a few interesting festivals to explore.

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Czech Republic Travel Ideas : While Prague is an obvious choice as a base for your Czech Republic vacation, be sure to spend time exploring the rest of this amazing country. Other notable destinations include Karlovy Vary , established in 1358 and popular for its historic buildings and thermal hot springs. The walled city of Cesky Krumlov is also worth visiting, especially for its castle and churches, as is old Brno , the country's second largest city.

Crossing Borders : An easy two-hour rail journey from Prague will bring you to the historic German city of Dresden , home to exquisite Baroque architectural gems, such as the spectacular Frauenkirche cathedral. Also worth a visit in Germany is the city of Leipzig , popular for its historic old squares, city hall, and wonderful shopping and dining experiences.

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10 Best Places To Visit Near Prague By Train

Prague is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. However, if you’re looking to get out of the city for a day or two, there are plenty of great places to visit that are easily accessible by train. The extensive and efficient rail network in and around the capital makes it easy to travel to popular destinations that are located relatively close by. So if you’re looking to add a variety of options to your trip, here are  10 of the best places to visit near Prague by train.

Best Places To Visit Near Prague By Train

One thing about the Czech Republic that you’ll quickly learn is that it’s home to some of the best beer in the world. So, of course, one of the best places to visit near Prague by train is Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner beer.

Pilsen is  about 1.5 hours from Prague by train , and it’s easy to get there without advance planning. There are  about 60 trains that depart from Prague to Pilsen every day,  making it one of the most popular days trips from the city.

Pilsner beer was first brewed in 1842, and today, you can visit the  Pilsner Urquell Brewery  to see how it’s made. The tour includes a visit to the brewing hall, the fermentation cellar, and the bottling plant. And, of course, you’ll get to sample some of the beer at the end.

In addition to the brewery, Pilsen is also home to a number of other attractions. This includes the  Plzen Zoological Garden , one of the oldest zoos in the Czech Republic ; the West Bohemian Museum , which chronicles the city’s history and its people; and  the Great Synagogue , which is one of the largest synagogues in Europe.

Pilsen is a great place to spend a day if you’re interested in beer and brewing. You can also learn about the city’s history and see some of its most important landmarks.

Read More: 16 Best Things to Do in Pilsen

2. Cesky Krumlov

If there’s one place you shouldn’t miss when visiting places near Prague by train, it’s Cesky Krumlov. This small town,  located about 3 hours from Prague , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often referred to as the “Prague of the south.” The  train departs from Prague every two hours , and the tickets never sell out, so you can usually buy them on the day of your journey.

Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful town with plenty of things to see and do. The main attraction is  Cesky Krumlov Castle,  one of the Czech Republic’s largest castles. The castle complex includes a number of museums, gardens, and even an outdoor theater.

Other highlights include the Renaissance-style  Church of St. Vitus, the Egon Schiele Art Centre, and the Cesky Krumlov Puppet Museum.  The town itself is also worth exploring, and you can easily spend a few hours walking around the picturesque streets and admiring the architecture. Be sure to take a leisurely boat ride down the Vltava River, which runs through the town, and explore the many quaint shops and cafes.

Read More: 20 Best Things to Do in Cesky Krumlov

Many tourists visit Prague and don’t even realize that the Czech Republic has its own  wine region  just a short train ride away. I also had no idea until I did some research and discovered Melnik, a small town in Central Bohemia that is home to vineyards, castles, and museums.

The town of Melnik is  located about an hour from Prague by train , and it’s easy to get there with a direct connection from the main train station. Once you arrive, you can explore the town’s medieval center, which is full of cobbled streets and historic buildings.

If you’re interested in wine, there are several wineries that offer tours and tastings. Some popular wineries include  Sintica Winery, Orbelus Winery, and Villa Melnik Winery . All of these wineries produce high-quality Czech wine, and you can even buy bottles to take home with you.

In addition to the wine, there’s also the  Chateau Melnik Castle , a Gothic-style castle that was built in the 10th century, and  the Regional Museum Melnik , a museum housed in a former monastery that features exhibits on the history of the town. You can also visit the  Melnik Underground Well , a 14th-century well that used to supply water for the town’s residents. It’s the oldest and widest well in the Czech Republic.

Melnik is a great place to visit if you’re looking to escape the city for a day and learn about the Czech Republic’s wine industry. It’s definitely one of the most famous places to visit near Prague by train, and I recommend spending at least a few hours exploring this charming town.

Read More: 10 Best Parks in Prague

4. Cesky Raj

Cesky Raj, which means “Bohemian Paradise,” is a protected area in the Czech Republic that is known for its natural beauty. This region is  located about 2 hours from Prague by train  and is a great place to escape the city for a day. Trains depart from Prague’s main train station every 2 hours, making it easy to get there without having to plan in advance.

Once you arrive in Cesky Raj, you’ll find yourself surrounded by forests, cliffs, and canyons. There are plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore, and you can even go rock climbing in some of the more popular areas.

I suggest hiking to  Pravccka Gate , the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe, exploring  Trosky Castle,  a ruined castle that dates back to the 14th century and visiting  Prachovske skaly , a rock formation with over 200 caves and tunnels.

Cesky Raj is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best places to visit near Prague by train. I recommend spending at least a day exploring this beautiful region.

5. Karlovy Vary

Another one of the best places to visit near Prague by train is Karlovy Vary. This spa town is located in Western Bohemia and is a popular destination for Czechs and foreigners. A trip to this town by train will take you  around 3 hours from Prague , making it a great option for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Karlovy Vary hot springs have been used for therapeutic purposes since the 14th century. Today, over a dozen springs are open to the public, and you can even drink the water from some of them. The most famous spring is the  Mill Colonnade,  built in the 19th century.

In addition to the thermal springs, Karlovy Vary is also home to a number of other attractions, including the  Karlovy Vary International Film Festival , which is one of the most prestigious film festivals in Europe, and the  Moser Glass Factory , where you can see how this famous Czech glass is made.

Read More: 17 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary

Olomouc is a historic city located in Moravia, the eastern part of the Czech Republic. This city is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s well worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in history and architecture. Olomouc is  located about 3 hours from Prague by train  andis a great weekend getaway option.

As you explore Olomouc, you’ll notice the city’s baroque architecture, which is some of the best in the country. The main square,  Horni Namesti,  is a great place to start your sightseeing. This square is home to the Astronomical Clock, a baroque fountain, and several notable churches.

Other highlights of Olomouc include the 11th-century  Olomouc Castle ,  the Gothic St. Wenceslas Cathedral, and the Holy Trinity Column,  a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’re interested in art, be sure to visit the  Olomouc Museum of Art , which has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.

All in all, Olomouc is one of the most famous places to visit by train from Prague. This charming city is filled with historical landmarks and beautiful architecture, making it a great place to spend a day or two.

Tabor is a historic town located in South Bohemia , about 1.5 hours from Prague by train . There are about 30 trains that depart from Prague’s main train station every day, making it easy to get there without having to plan in advance.

Tabor  was founded in 1420 by the Hussites , a Christian movement that was popular in Bohemia at the time. The town served as an important Hussite center, and you can still see evidence of this today in the town’s architecture.

Some of the most notable sights in Tabor include  the Hussite Museum , dedicated to the history of the Hussites, and  the Tabor Castle , a well-preserved castle built in the 15th century. Other things to see and do in Tabor include exploring the  old town  and visiting the  Tabor Synagogue .

I spent a day exploring Tabor and found it to be a charming town with plenty of history. And although this town may not be as well-known as some other places to tour by train from Prague, it’s definitely worth a visit. I recommend spending at least a day here if you’re interested in learning about the Hussites and seeing some of the well-preserved architecture from that time period.

8. Karlstejn Castle

For a taste of medieval history, take a train to Karlstejn Castle, which is located about  an hour from Prague . This castle was built in the 14th century by Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia. He built this castle to house his collection of holy relics, which included the Crown of Saint Wenceslas and the Cross of Christ.

Today, Karlstejn Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Czech Republic, and it’s easy to see why. The castle is incredibly well-preserved, and you can even tour the rooms where Charles IV’s relics were once kept.

If you’re interested in visiting the castle, I recommend taking a train from Prague’s main station . Trains depart every hour , and the journey takes about an hour. I also recommend buying a ticket in advance, as this is a popular attraction and tickets do sell out.

9. Podebrady 

Another spa town you can visit by train from Prague is Podebrady, which is  about an hour away by train . Trains depart and return from Prague’s main train station severally throughout the day, perfect for those who don’t want to plan their trip in advance.

Podebrady is most famous for its spa, which has been in operation since the early 19th century. This makes the main attraction in the town to be the  Podebrady Spa , which offers a variety of treatments and therapies using the town’s thermal springs.

In addition to the spa, there are also a number of other things to see and do in the town. This includes exploring the  Podebrady Castle ,  taking a boat ride on the Elbe River, and visiting the Film Legends Museum.

I went to Poderady for a day of relaxation, and I can definitely say it’s one of the best places to visit near Prague if you’re looking to unwind. I recommend spending at least a day here, and if you can, try to schedule your visit on a weekday when the spa isn’t as crowded.

10. Pardubice

Every country has a city known for horse racing, and in the Czech Republic, that city is Pardubice. The Pardubice Racecourse is the oldest and most famous racecourse in the Czech Republic, and its main event is held every October.

During the race, you can bet on the horses, enjoy the traditional Czech food and drink, and listen to live music. Even if you’re not a horse racing fan, the Pardubice Racecourse is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone.

In addition to horse racing, Pardubice is also known for its  medieval castle , which dates back to the 13th century. The castle is located in the city center and is open to the public. And if you’re a fan of beer, be sure to try the local Pardubice beer, which is brewed in the city.

I made a day trip from Prague to Pardubice, which was a great way to see a different side of the Czech Republic. This city is  located less than an hour from Prague by train , and if you’re a horse racing fan, it’s definitely worth a visit. If you have the time, I recommend spending a day or two as there is plenty to see and do in this city.

Traveling by train is a great way to see the Czech Republic, and there are many beautiful places to visit that are just a short ride from Prague. I hope this list of the best places to visit near Prague by train has given you some ideas for your next trip. I’m sure you’ll enjoy exploring these places and others in the Czech Republic. Thanks for reading!

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Prague   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Grafissimo | Getty Images

32 Best Things to Do in Prague

Prague boasts some of the most picturesque architectural landmarks in Europe. Here you'll find the sprawling  Prague Castle , the bustling  Charles Bridge , the famous Astronomical Clock  in the Old Town , and the quirky, art nouveau Dancing House .

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí) Old Town Square (Staromestské námestí) free

Old Town Square is a popular spot in Prague, with travelers flocking here in droves for its beautiful architecture, colorful history and vibrant atmosphere. The UNESCO-listed square hasn't changed much since it was established in the 12th century when it functioned as the city's original marketplace. 

The square is home to some of the most historic attractions in the city, including the Old Town Hall, one of the best places to get a bird's-eye view of the city and the Prague Astronomical Clock, a beautiful timepiece dating back to the 1400s. Other architectural highlights found within the square include the baroque Church of St. Nicholas and the Church of Our Lady before Týn, instantly recognizable for its two Gothic spires. Meanwhile, the newest additions to the square include a monument erected in 1915 for the religious reformer Jan Hus. There are also several restaurants here that spill out onto the square during the warmer months as locals and travelers alike enjoy a coffee or a beer on the patios. And if you're visiting during the holiday season, expect the square to be filled with Christmas market shoppers.

Charles Bridge (Karluv most) Charles Bridge (Karluv most) free

The Charles Bridge connects Old Town ( Staré Mesto ) and Lesser Town ( Malá Strana ). Visitors come here to soak up the atmosphere, take in the views of the city and explore the 30 saint statues that line the bridge. Though the bridge dates back to 1357, the statues were crafted from 1683 to 1928 to honor numerous saints. 

Recent travelers said a visit to the bridge is a must-do, especially if it's your first time in Prague. But reviewers do warn that you'll likely encounter claustrophobic swarms of tourists and street vendors and you should keep a close watch on your valuables. Some suggest visiting at dawn or dusk to avoid the crowds; the congestion is at its worst in the afternoons, according to travelers. Visiting with a tour guide is another way to sidestep the crowds.

Prague Castle Prague Castle free

Holding the record for the largest coherent castle complex in the world, Prague Castle serves double duty as the office of the Czech president and a popular tourist destination. The complex where it stands is also home to several other attractions. 

Prague Castle has stood in this spot for more than a thousand years and covers a lot of area. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the grounds feature a variety of architectural styles, including everything from 10th-century Romanesque buildings to Gothic structures from the 14th century. Throughout its history, the castle and the area around it have gone through extensive restorations and renovations. 

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Petrin Hill Petrin Hill

For a breath of fresh air and a chance to exercise your legs, head to Petrín Hill, one of the largest green spaces in the city. Attractions here include the Rose Garden, or rosarium , at the top of the hill, Nebozízek Garden, the Mirror Maze (a labyrinth), and the Seminary Garden, which boasts more than 2,000 fruit trees. The area has been in use since at least the 12th century, serving as an execution site, vineyards and farming lands through the centuries.

Over the years, the land was divided into various gardens. One of the more famous attractions in the park is the Petrín Lookout Tower, which was built in 1891 and resembles a small Eiffel Tower . Head up its 299 steps to the top for amazing views overlooking the entire city, and on clear days, most of Bohemia. Recent travelers say the view is well worth the climb up (there is an elevator too), but it can get crowded. They recommend taking the funicular up, then walking back down.

St. Vitus Cathedral (Chrám svatého Víta) St. Vitus Cathedral (Chrám svatého Víta) free

Note: Due to construction work, the free part of the cathedral is inaccessible beginning in October 2023. No reopening date has been announced. You can still visit other sections of the cathedral with a paid ticket.

While the site of St. Vitus Cathedral dates back to about A.D. 925, the church that stands today is actually the third in honor of Saint Vitus (the patron saint of dancers, actors, comedians and epileptics). Consecrated in 1929, the cathedral features neo-Gothic stylings alongside Renaissance and baroque details. 

Náplavka Farmers Market Náplavka Farmers Market free

Tourists and locals alike enjoy perusing the Náplavka Farmers Market in Prague. Whether you're looking for an excellent snack or a keepsake from your visit, you'll be sure to find it at a stand in this sprawling marketplace. Alternatively, just stroll along the Vltava River and take in the sights and smells of the bustling vendors.

Previous visitors say that a majority of the stalls focus on food, so it's best to skip breakfast and arrive hungry. What's more, recent travelers appreciate the market's position along the Vltava River, close to other attractions like the National Theatre and the Dancing House as well as people-watching and the market's truly local atmosphere.

National Theatre (Národní divadlo) National Theatre (Národní divadlo)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Adjacent to the National Theatre, is the New Stage. Built in the 1980s, the modern theater is constructed from more than 4,000 blown glass bricks. Head upstairs to Café Nona to experience the interiors and sip a cuppa with elevated views of the city below. – Joann Plockova

The National Theatre is the place to come if you want to see opera, theater or ballet in Prague.

Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) free

Unsurprisingly, the Wallenstein Garden sits outside the Wallenstein Palace, home of the Senate of Czechia, in Prague's Mala Strana. Both the geometrically designed garden and the adjacent palace were built between 1623 and 1629. Given the era of the garden's construction, its baroque style and immense sala (a type of pavilion) are even more impressive. Travelers who stroll through the garden during the summer may be treated to a concert or theatrical performance.

Past visitors were particularly appreciative of the Wallenstein Garden's roaming white peacocks, which certainly add a whimsical feel to the area. Travelers also enjoyed the garden's water features, ranging from fountains to koi ponds. Additionally, access to the Wallenstein Garden is free, making it a cost-effective place to spend a sunny afternoon.

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Vinohrady Vinohrady

Considered one of my Prague's most desirable addresses, Vinohrady takes its name from the former vineyards that Charles IV ordered be planted in the area in the 14th century. Today, the leafy residential neighborhood attracts locals and visitors alike for its beautiful architecture, its plethora of cafes and restaurants, its pretty parks with views and a number of significant landmarks from Námestí Míru (Peace Square) to Prague's omnipresent TV tower.

Recent visitors appreciated the views from Vinohrady's parks including Riegrovy Sady; the district's peaceful churches, like the Church of St Ludmila on Námestí Míru and the neighborhood's pastel colored art nouveau buildings. They described Vinohrady as a happening place teeming with great cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants.

St. Nicholas Church (Chrám svatého Mikuláse) St. Nicholas Church (Chrám svatého Mikuláse)

Located in Lesser Town ( Malá Strana) , the St. Nicholas Church (not to be confused with the Church of St. Nicholas in  Old Town Square ) is well visited for its stunning baroque architecture, intricate frescoes and classical sculptures. 

Although the site of the church dates back to the 13th century, the construction of the church that stands today wasn't completed until the 1760s. Here, visitors will find expansive frescos as well as an organ system with more than 4,000 pipes that was once played my Mozart. Along with being an active parish, the church hosts dozens of concerts per year. 

Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Jewish Quarter (Josefov) free

Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, is home to several significant sites, including a number of important synagogues like the Spanish Synagogue and the Old New Synagogue, Europe's oldest active synagogue. While the six monuments, or sites, are collectively referred to as the Jewish Museum, there is no physical museum building. The Old Jewish Cemetery is a sight to behold. The oldest surviving cemetery of its kind, there are 12,000 visible graves and countless more underneath. With space at a premium, it became necessary for graves to be placed on top of each other, as many as 10 layers deep.

Recent travelers said the neighborhood offers a hands-on history of Jewish life in Czechia, although some complained about admission fees to individual synagogues or museums. Some spring for a spot on an organized tour group or an audio guide (which can be rented at the Jewish Museum in Prague's Reservation Center), but you can save some money and just explore on your own (ideally equipped with a detailed guidebook).

Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague) (Kostel Prazskeho Jezulatka) Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague) (Kostel Prazskeho Jezulatka) free

The Infant Jesus of Prague statue is thought to have been carved in Spain in the 16th century (though some argue it is older). It found its way to Prague in the mid-1500s. While the origin of the Infant Jesus statue remains unconfirmed (legend has it that the figure originally belonged to Saint Teresa of Avila), the statue certainly plays a significant role in Prague and the Roman Catholic Church. Many notable figures attributed miracles to the Infant Jesus of Prague over time, bolstering its status as a holy symbol. These miraculous claims were compounded by the church and statue's continued security, despite the multiple wars and periods of unrest in the city. As the statue's profile grew, copies of the Infant Jesus of Prague were (and continue to be) sent to churches around the world.

Regardless of their religious orientation, previous travelers praise the church for its beautiful decor. Visitors tend to go specifically to see the Infant Jesus statue or stumble upon the church and are delighted by its peaceful and quiet atmosphere, as well as the free admissions. Keep in mind that the ornate interior of the church is tiny, so don't allot a significant amount of time for the Church of Our Lady Victorious (Infant Jesus of Prague) unless you intend to attend Mass.

Prague Astronomical Clock Prague Astronomical Clock free

Located in the  Old Town Square , the Prague Astronomical Clock has been around since the 15th century, though it has required repairs many times over its history.

This clock doesn't display the time of day. Rather, it's meant to be used to determine the phases of the moon and the equinoxes. The clock uses depictions of symbols, such as a money bag representing greed, a figure looking at himself in a mirror to represent vanity and a skeleton to depict death. Each hour the clock shows a visualization of time unlike anything else in the world. 

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Spanish Synagogue Spanish Synagogue

Inspired by Granada's Alhambra, the Spanish Synagogue holds the distinction of being the most recently built synagogue in Prague's Jewish Quarter. While the Spanish Synagogue may be new by Prague's standards, the opulent place of worship actually completed construction in 1868, on the site of a 12th-century synagogue. The Spanish Synagogue operates as part of the Jewish Museum in Prague, so two permanent exhibitions, which focus on the history of Jews in Bohemian lands and showcase silver artifacts, are also on display.

The Moorish-style of the synagogue, as well as its beautiful interior, stuns recent visitors. They recommend visiting for an evening concert (the composer of the Czech national anthem once served as organist here) for a near-ethereal experience thanks to the building's excellent acoustics and elaborate design.

DOX Centre for Contemporary Art DOX Centre for Contemporary Art

The DOX Centre for Contemporary Art aims to inspire reflection on social topics and issues through its assortment of exhibitions. The eclectic nature of the Dox Centre means that travelers can expect to experience everything from design to sculpture to performance to film. Keep in mind that the unique design of the DOX Centre can confuse visitors (to the dismay of some recent guests), so you never know whether you'll stumble upon a zeppelin or an exhibition of tension.

Previous visitors' reactions to the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art were generally positive. Along with the thought provoking art, they appreciated the unique architecture and felt that the farther than expected trek to get there was well worth it. They warn not to get your hopes too high about a specific exhibition, though, as the museum frequently cycles its offerings. Recent travelers insist that along with the DOX Centre's design and book store, where you may find the perfect souvenir to bring home, you can relax at the cafe.

Letná Park Letná Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss the UNESCO-listed Expo 58 pavilion. Built in 1958 for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, it won the Golden Star Award: the World Fair's top prize. The pavilion hosts a new exhibition space presenting Czech and international art, though the glass and steel semicircular building is worth a look on its own. – Joann Plockova

Overlooking Prague's Old Town from across the Vltava River, Letná Park provides an excellent opportunity to relax. In addition to taking in the spectacular views, travelers can explore the park's landmarks: the Hanavský Pavilion, the first cast-iron structure and the home of a luxury restaurant; the Letná Carousel, the oldest surviving floored carousel in Europe; and the Prague Metronome, a 75-foot-long metronome designed to replace the largest statue of Stalin in the world.

National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror National Memorial to the Heroes of the Heydrich Terror free

Once the site of a World War II-standoff, this monument sits in an underground crypt of the Church of Sts. Cyril and Methodius. The location was a secret hideout, where the Czech Orthodox Church allowed seven Czechoslovak parachutists to hide after they were involved in the assassination of the Nazi Reich Protector Reinhard Heydrich in 1942. They hid in the church's crypt for three weeks until they were betrayed, and the Germans besieged the church. Three paratroopers were killed in the fight, while the other four took their own lives in a desperate act to avoid surrender. You can still see bullet marks and shrapnel marks on the walls.

During a visit, you'll see an exhibit and a video that details the Nazi persecution of the Czechs. You'll learn about the history of the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia in March 1939 and the arrival of Reinhard Heydrich as a representative of the Reich Protector in September 1941, as well as the subsequent reign of bloody terror. Past travelers said this museum is small, but very powerful and definitely worth visiting.

Troja Château (Trojský zámek) Troja Château (Trojský zámek)

The Troja Château stands apart from Prague's laundry list of historic monuments for its baroque style, extravagant frescos and picturesque grounds. The Bohemian castle began construction in 1679, while painters and sculptors contributed to the Troja Château's decorative element until its ultimate completion a few decades later. The castle traded hands until 1922 when the owner decided to donate it to the state. Since 1989 it has been under the administration of the Prague City Gallery, which also hosts exhibitions here.

These days, visitors marvel at the Troja Château's stunning trompe l'oeil ceiling, plus the assortment of additional art that lines the palace's walls. If you're lucky enough to visit during warm weather, previous travelers suggest taking in the Troja Château's architecture from the surrounding gardens and vineyards. Recent tourists recommend pairing a visit to the palace with the Prague Zoo , as the two attractions are adjacent.

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National Technical Museum National Technical Museum

Founded in 1908, the National Technical Museum evolved over the last century to include 14 exhibits that cover everything from architecture to astronomy to the measurement of time. Spend some time daydreaming about riding in the motorcycles, trains and airplanes found in the transportation hall, then take a deep dive into the Czech sugar production industry in the museum's "Sugar and Chocolate" exposition.

Recent visitors were impressed with the array of exhibits and topics covered here and said they would need to come back to take it all in. A number of visitors expressed their appreciation for the transport area in particular, but were disappointed by "do not touch" signs. Due to the assortment of displays, tourists describe the museum as an excellent place to go on cold and rainy days.

Žižkov Žižkov

It's been called the Montmartre of Prague for its steep, narrow streets. Locals often refer to it as "The Free Republic of Žižkov." This former workers' district beats to its own drum with an enduring bohemian vibe in parts and a lively atmosphere come night. One of the neighborhood's surrounding Prague's downtown, Žižkov loosely takes its name from Hussite military leader Jan Žižka, whose statue, one of the largest equestrian statues in the world, looms above the city on Vitkov Hill. Home to numerous restaurants, cafes and pubs, Žižkov is also home to its namesake TV Tower (look out for artist David Cerný's sculpted babies crawling up the sides), the grave of writer Franz Kafka in the New Jewish Cemetery and Palace Akropolis, a Prague institution of culture and nightlife where you can experience Žižkov's distinctive atmosphere firsthand.

Travelers typically describe Žižkov as one of the most exciting districts in the city. Visitors to the district's National Memorial on Vitkov Hill were impressed with the massive equestrian statue of Jan Žižka and the incredible view, while the area's unique cemeteries were noted as a surprising, peaceful oasis by several visitors.

Speculum Alchemiae Museum Speculum Alchemiae Museum

Housed in one of the oldest buildings in Prague, the Speculum Alchemiae Museum transports its visitors back to a time when alchemy seemed significantly more plausible. Tours (the only way to view the museum) lead visitors underground to the building's secret labs, where alchemists once tried to concoct elixirs for love, memory and eternal youth. Emperor Rudolf II allegedly built the labs during the 16th century and recent construction work of the building led to their rediscovery in 2002.

Previous visitors were pleasantly surprised by this museum and its short – but impressive – tours, which last around 30 minutes. They appreciated the history they learned, the mysterious atmosphere and the highly knowledgeable guides, although some visitors said they had trouble understanding their strong accents. Take note: The museum only accepts cash. Book in advance.

Prague Zoo Prague Zoo

U.S. News Insider Tip: Enhance your trip to the zoo by taking a boat ride to get there. You can get there by a local passenger ferry year-round and from April to October, you can take a steamboat. The steamboat trip lasts approximately 75 minutes and offers excellent views of the city. –  Joann Plockova

A popular attraction for families, the Prague Zoo offers more than 6 miles of walking trails and exhibits like the Africa House, the Indonesian Jungle and the Valley of the Elephants. Kids can also enjoy a play area called Bororo Reserve and other smaller playgrounds, plus an observation tower, pony rides, a scenic chairlift and more. Other exhibits include the Pavilion of Penguins, Lemur Valley and Bird World, among many others. You can also book a guided tour or sign up to be a "Keeper for a Day," a thrill for serious animal lovers.

National Museum (Národní muzeum) National Museum (Národní muzeum)

The National Museum, which anchors Wenceslas Square , finished construction in central Prague in 1891. Since its completion, the impressive building has undergone two military attacks, one in 1945 and the other in 1968. As a result of the attacks, plus a standard century of wear and tear, the museum began a much-needed reconstruction effort in July 2011 that lasted until 2019. A handful of exhibits are now open in the museum, which have titles including "History" and "Miracles of Evolution."

Recent visitors appreciated the impressive building, both inside and out. Although the architecture alone makes the museum worth a visit, travelers were also impressed by the size of the museum and the breadth of the exhibitions on offer from medieval history to natural history. A number of visitors also noted not to miss out on the observation tower, but said prepare for a long line.

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Municipal House (Obecní dum) Municipal House (Obecní dum)

Awash with art nouveau style, the Municipal House has been one of Prague's most prolific public buildings for more than 100 years. Before heading inside, be sure to check out the building's exterior, which is adorned with a colorful glass mosaic and sculptures representing cultural symbols of Prague. Artisans also covered the Municipal House's interior with more mosaics, stucco and metal work, murals and paintings. Once you've taken in the Municipal House's art, be sure to check out the building's restaurants, shops and event spaces. For a bit more context on the building's history and significance in Prague, consider signing up for one of the best tours in Prague  – many of which stop here.

Previous travelers say that the Municipal House is a must-visit for architecture and art enthusiasts alike. Along with appreciating the building as a shining example of art nouveau, they were particularly taken by the decorative work of Alfons Mucha in the interior. They recommend stopping by the Smetana Hall for a concert, or at least to take in the stylish room. Then, head to the restaurant, café or Tretter's American Bar downstairs for a relaxing drink.

Lobkowicz Palace Lobkowicz Palace

Owned by the Lobkowicz noble family, this is the only privately-owned part of Prague Castle . The 16th-century palace holds treasures, such as works by masters like Canaletto, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Cranach and Velzqáuez, as well as a display of family and royal portraits. Equally impressive is the collection of musical instruments and original scores and manuscripts by Beethoven and Mozart, including Beethoven's 4th and 5th symphonies and Mozart's re-orchestration of Handel's "Messiah."

The included 30-minute audio tour, narrated by palace owners Alexandra and William Lobkowicz, offers visitors an overview of the history of the Czech lands through the centuries. In addition, there are daily midday classical concerts (for an additional fee). Recent visitors said the museum is fascinating, with great views and they highly recommend taking in a concert.

Dancing House (Tancící dum) Dancing House (Tancící dum) free

Since its completion in 1996, this distinctive building on the Rašínovo embankment next to the Vltava River has been a modern landmark in Prague. Designed by renowned American architect Frank Gehry and Czech architect Vlado Milunic, the Dancing House gets its name from its distinctive shape inspired by dancing duo Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire. Ginger is represented by the shapely glass tower and Fred, the adjoined stone building with its punctuated windows. It's unsurprising that the building is nicknamed Ginger & Fred. The deconstructive style building replaced a former building destroyed during the American air bombing of Prague in 1945. Today the Dancing House is home to a restaurant, gallery, hotel and the Glass Bar at the top.

Architecture buffs appreciate views of this modern building alongside the city's historic architecture. While some visitors were highly impressed with the expansive riverside views from the bar on the top floor, others were disappointed that the cost to see the interior was an expensive drink.

Karlštejn Castle Karlštejn Castle

Located about 20 miles southwest of downtown Prague, Karlštejn Castle is an excellent daytrip destination for travelers hoping to get out of the city. Originally constructed in 1348 with Gothic architecture, Karlštejn Castle was reconstructed in the 16th century to sport the Renaissance style of the time, before being remodeled again with neo-Gothic architecture in the 19th century. Many original features of the castle have been preserved, while its continuous reconstruction makes the amalgamation of styles especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts. Regardless of your interest in buildings, the Karlštejn Castle offers a variety of interesting features for travelers to take in.

Recent visitors were very impressed with this castle, but noted that some of the objects and displays inside were replicas. Visitors said it's easy to get there by train from downtown Prague (the ride is about 40 minutes), but they warn that the 1.5-mile walk between the station and the castle is not for everyone, though you can take a taxi from the station.

Golden Lane Golden Lane

Golden Lane sits adjacent to the Prague Castle and consists of an assortment of small, brightly painted houses. These houses used to host historical figures, like Franz Kafka, from their construction near the end of the 16th century until World War II. Now, an assortment of shops and museums occupy the houses of Golden Lane. The street derives its name from the goldsmiths who once lived there.

Past visitors particularly enjoyed Golden Lane's historical exhibits, which include an armory, a chemist house and a torture chamber. They also warn of thick crowds. Admission to the Golden Lane comes included in the Prague Castle basic circuit ticket, to the delight of recent visitors, which cost 250 koruna (about $11). The Golden Lane is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (until 4 p.m. during the winter season), and more information is available on the Prague Castle's website .

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John Lennon Wall John Lennon Wall free

After the killing of John Lennon in 1980, an activist painted an image of the Beatles' lead singer on the wall opposite the French Embassy. This small act of deviance (Communist Czechoslovakia banned Western images and symbols) blossomed into a colorful collage of protest text, images and lyrics. The city's secret police continuously whitewashed the wall, which young Czechs subsequently covered with more graffiti. Even after Communist Czechoslovakia fell and the country divided in two, the John Lennon Wall continued to evolve, most recently sporting fresh coats of paint in 2014 and 2019.

Today, the John Lennon Wall attracts travelers from around the world and is a featured stop on many of the best Prague tours . Beatles fans will appreciate the riffs on the band's popular lyrics, though it does not take a music enthusiast to enjoy the wall's bright colors.

Wenceslas Square (Václavské námestí) Wenceslas Square (Václavské námestí) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a different take on the Statue of Saint Wenceslas, head to Vodickova Street, then take a left inside Lucerna Passage. Hanging from the ceiling is an upside down version of the statue by Czech artist David Cerný. The passage, one of many throughout the city, is worth a look on its own. – Joann Plockova

Wenceslas Square, which is one of Prague's two main squares (the other being the Old Town Square ), is a modern slice of this historic city. Cafes, casinos and clubs are all located nearby, while the National Museum is the area's most visually stunning spot. Despite the exceedingly modern storefronts nearby, the square firmly established itself in Prague's history due to its role as a gathering place during the Velvet Revolution, in addition to other cultural moments. Wenceslas Square also houses the Statue of Saint Wenceslas, a patron saint of Prague whose statue overlooked many important moments in the history of Czechia.

Sedlec Ossuary Sedlec Ossuary

Call it beautiful, call it bizarre, the Sedlec Ossuary is one of Central Bohemia's most popular sites. Located just outside the town of Kutná Hora, the so-called Bone Church features human bones fashioned into mystical, macabre decorations including chandeliers, crosses, garlands and a coat of arms. This medieval, underground chapel is located below the Cemetery Church of All Saints, once a Cistercian Abbey. Legend has it that one of the abbots returned from a trip to the Holy Land with a handful of soil, which he spread on the grounds and turned the cemetery into Sacred Fields (which subsequently made it a sought-after burial location). The ossuary was designed in the Baroque Gothic style by architect Jan Blažej Santini Aiche. The bones from the exhumed remains of 40,000 deceased (from both the plague and the Hussite War) were transformed into the spellbinding decorations in the 16th century.

Recent visitors described the ossuary under the main chapel as fascinating, unique and a bit creepy. Others found the experience very moving. The short journey from Prague to get there (approximately 1 hour via train) was appreciated. Keep your phones in your pocket on arrival because photos are strictly prohibited.

Vyšehrad Vyšehrad

With a history that dates back to the 10th century, Vyšehrad has many faces. But this baroque fortress – which sits on a rocky promontory above the Vltava River – is first and foremost a beloved, magical place where locals go to walk its expansive grounds and look out at what are undeniably some of the most breathtaking views of the city. Vyšehrad's greatest period began during the 11th century when it was the seat of Vratislaus II – the first King of Bohemia – and rivaled Prague Castle. Once its own town even, this National Cultural Monument is home to the Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin; the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, whose two towers are a Prague landmark; and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, where you can find the graves of Czech luminaries including composer Antonín Dvorák, writer Karel Capek and painter Alfons Mucha, among other personalities.

Recent travelers appreciated the building's serene setting that offers a break from the hustle and bustle of the city as well as exceptional views. A number of visitors were impressed with Vyšehrad's unique history, its buildings and underground casements and strolling the park-like grounds.

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10 quintessential Prague experiences

Feb 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Prague’s lively coffee culture offers an essential introduction to the city’s culture © Sean Gallup / Getty Images

Most people start their visit to the Czech Republic in Prague , the cradle of Czech culture and one of Europe’s most intriguing capitals.

Famous for its Gothic architecture and its incredible castle complex, Prague is also a vibrant city with beer gardens, modern as well as traditional cafes, and a developing foodie scene. Start planning your trip with this guide to the very best things to do.

1. Recharge at a traditional coffeehouse

Prague has become a haven for specialty coffee lovers . Slow drip, nitro brew, Chemex: coffee fans have all bases covered. The popular Vinohrady district contains the highest concentration of contemporary cafes, though it’s easy to find good coffee all over the city. 

Yet you may be more interested in experiencing the charm of days gone by at one of Prague’s more traditional coffeehouses.  Grand Cafe Orient  is located in a stunning Cubist building near the Old Town Square, while  Café Imperial  brings you back to a more elegant era.

Planning tip:  Want to enjoy some live music with your brew? Head to  Kavárna Slavia , once a popular hangout of the late Czech president Václav Havel, where a professional pianist plays live every evening from 5pm.

2. Admire historic architecture

Baroque structures abound in Prague, especially in the Lesser Quarter area. St Nicolas Church is a fine example: with rich frescoes decorating its walls and its large green dome, this cathedral represents one of the grandest Baroque displays found in Central Europe.

The era of Cubism may have been short-lived, but Prague found a special affinity for the style. The angled lines of Prague Cubism can be studied at the House of the Black Madonna in the Old Town, which houses a small  Museum of Czech Cubism , as well as the Cubist-inflected Grand Cafe Orient.

3. Unwind in one of Prague’s lush parks and hiking spots

Prague is home to many green spaces , with plenty of shaded resting areas. Beer gardens are also a big draw, especially in the heat of summer. Hilly parks such as the one in  Letná or  Riegrovy Sady  offer views out over the city. 

If you crave a wilder nature escape, Prague has some fantastic hiking opportunities just a stone’s throw away from the city center. One of the most popular hiking getaways for Prague locals is the Prokopské údolí valley , featuring winding trails through forests and meadows.  Divoká Šárka is another great – and wilder – area, with creeks and marshes to explore.

4. Indulge in hearty Czech cuisine

By hearty, we mean Czech classics such as svíčková (sirloin beef and bread dumplings generously topped with a creamy sauce), vepřo knedlo zelo (roasted pork with sauerkraut and bread dumplings), fried cheese, and a few widely adopted staples from neighboring countries, like goulash and schnitzel. You can enjoy such traditional fare a local chain of pubs called  Lokál , whose dishes are prepared so well that they’d please even the most finicky Czech elders. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a crisp beer to aid your digestion, like a Pilsner Urquell, a Prague-brewed Staropramen or a malty dark Velkopopovický kozel.

Local tip:  Smaller breweries have taken Prague by storm, too. A local favorite, the  Dva Kohouti (Two Roosters) mini-brewery is located in the industrial-turned-hipster neighborhood of Karlín .

5. Cross the enchanting Charles Bridge

Whether you visit alone in the early-morning mist or shoulder your way through the afternoon throngs, crossing Charles Bridge is a quintessential Prague experience. Constructed in 1357, the picturesque span connects the medieval  Old Town and the Lesser Quarter, at the foot of Prague Castle. (Local legend says eggs were used to create the mortar for its construction, and have held its 16 elegant arches together for 500-plus years.) Climbing the bridge tower on the Old Town side provides a bird’s-eye view of this intricate bridge, with the castle above.

6. Chill by the river at Náplavka

On sunny afternoons, you’ll find many Czechs relaxing in the Náplavka riverbank area. Both day and night , it’s lined with barges selling refreshments, from classic sausages to beers and cocktails. At sunset, it’s an especially gorgeous spot to settle in. If you want to do it in the Czech style, take a bottle of wine, a couple of fellow travelers and a blanket to sit on. Dangle your feet over the water watching the swans and ducks float by. 

Planning tip:  Visit on Saturdays to enjoy the farmers market , with its organic produce, fresh bakery items and live music.

7. Behold Vyšehrad, the first seat of Czech royalty

Icons of the Prague skyline, the two neo-Gothic spires of the Basilica of Sts Peter and Paul are perched atop the Vyšehrad hill. The historic fort of  Vyšehrad was built during the 10th century, and became the seat of the first Czech ruler, King Vratislav II of the Přemyslid dynasty, a century later.

A walk through the adjacent grandiose  cemetery  will take you past the final resting place of many famous Czechs, such as the composers Bedřich Smetana and Antonín Dvořák, as well as the renowned writers Karel Čapek and Jan Neruda.

8. Watch the Astronomical Clock 

A mechanical masterpiece that dates tot he Middle Ages, the  Astronomical Clock is the world’s oldest functioning one. At the top of every hour, 12 mechanical apostles parade between small doorways above the face of the clock. Crowds of visitors start to gather hourly to watch as the playful spectacle unfolds.

Local tip: Pickpockets are known to take advantage of people’s focus being on the clock, so be mindful of your belongings during the hourly display.

9. Ride the funicular to Petřín

An Eiffel Tower lookalike, the  Petřín observation tower  stands atop Petřín hill. If you fancy a workout, you’ll enjoy the walk up, stopping at plenty of spots to admire beautiful city views. The other, softer option is to ride a small funicular to the top. As it’s part of the Prague transportation system, you can use the same tickets for the funicular as you do for the trams and the metro. 

Planning tip:  Once you’ve reached the top of the hill, climbing the actual Petřín tower can be quite vertigo-inducing. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded by marvelous views.

10. Explore Prague Castle

More than 1000 years of history lives within the walls of Prague’s hilltop castle , a complex of churches, towers, halls and palaces that is almost like a small city in its own right. This UNESCO World Heritage–listed site is the cultural and historical heart of the country – both as a repository for national treasures and the backdrop for many significant historic events, including the coronations of the kings of Bohemia and the election of Václav Havel as president in 1989. The jewel in the crown, St Vitus Cathedral , is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.

Planning tip:  Also make time to wander the charming (if touristy)  Golden Lane . This antique path is lined by small, colorful houses, originally constructed as residences for the castle guards. Later it accommodated local goldsmiths, hence its name today.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2024

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The 31 best things to do in Prague

Don't miss our picks of the best things to do in Prague, from hipster hangouts to wacky theatre shows

From its cultural offerings to its drinking scene, Prague is a very special place. This city is bursting with character, and new things to do are popping up all the time (like the new Pilsner beer tasting experience, now on our list). 

Discover beautiful parks, cracking beer gardens and some very good theatre, but make sure you leave some time to stroll Prague’s curious backstreets and admire its ancient buildings. From markets and restaurants to the magnificent Charles Bridge, here are the best things to do in Prague, picked by local writers.  

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best  restaurants in Prague 🪩 The best nightlife spots in Prague 🛍️ The best shopping in Prague 🏨 The best hotels in Prague   🛏 The best  Airbnbs in Prague

This guide was updated by Yaren Fadiloglulari ,  a writer based in Prague.   At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

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What to do in Prague

1.  Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge sits on the Vltava river, and is a spectacle to behold from afar, as well as the view from the bridge being mighty fine in itself. Back in the day, the bridge was the thing that connected Prague’s Old Town to its Prague Castle, so it’s a pretty important part of the city’s history. It’s also featured in a ton of poems and novels, because it’s just that nice. Plus, especially if you go early or late, it’s pretty empty, and it’s the perfect place for a romantic snap for the Insta. 

2.  Wenceslas Square

For the hustle and bustle of Prague, Wenceslas Square is the place. The square has historically held some of the city’s most important historical moments, including major protests. It’s also got that famous statue of St Wenceslas on his horse. Now, not only can you feel its history in the air, but it’s a great spot for shopping, with everything from cafés to clothing. Our top tip is to get the guided walking tour to learn more about the square’s fascinating history. 

3.  Letná Park

• Attractions
• Parks and gardens

Climb up to Letná Park and get yet another breathtaking perspective over Prague. In the past decade, Prague 7 (first-time visitors, take note: Prague is divided into sections and assigned numbers) has morphed from a sleepy residential neighbourhood into one that’s vibrant and full of cool boutiques and restaurants. Letná Park features a massive kinetic sculpture of a moving metronome; its foundation was once the base of an enormous Stalin monument torn down in 1962. Letná beer garden’s park benches and views of the Old Town across the Vltava are an after-work favourite among locals, dog walkers and international travellers. Note that despite the idyllic picnic setting, you’re not allowed to bring any food or drink from outside into the beer garden.

4.  Prague Castle

Dominated by the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, the ninth-century Prague Castle has been a seat of power for Czech emperors, kings and presidents alike. Exploring every corner of these massive fortifications would take an entire trip, so read up in advance and take your pick. Our favourite sights include the tiny houses of Golden Lane, the Romanesque façade of St George’s Basilica, and the manicured landscapes of the South Gardens. Not even to mention Alphonse Mucha’s striking stained-glass windows.

5.  Palác Lucerna

• Historic buildings and sites

Passage Lucerna is where tourists flock to see one of David Černý’s most controversial sculptures – of a saint riding an upside-down horse – but there’s so much more to explore. The passage boasts a collection of shops, an early 1900s-style café, a well-preserved old cinema, a rooftop bar in summer, and a nostalgic ’80s and ’90s party every weekend at Lucerna Music Bar. The building itself was designed by the father of Vaclav Havel (the first president of independent Czechoslovakia and later the Czech Republic, after it split from Slovakia). It’s worth getting to know both Černý and Havel, as both men have left major impressions on the city as it is today.

6.  Beer tasting at Pilsner Urquell

Discover the Czech Republic’s beloved brand, the world’s first Pilsner beer in the heart of Prague, right at the bottom of Wenceslas Square. Pilsner Urquell: The Original Beer Experience takes you on a 90-minute journey featuring an audioguide, light shows, a game hall, and of course, beer tasting. A great opportunity to learn about Czech beer culture, the immersive tour also introduces visitors to the three traditional beer-pouring techniques, each with different amounts of foam. Oh, and the end of the tour doesn’t mean the end of beer tasting — your ticket includes two more beers at the Beer Hall. Raise your glass, say  na zdraví , and enjoy the creamy, delicious beer.

7.  Vyšehrad

• price 1 of 4

Though Prague has no shortage of viewpoints and photo-worthy panoramas, the tourist crowds can get a bit annoying. If you’re the type of traveller who likes a little breathing room, head over to Vyšehrad. The hillside views are a bonus on top of its parks sprinkled with statues, a peaceful cemetery, an eye-catching cathedral, and one of the city’s best beer gardens. The red line (also called the C line) stops here – making it easy to access the fort’s gothic spires and relaxing grounds just off the banks of the Vltava.

8.  Jára Cimrman Theatre

The Czech sense of humour is notoriously dry and occasionally quite dark. This makes translating some of the country’s most famous plays and novels quite the task, but one that Cimrman English Theatre tackles with a wink and cheeky grin. Think of the fictional Jára Cimrman as the Czech ‘Most Interesting Man in the World’ with a theatre in the Žižkov neighbourhood devoted to telling tales of his escapades. Performances take place in both Czech and English, so double-check the language when you buy tickets for an introduction to this local legend.

9.  Old Town Square

Another Prague sight that is both extraordinarily popular and justifiably so, the city’s 600-year-old Old Town Square is a spectacularly diverse mish-mash of attractions. Much of the Prague you’ll likely have seen in pictures is here – from the Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn to the statue of martyred religious leader Jan Hus and the towering gothic spires of the main church. Be sure to catch a free walking tour, which will start at the square’s northern edge and unveil its dense, complex history. Visiting at Christmas and Easter provides extra charms, thanks to atmospheric seasonal markets.

10.  Devil’s Stream

• Sightseeing

Plenty of legends swirl around Čertovka (the Devil’s Stream). One story has it that the amicable ghost of Karbourek, the Water Sprite, blesses those who give him a beer with pikes or eels. Another tale tells how the stream is haunted by a vicious old woman who lived off Maltese Square at a house called ‘At the Seven Devils’. She was infamous for hexing people who dared encroach upon her home. You can sneak a peek of Karbourek near the John Lennon Wall (note that rules for the graffiti wall are getting stricter, so read the signage before scrawling your name). 

More great things to do in Prague

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A food guide to Prague

Slow-roasted meats and fluffy dumplings are being reimagined by a new generation of Czech chefs.

For decades, Czechs saw their cuisine in one light — hearty, simple food made to keep you full, with ingredients that could be bought (or grown) during trying times. Meals were made for big families gathered on Sundays — classics like cumin-roasted pork, wild rabbit or the creamy dill sauce, koprová omáčka, were never found in fine dining establishments. But now, you’ll see them plated on elegant crystal at the Michelin-starred La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise, a restaurant that books out months in advance.

Prague’s best places to eat draw upon the many chefs, educated both here and abroad, who return to the city determined to rebrand their cuisine, combining traditional recipes and flavours with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and diverse techniques.

At Výčep, chef Jiří Hrachový and his team sit at the forefront of modern Czech gastronomy, putting their own spin on classic pub food. Thick sauces and flavour-packed broths beautifully underscore its fish, venison and rabbit dishes. Meanwhile, the revamped Štangl uses innovative ways to highlight select ingredients and let them shine, making stars of raw materials like foraged mushrooms, roasted duck and buckwheat.  

Then there’s the Ze Mě project, a farm-to-table pop-up that often includes game meat and foraged ingredients, such as blueberries, mushrooms and edible flowers. And the recently opened Šodó bistro puts emphasis on seasonal produce to elevate dishes like yeasted buns in vanilla sauce and fruit-filled dumplings.  

Despite an abundance of spots experimenting with regional cuisine in the capital, the city hasn’t lost its passion for casual, communal places to eat. The centrepiece of Prague’s food scene remains the traditional hospoda (pub) and pilsner. After all, beer is famously often cheaper than water here, and most days you’ll find locals gathered to grab a drink at Automat Matuška in Dejvice, Lokál U Bílé Kuželky with its tall glasses of Kozel beer, or at U Zlatého Tygra in the Old Town, where beer cheese dip is served alongside the brews.  

Tourists have long flocked to Prague for its storied history and atmospheric cobblestone streets, lined with rows of pastel-coloured buildings. Considered by many to be one of the Europe’s most beautiful cities, until recently the Czech capital had never attracted food-focused travellers. Now, however, the city is evolving into a destination for those seeking a rich blend of history alongside a vibrant, experimental food scene.

How to spend a day in Holešovice & Letná

Twenty years ago, Prague’s Holešovice neighbourhood was a suburb with not much going on. Today, you’ll find small boutiques, minimalist new restaurants and cafes serving speciality coffee.  

To the east, Holešovice Farmers’ Market remains a permanent fixture with fresh pastries and local produce. Start with breakfast at Café Letka , on the border of Holešovice and Letná, for seasonal dishes from across Europe; don’t skip the pastries or espresso, as they’re some of the best this side of the city. Prefer a quick bite? Try Format Coffee for coffee and cake.  

Wander over to the National Technical Museum , a tribute to Czech Republic’s little-known yet groundbreaking automotive, train and plane inventions over the last 100 years. Next door, the National Museum of Agriculture is a fun stop, with interactive exhibits on farming and gastronomy.  

Pause for a pint at Letná Beer Garden (cash only), for sweeping views of Prague and classic pilsner beer or speciality brews. Then lunch at Sandwich Rodeo , Tomáš Oujezdský’s newly opened upscale diner, which serves creative takes on classic American sandwiches, with local brews and homemade lemonades. Try the crispy fried chicken and chopped cheese.

Walk it off at the National Gallery Prague with works from Picasso and Monet, and Czech artists including art nouveau painter Alphonse Mucha. Or stroll through Stromovka Royal Game Reserve , a former royal game park with ornamental ponds and hiking trails.  

The Eatery , a Prague food scene staple, has a menu of creative Czech dishes that use locally sourced ingredients, such as wild boar with rosehip sauce, paired with small-production wine from Bohemia, Moravia as well as wider Europe. Round off the day with a seat at the counter to see the team in action.

How to spend a day in Nové Město and Staré Město

With gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture, Prague’s historic city centre draws tourists from near and far. Nové Město and Staré Město — New Town and Old Town — have traditionally offered visitors some of Prague’s least impressive cuisine.

Nowadays, though, a growing number of upscale restaurants and cosy cafes make it a destination that food-lovers should seek out. Start at EMA Espresso Bar , a hip, minimalist affair known for its killer coffee and simple baked goods. The real gem here is the koláče, a sweet pastry made by beloved local bakery Alf & Bet , which tastes like the sort of traditional home-bake a Czech grandma might make.  

Walking is the best way to experience central Prague. From Prašná brána (one of the city’s gates) head down the winding streets to Old Town Square . Wait to see the Twelve Apostles appear on the over 600-year-old astronomical clock.  

From here, cobblestone paths lead to the beautiful Charles Bridge . For the best upscale lunch spot, head to elegant Café Louvre , a 120-year-old staple once frequented by the likes of Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein. Its small menu offers traditional tasty dishes like goulash and pork shoulder.  

Alternatively, if you’ve had your fill of Czech food, visit QQ Asian Kitchen , where chefs Nyoman Purnata and Lee Chang blend family-style pan-Asian cuisine with inventive fine dining. Or, for a lighter meal, try   Palo Verde Bistro , an innovative restaurant with plant-based dishes ranging from mushroom tortellini to crispy non-chicken burger.

Rent a paddleboat at Slovanka Boat Rentals to spend a couple of hours paddling along the Vltava River. Afterwards, follow Náplavka riverbank walkway, stopping at the renovated kobky   — former waterside dungeons that now house bars, cafes and art exhibits.  

End the day at U Kalendů , just south of the Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunić-designed Dancing House. This modern Czech restaurant puts a fresh spin on traditional food. Expect fried carp, homemade pâté and flavourful beef tartare paired with soft homemade bread and local brews.

The best spots to try Svíčková

Don’t leave Prague without trying svíčková, the meaty sauce-covered heart and soul of Czech food, and arguably the country’s most beloved dish. Most Czechs have an opinion on what (and who) makes the best svíčková and, in almost all cases, this comprises tender roasted beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce that’s a sweet-savoury blend of roasted carrot, parsley root, celery, onion and spices. Classic iterations are finished with a dollop of cranberry compote or cream.

1. Lokál Dlouhááá A must-try version of svíčková can be found at the modern pub-like Lokál Dlouhááá in central Prague, where the menu focuses on traditional Czech meals done well. Its svíčková highlights the vegetables in the sauce (rather than swamps them in cream, as variations of this dish often do), with pull-apart tender beef.

2. Havelská Koruna Havelská Koruna near the Old Town has a no-frills take on the classic. This self-service spot draws in both locals and visitors with its creamy sauce and generously plump dumplings.  

3. Kuchyň Wander up to Prague Castle for one of the best restaurants in the city, Kuchyň. Chef Marek Janouch serves elevated svíčková with the fluffiest dumplings. As Kuchyň’s menu is seasonal, the dish is most often found in autumn or winter, and pairs well with the venue’s tank beer.

Related Topics

• FINE CUISINE
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• CITY GUIDES
• FOOD CULTURE

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