Cesky Krumlov: A Fairytale Escape

Cesky Krumlov is undoubtedly the most popular day trip destination. This stunning town sits near the Austrian border. It features a massive castle complex overlooking a winding river. The entire city center is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travelers should plan for a full day here. The journey takes about three hours one way by bus. Buses are generally faster and more direct than trains. Companies like FlixBus or RegioJet offer frequent daily departures.

The streets look exactly like pages from a storybook. You can wander through crooked alleys lined with Renaissance houses. The Vltava River loops dramatically around the historic old town. Many visitors enjoy rafting during the warm summer months.

Do not miss a tour of the castle interiors. The Baroque theater is one of the best-preserved in Europe. Climb the castle tower for breathtaking panoramic views. For a detailed itinerary, check our complete Cesky Krumlov guide.

Dining here offers traditional Bohemian flavors by the water. Prices are slightly higher than in rural villages. However, the atmosphere justifies the cost completely. booking your return tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Kutna Hora and the Bone Church

Kutna Hora offers a fascinating mix of history and macabre art. This town was once the economic rival of Prague. Its wealth came from vast silver mines underneath the city. Today, it remains a favorite spot for history buffs.

The most famous attraction is the Sedlec Ossuary. This small chapel contains the bones of 40,000 to 70,000 people. The bones are artistically arranged into decorations and furnishings. A massive chandelier made of bones hangs from the ceiling.

You can reach the town easily by train. Trains depart frequently from Prague’s main station (Hlavni Nadrazi). The ride takes approximately one hour each way. Read more about the Kutna Hora bone church tour.

Visit the magnificent St. Barbara's Cathedral afterwards. This Gothic masterpiece rivals the St. Vitus Cathedral in beauty. The flying buttresses and spires create a dramatic silhouette. The walk from the ossuary to the cathedral is pleasant.

The town center is quiet and very walkable. You can explore the Italian Court or the Silver Museum. Many restaurants serve excellent local game dishes. It is a perfect destination for a half-day or full-day trip.

Bohemian Switzerland National Park

Nature enthusiasts should head north to this stunning park. Bohemian Switzerland offers dramatic sandstone formations and deep forests. It sits right on the border with Germany. The landscape has inspired artists and filmmakers for centuries.

The main attraction is the Pravcicka Brana. It is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. The hike up to the arch is moderately steep. The views from the top are absolutely spectacular.

Another highlight is the boat ride through Edmund Gorge. You float quietly between towering vertical rock walls. The ferryman often shares funny stories about the rock shapes. check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal opening times.

Getting here requires a bit more planning. Take a train to Decin and then a local bus. The total travel time is around two hours. Review our specific guide on Bohemian Switzerland hiking.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes for this adventure. The terrain can be uneven and rocky in places. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the trails. This trip provides a refreshing break from city sightseeing.

Terezin Memorial: A Somber History

A visit to Terezin is a powerful educational experience. This former military fortress served as a concentration camp. It was used by Nazis during World War II. The site now stands as a memorial to the victims.

The complex is divided into two main parts. The Small Fortress was a prison for political prisoners. The Main Fortress served as a Jewish ghetto. You can walk through the barracks and solitary cells.

Direct buses leave from Prague’s Holesovice station. The ride takes just under an hour. It is an easy trip to do on your own. Learn how to plan your Terezin concentration camp visit.

The Ghetto Museum provides heartbreaking context and history. Displays include drawings made by children who lived there. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful throughout the town. Most visitors spend about four hours exploring the sites.

Karlstejn Castle: The Royal Retreat

Karlstejn Castle is the quintessential Czech castle experience. Emperor Charles IV built it to safeguard the crown jewels. It sits majestically on a hill surrounded by forests. This is the most popular castle destination near Prague.

Trains run every 30 minutes from the capital. The journey takes only 40 minutes to the base village. You then enjoy a scenic uphill walk to the gates. Horse carriages are available if you prefer not to walk.

Booking a tour in advance is essential. The interiors are only accessible via guided group tours. You can choose from different tour circuits. Find out more about visiting Karlstejn Castle from Prague.

The village below offers plenty of souvenir shops. You can buy local crystal or wooden toys here. Restaurants serve hearty Czech classics like goulash and dumplings. The views of the castle from below are postcard-perfect.

Hiking trails surround the castle area as well. A popular route leads to an old quarry nearby. The quarry is known as "Little America" for its beauty. It makes for a wonderful outdoor extension to your trip.

Relaxing Spa Day in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is world-famous for its thermal springs. The town features elegant colonnades and colorful architecture. It has hosted royalty and celebrities for centuries. The atmosphere is one of relaxation and luxury.

You can taste the mineral waters from special cups. There are several springs with varying temperatures scattered around. Be warned that the water has a strong mineral taste. It is believed to have significant healing properties.

The bus ride from Prague takes about two hours. The station is close to the pedestrian center. You can walk everywhere within the main spa district. Find more details on planning a Karlovy Vary spa trip.

Don't leave without trying the local spa wafers. These thin, sweet treats are sold warm on the street. You should also try Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. The Prague info center often recommends this town for relaxation.