Just a short train ride from Prague, you'll find charming towns and stunning landscapes that make for ideal day trips. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into Czech history, culture, and natural beauty that busy travelers can explore within a day.
About 170 kilometers (106 miles) from Prague, Český Krumlov is known for its Renaissance architecture and the stunning Český Krumlov Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To get there, take a direct train from Prague's main station (Praha Hlavní Nádraží) to Český Krumlov, which takes around 2.5 hours and costs approximately 250 CZK (about $11 USD). Upon arrival, the town's cobbled streets and picturesque houses will transport you back in time.
While there, make sure to explore the castle grounds, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river and town. The guided tour of the castle is 220 CZK ($10 USD) and is well worth it for the interior's stunning art and history. For lunch, visit the charming restaurant Krcma v Šatlavske, where you can sample traditional Czech dishes like goulash for around 150 CZK ($7 USD), making it a perfect pit stop to fuel your exploration.
Just an hour east of Prague, Kutná Hora is famous for its historic silver mines and the stunning Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the Bone Church. To reach it, catch a train from the main station to Kutná Hora, which will set you back around 150 CZK ($7 USD) and takes about 1 hour. The Bone Church, decorated with the bones of thousands, charges an entry fee of 100 CZK ($4.50 USD) and is both macabre and fascinating.
After your visit, head to the nearby Café Srdíčko for a quick coffee and Czech pastries, which typically cost around 80 CZK ($3.50 USD). Don’t miss the Gothic St. Barbara’s Church, where the entrance fee is about 50 CZK ($2.25 USD) and offers stunning stained glass and detailed architecture. You can easily spend a full day here, indulging in history and culture.
Karlovy Vary, approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Prague, is renowned for its hot springs and luxurious spas. You can reach this elegant town in about 2 hours by taking a bus from the Florenc bus station, costing around 200 CZK ($9 USD). The town is famous for its thermal springs, so after exploring the beautiful colonnades and parks, relax with a wellness treatment at one of the many spas, such as the historic Hotel Imperial.
For lunch, try the local specialty, 'trdelník' (a type of chimney cake), from a street vendor for about 50 CZK ($2.25 USD). If you prefer a sit-down meal, visit Restaurace Le Marché for a modern take on Czech cuisine; expect to pay around 350 CZK ($15.50 USD) for a main dish. Spend the afternoon strolling through the Dvořákovy Sady park or take a scenic walk along the Teplá River before heading back to Prague.
Traveling from Prague to these picturesque destinations is straightforward, but here are essential tips to maximize your experience.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Train to Český Krumlov | 250 CZK | 2.5 hours, direct from Praha Hlavní Nádraží |
| Český Krumlov Castle Tour | 220 CZK | Includes access to castle grounds |
| Lunch at Krcma v Šatlavske | 150 CZK | Traditional Czech goulash |
| Train to Kutná Hora | 150 CZK | 1 hour from Praha Hlavní Nádraží |
| Sedlec Ossuary Entry Fee | 100 CZK | Unique bone church experience |
| Café Srdíčko Pastry | 80 CZK | Traditional Czech treat |
| Bus to Karlovy Vary | 200 CZK | 2 hours from Florenc bus station |
| Lunch at a Street Vendor | 50 CZK | Try the local chimney cake |
Use this rough planner to sanity-check the total trip cost before you lock flights, hotels or activities.
The best options for booking transportation are via the České dráhy (Czech Railways) website or the FlixBus app for buses. Both platforms allow you to compare schedules, prices, and book tickets directly online. It’s advisable to book at least a day in advance to secure better rates, especially during peak tourist seasons.
For most day trips, allocate at least 8 to 10 hours for travel and sightseeing. This includes travel time (around 2-3 hours each way) and ample time to explore your chosen destination. Arriving early can help you make the most of your day, as many attractions open between 9:00 and 10:00 AM.
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