Nestled in the heart of Europe, Prague is a city rich in culture and history. With its stunning architecture, picturesque streets, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder that millions of visitors flock to this charming city every year.
But if you’re looking to explore beyond the cobblestone alleys and iconic landmarks, there are plenty of exciting day trips waiting just outside the city limits. From fairytale castles to quaint medieval towns, we’ve rounded up the best day trips from Prague that will leave you enchanted with Central Europe’s beauty. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
Cesky Krumlov
Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful medieval town located about two hours from Prague. The town is home to a large castle, and the streets are lined with quaint shops and cafes. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, take a boat ride on the river, or simply wander through the charming streets.
The town’s main attraction is the Cesky Krumlov Castle, a magnificent Renaissance castle that was built in the 13th century. The castle boasts some of the most impressive architecture in Europe, and its courtyards are filled with fountains and artwork. Inside the castle, visitors will find an array of art galleries, museums and historical displays.
Cesky Krumlov is also home to many cultural events throughout the year. From music festivals to film screenings, there is something for everyone in this quaint town. The most popular event is the International Music Festival, which takes place every summer and features classical, jazz and folk performances from all over Europe.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting adventure, Cesky Krumlov has something for everyone. With its majestic castle and quaint cobblestone streets, this charming town is sure to make lasting memories.
Kutna Hora
Kutna Hora is a small town located about an hour’s train ride from Prague. The town is best known for its bone church, Sedlec Ossuary, which is decorated with the bones of over 40,000 people. Other attractions in Kutna Hora include the Gothic Cathedral of St. Barbara, the main square with its many cafés and restaurants, and the silver mines which are now open to visitors.
Kutna Hora is a great day trip from Prague and offers visitors a unique experience. The town’s historic center is home to many beautiful churches, monasteries, and palaces, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants. The ossuary is a particularly interesting attraction, as are the silver mines which offer guided tours for visitors. Kutna Hora is also known for its many beer festivals which take place throughout the year.
Karlovy Vary
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Prague for a day, Karlovy Vary is the perfect place to go. This historic spa town is located in the west Bohemian region of the Czech Republic, about two hours from Prague by train.
Karlovy Vary is best known for its thermal springs, which have been used for therapeutic purposes since the 14th century. There are 12 main springs in Karlovy Vary, and each has its own unique mineral composition. The springs are open to the public and visitors can drink the water or bathe in it.
In addition to its therapeutic springs, Karlovy Vary is also home to a number of historical landmarks and sights. These include the Baroque-style Church of St. Mary Magdalene, the neo-Gothic Town Hall, and the 18th-century Hot Spring Colonnade. Visitors can also take a cable car up to Diana Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Plzen
Plzen is a city in the Czech Republic that is best known for its beer. The city is home to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, which is the originator of the pilsner style of beer. Plzen is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved historic center.
The city is filled with numerous attractions, such as the Great Synagogue, the Renaissance-style Town Hall, and the Gothic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral. Popular activities in Plzen include visiting local pubs to sample traditional Czech beer, touring local historical sites, and exploring nearby parks and green spaces. The city also offers a wide range of cultural events throughout the year, including summer music festivals and theatrical performances.
There are many things to do in Plzen, including visiting the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, exploring the historic center, and trying some of the local beer.
Terezin
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Czech Republic, a trip to Terezin is a must. Located just an hour north of Prague, Terezin was once a Nazi concentration camp during World War II. Today, it’s a place of remembrance, where you can learn about the tragic events that took place here. While in Terezin, be sure to visit the Memorial and Museum, which tells the stories of those who were imprisoned and killed at the camp.
The fortress of Terezin was initially built as a defense against the Swedes in the 18th century and by 1938, it became a Jewish ghetto for Jews from all over central Europe. During World War II, thousands of Jews were sent to the camp where they were forced to work under terrible conditions. In 1944, more than 33,000 Jews were deported to Auschwitz. While most never returned, some survived and eventually returned to their homes.
Today, visitors can walk through the former concentration camp and visit sites such as the Memorial Hall and The Small Fortress. There are also many exhibitions which provide an insight into what life was like in Terezin during World War II. Visiting Terezin is a moving experience that will help you understand the horrors of this dark chapter in history.
Dresden
Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. It is located on the bank of the Elbe River and is known for its baroque architecture. The city was almost completely destroyed during World War II, but has since been rebuilt.
There are many things to see and do in Dresden. Some of the most popular attractions include the Zwinger Palace, Semperoper (the opera house), Frauenkirche (the church), and the Green Vault (a treasure chamber). Dresden is also home to a number of museums, including the Albertinum (an art museum) and the Royal Palace (a historic palace).
The city is also known for its cultural events, such as the SemperOper ballet and the Dresden Music Festival. Dresden has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Dresden also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and canoeing on the Elbe River.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Prague that is full of culture and history, Dresden is the perfect place to visit!
The Bohemian Paradise
The Bohemian Paradise is a beautiful natural area just north of Prague. It’s perfect for a day trip if you want to escape the city and enjoy some fresh air and stunning scenery. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as several castles and ruins to visit. You can also go swimming in one of the many lakes or rivers in the area.
The Bohemian Paradise is also home to some of the best rock climbing sites in the country, so it’s a great place for experienced and beginner climbers alike. And if you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, there are several relaxing spa resorts scattered throughout the region. No matter what kind of getaway you’re looking for, you’ll find it in The Bohemian Paradise.
The Catacombs of Klatovy
The Catacombs of Klatovy are some of the most impressive and well-preserved catacombs in Europe. Dating back to the 13th century, these subterranean tunnels and chambers were used as burial grounds for the town’s residents. Today, visitors can explore the labyrinthine network of passages, viewing the ancient frescoes and sculptures along the way. A visit to the Catacombs is a unique and memorable experience, not to be missed when visiting Prague.
The Catacombs are located beneath the Church of St. Bartholomew in Klatovy, Czech Republic. The entrance to the Catacombs is through a hidden staircase at the rear of the church. Visitors are then taken on a tour of the Catacombs and shown some of its many features, such as ancient frescoes, sculptures, and mausoleums. Today, visitors can still come across skeletons and other artifacts from past generations.
Although eerie, the Catacombs of Klatovy are an amazing site to visit and explore. They offer incredible insight into how people lived hundreds of years ago in this part of Europe and serve as a reminder that life may be short but memories last forever.
The Skoda Auto Museum
The Skoda Auto Museum is one of the best day trips from Prague. It’s a must-visit for car lovers, and even if you’re not particularly interested in cars, it’s still a very interesting museum.
The museum is located in Mlada Boleslav, which is about an hour outside of Prague. It’s easy to get to by train or bus, and there’s plenty of parking once you arrive.
The museum itself is quite small, but it’s packed with information and exhibits. You can learn all about the history of Skoda, see some of their classic cars, and even see some of the new models that they’re working on.
One of the highlights of the museum is the test track, where you can ride in a Skoda car around a short course. It’s a lot of fun, and it gives you a chance to see how these cars handle. Overall, the Skoda Auto Museum is a great way to spend a day outside of Prague. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or not, there’s something here for everyone.
If you’re looking for a unique day trip from Prague, the Skoda Auto Museum is definitely worth a visit.
Karlstejn Castle
Karlstejn Castle is a 13th century castle located about 30 kilometers southwest of Prague. The castle was built by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, to serve as a royal palace and a repository for the imperial jewels and other valuables.
The castle is divided into two parts: the Upper Castle and the Lower Castle. The Upper Castle is composed of three main buildings, including a large tower, two smaller towers, and several other structures. These are used for ceremonial purposes and as living quarters for royalty. The Lower Castle includes an arsenal, a granary, a chapel and other structures used for storage and administration.
The castle has been home to many kings over its long history, from Charles IV to Rudolf II. It has also been used as a refuge during wars and invasions throughout its history. Today it is a popular tourist attraction in Prague and is open to visitors from all around the world.
Today, Karlstejn Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Czech Republic. The castle is open to the public and there are various tours available. Visitors can also explore the castle grounds, which include a number of gardens and hiking trails.
Brno
If you’re looking for a day trip from Prague that’s a little bit off the beaten path, consider a visit to Brno in the Czech Republic. This charming city is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s well worth a visit.
There’s plenty to see and do in Brno, from exploring the city’s many historical landmarks to enjoying its vibrant nightlife. And with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, you’ll definitely find something to your taste.
Brno also has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, so there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. The city also boasts several art galleries and museums, as well as the stunning Špilberk Castle, one of the most impressive fortresses in Central Europe.
Finally, make sure to sample some of Brno’s food offerings. The city is renowned for its traditional Czech cuisine, such as goulash, roasted pork with sauerkraut and dumplings, and a variety of delicious pastries. There’s even a beer spa!
So whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an action-packed adventure, make sure to add Brno to your list!
České Budějovice
České Budějovice is a beautiful city located about 2 hours south of Prague. It is the capital of the South Bohemian Region and has a population of about 100,000. The city is home to many historical sights, including the Black Tower, the Budweiser Budvar Brewery, and the Piarist Church. There are also several museums, including the Regional Museum and the South Bohemian Gallery. České Budějovice is a great place to spend a day or two exploring.
The city has a vibrant cultural life and is known for its beer. Beer lovers will be delighted to know that České Budějovice is home to the famous Budweiser Budvar Brewery, which produces some of the finest Czech beers. In addition to the brewery, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes where you can sample the local brews.
České Budějovice also offers plenty of outdoor activities. There are lots of parks and gardens for strolling or picnicking in, as well as nearby lakes for swimming and fishing. The city also has several golf courses and tennis courts available for those looking to practice their swing. Other popular activities include biking, hiking, and even rafting on the nearby Vltava River.
Conclusion
With so many interesting day trips within easy reach of Prague, it can be hard to choose which one to take. Whether you’re looking for leisurely strolls through beautiful gardens or exciting explorations into the history and culture of Central Europe, there’s something for everyone in this incredible region.
Taking a day trip from Prague is an excellent way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life while taking in some truly breathtaking sights. So pick your perfect excursion today and start planning your escape!