Prague is full of charm, but if you’re staying a bit longer, you shouldn’t miss the chance to explore what lies beyond the city. The Czech Republic is rich with castles, spa towns, and scenic countryside — all perfect for a day trip. Here are my personal picks for the best day trips from Prague, along with insider tips on how to get there by train or bus — and options for guided tours if you prefer everything arranged for you.
1. Kutná Hora & the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church)
Just an hour away, Kutná Hora is home to one of the most unique sights in Europe — the Bone Church, decorated with thousands of human bones. The town itself is UNESCO-listed and full of Gothic charm.
How to get there: Direct trains leave from Prague’s main station (hlavní nádraží) roughly every hour and take about 1 hour. From Kutná Hora station, it’s a short local bus or taxi ride to the Bone Church.
2. Český Krumlov
A fairytale town in South Bohemia, Český Krumlov feels like stepping into a storybook. The castle, the winding river, and cobblestone streets make it a must-see.
How to get there: Direct buses (e.g. RegioJet, Flixbus) run from Prague and take about 3 hours. Trains are possible but slower.
3. Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad)
Known as the Czech Republic’s spa capital, Karlovy Vary is famous for hot springs, elegant colonnades, and the Becherovka herbal liqueur.
How to get there: Direct buses leave from Prague’s Florenc station and take 2–2.5 hours. Trains are possible but slower with transfers.
My tip: Try the warm spa wafers — a local specialty!
4. Karlštejn Castle
One of the most iconic castles in the country, Karlštejn is just 40 minutes away. Built by Emperor Charles IV, it’s perched on a hill surrounded by forests.
How to get there: Trains from Prague hlavní nádraží to Karlštejn station take about 40 minutes. From there, it’s a 20-minute walk uphill to the castle.
5. Terezín Memorial
For history lovers, the Terezín concentration camp memorial is a moving and educational day trip less than an hour away.
How to get there: Direct buses from Prague’s Florenc bus station take about 1 hour.
6. Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland National Park
If you’re into nature, this is one of the most stunning escapes. Highlights include the Pravčická Gate, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch, and boat rides through the Kamenice Gorge.
How to get there: Trains from Prague to Děčín take about 1.5 hours. From Děčín, you’ll need a bus or shuttle into the park. Connections can be tricky if you don’t speak Czech.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re into history, castles, spa towns, or nature, Prague is the perfect base for day trips. Public transport in the Czech Republic is affordable and reliable, but for comfort and time-saving, I often recommend guided tours or transfers — especially if your schedule is tight.
That way, you spend less time figuring out logistics and more time enjoying the beauty of the Czech Republic beyond Prague.
Renting a Car for Day Trips from Prague
While public transport in the Czech Republic is excellent, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s perfect if you want to combine several stops in one day (like Karlštejn Castle + Bohemian countryside) or visit hidden villages that buses and trains don’t reach. Roads are well maintained, and driving outside of Prague is straightforward. Check car rental options here.
