While Prague is an incredible city to explore, its central location near small Czech towns and nearby European countries makes day trips from the city a breeze. Within a day, you can experience majestic castles, charming medieval squares, stunning natural scenery, and world-class museums. Make the most of your visit to Czechia by taking one of these day trips from Prague.
1-2 Hours From Prague
Karlstejn, Czechia
Karlstejn is an easy train trip from Prague, taking only 40 minutes to reach this charming city. Soak up its fairytale beauty at Karlstejn Castle, its iconic castle built by Charles IV between 1348 and 1365 to house royal treasures. Take a guided tour to see its interior, where you can see The Chapel of the Holy Cross, a gold-encrusted precious jewel-decorated chapel where Crown Jewels were held, then visit one of the nearby restaurants selling traditional Czech fare or step outside to enjoy the variety of hiking routes.
Distance from Prague: Less than an hour by train
Pilsen, Czechia
If you enjoy Prague’s beer scene, you’ll love Pilsen. Only a 1.5-hour train away, visit this town to learn how in the late 19th century Jose Groll, a Bavarian brewer living in Pilsen, produced pilsner, a concoction that left a lasting impression on the world of beer. You can visit two major breweries, Pilsner Urquell and Gambrinus, to learn about their production process and sample from the barrels, then visit the Old Town to see Republic Square, the Great Synagogue, and the Gothic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
Distance from Prague: 1.5 hours by train
Kutna Hora, Czechia
Known for its collection of interesting historic buildings and the famed Chapel of Bones, Kutna Hora is a great day trip for those interested in architecture. After arriving at the city’s central station, walk 15 minutes to Sedlec Ossuary to see the small Roman Catholic chapel’s collection of bones adorned along its ceilings and walls. Afterward, head further into the city center and snap photos of the soaring Gothic spires and stone statues at the Cathedral of St. Barbara.
Distance from Prague: Approximately 1 hour by car, but 2 hours by train or bus
Bohemian Switzerland National Park
If you enjoy the outdoors, there’s no better day trip from Prague than Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Soak up some of this area’s most captivating natural beauty by lacing up your boots and exploring its trails, which wind around farmland, quaint villages, and majestic rock formations. See Pravcicka Gate, the largest natural sandstone arch formation in Europe, or walk across Bastei Bridge, a 250-foot high stone arched bridge where you look straight down onto the Elbe River.
Distance from Prague: 2 hours by car. Take advantage of the many group tours available that also include transportation.
Olomouc, Czechia
Trains leave from Prague to Olomouc hourly, taking just two hours to reach the Moravian city. This off-the-beaten-path destination is known for its historical architecture and impressive monuments, which include the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column and Astronomical Clock. Poke your head into the Olomouc Town Hall and climb to the top for views over the old town, then wait for noon to witness the clock hammering out a tune.
Distance from Prague: 2 hours by train
2-3 Hours From Prague
Dresden, Germany
A day trip to Dresden means you can experience its magnificent Baroque churches, palaces, and charming Old Town. Best known as the home of Frauenkirche, you can see its grand dome throughout town, while other highlights of the city include the Zwinger Palace with its garden and galleries and the world-renowned Semper Opera House. For the best view in the city, head to the lovely Bruhl’s Terrace that overlooks the Elbe and its riverboats. Make sure to cross the river and explore Neustadt with its hip cafes and vintage stores.
Distance from Prague: Between 2-3 hours by bus or train, but can be less than 2 hours by car
Karlovy Vary, Czechia
One of Prague’s most popular day trips is Karlovy Vary, a charming Czech spa town that has been luring in aristocrats for hundreds of years. You’ll be engulfed in beautiful 19th-century architecture in this town that emphasizes relaxation, where you can discover over a dozen powerful hot springs. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the area’s serene atmosphere, perfect for gentle hikes up into the hills for impressive views over the town. Bring your swimming gear so you can unwind from a day of sightseeing in its natural spas.
Distance from Prague: Approximately 2 hours by car or bus, and 3.5 hours by train
Brno, Czechia
Head out early for a 2.5-hour train journey to Brno, the second-largest city in Czechia. Enjoy a delightful day of exploring its beautiful Namesti Svobody square, then ascend Petrov Hill to admire the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul and its Neo-Gothic towers that dominate the skyline. You can also visit Spilberk Castle and its on-site Brno Museum highlighting the city’s history, or kick back and enjoy this landmark’s big-city views.
Distance from Prague: 2.5 hours by train
3+ Hours From Prague
Cesky Krumlov, Czechia
Only a three-hour train or a shorter trip if you rent a car, Cesky Krumlov is a magical city filled with old-world charm. Its entire center has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can wander around and admire its 14th-century buildings that line its narrow streets. Stop to marvel at the Cesky Krumlov Castle sitting above the River Vltava, then walk down the pedestrian-friendly Latran street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Distance from Prague: 3 hours by train on average
Wroclaw, Poland
Only a three-hour train ride away, the beauty of Wroclaw will blow you away. Its town square is dotted with quirky dwarfs, and there are various riverside parks and over 100 bridges to explore. Constructed in the medieval period, you can explore the historic neighborhoods of Rynek and Ostrow Tumski, visit fascinating museums, and see the Centennial Hall, considered a 20th-century architectural gem. If you’re traveling with the kids, stop at the Afrykarium, a themed aquarium.
Distance from Prague: 3 hours by train
Vienna, Austria
The culture capital of Europe, take a day away from Prague to explore the vibrant city of Vienna. This Austrian city is gracious and elegant, where the royal Hofburg Palace, Schonbrunn Palace, and Belvedere Palace are some of its most impressive attractions. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral to see one of the masterpieces of Gothic architecture, then catch an evening show at the Vienna Staatsoper opera house. Explore the UNESCO-listed city center, then stop at the iconic Cafe Sacher for a traditional Sacher torte, a spongy chocolate cake filled with apricot jam.
Distance from Prague: 4.5 hours by train
