Top 5 Day Trips from Prague

Czechia’s capital is a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture that adorns both sides of the Vltava River. Every year, millions flock here to experience the vibrant atmosphere and magnificent structures, yet the true essence of the country can sometimes be overshadowed by the crowds.

The surrounding regions boast some of Czechia’s most significant attractions, including a church crafted from human bones and the castle that once housed the Bohemian crown jewels. More importantly, stepping away from Prague’s bustling streets, even for just a day, offers a deeper understanding of Czech culture and history. Here are the top five excursions you can take within a 90-minute drive from the city.

1. Explore one of Czechia's beloved castles at Karlštejn

Travel time: 45 minutes

It may surprise you, but many Czechs consider Karlštejn Castle, a stunning fairytale-like structure rising majestically beside the Berounka River, to be their top choice—surpassing even the grand castle complex in Prague.

This impressive fortified edifice dates back to 1348 during the reign of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. It was initially designed as a secure vault for the Bohemian crown jewels. Admission is via guided tours, so be sure to check the castle’s website for availability and to reserve tickets in advance.

After your castle tour, stroll through the charming village of Karlštejn, filled with cozy pubs, or embark on a 15km hike through the forest to Beroun before taking a train back to Prague. Restaurace Pod Dračí Skálou serves tasty Czech cuisine and Pilsner Urquell beer on tap.

Getting to Karlštejn: The 30km drive from Prague to Karlštejn takes about 40 minutes via the D5 motorway (follow signs to Plzeň). Regular trains leave from Prague’s main station towards Beroun; the journey takes around 45 minutes.

2. Get spooked at the unsettling Kutná Hora

Travel time: 1 hour

Central Europe’s most chilling attraction is located an hour east of Prague at the Sedlec Ossuary, commonly known as the “Bone Church,” in the historic mining town of Kutná Hora. This eerie chapel was crafted by local woodcarver František Rint in the 1870s, utilizing bones from tens of thousands of skeletons found in the town’s crypt to create chapels, crosses, chalices, and monstrances.

However, Kutná Hora offers more than just skeletal remains. The city flourished during the 14th and 15th centuries as a major silver mining hub for the Kingdom of Bohemia. You can wear a miner’s helmet and explore the ancient silver mines, then pay a visit to the stunning Gothic Cathedral of St Barbara, the patron church of miners.

After exploring bones and medieval splendor, quench your thirst at Pivnice Dačický, which offers a diverse array of local beers.

Getting to Kutná Hora: Located 65km east of Prague, the drive takes around an hour. Buses depart regularly from Prague’s Háje station on metro line C (red), while direct trains leave from the main train station.

3. Discover the tragic WWII history of Terezín

Travel time: 1 hour

The former military stronghold of Terezín, also known as Theresienstadt Concentration Camp, housed the most infamous German-operated concentration camp on Czech territory. While it was not a mass extermination camp like Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland, it served as a detention center for Jews and other Holocaust victims awaiting deportation to their deaths. The conditions were horrific, leading to the deaths of thousands from starvation and illness.

The main Ghetto Museum spans several buildings, featuring permanent exhibitions that delve into the daily lives of the inmates and how the Nazis utilized Terezín as a facade to mislead the International Red Cross.

Be sure to bring a packed lunch, as dining options are limited in Terezín. For the best food in the area, visit Radniční sklípek in nearby Litoměřice, but note that it requires a car or bus to get there.

Getting to Terezín: Terezín is located 60km north of Prague, and the drive takes under an hour. Buses from Prague take about an hour, departing from above the Praha-Holešovice metro station on line C (red).

4. Visit Franz Ferdinand's residence at Konopiště Chateau

Travel time: 30 minutes

Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand was one of the most pivotal figures of the 20th century. His assassination in Sarajevo in 1914 set off the devastating events of World War I. What many may not know is that he lived just a short distance from Prague at the magnificent Konopiště Chateau.

A guided tour through the state rooms provides a captivating glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy in the early 20th century, along with the archduke’s many quirks, including his love for hunting and the cult of St. George. The chateau gardens offer a serene place to unwind.

For a meal, visit Stará Myslivna to enjoy traditional Czech cuisine, featuring a hearty selection of game dishes in keeping with the archduke’s interests.

Getting to Konopiště: Drivers should take the D1 motorway south from Prague to Benešov u Prahy, the nearest town to Konopiště. Local buses operate from here to the chateau. Buses to Benešov run throughout the day from Prague’s Roztyly station on metro line C (red). Alternatively, you can take a train from Prague’s main station, with a journey time of about 30 minutes.

5. Visit Plzeň – a paradise for pilsner enthusiasts

Travel time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Modern lager, known as pilsner, was first brewed here in 1842, and local brewers have diligently upheld its rich legacy ever since. For beer aficionados, a guided tour of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery is a must. These tours are quite popular, so it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance. Don’t miss the Brewery Museum, which is also worth visiting.

Sticking with the beer theme, indulge in some fantastic pub fare. The Na Spilce pub is located right on the brewery grounds, making it a perfect stop after the tour. Another well-loved spot is Na Parkánu, situated next to the Brewery Museum.

Plzeň boasts additional attractions as well. The city’s extensive underground tunnels, used for both brewing and defense, are intriguing. Kids will particularly enjoy the Techmania Science Center, a vast interactive science lab featuring an infrared camera, magnets, a planetarium, and many other wonders.

Getting to Plzeň: The city is easily accessible by car, bus, or train; the drive from Prague takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Buses depart every half hour from Prague’s Zličín metro station on line B (yellow), while trains leave from Prague's main station.