6 Best Day Trips from Prague by Train – Places To Visit, Things To Do

Prague, with its enchanting cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and fairytale charm, is a city that captivates instantly. But beyond the city’s iconic skyline lies a treasure trove of towns, castles, and nature escapes that are just a train ride away. Taking day trips from Prague by train is not only an affordable and efficient way to explore the rich tapestry of Czech history and culture waiting just outside the city walls but also an interesting one.

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Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who simply enjoys scenic train rides, there’s something uniquely fulfilling about embarking on train trips from Prague. The Czech Republic’s compact size and excellent railway system make it incredibly easy to explore Places to Visit near Prague by Train, all while soaking up breathtaking views along the way.

Day Trips from Prague by Train – Places to Visit near Prague by Train

Here are some of the best Prague day trips, including things to do, where to stay if you want to spend more time there, tours to book, and how to reach them that will enrich your Czech adventure.

Kutná Hora – A Gothic Jewel with a Macabre Twist

Just 84 km east of Prague, Kutná Hora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a mix of medieval charm and eerie intrigue. The town was once the second richest in the Bohemian Kingdom, thanks to its silver mines. Today, it draws visitors for its stunning cathedrals and the famous Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the Bone Church.

Things to do

• The Sedlec Ossuary is unlike anything you’ve ever seen—a chapel decorated with over 40,000 human bones, crafted into chandeliers, crosses, and even a family crest. While it might sound unsettling, it’s a deeply symbolic place about the transience of life.
• Another must-see is St. Barbara’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with flying buttresses and medieval frescoes dedicated to miners.
• Take a stroll through the historic center and enjoy the peaceful vibe of a town that feels like it’s frozen in time.

How to Reach: Trains depart regularly from Prague’s main station (Praha hl.n.) to Kutná Hora hl.n., taking about 1 hour. From the station, it’s a short local bus or walk into town.

Hotel stay: If you wish to stay overnight, Hotel U Kata offers comfort and is a short walk from the town center.

Tour to book: Guided day tours from Prague often combine Kutná Hora and Sedlec Ossuary with hotel pickup, ideal if you prefer not to navigate trains.

Český Krumlov – A Fairytale Town in South Bohemia

A favorite among travelers looking for day trips from Prague, Český Krumlov feels like stepping into a storybook. Located about 175 km south of Prague, this UNESCO-listed town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and dreamy riverside setting.

Things to do

• The Český Krumlov Castle dominates the skyline, with its colorful tower offering panoramic views over the red-roofed town and the Vltava River. Inside the castle, you’ll find stunning Renaissance halls, Baroque theaters, and manicured gardens.
• The historic center is compact and walkable, lined with artisan shops, quaint cafés, and traditional Czech taverns.

How to Reach: Although there is a train option, it involves transfers and takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Buses are quicker (about 2.5 hours) and more direct. Depart from Florenc Bus Station in Prague.

Although it’s possible to do this as a very long day trip, spending the night allows you to enjoy the town in its quieter moments when the day-trippers leave.

Hotel stay: Hotel Bellevue Český Krumlov offers charming river views and is situated just steps away from the historic old town.

Tour to book: A popular guided day trip from Prague includes castle admission and a walking tour of the town.

Karlovy Vary – The Elegant Spa Town

For a rejuvenating escape, Karlovy Vary is one of the most luxurious train trips from Prague. Located 127 km west, this 14th-century spa town is known for its thermal springs and elegant colonnades. Historically frequented by aristocrats and celebrities, it remains a place of healing and high style.

Things to do

• Start your visit at the Mill Colonnade, where you can sample hot spring water from ornate fountains. The Hot Spring Colonnade houses the most powerful spring, erupting up to 12 meters.
• The town is also famous for its Moser Glassworks, where you can see master glassblowers at work.
• Don’t miss a hike or funicular ride up to Diana Observation Tower, which provides a panoramic view of the spa town nestled in green hills.

Getting there: Direct trains from Prague to Karlovy Vary take about 3 hours, making it a feasible full-day trip.

Hotel stay: Venus Hotel Karlovy Vary blends affordability with access to spa facilities.

Tour to book: Several day tours from Prague offer round-trip transport, town tours, and time at a spa or glass factory.

Terezín – A Somber Lesson in History

One of the most important day trips from Prague by train is a visit to Terezín, a former Habsburg fortress that became a Nazi concentration camp during WWII. Located just 61 km north of Prague, this site is a powerful reminder of the past and a tribute to human resilience.

Things to do

• Visit the Terezín Memorial, which includes the Small Fortress, Ghetto Museum, and Magdeburg Barracks. Exhibits and preserved rooms offer harrowing insight into the experiences of prisoners during the Holocaust. It’s an emotionally heavy but necessary visit.

Getting there: Take a train to Lovosice (1 hour 20 minutes) and a connecting bus to Terezín (15 minutes), or take a direct bus from Prague Florenc.

Hotel stay: For those who wish to explore the area further, Hotel Lev in Lovosice is a comfortable overnight option.

Tour to book: A highly recommended half-day guided tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and detailed narration from a knowledgeable guide.

Karlštejn Castle – A Medieval Fortress in the Hills

Just 40 km southwest of Prague, Karlštejn Castle is one of the most iconic castles in the Czech Republic. Built in the 14th century by Emperor Charles IV, it once safeguarded the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire.

Things to do

• Visit The castle, perched high on a wooded hill, is a sight to behold as you approach the village. The climb up is steep but scenic. Once inside, you’ll find Gothic chapels, royal chambers, and towers with commanding views of the countryside.  
• After your castle tour, enjoy lunch in the charming village below or take a gentle riverside walk.

Getting there: Trains from Prague to Karlštejn leave regularly from Smíchov Station and take just 40 minutes.

Hotel stay: Hotel Karlštejn offers rooms with views of the castle and easy access to hiking trails.

Tour to book: Combine Karlštejn Castle with a visit to Velká Amerika (Czech Grand Canyon) in a guided day tour.

Plzeň – The Birthplace of Pilsner Beer

Located just 90 km southwest of Prague, Plzeň is a dream for beer lovers and a refreshing day trip from Prague.

Things to do

• This city gave the world its first Pilsner lager, brewed at the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery, where you can enjoy a guided tour and taste beer straight from oak barrels.
• Beyond the brewery, Plzeň boasts a vibrant old town square, the tallest cathedral tower in the Czech Republic at St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, and an underground network of tunnels dating back to the 14th century.

Getting there: Direct trains run frequently from Prague Main Station and take about 1.5 hours.

Hotel stay: Courtyard by Marriott Pilsen offers modern comfort near the town center.

Tour to book: Join a small group brewery and city tour to learn about Plzeň’s rich brewing history.

Prague is magical, but part of its charm lies in how easily it is to explore other stunning places in the Czech Republic. The extensive rail network and convenient train stations make day trips from Prague by train not only viable but also incredibly scenic. You’ll find that each of these places to visit near Prague by train offers something unique—from haunting history and medieval castles to elegant spa towns and artisan beer.

Whether you choose a half-day visit to Karlštejn Castle or a full-day excursion to Český Krumlov, these Prague day trips deepen your appreciation for the country’s diversity, history, and natural beauty.

Useful Tips – Prague Day Trips – Train Trips from Prague

• Buy train tickets in advance: Use the Czech Railways website (www.cd.cz) or apps like RegioJet and Leo Express for tickets and schedules.
• Validate tickets if required: Some local trains need ticket stamping at platform machines.
• Pack light but bring essentials: A water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, and a lightweight rain jacket will serve you well.
• Leave early: Start your day early to make the most of it, especially for trips over 2 hours from Prague.
• Overnight if possible: Towns like Český Krumlov and Karlovy Vary deserve more than a rushed day visit—spend the night to experience their quieter, more authentic side.

These train trips from Prague offer a unique way to experience rolling hills, storybook towns, towering castles, and historical revelations, providing a perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems near Prague. 

So, if you’re wondering what lies beyond the Charles Bridge and Old Town Square, hop on a train and explore some of the interesting day trips from Prague with some unique features in each attraction. Some of the most memorable experiences in the Czech Republic begin with a day trip from Prague.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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