Weekend & Day Trips from Prague, Czech Republic

1. Bohemian Switzerland

Sometimes also referred to as Czech Switzerland, Bohemian Switzerland is a spectacular national park known for its fairytale scenery and its resemblance to the Swiss countryside. The area is a true hiker's paradise; visitors can stroll alongside the river in the moss-covered Gorges of Kamenice, explore the majestic sandstone formations along Gabriela’s Trail, and climb up to the ruined old Castle Saunstejn that overlooks the countryside below. No matter how you choose to spend your day, make sure to leave some time to stop by the Pravcicka Gate, a massive sandstone arch that soars 52 feet high.

Bohemian Switzerland, Czechia, Phone: +42-04-12-35-40-50

2. Brno

Tucked away in the country's gorgeous South Moravian Region, Brno is an artsy, historic city known for its majestic 19th-century modernist buildings and its many cozy cafes. The city's walkable downtown core is the perfect place to begin your visit; many of the biggest and best attractions are located here, including the beautiful Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, the 13th-century Špilberk Castle, and the Governor’s Palace, which houses a wonderful collection of art. If you'd like to learn a bit about the city's more macabre side, you can also visit the St. James Church Ossuary, which houses a large collection of bones. Brno Map

3. Ceske Budejovice

Although it doesn't have as many major attractions as Prague and some other Czech cities, Ceske Budejovice is the perfect place to escape the tourist trail and get an authentic taste of Czech culture.

The centerpiece of the city is its spacious main square, which is lined with gorgeous Baroque and Renaissance buildings that contain shops and restaurants, but you can easily spend an hour or two exploring the narrow streets that make up the rest of the historical center as well. If you love beer, you also need to tour the local brewery, which is famously home to the original Budweiser lager. Map

4. Cesky Krumlov

Situated in the south of the country not far from Ceske Budejovice, Cesky Krumlov often reminds visitors of a miniature Prague. The beautiful old town is dominated by the massive 13th-century castle complex that sits at its center, and it's well worth making a stop here to take a guided tour of the grounds, admire the artwork, and learn about the history of the city's rulers. Other attractions include the Church of St. Vitus and the Minorite Monastery, but if you want to do something more relaxing, you can also enjoy a picnic by the river when the weather is warm enough. Map

5. Cesky Raj

Known in English as Bohemian Paradise, Cesky Raj is a beautiful nature preserve dotted with historic hilltop castles and rugged rock formations. The best known natural sites in the area are the spire-like Prachov Rocks and the picturesque Hrubá Skála Rocks, but the Podtrosecká Valleys and their sparkling pools are worth a visit as well, particularly if you want to escape the crowds found in some other areas of the park. If you're more interested in the area's historic landmarks, highlights include the Gothic Kost Castle, the hilltop ruins of Trosky Castle, and the 19th-century Sychrov Chateau.

Cesky Raj, A. Dvoráka 335, 511 01 Turnov, Czechia, Phone: +42-04-81-54-02-53

6. Divoka Sarka

Conveniently located right on the outskirts of Prague, Divoka Sarka is a surprisingly large nature reserve made up of small mountains, forested walking trails, and grassy meadows. Some of the trails lead to wonderful viewpoints that look out over the city, but there are also many that meander alongside peaceful streams and past majestic rock formations, making it easy to forget you're anywhere near Prague. During the summer, visitors are also welcome to cool off in the park's public swimming pool or in the Dzban reservoir, which is surrounded by an expanse of grass perfect for picnicking and sunbathing. Map

7. Dresden

If you want to get out of the Czech Republic for the day, the German city of Dresden is undoubtedly one of the best places you can go. Much of the city was destroyed by bombs during World War II, but many of the buildings have been carefully restored, including the magnificent baroque FrauenKirche and the lavish Dresden Castle. The Zwinger palace is another must-see, particularly if you're interested in admiring art collections and exploring museums, and if you want to go for a walk, the promenade Brühl's Terrace boasts wonderful views of the Elbe River. Map

8. Karlovy Vary

Best known for its many thermal springs, the spa town of Karlovy Vary has been a popular tourist destination since the 1800s. Your visit should almost certainly include taking a dip in one of the public bath houses, but there are plenty of other things to see and do after you're done relaxing. The Moser Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the art of glass making, while the Jan Becher Museum offers some insight into the production of Becherovka, a local herbal liqueur. Before leaving, take the lift up to the Diana Observation Tower to get a glimpse of the town from above. Map

9. Karlstejn Castle

Dating back to 1348, Karlstejn Castle is a spectacular medieval castle perched on top of a hill overlooking some of the most beautiful countryside in the Czech Republic. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the grounds free of charge, but in order to see the inside of the castle, you need to pay for a guided tour. It's advisable to book tours in advance, particularly during the high season, and visitors should be aware that the castle is closed on Mondays all throughout the year. After exploring the castle, you can enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants at the base of the hill. Map

10. Kutna Hora

Formerly one of the wealthiest and most significant cities in the Kingdom of Bohemia, Kutna Hora is a historic silver mining town with a handful of fascinating attractions that draw visitors from all over Europe. Visitors can learn about the city's history as a royal coin mint at the beautiful Italian Court, and if you'd like to see a stunning display of the city's former wealth, make sure to visit St. Barbara's Cathedral as well. If you're interested in the city's more gruesome side, you can also stop by the Sedlec Ossuary, which is famous for its artistic but macabre arrangements of human bones. Map