One of the things that makes Prague such a fantastic long-stay city on an Interrail trip is its proximity to several great destinations just a short train ride away. Sure, there is enough in the capital to keep you busy for weeks, but there is more to the Czech Republic than Prague alone. If you have a few extra days to spare, consider taking one of these easy day trips from Prague by train.
@andrewthompsonsa
Český Krumlov in South Bohemia is the most popular destination in the Czech Republic after Prague, and it is easy to understand why. Though many people overpay for guided tours or private transfers, this UNESCO-listed town is an easy train ride away from the capital. Many choose to stay overnight, but the picturesque little town on the Vltava River is easy to explore in a day. Crossing the town on foot takes no more than 20 minutes. The focal point is the Český Krumlov Castle, but if you have the time, a hike or cycle through the nearby woods is thoroughly rewarding.
One attraction not to miss: Pay a visit to the famous castle
How to get there by train: There is a direct train from Prague to Český Krumlov. It leaves from Prague hlavni and takes approximately 3 hours. There are also easy connections by rail at other times throughout the day.
Most venture to the city of Kutná Hora for the chilling Sedlec Ossuary. It is a small Roman Catholic Cathedral lined with real human skeletons. Monks and tradesmen worked together to create artistic installations using the bones of more than 40,000 people. If that is too creepy for your liking, take a walk to the more sedate Gothic St. Barbara’s Church, famous for its flying buttresses and medieval frescoes.
One attraction not to miss: The Sedlec Ossuary, if you have the nerve, is a remarkable experience.
How to get there by train: There is a direct train from Prague to Kutna Hora that takes approximately 40 minutes.
If all the walking around Prague has made you tired, head to Poděbrady. It is one of the Czech Republic’s famous spa towns and is an easy 60-minute train ride away. The pace of this photogenic town is altogether different to that of the capital. The hot springs, temperate weather, and generally harmonious atmosphere makes it the perfect place to recharge. It is also not short on history, with a famous castle set on the river Labe.
One attraction not to miss: Poděbrady Spa is the principle tourist attraction in the town.
How to get there by train: Direct trains from Prague to Poděbrady depart and return regularly throughout the day with a journey time of approximately 60 minutes.
Český ráj, or Bohemian Paradise, is a protected area of the Czech Republic located north east of Prague. The park offers diverse landscape and covers an area of more than 150 square kilometres. You can expect to find intriguing rock formations, panoramic views, several notable ruins, and two impressive castles. It is relatively easy to reach the region by train, and it is a great way to venture into some of the Czech Republic’s pristine nature reserves.
One attraction not to miss: The Český ráj rock towns are fascinating and offer beautiful views from their tops.
How to get there by train: There are direct trains from Prague to Bohemian Paradise approximately every 2 hours. The journey takes about 2 hours.
Many tourists overlook this small student town, but they are missing out in a big way. In many ways, it is a smaller, more charming version of Prague, without all the people. It is also not overrun with day trippers like many other Czech towns. There is a stunning Old Town square, astronomical clock, and a tranquil green belt surrounding the town perfect for a quiet walk. The student atmosphere means there are several fantastic beer gardens in the town, as well as relaxing underground tea houses for when the temperatures climb.
One attraction not to miss: Climb the tower in Kostel Svateho Morice for the most remarkable views over the town and surrounding countryside.
How to get there by train: There are regular direct trains from Prague to Olomouc that take no longer than 2h 30 min.
The Czech Republic is not short of incredible castles, but the Gothic Karlštejn Castle is one of the country’s best. It is also just 40 minutes away from Prague by train. Though this means it is a popular tourist destination, it is still well worth a visit for its impressive architecture and dramatic location. Charles IV built Karlštejn Castle in 1348 to store royal treasures, and it remains a fitting regal attraction. If the throngs of tourists get too much, there is also a natural forest surrounding the castle good for a relaxing hike.
One attraction not to miss: Karlštejn Castle
How to get there by train: There is a direct trains from Prague to Karlštejn Castle that take approximately 40 minutes.
Many people who travel to the Czech Republic only think of Prague. Given how famous the capital city is, this is understandable. But with several incredible destinations just a short train ride away, there is every reason to extend your stay in the city by a few days and embark on one of these day trips — all of which are covered by your Czech Republic Pass.
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