28 Best Day Trips from Prague

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of the most beautiful and popular cities in Europe. Known for its fairytale castles, gorgeous baroque-style architecture, charming streets, picturesque city center, and romantic bridges, this city is on many travelers’ wishlists for good reason. Whether you’re looking to spend three days in Prague or a week, you won’t run out of things to do and places to visit.

There are many interesting places worth visiting near Prague, and many of them are easily accessible by bus or direct train. You can choose to visit them independently on day tours, with an expert guide, or on small group tours. If you have extra days, plan for an overnight stay in one of these picturesque towns to truly experience their vibe.

If you are dreaming of visiting other European cities, a famous spa town or two, hiking through stunning national parks, and learning about the country’s culture; the Czech capital is the right place. Here are the best day trips from Prague.

1. Bohemian Switzerland 

Bohemian Switzerland (also known as Czech Switzerland) is a region located in the north-western part of the country and makes for a great day trip from Prague if you love nature. The landscape here is diverse with towering sandstone formations, deep ravines, and lush pine forests. The Bohemian Switzerland National Park sits along the right side of the Elbe River, and only became a national park in January 2000. 

The big draws in Bohemian Switzerland are the many hiking opportunities and spectacular rock formations. Some of the most popular trails include the Velke Tiske Steny trail, the trail up to Bastei Bridge, and the trails up to Ruzovský Vrch. The Rocks of Tisa are also a popular tourist attraction – this group of rock pillars rises to 30m high! Other popular spots in the area include Pravčická brána, Kemnitz Gorge and Šaunštejn Castle.

Here’s an organized hiking tour from Prague to Bohemian Switzerland where you’ll visit all the highlights and hike in some of the most spectacular scenery in the region.

How to get to Bohemian Switzerland from Prague:

The easiest way to get to Bohemian Switzerland from the city center is by car. If you can hire a car, the journey usually takes around two hours.

If you prefer to travel by public transport, you will have to change over. The easiest way is to get a train to Děčín from Prague, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Once you reach Děčín, you will need to catch the bus to Hřensko which takes between 30 to 40 minutes.  

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2. Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is a scenic historic town and is one of the best day trips from Prague. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and its most important attraction – Cesky Krumlov Castle. 

The medieval castle dates back to 1240, and there are many points of interest within the castle complex including the Castle Tower, the Cloak Bridge, and the Castle Garden. 

This historic town offers many sights including its very pretty old town with narrow cobbled streets and old buildings. Namesti Svornosti is also a popular spot and is the town’s old market square filled with Gothic-style houses, charming cafés, and a fountain located in the center. Other things to do include taking a cruise along the Vltava River, dining at Eggenberg Brewery, and visiting Egon Schiele Art Center.

This day trip combines a visit to Cesky Krumlov and Ceske Budejovice over one day. 

How to get to Český Krumlov from Prague:

The most convenient way to get to Český Krumlov is to hire a car. The journey by car takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. You can also reach Český Krumlov by either bus or train. The bus is one of the cheapest options and is a direct journey, that takes around 3 hours. If you choose to travel by train the journey also takes about 3 hours, but the timetable is less convenient for travelers. 

3. Holesovice

Holesovice is known as one of the hippest parts of Prague. Home to trendy cafes, art galleries, and hip bars, it’s not surprising that Holesovice has been named as one of the coolest neighborhoods in Europe. 

One of the top spots to visit in this district of Prague is the National Technical Museum which is dedicated to preserving information and artifacts relating to the progression of the Czech Republics’ transport history. Other popular destinations include Letná Park, Prague Market, and Krizik Fountain. Holesovice is also known for its cultural and art scene.

It is home to many popular art galleries including the DOX Center for Contemporary Art, Trafo Gallery, and Veletržní palác which is part of Prague’s National Gallery. Bio Oko is an independent cinema that shows movies, as well as hosts events and festivals. 

How to get to Holesovice from Prague:

As Holesovice is a district located within Prague, it is easily accessible. If you are feeling energetic, you can choose to walk which takes about 50 minutes. Otherwise, choose from the subway, bus, train, tram, or taxi. 

 

 

 

4. Kutná Hora

Kutná Hora is one of the best day trips from Prague. In 1995 the center area of Kutná Hora was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its architecture. 

One of the main attractions is Sedlec Ossuary (which is also known as the ‘Church of Bones’ or the ‘Bone Church’). It is one of the most unique churches in the world as it is decorated with over 40,000 human skeletons, and contains artistic works which also use human bones.

Here’s a skip-the-line ticket to Sedlec Ossuary or the Church of Bones which also includes an audio guide. If you’d rather go with a guide, this organized tour of Kutna Hora includes transportation from Prague and lunch.

Another popular attraction in Kutna Hora is St Barbara’s Cathedral which was built in 1338 and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Italian Court is located within Kutná Hora and is the former Royal Palace and Royal Mint. The Czech Museum of Silver is popular with tourists and offers an interesting perspective into the rich mining history of the city. 

How to get to Kutná Hora from Prague:

Kutná Hora is located around 80km from Prague and is easily accessible by car and public transport. If you hire a car, the journey will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Direct buses leave the city every hour and take around 1 hour and 40 minutes. If you choose to get the train, the timings are less frequent but the journey takes around 1 hour. 

5. Pilsen

Pilsen is the fourth most populous city in the Czech Republic and was declared the 2015 European Capital of Culture. It is known across the world for its Pilsner beer, which was created by Josef Groll in 1842. 

The Saint Bartholomew Cathedral is known for its gothic architecture and distinctive spire. There are secret underground tunnels found underneath the city of Pilsen, which stretch for over 9km. If you are exploring Pilsen with the whole family, visiting the Techmania Science Centre with interactive exhibitions is a fun experience.

The J.K Tyl Theater is the spot to visit if you want to experience some of Pilsen’s culture, or you can head to the puppet museum. The most famous place is Pilsner Urquell Brewery, which is where the city’s famous ale is produced and then exported across the world. Book your tickets for a beer tasting and tour at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery.

How to get to Pilsen from Prague:

Get to Pilsen from Prague either by car, bus or train. The journey from Prague to Pilsen takes around 50 minutes by car, while journeys on public transport are considerably longer. If you choose to travel by train or bus to Pilsen, the journey takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

6. Karlštejn Castle 

Karlštejn Castle is a large gothic castle located about 35km outside of Prague. It is one of the famous castles around the country, attracting up to 200,000 visitors a year. The castle was founded in 1348 and was used as a place of safekeeping for the Bohemian crown jewels, holy relics, and other treasures until the 17th century. 

Today the beautiful architecture is what draws people to Karlštejn Castle, including the Great Tower and the Church Tower.  Located within the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a set of 129 paintings created by Master Theodoric. There is also a replica of the Royal Crown of Bohemia, and a large portrait gallery of the Kings of Bohemia. Karlstejn Castle is one of the best day trips from Prague thanks to its architecture, history, and the fact that it’s easily accessible.

Here’s a half-day tour from Prague to Karlstejn which involves skip-the-line tickets to Karlstejn Castle. Alternatively, this bike tour from Prague is a fun way to explore Karlstejn.

How to get to Karlštejn Castle from Prague:

If you can’t hire a car, then your best bet is to catch the train. The journey takes about 45 minutes from the city and trains run frequently throughout the day. This makes it one of the best short day trips from Prague. 

 

 

7. Divoká Šárka

Divoká Šárka is an easy day trip from Prague as it’s located just on the outskirts of the city. It is a nature reserve that offers various landscapes including steep rocks, meadows, and grassland, making it a big hit with both wildlife and people. 

This nature reserve is a great place to hike as there are marked trails throughout. However, the paths aren’t paved so make sure you bring a good pair of walking shoes with you.

If you are visiting Divoká Šárka during the summer months there is a public swimming pool found in the middle of the reserve, where its freshwater is supplied from the Šárka spring creek. Another popular spot is Lake Dzban which is found on the border of the reserve.

Here’s a private trip from Prague to amazing canyons including Divoka Sarka.

How to get to Divoká Šárka from Prague:

The easiest way to get to Divoká Šárka from the city center is by bus, as it’s cheap and only takes around 5 minutes. If you fancy a long walk, you can even walk there which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. 

8. Křivoklát Castle 

Křivoklát Castle is one of the oldest and most important castles in the Czech Republic. The castle was founded in the 13th century and belonged to the Kings of Bohemia. It has a very interesting history – it was destroyed by fire twice and then sold off to aristocratic families until finally being sold to the state in 1929. 

There are various tours to choose from when exploring Křivoklát Castle – some are guided tours and others self-guided. The castle prison and dungeon is a popular attraction and even contains a torture instrument. The Royal Chapel is also one of the castle’s highlights and dates from the 15th to 17th century. Other sights within the castle grounds include the Knights’ Hall, the Royal Hall, and the library. 

This tour to Krivoklat Castle from Prague includes a visit to a glassworks factory and lunch.

How to get to Křivoklát Castle from Prague:

Křivoklát Castle can be reached by public transportation if you don’t have a car. The best way to get there is by train which takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes. You can also choose to take the bus, but the journey is longer at about 2 hours and 10 minutes. 

9. Terezin Concentration Camp

Terezin was a concentration camp that was established during World War II. Originally a holiday resort for Czech nobility, by 1940 Nazi Germany had turned Terezin into a ghetto and concentration camp for Jews. In total over 150,000 Jews were taken to Terezin, including 15,000 children. Some individuals were held here for years, before being sent to extermination camps. Out of the 150,000 individuals who were sent here, devastatingly, there were just over 17,000 survivors. 

Although not one of the happiest day trips from Prague, visiting the Terezin Concentration Camp takes you through the history of this destination and is a memorial to all the lives that were lost here. During your tour, you will see the prisoner courtyards, the execution grounds, the Ghetto Museum, the Magdeburg Barracks, and the crematorium.

This organized day trip from Prague to Terezin includes a guide, bus transfer and admission to Terezin Fortress.

How to get to Terezin Concentration Camp from Prague:

Although you can go on a guided tour of Terezin from Prague, the cheapest way to get there is by public transport. If traveling by bus the journey takes around 1 hour, while the train journeys are a bit faster. 

10. Velká Amerika 

Velká Amerika translates to ‘Big America’ and is also known as the Czech Republic’s Grand Canyon. It is an abandoned limestone quarry located about 35km from the city center of Prague. With an 18m deep lake located at the bottom of the quarry, and astonishing limestone cliffs – Velká Amerika has become a popular tourist attraction.

It is strictly forbidden to climb down into the quarry, but many people ignore this to go swimming in the lake, cliff jumping and even camping. However, Velká Amerika can be enjoyed safely and legally. There is a viewpoint located by the car park which offers a nice view of the quarry, and hiking paths run alongside. 

How to get to Velká Amerika from Prague:

The best way to get to Velká Amerika from Prague is by hiring a car. If that isn’t possible, the canyon can be reached by bus which takes about 50 minutes. However, you have to catch the bus from Zličín which is a district located just outside the city center. Otherwise, you can head to Karlštejn by train, and walk to the quarry from there. 

 

 

11. Telč

Telč is a small town with around 5,500 inhabitants, but it packs a punch. The historic center of Telč is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. 

The town is lined with pretty colorful houses, which look like they could be on a movie set. One of Telč’s main attractions is Telč Castle with its gothic architecture and manicured gardens. Three lakes surround this unique town, and they make a great place to wander along and take in the views of Telč. If you are feeling adventurous you can even choose to take a tour into the underground. 

How to get to Telč from Prague:

Visiting Telč is one of the longer Prague day trips. Whether you decide to travel by bus or a train ride, you are looking at a journey of over 4 hours. 

12. Třebíč 

Třebíč has a history that dates back to 1101, although it wasn’t mentioned as a town until 1277. It was a popular destination for Jewish settlement, until World War II and the Holocaust. However, after 1990, the Jewish Quarter was renovated, and together with St. Procopius Basilica, they became listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

These two attractions are famous across the world. The Basilica offers an interesting fusion of Gothic and Romanesque styles, whilst the Jewish Quarter is home to two synagogues and a labyrinth of narrow streets to explore. 

Třebíč Castle is also a popular attraction for its architecture. If you are looking for great views of Třebíč then you should also head up the Town Tower, the Masaryk Lookout, and the Kostelíček Water Tower. 

How to get to Třebíč from Prague:

The best way to get to Třebíč from Prague is by bus. The journey takes 2 hours and 50 minutes and is a direct route. You can choose to get the train but you will have to change over along the route, making the journey longer. 

13. Žďár nad Sázavou

Žďár nad Sázavou is most famous for the Pilgrimage Church of Saint John of Nepomuk, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The church was built by Jan Santini Achel who was a Bohemian architect and is famous for its architecture. The New Generation Museum in Žďár nad Sázavou offers a unique experience showing you the journey the town has taken during the last 800 years and is worth a visit.

The Church of Saint Procopius is also located here, with the church tower being open to the public. Other popular sights include the Old Town Hall which is a beautiful Renaissance building and the Baroque Chapel of Saint Barbara. 

This day trip takes you to the UNESCO-listed towns of Telč, Třebíč and Žďár nad Sázavou in the Czech Republic.

How to get to Žďár nad Sázavou from Prague:

The best way to get to Žďár nad Sázavou from the city of Prague is by public transportation. The journey via train takes around 2 hours 5 minutes, whilst the bus journey is considerably longer as changeovers are required. 

14. Konopiště Castle

Konopiště Castle is a three-story castle, that is famous for being the residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria before he was assassinated. A visit to the museum is a great way to learn about local history. The bullet fired by Gavrilo Princip which killed Franz Ferdinand is one of the museum exhibits at the castle. 

The castle has been open to the public since 1971 and gives people the opportunity to see the residential room of Franz Ferdinand. There are 4 different guided tours available – the apartments of the south wing of the castle, the apartments of the north wing, the private apartments of Franz Ferdinand, and the tour of his hunting trophies. Aside from the tours of the castle itself, you can roam around the chateau park, rose gardens, and the nearby fishpond. 

Here’s a day trip from Prague that includes a guided tour of Konopiště Castle. 

How to get to Konopiště Castle from Prague:

Konopiště Castle is one of the best places to visit near Prague by train. The journey takes about 1 hour and leaves from Prague’s main railway station. 

15. Hluboká Castle

Hluboká Castle is one of the most frequently visited castles in the Czech Republic and is also considered to be one of the most spectacular. It is modeled after Windsor Castle, which is England’s Royal residence. The impressive castle is a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic. 

Hluboká Castle is located in Hluboká nad Vltavou, which is a storybook town in itself – think of Beauty and the Beast, and you are on the right track. When wandering through the interior of the castle you will see tapestries, chandeliers, and portraits of its previous owners; the Schwarzenberg family. Don’t miss exploring the grounds and the courtyard where you will find turrets, carved lion statues, and wrought iron staircases. 

On this guided day trip, you can visit the UNESCO-listed town of Český Krumlov (includes lunch and Czech beer) and Hluboká Castle.

How to get to Hluboká Castle from Prague:

There are various options when it comes to reaching Hluboká Castle from Prague. The convenient way is to travel by bus which takes around 2 hours 30 minutes. The castle is also accessible by train, but many of the routes aren’t direct. 

 

 

16. Karlovy Vary 

Karlovy Vary (also known as Carlsbad) is a beautiful spa city, located approximately 130km from Prague. The name of this city translates to ‘Charles’ Bath’ after Charles IV, the King of Bohemia, and the Holy Roman Emperor who founded it in 1370. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name “Great Spa Towns of Europe”.

Karlovy Vary is the most visited spa town in the country and is a popular attraction with tourists. There are numerous hot springs found here, and the majority are found within the colonnades. Make sure to visit one of the many spa and wellness centers within Karlovy Vary. Treatments include body wraps, massages, hydrotherapy sessions, and baths.

Some of the spas even have outdoor swimming pools which offer sublime views. Other places to visit within the city include the Diana lookout tower, the Church of St. Lucas, and the Karlovy Vary Museum. 

Here’s a guided tour of Karlovy Vary that includes lunch and pick-up from your hotel in Prague. 

How to get to Karlovy Vary from Prague:

Aside from driving, you can reach Karlovy Vary by either bus or train. The bus journey takes around 2 hours and is the best option, whilst the train journey takes over 3 hours. 

17. Brno

Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, after Prague. The city is a cultural hub and attracts tourists from all across the world. It is a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and was designated as a ‘City of Music’ in 2017. It has also earned the nicknames of ‘Little Vienna’ and the ‘Hidden Heart of Europe’. When it comes to day excursions from Prague, visiting Brno is a must. 

Two of the most popular sights in the city include Špilberk Castle with its unique architecture and the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul which is a National Cultural Monument. These two sights are often depicted as Brno’s traditional symbols, so they are a must during your visit.

If you want a great view of the city, then make sure to head up the Old Town Hall Observation Tower for some breathtaking panoramic views. You can also take a steamboat across Brno Lake and head out of the city center to Veveří Castle. To make the most of your trip, take a walking tour of Brno, so you don’t miss out on any highlights. 

How to get to Brno from Prague:

If you aren’t hiring a car, you can reach Brno by bus or train. The bus journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, while the train takes around 3 hours. 

18. České Budějovice

České Budějovice, famous for its well-preserved historic city center, is the capital city of the South Bohemian Region.

The best place to start when visiting České Budějovice is Přemysl Otakar II Square. It’s the city’s main square and lies in the center of the Old Town. Lined with quaint houses, the square has many interesting spots including the Baroque Samson Fountain, the Black Tower, and St Nicholas Cathedral.

During your visit to České Budějovice, make sure to check out the town hall with its intricate architecture. The town is also well known for its Budweiser Budvar Brewery, and its Czech beer which has been brewed here since the 13th century. 

On this day trip from Prague that includes lunch, you can visit Cesky Krumlov and Ceske Budejovice.

How to get to České Budějovice from Prague:

You can easily reach České Budějovice from Prague by public transport. You can travel by train which takes nearly two hours, and by bus which takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. 

 

 

19. Bohemian Paradise (Cesky Raj) 

Bohemian Paradise (also known as Cesky Raj) is a region located in the Czech Republic and is a protected area. The Bohemian Paradise Nature Reserve is located within this region and was declared the first-ever nature reserve in the country in 1955. It only covers a small part of Bohemian Paradise and has clearly defined borders. 

Bohemian Paradise offers much to tourists including hiking, historical landmarks, and stunning scenery. The Prachov Rocks and the Hrubá Skála Rocks are picturesque formations and make for incredible photographs. Kost Castle and the ruins of Trosky Castle are two of the most recognizable sights within the region. Valdštejn Castle is one of the oldest castles in Bohemian Paradise, and there is Sychrov Chateau, known for its unique Neo-Gothic architecture. 

This guided tour of Bohemian Paradise begins in Prague and includes lunch. 

How to get to Bohemian Paradise (Cesky Raj) from Prague:

The best way to get from Prague to Bohemian Switzerland (Cesky Raj) is to hire a car, but if you are unable to drive yourself then you can get public transport. The train journey to Cesky Raj from Prague takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes, whilst the bus takes 2 hours and 45 minutes. 

20. Liberec

Liberec is the fifth-largest city in the Czech Republic and is surrounded by the Jizera Mountains and Ještěd–Kozákov Ridge. Liberec tends to be overlooked as a tourist destination but offers interesting architecture, hiking opportunities, and even snow sports in the winter. 

One of Liberecs’ most famous attractions is its extravagant Town Hall which was designed in an alpine renaissance style in the 19th century. Not only is the architecture incredible, but you can also head up to the balcony and get a fantastic view of the city.

If you are a culture buff then you need to visit the Museum of North Bohemia to learn about the city’s heritage. Namesti Edvarda Benese is the main square in Liberec and is surrounded by stunning colored buildings and eateries, and the Church of the Holy Cross is another spot to visit. 

How to get to Liberec from Prague:

The best way to get to Liberec from Prague is by bus, as it’s a direct journey. The journey takes between 2 hours and 30 minutes and 3 hours, depending on which bus you take. You can also catch the train to Liberec but the journey is longer, as you have to change. 

21. Olomouc

Olomouc was once the capital of Moravia, but today it is a large city in the Czech Republic that is often skipped by tourists. The city of Olomouc has a historic center and is home to the Holy Trinity Column which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are numerous churches within the center of Olomouc including St. Michael’s Church, the Church of the Virgin Mary of Snow, and the Church of St. Maurice. 

St. Wenceslas Cathedral is the second tallest church in the Czech Republic and is another popular attraction due to its Neo-Gothic towers. The Archdiocesan Museum of Olomouc and Olomouc Castle are also worth a visit during your trip. If you’re a beer lover, the city also has two great local breweries – Pivovar Riegrovka and Moritz Taverne Brewery. 

How to get to Olomouc from Prague:

You can easily reach Olomouc by public transport. The best way is by train which takes about 2 hours 20 minutes. You can take the bus but the journey is a lot longer with an estimated time of 4 hours 30 minutes. 

22. Mariánské Lázně

Mariánské Lázně is a popular spa town in the Czech Republic that was founded in 1273. Although famous for its mineral springs, spas, and health treatments, Mariánské Lázně is also known as one of the most picturesque and romantic towns in the country. 

Along with Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně is part of the multinational UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name ‘Great Spa Towns of Europe’.

Of course, the main attraction is to visit a spa during your stay, where you can get a massage, visit the mineral water pools, have a mud bath or even go for a beer treatment. Make sure you listen to the singing fountain or climb up the hill of Hamelika to get an amazing view of the town. You can also follow the Royal Trail which takes you on a walk up past the town and into the nearby forest. 

On this guided tour of Karlovy Vary and Marianske Lazne, make the most of your time by visiting two interesting cities from Prague in a single day. 

How to get to Mariánské Lázně from Prague:

Driving to Mariánské Lázně is by far the quickest way, although the town is also accessible by train. The journey from Prague takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. 

 

 

23. Mikulov

Mikulov is a charming old town in the Czech Republic that is famous for its historic architecture and winemaking. It is the perfect romantic getaway with many cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and wine tours. 

One of the highlights of this town is Mikulov Chateau, which is one of the most picturesque castles in the area. Hiking up Holy Hill will give you a gorgeous view of Mikulov, and you will also find St. Sebastian Chapel at the end of your walk.

If you are feeling active, you can have a go at the nearby frisbee golf course. The most popular activity is wine tasting. The famous 65km Mikulov Wine Trail starts from the town, which means that opportunities to taste delicious wine and eat tasty dishes abound. 

How to get to Mikulov from Prague:

The best way to reach Mikulov from Prague is by train, although it is a long journey. The journey takes roughly nearly 5 hours, so an early start is needed for this one. 

International Day Trips from Prague

1. Dresden, Germany

Dresden is the capital city of the state of Saxony and has a population of over half a million. It is split up into the ‘new town’ and ‘old town’. 

One of the most eye-catching sights is the Dresden Frauenkirche which is a church crested by one of Europe’s largest church domes. You can also attend a gala concert at the Zwinger, another must-visit with its landscaped gardens and Baroque architecture.

The Semperoper is an opera house and is one of the world’s most respected performing art venues, and is the perfect evening activity.  Here’s a guided tour of the Semperoper if you’re interested in its history and architecture.

Another popular attraction in Dresden is the Dresdner Residenzschloss – a Renaissance palace that was once the home for the Kings of Saxony. This tour of Dresden includes a walking tour of the Old Town and a visit to the Semperoper.

How to get to Dresden from Prague:

Driving to Dresden from Prague is by far the quickest option, but the city is also easily accessible by public transport. If you decide to travel by bus you are looking at a journey of nearly 2 hours, whilst traveling by train takes a bit longer. If you are looking at day trips from Prague to Germany, visiting Dresden is an easy choice as both public transport journeys are direct.

 

 

2. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw is a city located in Southwestern Poland and lies on the banks of River Oder. It is popular with tourists due to its architecture, food scene, and culture. The city was even named a UNESCO City of Literature in 2019. Wroclaw has plenty of sights including Centennial Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The old town is a beautiful part of the city and is home to Market Square and Cathedral Island. The town hall has amazing gothic architecture and the Royal Palace where you can learn about the cities 1,000-year history. Poland’s largest fountain – the Wroclaw Fountains are pretty impressive with 800 lights, 300 water jets, and a light show that takes place on some evenings. 

You can tour Wroclaw by electric car, take a walking tour of Wroclaw with a local, or explore Wroclaw by bike.

How to get to Wroclaw from Prague:

When it comes to traveling from Prague to Wroclaw, be prepared for a long journey. The bus from Prague takes around 5 hours 15 minutes, and the train is even longer as you have to change over. However, if you can hire a car, you can cut off 2 hours of the journey. 

3. Auschwitz Concentration Camp, Poland

Visiting Auschwitz Concentration Camp in Poland isn’t for the faint-hearted – the history of this place is horrifying and makes for a very emotional visit. Auschwitz was established in 1940 by the Nazis and was Germanys largest concentration and extermination camp with over 40 subcamps within. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It was the most lethal of all the extermination camps and became the primary site of Nazi Germanys ‘final solution’. It is estimated that between 1.1 and 1.5 million people died at Auschwitz, with over 90% being Jewish. The majority of the prisoners that were taken to Auschwitz were immediately sent to the gas chambers. The prisoners who weren’t, often died of many other causes including disease, infection, starvation, medical experimentations, and forced labor.

During the tour at Auschwitz, you will get to see what the living conditions of the camp were like, the crematoriums, and the unloading ramps. Shuttle buses are also available to take you between the two different sites. 

How to get to Auschwitz from Prague:

If you are looking to take an Auschwitz day trip from Prague, be prepared for a very long journey. The train from Prague to Auschwitz takes nearly 8 hours, whilst the bus takes between 8 and 9 hours depending on which route you take. 

 

 

4. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and the most populated city in the country. A vast majority of the city has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Most people enjoy seeing the city from a cruise on the Danube River – this cruise includes a cocktail, but if you’re looking for something fancier, this Budapest cruise includes dinner and live music. If you’re looking for something a bit more fun, this Danube cruise includes an operetta and a folk show.

One of the most popular sites in Budapest is the Hungarian Parliament building which is one of the largest buildings in Hungary. The Gellért Baths is one of the grandest spas in the city and has a Finnish sauna, plunge pools, and an open-air pool. The House of Terror is an informative visit as it holds exhibits about the communist and fascist regimes that previously ruled over Hungary.

Other popular spots in the city include Heroes’ Square, Margaret Island, Danube Promenade, the Great Synagogue (skip-the-line tickets here), and St. Stephen’s Basilica, where attending a concert is an amazing experience.

How to get to Budapest from Prague:

You can reach Budapest from Prague by either bus or train. The bus journey to Budapest takes nearly 7 hours, whilst the train journey takes around 7 hours and 30 minutes. 

 

 

5. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg translates to ‘salt castle’ and is the fourth-largest city in Austria. The historic center is known for its architecture and was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It is also the birthplace of the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 

One of the most iconic sites in Salzburg is the Hohensalzburg Fortress which is a large medieval fortress sitting atop Festungsberg. It’s possible to experience a Mozart concert and dinner on this tour of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Wandering through Salzburg Old Town is a must-visit as it is one of the largest UNESCO World Heritage sights by total area. Mirabell Palace is a truly beautiful spot within the city and is listed as a cultural heritage monument. Mozart’s famous residence is also found within the city, along with the Salzburg Cathedral and Mozartplatz Square. The Salzburg Card which offers free admission to plenty of sights and free rides is a money saver. 

If you’re a Sound of Music fan, this Sound of Music-themed guided tour around Salzburg takes you to all the landmarks featured in the film. 

 

 

How to get to Salzburg from Prague:

Taking a day trip from Prague to Austria is a long journey, and Salzburg is no different. There are no direct trains to Salzburg, so you have to make a transfer. Expect the journey to last between 6-7 hours with the waiting time between connections. There are also very few direct buses to Salzburg, so you have to do your research first. The journey by bus varies between 4 to 6 hours, depending on which bus company you go with. 

When it comes to taking day trips from Prague, there are many options. You can explore all the beautiful destinations that the Czech Republic has to offer or travel over the border into the neighboring European countries.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make any purchases using them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. That said, I’d never recommend a tour or accommodation in my post that I would not book myself.

Have you been to Prague? What would you add to this list?