Prague may be one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, but some of the Czech Republic’s most fascinating destinations lie beyond its medieval streets.
From fairytale castles and UNESCO-listed towns to spa resorts, dramatic natural landscapes, and important historical sites, these day trips reveal another side of the country that many visitors never experience.
If you have extra time during your visit, these are the destinations most worth exploring.
1. Visit Kutna Hora and the Bone Church
Distance from Prague: 1 hour
Few places in Europe are as unusual or unforgettable as Kutna Hora.
Once one of the wealthiest cities in Bohemia thanks to its silver mines, today it is best known for the remarkable Sedlec Ossuary, often called the Bone Church.
Decorated with the bones of thousands of people, it is one of the most unique religious sites in the world.
The city itself also features beautiful medieval streets and the magnificent St. Barbara’s Church.
Why it’s special: Few destinations combine beauty, history, and mystery quite like Kutna Hora.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Kutna Hora & Bone Church Day Trip
2. Explore Cesky Krumlov
Distance from Prague: Approximately 2.5 hours
The fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov is one of the most beautiful destinations in Central Europe.
Its winding river, colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and magnificent castle create a setting that feels untouched by time.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers visitors a glimpse into medieval Bohemia at its finest.
Why it’s special: It feels like stepping into a storybook.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Cesky Krumlov Day Trip from Prague
3. Discover Karlovy Vary
Distance from Prague: 2 hours
The elegant spa town of Karlovy Vary has welcomed visitors for centuries.
Known for its colourful architecture, thermal springs, grand colonnades, and relaxed atmosphere, it remains one of the most famous spa destinations in Europe.
Visitors can sample mineral waters, stroll through beautiful streets, and experience a different side of Czech culture.
Why it’s special: It offers a glimpse into the glamorous spa culture of Central Europe.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Karlovy Vary Day Tour
4. Explore Bohemian Switzerland National Park
Distance from Prague: 2 hours
Nature lovers will find some of the Czech Republic’s most spectacular scenery in Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
The region is famous for sandstone cliffs, forests, rivers, and the breathtaking Pravcicka Gate, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe.
Why it’s special: It showcases a side of the Czech Republic most visitors never see.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Bohemian Switzerland National Park Day Trip
5. Visit Karlstejn Castle
Distance from Prague: 40 minutes
Built by Charles IV in the 14th century, Karlstejn Castle is one of the country’s most iconic castles.
Set amid rolling countryside, it once protected the imperial crown jewels and remains one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Czech Republic.
Why it’s special: It is one of the most beautiful castles near Prague.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Karlstejn Castle Guided Tour
6. Discover Pilsen, the Birthplace of Pilsner Beer
Distance from Prague: 1 hour
Beer lovers should not miss Plzen, known internationally as Pilsen.
This is where the world’s first golden lager was brewed, forever changing beer production around the globe.
Visitors can tour the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery and learn about the origins of one of the world’s most influential beer styles.
Getting there: Pilsen is an easy day trip from Prague. Direct trains run hourly from Prague Main Station and reach Pilsen in around 1 hour 15 minutes, with tickets typically costing EUR6-EUR15. Budget travellers can also use FlixBus or other bus services, which take 1 hour 20-45 minutes and usually cost EUR4-EUR12. If travelling by car, the journey takes approximately 1 hour, offering flexibility to explore the surrounding region.
Why it’s special: It is a pilgrimage site for beer enthusiasts.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Tour
7. Visit Terezin
Distance from Prague: 1 hour
The fortress town of Terezin offers one of the most important historical experiences in the country.
During World War II it served as a Nazi ghetto and concentration camp. Today, memorials, museums, and preserved sites help visitors understand this difficult but essential chapter of European history.
Why it’s special: It provides a powerful and important insight into twentieth-century history.
Book this experience on GetYourGuide: Terezin Memorial Guided Tour
Which Day Trip Should You Choose?
If you love fairytale towns, choose Cesky Krumlov or Karlstejn Castle.
If you love history, choose Kutna Hora or Terezin.
If you love nature, choose Bohemian Switzerland.
If you love beer, choose Pilsen.
If you want something relaxing, choose Karlovy Vary.
If you only have time for one day trip from Prague, Kutna Hora is the easiest classic choice.