If you've strolled through the Prague cobblestone streets, walked the medieval Old Town, and gazed upon the turrets of the Gothic churches, then you might be in need of a breath of fresh air. The good news is that the Czech Republic has even more sights crammed into a compact area just outside its capital. A day excursion from Prague to one of the area castles is not merely a pleasure with breathtaking views and interesting history, but a welcome respite into the countryside, photo-worthy villages, and UNESCO-protected treasures.
Let's see some of the Prague day trip to nearby castles ideas that offer fairy-tale castles, the outdoors, and culture.
One of the most popular day tours from Prague is a day tour of ?eský Krumlov. Although it's roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive there and back, this charming town that's a UNESCO Site is well worth the time investment.
?eský Krumlov is commonly known as little Prague. It boasts a picturesque, well-conserved historic center full of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, all on a curve of the Vltava River. The highlight of the town is the huge Cesky Krumlov Castle, the Czech Republic's second-largest. The castle compound boasts refined halls, a special Baroque theater, and a tall tower with panoramic views of the old city.
While a guided day trip to Cesky Krumlov from Prague does come with transport, castle entrance, and lunch, independent visits can also be made. Walking down the curved streets, stopping at riverfront cafes, or taking a canoe rental are all great ways of soaking up this gem of a medieval town.
Only an hour to the east of the capital city, Kutna Hora is a place no history buff or curiosity lover can afford to miss. A Kutna Hora bone church day tour brings visitors to the Sedlec Ossuary — a simple chapel filled with the bones of more than 40,000 individuals. Quirky but charming, the bone chandeliers, altars, and garlands add a special touch to the ambiance.
But that's not all about the ossuary. The town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's equally well known for its breathtaking St. Barbara's Cathedral and medieval silver mines that brought such wealth to the area in centuries past.
You can find the majority of Kutna Hora bone church day tours featuring the ossuary, as well as the other attractions of the town. It's a leisurely but rejuvenating day trip, perfectly suited to those seeking a combination of the ugly and the excellent.
Not quite 40 minutes southwest of Prague is one of the nation's most recognized attractions — Karlstejn Castle. A public tour at Karlstejn Castle in Prague is perfect for tourists who desire to view Gothic architecture without having to drive far.
Especially designed by Emperor Charles IV in the 14th century, Karlstejn Castle was primarily intended to serve as the guardian of the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire. Though a castle-like fortress dominates one hillside covered with woods, the building itself is strong but beautiful. Within the castle, the guided tour will lead you to royal halls and chapels, the beautiful Chapel of the Holy Cross being especially famous for its priceless inlays of precious stones and sacred paintings.
You can travel to Karlstejn town within an hour by train. After the guided public tour of the Karlstejn Castle, walk along the scenic village path, try some Czech food at local restaurants, or hike in the nearby woods for more natural landscapes.
For nature, myth, and ancient ruins lovers, a day trip to Cesky Raj — the Bohemian Paradise — is unsurpassable. This landscape protection area is dotted with sandstone rock formations, pine forests, and historical buildings. A Cesky Raj rock castles from Prague tour provides you with the opportunity to see the unique combination of nature and man-made structures in a single destination.
Hike among towering stone pillars, stroll to fairy-tale-like Hruba Skala Castle standing on cliffs, and gaze at Trosky Castle’s twin towers rising over hills like figures in a children's book. The entire area is full of folklore and features visual beauty with mystery.
Though Cesky Raj can be accessed by train, it is more convenient and easier to organize a guided Cesky Raj rock castles from Prague tour. The tours usually involve hiking, castle excursions, and loads of photo stops.
European royalty buffs will find Konopiste Castle a worthwhile visit. It's just 50 km from Prague, and this elegant chateau was the final residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination sparked World War I.
The castle features a vast collection of medieval armor, hunting trophies, and period decorations. The rose garden and lakeside setting are extra romantic during spring and summer.
Though not one of the better-known Prague day trips to local castles, Konopiste provides a less touristy but still intimate glimpse into the life of the aristocracy. You can go on a guided tour from Prague or take the train to Benesov and then a short walk or taxi ride.
For travelers looking for an increased chance to experience Czech culture, off-the-beaten-track Litomysl is well worth a visit. A second UNESCO heritage near Prague tour, Litomysl Castle, is an architectural marvel with sgraffito-decorated walls and Italianate courtyards.
Although a little off (say 2 hours by car or train), the mood is serene and the tourists infrequent. It is also hometown to Czech composer Bedrich Smetana, whose childhood home is a museum today. And if history, architecture, and music are condensed into one visit, Litomysl is worth finding out.
Not all day trips are scenic and relaxing. Some are somber, but worthwhile. Terezin Memorial, about an hour beyond the capital city of Prague, was originally a military fortress but became notorious as a World War II Nazi concentration camp.
Terezín is a poignant tour that provides a glimpse into the Holocaust horrors of the Holocaust. The complex features a museum, barracks, a crematorium, and poignant displays of children's artwork done while being incarcerated.
While not specifically including landscapes or castles, a visit to Terezín is an integral part of learning Central European history. It is also commonly packaged within UNESCO heritage Prague region tours based on cultural studies and memorials.
For yet another great Prague day outing to local castles, consider Krivoklat Castle. Situated among the forests of the Krivoklatsko Protected Landscape Area, this 12th-century Gothic castle is less crowded than Karlstejn but no less beautiful.
Krivoklat Castle has been the site for numerous movies and provides a dramatic glimpse into medieval defenses. Its interior includes a grand library, cells for prisoners, and knights' halls. Couple a visit with a forest walk in the nearby woods or a boat ride down the scenic Berounka River.
Conveniently accessible by train or tour, Krivoklat is perfect for nature- and history-interested tourists in one location.
Let’s explore some useful tips to plan your Prague Day Trip to Nearby Castles smoothly:
While Prague may be loaded with architectural wonders, incredible beer and history--what lies outside of it, affords an even more powerful experience of Czech culture and beauty. There is a day trip for every visitor's imagination, from stunning castles and rocky landscapes to memorials and postcard pretty medieval villages.
Whether you’re interested in a Kutna Hora bone church day trip, a peaceful Karlstejn Castle public tour Prague, or a nature-filled Cesky Raj rock castles from Prague hike, each route is a window into the diverse heritage of the Czech Republic.
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