Why Choose Day Trips from Prague by Train?

The Czech Republic has one of the densest rail networks in Europe. Trains are reliable, clean, and often very frequent. Most easy train trips from Prague start at the main station. This station is called Praha hlavní nádraží and is located near the city center. You can reach most destinations in under two hours.

Traveling by rail is also a budget-friendly choice for families and solo travelers. You can buy cheap train tickets for day trips from Prague online or at the station. Group discounts are usually available for two or more people. This makes the train much cheaper than renting a car or booking private tours. Plus, you get to experience the local lifestyle alongside Czech commuters.

Top 11 Day Trips from Prague by Train

If you are looking for adventure, here are the best spots to visit. These locations offer a mix of history, nature, and culture. Check out these day trips from Prague by train for your next itinerary.

Quick Picks:

• Best Overall: Kutná Hora
• Best for Families: Karlštejn Castle
• Best for Beer Lovers: Pilsen
• Best Free Activity: Hiking in Děčín

1. Name: Kutná Hora (Sedlec Ossuary) Type: Sight Why go: See the world-famous "Bone Church" and a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Central Bohemia. Time: 5–7 hours. Cost: Low (entry fees and train). Getting there: Direct train from Prague main station takes about 1 hour. Tip: Visit the St. Barbara's Cathedral for amazing Gothic architecture.
2. Name: Karlštejn Castle Type: Experience Why go: This is the most iconic fortress in the Czech Republic. It was built by Emperor Charles IV to hold royal treasures. Best for: Castle lovers and hikers. Where: Beroun District. Time: 4–6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take the S7 suburban train from Prague; it takes 40 minutes. Tip: Read our Karlštejn Castle guide before you go to book tours in advance.
3. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery (Pilsen) Type: Experience Why go: Visit the birthplace of Pilsner beer. You can tour the historic cellars and taste unfiltered beer. Best for: Beer enthusiasts and foodies. Where: Plzeň (West Bohemia). Time: 6–8 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Fast trains depart every hour and take about 90 minutes. Tip: Book your brewery tour online to skip the long lines.
4. Name: Karlovy Vary Type: Experience Why go: A world-famous spa town with elegant colonnades and thermal springs. It feels like stepping back into the 19th century. Best for: Relaxation and luxury. Where: West Bohemia. Time: Full day (10–12 hours). Cost: Moderate to High. Getting there: The train takes about 3 hours, offering a very scenic ride. Tip: Try the local herbal liqueur, Becherovka, while visiting a spa day resort.
5. Name: Český Krumlov Type: Sight Why go: A fairytale town with a massive castle and a winding river. It is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Best for: Couples and romantic walks. Where: South Bohemia. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct trains take about 2.5 to 3 hours. Tip: Check the schedule for trains from Prague early in the morning to maximize your time.
6. Name: Terezín Memorial Type: Experience Why go: Learn about the somber history of the Jewish Ghetto and the Gestapo prison. It is an essential educational trip. Best for: History students and dark tourism. Where: North of Prague. Time: 5–6 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Train to Bohušovice nad Ohří, then a short bus or walk. Tip: A concentration camp tour is best done with a guide for proper context.
7. Name: Děčín (Bohemian Switzerland) Type: Nature Why go: Access the stunning sandstone cliffs and the Pravčická Brána rock arch. Best for: Hikers and nature photographers. Where: Near the German border. Time: Full day. Cost: Low to Moderate. Getting there: Direct trains take 1.5 hours to Děčín. Tip: Visit Bohemian Switzerland National Park in autumn for incredible colors.
8. Name: Poděbrady Type: Experience Why go: A peaceful spa town famous for its heart health treatments and riverside parks. Best for: A relaxing afternoon away from crowds. Where: East of Prague. Time: 4–5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct trains from the main station take about 50 minutes. Tip: Rent a bike and ride along the Elbe River path.
9. Name: Tábor Type: Sight Why go: A medieval town founded by Hussite warriors with a labyrinth of underground tunnels. Best for: Medieval history fans. Where: South Bohemia. Time: 6–7 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Fast trains take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tip: Visit the Hussite Museum located in the old town hall.
10. Name: Benešov (Konopiště Castle) Type: Sight Why go: See the former residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. The castle houses a massive collection of armor. Best for: History buffs and garden lovers. Where: South of Prague. Time: 5–6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Benešov u Prahy takes 1 hour, then a 2km walk. Tip: This is one of the best castles near Prague for a half-day trip.
11. Name: Nelahozeves Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful Renaissance castle and the birthplace of composer Antonín Dvořák. Best for: Music and art lovers. Where: North of Prague. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Local trains take only 45 minutes from Prague. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby Veltrusy Mansion park.

Practical Tips for Your Rail Journey

Buying tickets for day trips from Prague by train is very simple. You can use the official "Můj vlak" app from Czech Railways. This app allows you to buy tickets and track delays in real-time. You do not need to print your ticket; showing the QR code on your phone is enough. For official travel info, visit the Visit Czechia portal.

Prague's main station can be busy during peak hours. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your departure. Platforms are usually announced 10 to 20 minutes before the train leaves. Look for the "Nástupiště" sign on the departure boards. Most trains have free Wi-Fi and power outlets for your convenience.

Best Train Trips for Every Type of Traveler

If you have limited time, focus on half-day trips from Prague like Karlštejn. These allow you to be back in the city by dinner. For those who love the outdoors, Bohemian Paradise hiking is a great choice. You can reach the edge of this region by train in about 90 minutes.

During the colder months, consider winter day trips from Prague to spa towns. Karlovy Vary and Poděbrady are perfect when it is snowing. The warm mineral springs provide a cozy escape from the cold. No matter the season, the train offers a comfortable way to explore.