Best easy train trips from Prague within one hour

There are many wonderful places just a short ride away. Each spot offers a unique look at Czech culture and history. Most trains are modern and offer comfortable seating for your short journey.

• Best overall: Karlštejn Castle
• Best for history: Kutná Hora
• Best for relaxing: Poděbrady
• Best for families: Beroun

1. Name: Karlštejn Castle Type: Sight Why go: This is the most famous royal castle in the country. It was built by Emperor Charles IV to hold holy relics. The walk from the station to the castle is very scenic. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Karlštejn village, southwest of Prague. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Low (train ticket and castle grounds are cheap). Getting there: Take the S7 train from Prague Main Station. Tip: Book castle interior tours in advance during summer months.
2. Name: Kutná Hora Type: Experience Why go: Visit the famous Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the Bone Church. This town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with amazing Gothic architecture. The Kutná Hora day trip is a must for unique history. Best for: Architecture fans and curious travelers. Where: Kutná Hora, east of Prague. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct express trains take about 55 minutes. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the Cathedral and the Bone Church.
3. Name: Poděbrady Type: Activity Why go: This is a peaceful spa town located on the Elbe River. You can walk through the flower-filled parks and taste the local mineral water. It is much flatter than Prague, making it easy to walk. Best for: Relaxation and seniors. Where: Poděbrady, east of Prague. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct trains depart from Prague Main Station every hour. Tip: Rent a bicycle to ride along the flat river paths.
4. Name: Beroun Type: Experience Why go: Beroun is famous for its town bear pit where real bears live. It also hosts popular pottery markets twice a year. The town is a gateway to the beautiful Bohemian Karst nature area. Best for: Families with children. Where: Beroun, west of Prague. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Very low. Getting there: Frequent trains run from Prague Smíchov or Main Station. Tip: Visit on a Saturday morning to see the local farmers' market.
5. Name: Mělník Type: Sight Why go: This town sits at the meeting point of the Vltava and Elbe rivers. You can visit the local chateau and explore ancient wine cellars. The view of the river confluence is spectacular from the hill. Best for: Wine enthusiasts and couples. Where: Mělník, north of Prague. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a train or a direct bus from Ládví. Tip: Try the local Ludmila wine at the chateau restaurant.
6. Name: Nelahozeves Type: Sight Why go: This village features a stunning Renaissance palace owned by the Lobkowicz family. It is also the birthplace of the famous composer Antonín Dvořák. You can visit his childhood home near the station. Best for: Music and art fans. Where: Nelahozeves, north of Prague. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Local trains take about 45 minutes from Prague Masarykovo station. Tip: Check the palace schedule for classical music concerts.
7. Name: Kolín Type: Experience Why go: Kolín has a beautiful main square and a massive Gothic cathedral. It also has a rich Jewish history with a preserved cemetery and synagogue. It is less crowded than other tourist spots. Best for: People who want to avoid crowds. Where: Kolín, east of Prague. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Very frequent express trains take only 45 minutes. Tip: Climb the Bartoloměj bell tower for a great city view.
8. Name: Nymburk Type: Sight Why go: This town is famous for its well-preserved medieval brick walls. You can walk along the river and see the old fortifications. It is also the home of the Postřižiny brewery. Best for: Beer lovers and history buffs. Where: Nymburk, east of Prague. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct trains run from Prague Main Station regularly. Tip: Walk the path between the two sets of medieval walls.
9. Name: Roztoky u Prahy Type: Activity Why go: This is the shortest trip on the list. It features a charming chateau and a valley perfect for light hiking. The Silent Valley path is very peaceful and green. Best for: A quick morning or afternoon outing. Where: Roztoky, just north of the city border. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Very low (use a Prague transit pass). Getting there: Trains take only 15 minutes from Prague Podbaba or Masarykovo. Tip: Visit the Brauner Mill for local art exhibitions.

Planning your easy train trips from Prague

The Czech train network is one of the densest in Europe. Most trains are operated by Czech Railways (České dráhy). You can find cheap train tickets for day trips from Prague at any station. Use the PID Lítačka app to buy tickets on your phone.

Prague Main Station (Hlavní nádraží) is the primary hub for these trips. It is located right on the Metro C line. Always check the platform number on the large departure boards. Most staff speak basic English to help you find your way.

For very close trips like Roztoky, you can use a standard city transit ticket. Just make sure it covers the correct number of outer zones. If you travel in a group, ask for a group discount at the ticket counter. This can save you a lot of money on your journey.