Why Choose Scenic Train Rides Near Prague?

Rail travel in the Czech Republic is a beloved local tradition. The tracks often follow river banks where roads cannot go. This provides unique views of the landscape. Most trains are modern and comfortable for long or short trips. You can easily find information on the official city tourism portal for basic navigation. Traveling by rail is also very eco-friendly compared to driving. It allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without traffic stress.

Tickets are surprisingly cheap for international visitors. You can often travel across the region for just a few dollars. The frequency of trains makes planning very flexible. Most scenic routes run every hour throughout the day. This means you can spend as much time as you like at your destination. The trains are also equipped with large windows perfect for photography. You will see ancient viaducts and charming rural villages along the way.

9 Best Scenic Train Rides Near Prague for Tourists

These routes have been selected for their visual appeal and ease of access. Each journey offers a different perspective of the Bohemian landscape. Here are our top picks for your next rail adventure.

• Best overall: Posázavský Pacifik
• Best for families: Karlštejn Castle Route
• Best for nature: Elbe Valley to Děčín
• Best for city views: Prague Semmering

1. Name: Posázavský Pacifik (Sázava Pacific) Type: Experience Why go: This historic route winds through the dramatic Sázava River canyon. It features steep cliffs and vintage wooden stations. Best for: Nature lovers and history buffs. Where: South of Prague towards Čerčany. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: Approx. $5–$8. Getting there: Depart from Praha-Vršovice or Hlavní nádraží. Tip: Sit on the right side when leaving Prague for the best river views.
2. Name: Prague Semmering (Line S65) Type: Sight Why go: It offers the best aerial views of Prague. The train crosses two massive stone viaducts over the Prokopské Valley. Best for: Photographers and short trips. Where: Between Smíchov and Hostivice. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Standard city transit ticket (approx. $2). Getting there: Catch the S65 line from Praha-Smíchov. Tip: Use a 24-hour public transport pass to ride this for free.
3. Name: The Elbe Valley Route Type: Nature Why go: The tracks follow the massive Elbe River into the heart of Bohemian Switzerland. You will see towering sandstone cliffs. Best for: Hikers and landscape lovers. Where: Prague to Děčín. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: $10–$15. Getting there: Take a EuroCity or regional fast train from the main station. Tip: Continue to Bad Schandau in Germany for a cross-border experience.
4. Name: Berounka Valley to Karlštejn Type: Sight Why go: This is one of the most easy train trips from Prague within one hour. The train hugs the Berounka River under limestone cliffs. Best for: First-time visitors and castle fans. Where: Southwest of Prague. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: $3–$5. Getting there: Take the S7 line from Praha-Hlavní nádraží. Tip: Visit the castle but also walk along the river path for great photos.
5. Name: The Kutná Hora Express Type: Experience Why go: The ride crosses the flat, fertile plains of Central Bohemia. It leads to a stunning UNESCO silver mining town. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: East of Prague. Time: 1 hour. Cost: $6–$9. Getting there: Direct fast trains leave every two hours from the main station. Tip: Check if your ticket includes the local shuttle to the Bone Church.
6. Name: The Vltava Canyon to Roztoky Type: Nature Why go: A quick but beautiful ride along the Vltava River north of the city. You see rocky outcrops and river islands. Best for: A quick morning escape. Where: Prague to Roztoky u Prahy. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Standard city ticket. Getting there: Take the S4 or S49 lines from Masarykovo nádraží. Tip: Visit the Roztoky Castle museum right next to the station.
7. Name: The Křivoklát Forest Line Type: Experience Why go: The train plunges into the deep, protected forests of the Křivoklátsko region. It is incredibly green and peaceful. Best for: Those seeking solitude and royal history. Where: West of Prague. Time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Cost: $7–$10. Getting there: Take a train to Beroun and switch to the local branch line. Tip: Look for special steam engine excursions on this route during summer.
8. Name: The Bohemian Paradise Route (Turnov) Type: Nature Why go: This journey leads to the "Bohemian Paradise" Geopark. You will see distant rock cities and volcanic hills. Best for: Active travelers and hikers. Where: North of Prague. Time: 2 hours. Cost: $10–$14. Getting there: Direct trains depart from Praha-Vršovice or Hlavní nádraží. Tip: Rent a bike at Turnov station to explore the rock formations.
9. Name: The South Bohemian Pond Route Type: Nature Why go: The landscape changes to rolling hills and massive medieval fish ponds. It is a very traditional Czech view. Best for: Seeing the classic countryside. Where: Prague to České Budějovice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: $12–$18. Getting there: Take the "Jižní expres" (South Express) from the main station. Tip: Stop in Tábor halfway to see a beautiful medieval walled town.

Planning Your Rail Adventure from Prague

Planning your trip is simple with the right tools. Most travelers should download the "Můj vlak" app by Czech Railways. It provides real-time schedules and easy mobile ticketing. You can also find cheap train tickets for day trips from Prague by booking a few days in advance. For more regional travel tips, visit the Visit Czechia national board website. Always remember to validate your ticket if using the local PID system.

Prague has several major stations. Most scenic rides depart from the Main Station (Hlavní nádraží). However, some local lines start at Masarykovo nádraží or Smíchov. Check your departure station carefully on your ticket. The stations are well-signed in English and Czech. Most have cafes where you can grab a coffee for your journey. Try to arrive 15 minutes before departure to find your platform.

The best time for scenic rides is late spring or autumn. In May, the landscape is bright green and full of flowers. October brings stunning golden colors to the river valleys. Winter can also be magical if there is fresh snow on the castle towers. Most trains are heated and comfortable even in freezing weather. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the mountains or forests.