Karlštejn Castle

Written by Jason Pirodsky
for Expats.cz

The Czech lands are full of history, natural beauty and man made wonders. There are thousands of day and overnight trip options – here are a few selections. Ask a friend or just hop in a vehicle and see what’s out in the Czech countryside – accommodation and food are much cheaper once you leave the metropolis.

Karlovy Vary
One of the Czech Republic’s most famous spa towns is noteworthy for a number of things: spring water, spa wafers, Becherovka, the Moser glass factory, and more. Come in early July for one of Europe’s largest film festivals. A day trip is possible but it’s very likely you’ll want to stay longer.
Directions from Prague: train from Hlavní nádraží to Karlovy Vary; bus from Florenc to Karlovy Vary. The bus is more direct and should take 2:20.
Distance: 130 km west of Prague.
www.karlovyvary.cz

Karlštejn
Karlštejn Castle is one of the more popular destinations in the Czech Republic, most likely because it is so close to Prague. Guided tours of the main castle can be purchased on the spot; tickets to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, however, must be purchased (well) in advance: due to strict control over the regulation of air, only 12 visitors are allowed inside at a time. The area surrounding the castle is also quite beautiful, especially in the summer.
Directions from Prague: a train from Smíchovske nádraží or Hlavní nádraží to Karlštejn should take 0:40.
Distance: 35 km west of Prague.
www.hradkarlstejn.cz

Konopiště
Konopiště Chateau is a castle in the midst of charming gardens and a scenic landscape. The interior of the castle, which was refurbished for Franz Ferdinand d’Este before his assassination, features a large collection of hunting trophies. There may not be a lot to do in the surrounding area, but Konopiště makes a splendid day trip.
Directions from Prague: train from Hlavní nádraží to Benešov u Prahy; bus from Roztyly to Benešov u Prahy; both should take less than 0:45.
Distance: 40 km south east of Prague.
www.zamek-konopiste.cz

Kutná Hora
A number of gothic churches can be found in Kutná Hora, one of the most popular being the Cemetery Chapel with Ossuary, which is almost entirely decorated in human bones. Also, the Cathedral of St. Barbara is a magnificent structure which deserves a look around inside too. The town is also famous for its ancient silver mines, where tiny passages make for some exciting – if claustrophobic – tours. A UNESCO World Heritage site.
Directions from Prague: Bus from Florenc to Kutná Hora should take 1:15.
Distance: 80 km west of Prague.
www.kutnahora.cz

Křivoklát
Křivoklát Castle once belonged to major kings and was used as a hunting lodge but its importance sank as it was ravaged by fires twice over the years. It was also briefly used as a prison. Today it features numerous cultural exhibits around its grand interior, but one of the best things about a trip to Křivoklát is the surrounding countryside, with numerous trails perfect for hiking, biking and more.
Directions from Prague: train from Smíchovske nádraží to Křivoklát will take around 0:45.
Distance: 40 km west of Prague.
www.krivoklat.cz

Kladno Aquapark
Kladno may not be the most popular tourist destination, but the Aquapark is a popular one day trip for families with kids in both the summer and in winter. The Aquapark offers great swimming conditions for professionals or for those who just want to relax in the many different whirlpools and Jacuzzis. Kids will enjoy different toboggans, slides, an underwater cave, and the ‘wild river’. For those craving an adrenalin shot, try the ‘Spacebowl’ attraction. Open daily until 22:00.
Entry fees: under 3 yrs free entry; 3-15 yrs 50 CZK/hr; adults 90 CZK/hr.
Directions from Prague: bus from Dejvická or Hradčanská to Kladno should take around 0:30.
Distance: 25 km northeast of Prague.
www.aquapark-kladno.cz

Terezín
Many will not view Terezín – a prison camp where over 150,000 Jews were held during the Nazi occupation before being sent to concentration camps – as an ideal day trip, but the experience can be quite humbling. The town of Litoměřice, just a few kilometers from Terezín, is also well worth visiting. Known for wine, it is one of the oldest Czech towns located on the River Labe.
Directions from Prague: bus 17 from Florenc to Terezín takes around 1:00.
Distance: 60 km north of Prague.
www.pamatnik-terezin.cz

Špindlerův Mlýn
Špindlerův Mlýn is the most popular winter destination in the Czech Republic, with a wealth of mountains and slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and a variety of other winter sports. The area is quite the tourist destination, and will be extremely crowded during peak season – expect some long lines at the ski lift in February. There are a plenty of shops, restaurants, and other sights to see if skiing isn’t your game.
Directions from Prague: by bus - from Černý Most to Špindlerův Mlýn, by train - from Hlavní nádraží to Vrchlabí then you’ll need to take a bus or taxi; both ways will take a little over 2:00.
Distance: 110 km north of Prague.
www.spindleruv-mlyn.cz

Turnov & Jičín
The region of Bohemian Paradise contains the twin cities of Turnov and Jičín in the midst of a diverse landscape. The area is known for precious stones, and it’s where Czech garnets come from. The landscape around both towns is perfect for hiking.
Directions from Prague: by bus from Florenc to Turnov will take about 2:00.
Distance: 88 km east of Prague.
www.jicin.org