From rail to trail: Last-minute journeys for the long weekend in Czechia

Two themed wine trails in Central Bohemia offer scenic cycling or walking combined with sampling local vintages. The Kutná Hora Wine Trail spans less than 6 km between the historic town center and the vineyard below Sukov Hill. Owned by Vinné Sklepy Kutná Hora and certified biodynamic, the trail allows visitors to view vineyards with Tramín and Svatovavřinecké grapes and taste wines at its refurbished monastery tasting room.

The Polabská Trail stretches 55 km between Mělník and Velké Žernoseky, combining the Mělník and Litoměřice wine regions. Starting in Mělník, the capital of Czech winemaking thanks to Charles IV, cyclists can visit regional museums and historic cellars at Mělník Castle or several local wineries. The paved riverside path offers scenic views of vineyards and towns like Roudnice nad Labem before finishing in the wine village.

Bohemian Switzerland and surrounding areas offer beautiful autumn scenery and activities for all. The iconic Pravčická Gate and boat trips in the Wild Gorge operate through November. Moving between the main sites of the national park is easy using shuttle buses until late October.

Visitors staying multiple days can use free regional transport to discover lesser-known areas outside the national park. Děčín makes an ideal family base with its castle, zoo, water park, and via ferrata climbing on Shepherd's Wall offering scenic hiking adventures.

The Krkonoše Treetop Trail is hosting a Sept. 28 event featuring Krakonoš, the mythical giant of the Krkonoše Mountains. Guided tours share insights about the local flora and fauna while visitors explore the forest surroundings from the treetop walkways and underground cave.

A special autumn menu will be served at the on-site restaurant. The day promises to be educational and fun while gaining a unique perspective of the forest from high above. Children dressed as fairy tale characters can attend for free (note the event is in Czech only).

Numerous Czech castles host Saint Wenceslas events on Sept. 28. Celebrate the patron saint of the Czech lands (and beer) at Svijany Castle with a daylong feast in the courtyard which includes beer competitions, a tapping workshop, and live music.

Visitors can sample a limited batch brew and tour the Svijany Brewery for a discounted price. Programming on the main stage includes period dances, fencing, drumming, theater, and a knight tournament. Nearby activities encompass traditional crafts, pony rides, camping, and beer tasting. Closer to Prague, Konopiště Castle hosts a St. Wenceslas Day on Sept. 28 as well.

Over 120 tourist towers, lookouts, and observation points across the Czech Republic participate in the Month of Towers and Lookouts from Sept. 28th to Oct. 28. Popular destinations include Kleť, Diana, Poledník, Libín, Svatobor, Petřín Tower, Studený vrch, the Nymburk and Kadan town hall towers, and others.

A competition awards prizes for those collecting four stamps minimum from different towers. Ending on Oct. 28, the event encourages exploration of the country's scenic views in the colorful autumn season from heights often less busy than during the summer months.

Several fascinating hiking routes, not far from Prague, lead Czech pilgrims between historic sacred sites. In Příbram, Holy Mountain draws endless processions to the landmark church complex housing a revered statue. Further south, Sv. Jan pod Skalou (Saint John under the Rock) entices visitors to explore the cave where a ninth-century hermit lived and enjoy panoramic views.

Nearby Tetín honors St. Ludmila, St. Wenclas's grandmother, at three churches connected by two scenic branches of the Way of St. James. These trails pass through picturesque countryside inland from Prague, enriching nature lovers and devotees alike with architectural wonders and a spiritual heritage spanning centuries.