Quick Picks for Your Castle Day Trip

Choosing the right destination depends on your interests. Some castles are perfect for hiking. Others focus on royal art and jewelry. Use these quick picks to decide where to go first.

• Best Overall: Karlštejn Castle
• Best for Families: Konopiště Castle
• Best for Nature: Kokořín Castle
• Best Rainy-Day: Nelahozeves Castle

Best Castles Near Prague Accessible by Public Transport

The following list includes the most impressive fortresses and chateaus. Each is reachable by train or bus from Prague. Ensure you check the latest schedules before you depart.

1. Name: Karlštejn Castle Type: sight Why go: It was built by Charles IV to hold the Imperial Crown Jewels. Best for: History buffs and first-time visitors. Where: Karlštejn village. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate for tours; grounds are free. Getting there: Train from Prague Main Station (40 mins). Tip: The walk from the station is steep but scenic.
2. Name: Křivoklát Castle Type: experience Why go: One of the oldest and most important royal castles in Bohemia. Best for: People who love dark, gothic atmosphere. Where: Křivoklát. Time: 5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train from Prague with a change in Beroun. Tip: Check out the amazing wooden library inside.
3. Name: Konopiště Castle Type: sight Why go: The former home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand features a massive armory. Best for: Fans of 20th-century history and hunting trophies. Where: Benešov. Time: 5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Benešov u Prahy, then a 20-minute walk. Tip: Visit the Rose Garden to see the resident peacocks.
4. Name: Kutná Hora (Italian Court) Type: day trip Why go: This UNESCO site was once the royal mint for silver coins. Best for: Architecture lovers and UNESCO collectors. Where: Kutná Hora. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct train from Prague Main Station (1 hour). Tip: Combine this with a visit to the famous Sedlec Ossuary nearby.
5. Name: Mělník Castle Type: experience Why go: It offers the best view of the Vltava and Labe river confluence. Best for: Wine lovers and romantic couples. Where: Mělník. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus from Ládví or Nádraží Holešovice (45 mins). Tip: Try the local Lobkowicz wine in the castle cellars.
6. Name: Nelahozeves Castle Type: museum Why go: A stunning Renaissance chateau housing a world-class art collection. Best for: Art enthusiasts and quiet afternoons. Where: Nelahozeves. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train from Masarykovo nádraží (45 mins). Tip: The castle is located right next to the train station.
7. Name: Český Šternberk Castle Type: sight Why go: A massive Gothic fortress still owned by the original family. Best for: Those seeking an authentic, lived-in castle feel. Where: Český Šternberk. Time: 6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train via the scenic Sázava Pacific line. Tip: The train ride itself is a beautiful experience through the woods.
8. Name: Průhonice Castle Type: nature Why go: Features a massive UNESCO-listed botanical park and a fairy-tale chateau. Best for: Photographers and families with small children. Where: Průhonice. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Metro C to Opatov, then bus 363 or 385. Tip: Visit in May to see the rhododendrons in full bloom.
9. Name: Kokořín Castle Type: experience Why go: A romantic castle hidden in a deep forest valley. Best for: Hikers and adventure seekers. Where: Kokořínský důl. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus from Ládví (usually requires a change). Tip: Climb the tower for a 360-degree view of the nature reserve.
10. Name: Brandýs nad Labem Type: sight Why go: A favorite summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Best for: A quick trip without the crowds. Where: Brandýs nad Labem. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus from Černý Most (25 mins). Tip: Walk across the bridge to see the Stará Boleslav churches.

Tips for Visiting Castle Towns Near Prague by Train

Using public transport in the Czech Republic is simple. Most trains depart from Prague Main Station (Hlavní nádraží). You can buy tickets at the station or via the PID Lítačka app. Always remember to validate your ticket if using a local bus. Many Kutná Hora day trips start early to avoid crowds. Most castles are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes because many castles sit on steep hills. In 2026, expect some sites to require online booking for guided tours.