Quick Picks for Day Trips from Prague

Choosing the right destination depends on your interests. Some towns are perfect for history, while others focus on relaxation. The rail connections from Prague Main Station make these trips very easy. You do not need a rental car to see the best of Bohemia.

• Best Overall: Kutná Hora for its unique history.
• Best for Families: Plzeň for the interactive museums.
• Best for Romance: Karlštejn for its fairy-tale castle views.
• Best for Wellness: Karlovy Vary for the thermal springs.

If you want to see a variety of places, check out our guide on nearby towns from Prague. Planning ahead will help you maximize your time in this beautiful region.

11 Best Small Towns Near Prague by Train

The following list includes the top-rated destinations accessible by rail. Each town offers a unique glimpse into Czech culture and history. Most trains run hourly from the city center. Expect clean carriages and helpful staff on most routes.

1. Name: Sedlec Ossuary (Kutná Hora) Type: sight Why go: This "Bone Church" is decorated with the remains of 40,000 people. It is a hauntingly beautiful UNESCO site. Best for: History buffs Where: Kutná Hora Time: 5-6 hours Cost: Low Getting there: Direct train from Prague Main Station (1 hour). Tip: Buy a combined ticket to see the Kutná Hora Cathedral as well.
2. Name: Karlštejn Castle (Karlštejn) Type: castle village Why go: This Gothic fortress once held the imperial crown jewels. The village below is charming and full of shops. Best for: Photographers Where: Karlštejn Time: 4-5 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Local train S7 from Prague (40 minutes). Tip: Read our Karlštejn village guide before you hike up the hill.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade (Karlovy Vary) Type: spa town Why go: Taste mineral waters from historic springs in a grand setting. The town is famous for its film festival and glassworks. Best for: Relaxation Where: Karlovy Vary Time: Full day Cost: Moderate Getting there: Fast train from Prague (2 hours 15 mins). Tip: Try the local herbal liqueur, Becherovka, while visiting this spa town.
4. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery (Plzeň) Type: brewery tour Why go: Visit the birthplace of Pilsner beer. Explore the historic cellars and taste unfiltered beer from the barrel. Best for: Foodies Where: Plzeň Time: 6 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Express train from Prague (1 hour 30 mins). Tip: Book your brewery tour online in advance to skip the lines.
5. Name: State Castle and Chateau (Český Krumlov) Type: UNESCO sight Why go: A fairytale town with a massive castle overlooking a winding river. It is widely considered the most beautiful town in the country. Best for: Couples Where: South Bohemia Time: Full day Cost: High Getting there: Direct train (approx. 2.5 to 3 hours). Tip: This is a long trip, so check the Český Krumlov guide for the best schedule.
6. Name: Poděbrady Spa Park (Poděbrady) Type: river town Why go: A peaceful town known for its heart-healing mineral springs and flat cycling paths. Best for: Seniors Where: Poděbrady Time: 4-5 hours Cost: Low Getting there: Direct train from Prague (50 minutes). Tip: Walk along the Labe river for a relaxing afternoon.
7. Name: Žižka Square (Tábor) Type: medieval town Why go: Founded by Hussite warriors, this town has a maze of underground tunnels. The medieval atmosphere is very well preserved. Best for: Adventure seekers Where: Tábor Time: 6 hours Cost: Low Getting there: Direct train from Prague (1 hour 15 mins). Tip: Visit the Hussite Museum to learn about the town's radical history.
8. Name: Mělník Chateau (Mělník) Type: wine town Why go: See the confluence of the Vltava and Labe rivers. The local vineyards produce excellent white wines. Best for: Wine lovers Where: Mělník Time: 5 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Train from Prague Main Station (1 hour). Tip: Visit the chateau wine cellars for a tasting session.
9. Name: Konopiště Castle (Benešov) Type: castle town Why go: The former home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. It houses an incredible collection of hunting trophies and armor. Best for: History buffs Where: Benešov Time: 5 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Fast train from Prague (1 hour). Tip: Look for the bears living in the castle moat.
10. Name: Ještěd Tower (Liberec) Type: mountain city Why go: A unique sci-fi style tower on top of a mountain. It offers panoramic views of the entire region. Best for: Nature lovers Where: Liberec Time: Full day Cost: Moderate Getting there: Train from Prague (requires a change, approx 2 hours). Tip: Take the cable car up the mountain for the best experience.
11. Name: Terezín Memorial (Terezín) Type: historical memorial Why go: A former military fortress and Jewish ghetto. It is a somber but essential place to learn about WWII history. Best for: Educational trips Where: Terezín Time: 6 hours Cost: Low Getting there: Train to Bohušovice nad Ohří, then a short bus or walk. Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site is quite spread out.

Planning Your Train Travel from Prague

Using the train in the Czech Republic is very simple. Most international and regional trains leave from Praha Hlavní Nádraží. This is the main railway station located near Wenceslas Square. You can find more info on the official tourism portal. It is best to buy tickets at the station or through the Můj Vlak app. This app allows you to see real-time delays and platform numbers.

Trains are generally very affordable compared to Western Europe. You do not always need to book seats in advance. However, for longer trips like Český Krumlov, a reservation is recommended. Most stations have clear signage in both Czech and English. Always remember to validate your ticket if required, though most train tickets are scanned on board.

If you prefer quieter spots, look into hidden gem villages near Prague. These smaller stops often have fewer tourists. They provide a more authentic look at local life. Czech trains are a great way to see the country sustainably and comfortably.