Overview of Bohemian Switzerland Hiking Towns

Choosing where to stay is the first step in planning your trip. Some towns offer quick access to the most famous sights. Other villages provide a peaceful escape from the main tourist crowds. You can find everything from luxury hotels to rustic mountain huts in this region.

If you prefer convenience, look for towns with direct bus or train links. Many visitors choose to stay in best towns to stay near Pravcicka Brana hiking trail to save time. These locations often have the best restaurants and gear shops. They are great for families who need easy access to amenities.

Here are a few quick picks for your 2026 journey:

• Best for families: Krásná Lípa
• Best for iconic views: Hřensko
• Best for quiet nature: Kyjov
• Best for budget travelers: Děčín

Most of these towns are accessible via public transport. The local infrastructure is designed to help hikers move between trailheads. Always check the local weather before heading out into the sandstone hills. The terrain can be slippery after rain, even on paved paths.

10 Best Bohemian Switzerland Hiking Towns and Sights

This list includes the most important towns and the attractions they host. Each spot offers something unique for your itinerary. Make sure to pack sturdy shoes and plenty of water for your hikes.

1. Name: Hřensko Type: Gateway Town Why go: It is the primary entry point for the park's most famous trails. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: On the Elbe river border. Time: 1-2 days. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus or ferry from Děčín. Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid the heaviest crowds.
2. Name: Pravčická Brána Type: Iconic Sight Why go: This is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. Best for: Photographers and sightseers. Where: Near Hřensko. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the lookout. Getting there: Hike the red trail from Hřensko. Tip: The restaurant at the top, Falcon's Nest, offers great views.
3. Name: Krásná Lípa Type: Town/Market Why go: It serves as the administrative center of the National Park. Best for: Learning about the park's history. Where: Northern edge of the park. Time: Half day. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: Direct train from Děčín. Tip: Visit the House of Bohemian Switzerland for interactive exhibits.
4. Name: Jetřichovice Type: Hiking Town Why go: It is surrounded by some of the best viewpoints in the country. Best for: Serious hikers. Where: Central part of the park. Time: 1-2 days. Cost: Low. Getting there: Bus from Děčín or Hřensko. Tip: Hike to the Mariina vyhlídka for a 360-degree forest view.
5. Name: Děčín Type: City/Base Why go: It is the largest city nearby and a major transport hub. Best for: Budget accommodation and supplies. Where: On the Elbe river. Time: 1 day. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct train from Prague. Tip: Check out the castle towns near Prague by train for more history.
6. Name: Edmund Gorge Type: Experience Why go: Experience a silent boat ride between towering sandstone walls. Best for: A relaxing break from walking. Where: Near Hřensko. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid boat ticket. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from Hřensko. Tip: Check official sites as some sections may have seasonal closures.
7. Name: Doubice Type: Unique Village Why go: The village is famous for hundreds of quirky wood carvings. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near Krásná Lípa. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Local bus or car. Tip: The local tavern is a great place for traditional Czech food.
8. Name: Kyjov Type: Nature Base Why go: It provides access to the beautiful Kyjov Valley and river. Best for: Quiet walks and cycling. Where: Eastern part of the park. Time: Half day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus from Krásná Lípa. Tip: Look for the "Ice Caves" which stay cool even in summer.
9. Name: Saunastein (Rock Castle) Type: Viewpoint/Experience Why go: This former robber castle offers steep climbs and high views. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Jetřichovice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike from Vysoká Lípa village. Tip: The ladders are very steep, so wear shoes with good grip.
10. Name: Falkenštejn Brewery Type: Local Experience Why go: Taste craft beer brewed right in the heart of the park. Best for: Relaxing after a long hike. Where: Krásná Lípa square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the Krásná Lípa train station. Tip: Try the local seasonal specials for a unique taste.

How to Reach Bohemian Switzerland from Prague

Getting to the Bohemian Switzerland hiking towns is quite simple. Most travelers start their journey at the Prague Main Station. You can take a fast train to the city of Děčín. The ride usually takes about 90 minutes. You should learn how to get to Bohemian Switzerland National Park from Prague before you go.

Once you arrive in Děčín, you have several options. Local buses wait right outside the train station. These buses go to Hřensko and Jetřichovice frequently. During the summer, there is also a tourist boat. This boat travels along the Elbe river to Hřensko.

If you prefer to drive, the trip takes about two hours. Follow the highway north toward Ústí nad Labem. Be aware that parking in Hřensko fills up very early. Many visitors prefer using the best small towns near Prague by train for easier logistics. Public transport is often faster than finding a parking spot.

Best Seasons for Hiking in Northern Bohemia

Timing your visit is essential for the best experience. Spring is a wonderful time as the forest turns bright green. The weather is usually cool and perfect for long walks. You will also find fewer crowds in April and May. This is a great time for romantic towns near Prague for couples looking for peace.

Summer is the most popular season for tourists. The days are long, and all attractions are open. However, the main trails can become very crowded. Temperatures can also rise, making the climbs more difficult. Always carry extra water during the months of July and August.

Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful season in the park. The beech trees turn vibrant shades of orange and gold. The air is crisp, and the visibility from viewpoints is excellent. Many photographers visit in October for the best light. Winter offers a different kind of beauty with snow-covered rocks, but some trails may be closed for safety.