Nearby Europe logo
Nearby Europe

9 Quiet Towns Near Prague for Relaxing Weekend Trips

Explore the best quiet towns near Prague for relaxing weekend trips. Find hidden gem villages and peaceful escapes for your next 2026 Czech adventure.

6 min readBy Editor
Share this article:
9 Quiet Towns Near Prague for Relaxing Weekend Trips
On this page

Best Quiet Towns Near Prague for Relaxing Weekend Trips

Prague is a beautiful city, but it can feel very crowded. Sometimes you need a break from the busy streets. Finding quiet towns near Prague for relaxing weekend trips is the perfect solution for 2026. These spots offer fresh air, history, and a slower pace of life. You can easily reach many nearby towns from Prague by train or car. Start planning your peaceful escape with the help of Visit Czechia for local insights.

Why Choose Quiet Towns Near Prague?

Leaving the city center allows you to see the real heart of the country. Many travelers stick to the main sights and miss these peaceful locations. These areas offer lower prices and a more authentic atmosphere. You will find charming squares, local breweries, and beautiful parks without the noise. It is a great way to recharge your batteries during a busy vacation.

Most of these destinations are less than an hour away. You do not need to spend all day traveling. This makes them ideal for short weekend breaks or even a long afternoon. Many of these hidden gem villages near Prague are perfect for photography. You can enjoy the scenery without other tourists blocking your view.

9 Quiet Towns Near Prague for Relaxing Weekend Trips

Here are the best spots to enjoy a calm and restorative break. Each location offers a unique vibe, from spa treatments to riverside strolls. These towns are perfect for anyone seeking a slower pace.

  • Best overall: Poděbrady
  • Best for nature: Průhonice
  • Best for history: Tábor
  • Best for wine: Mělník
  1. Name: Poděbrady Type: Spa town Why go: This town is famous for its mineral springs and flat walking paths. The atmosphere is incredibly calm and focused on wellness. Best for: Couples and seniors seeking a spa experience. Where: East of Prague along the Labe river. Time: 1-2 days. Cost: Mid-range for spa treatments and hotels. Getting there: Direct train from Prague Main Station takes about 50 minutes. Tip: Try the local spa wafers while walking through the colonnade.
  2. Name: Mělník Type: Riverside town Why go: It sits at the confluence of the Vltava and Labe rivers. The town is known for its beautiful castle and local wine cellars. Best for: Wine lovers and photographers. Where: North of Prague. Time: 1 day. Cost: Affordable local dining and wine tasting. Getting there: Bus from Ládví or a scenic drive. Tip: Visit the castle terrace for the best view of the river meeting point.
  3. Name: Tábor Type: Historic town Why go: This town has a fascinating maze of medieval streets. It was founded by radical Hussites and has a unique underground tunnel system. Best for: History buffs. Where: South Bohemia. Time: Full weekend. Cost: Budget-friendly accommodation. Getting there: Regular trains from Prague take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tip: Visit the Chocolate and Marzipan Museum for a sweet break.
  4. Name: Průhonice Type: Nature/Park Why go: It is home to a massive park that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The botanical gardens are stunning in every season. Best for: Families and nature lovers. Where: Just on the edge of Prague city limits. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the park. Getting there: Take the metro to Opatov, then a short local bus ride. Tip: Visit in late spring to see the rhododendrons in full bloom.
  5. Name: Nelahozeves Type: Cultural village Why go: This village features a stunning Renaissance castle and the birthplace of composer Antonín Dvořák. It is very quiet and peaceful. Best for: Art and music enthusiasts. Where: North of Prague. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate castle tour fees. Getting there: Train from Prague Masarykovo nádraží takes 45 minutes. Tip: Check the castle schedule for classical music concerts.
  6. Name: Křivoklát Type: Forest village Why go: It is surrounded by the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area. The royal castle is one of the oldest in the country. Best for: Hikers and castle lovers. Where: West of Prague. Time: 1 day. Cost: Low cost for hiking; moderate for castle tours. Getting there: Train with a quick change in Beroun. Tip: Hike to the viewpoint across from the castle for a great photo.
  7. Name: Sázava Type: Riverside retreat Why go: The town is famous for its monastery and the beautiful Sázava river. It is a popular spot for canoeing in a very calm setting. Best for: Outdoor relaxation. Where: Southeast of Prague. Time: 1 day. Cost: Very affordable. Getting there: Take the "Posázavský Pacifik" train for a scenic journey. Tip: Visit the monastery to see the unique Slavic liturgy history.
  8. Name: Litoměřice Type: Royal town Why go: It features one of the most beautiful main squares in the Czech Republic. The town is surrounded by the volcanic hills of the Central Bohemian Uplands. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: North Bohemia. Time: 1-2 days. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Direct bus or train takes about an hour. Tip: Climb the "Chalice" tower for a panoramic view of the town.
  9. Name: Brandýs nad Labem Type: Riverside town Why go: This twin-town features a Renaissance castle used by the Habsburgs. The riverside paths are perfect for a slow bike ride. Best for: A quick afternoon escape. Where: Northeast of Prague. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Short bus ride from Černý Most metro station. Tip: Walk across the bridge to Stará Boleslav to see the ancient churches.

Planning Your Relaxing Getaway from Prague

To make the most of your trip, check the train schedules in advance. Using the best small towns near Prague by train guide can help you navigate. Most trains are reliable and offer a comfortable way to see the countryside. You can buy tickets at the station or through a mobile app.

Consider staying overnight to truly enjoy the quiet. Many small guesthouses offer a warm welcome and local breakfast. These towns often become even more peaceful after the day-trippers leave. This is the best time to enjoy a local beer in the town square. Remember that some smaller shops may close early on weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best quiet towns near Prague for a weekend?

Poděbrady and Tábor are excellent choices for a quiet weekend. Poděbrady offers relaxing spa treatments and riverside walks. Tábor provides a deeper dive into Czech history with its medieval streets and underground tunnels. Both are easily accessible by train and offer peaceful atmospheres away from the city crowds.

How do I get to hidden gem villages near Prague?

Most hidden gem villages are reachable by the PID (Prague Integrated Transport) system. You can use trains or regional buses starting from major metro hubs. Trains are usually faster and more comfortable for longer trips. Always check the latest schedules on the official transport apps for the most accurate timing.

Are these towns expensive to visit?

No, most towns outside of Prague are significantly cheaper. You will find lower prices for meals, drinks, and accommodation. This makes them perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a high-quality experience. Many natural attractions and parks are free or have a very small entry fee.

Escaping to quiet towns near Prague for relaxing weekend trips is a wonderful way to see the Czech Republic. Whether you want a spa day in Poděbrady or a hike in Křivoklát, there is a perfect spot for you. These destinations offer a much-needed break from the city's energy. For more ideas on popular spots, you can also look into a Kutna Hora day trip from Prague. Enjoy your peaceful journey through the Bohemian countryside!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.