Top 10 Romantic Towns Near Prague for Couples

Choosing the right destination depends on your interests. Some couples love history and old cathedrals. Others prefer relaxing by a river with a glass of local wine. The Czech Republic has a diverse range of small towns. Most of these are reachable within two hours from the capital. Here are the best picks for your next romantic outing.

• Best overall: Český Krumlov
• Best for spas: Karlovy Vary
• Best for nature: Hřensko
• Best for history: Kutná Hora

1. Name: Český Krumlov Type: Sight/Experience Why go: This town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning castle. It feels like a living fairytale. The Vltava River loops around the medieval center. Best for: Fairytale atmosphere and photography. Where: South Bohemia. Time: Full day or overnight. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 3 hours by bus or train. Tip: Book a Český Krumlov day trip in advance as it is very popular.
2. Name: Kutná Hora Type: Sight/History Why go: It is home to the famous Bone Church and St. Barbara's Cathedral. The town has quiet, winding streets perfect for walking. It was once the silver mining capital of the region. Best for: History buffs and gothic architecture. Where: Central Bohemia. Time: 5-7 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 1 hour by train. Tip: Follow a Kutná Hora guide to find the best local cafes away from the main sights.
3. Name: Karlovy Vary Type: Experience/Spa Why go: This is the most famous spa town in the country. You can walk along the grand colonnades and drink healing mineral water. The colorful buildings look like they are made of gingerbread. Best for: Luxury, wellness, and relaxation. Where: West Bohemia. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: 2 hours by bus. Tip: Check out a Karlovy Vary spa guide for the best public baths.
4. Name: Karlštejn Type: Sight/Castle Why go: The Gothic castle sits high on a hill overlooking a small village. It was built by Emperor Charles IV to hold royal treasures. The walk up to the castle is lined with shops and restaurants. Best for: Short trips and medieval vibes. Where: Beroun District. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 40 minutes by train. Tip: Read a Karlštejn village guide to find the best hiking paths around the castle.
5. Name: Mělník Type: Experience/Wine Why go: This town sits at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe rivers. It is famous for its wine production and its beautiful chateau. You can tour the wine cellars and enjoy a tasting. Best for: Wine lovers and sunset views. Where: North of Prague. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 1 hour by bus. Tip: Visit the chateau terrace for the best view of the rivers joining together.
6. Name: Poděbrady Type: Experience/Riverside Why go: This is a flat, peaceful spa town located on the Labe River. It is perfect for cycling or a slow walk through the park. The town center features a charming castle and a water fountain. Best for: A relaxed, low-stress day. Where: Central Bohemia. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 1 hour by train. Tip: Rent bicycles and ride along the river path to the nearby Nymburk.
7. Name: Mariánské Lázně Type: Experience/Spa Why go: It is often called the most beautiful spa town in Europe. The Singing Fountain is a highlight for couples. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and parks. Best for: Romantic walks and classical music. Where: West Bohemia. Time: Full day or overnight. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 2.5 hours by train. Tip: Visit in the evening to see the fountain's light and music show.
8. Name: Tábor Type: Sight/History Why go: This medieval town has a maze of narrow streets. It was founded by the Hussites and has a unique underground tunnel system. The main square is very picturesque and quiet. Best for: Exploring hidden corners and history. Where: South Bohemia. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 1.5 hours by train. Tip: Try the local gingerbread, which has a long tradition in this town.
9. Name: Litoměřice Type: Sight/Hidden Gem Why go: It is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in the region. The Royal Town features a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. It is much less crowded than other tourist spots. Best for: Avoiding crowds and seeing authentic life. Where: North Bohemia. Time: 6-7 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 1 hour by bus. Tip: Climb the tower of the St. Stephen’s Cathedral for panoramic views.
10. Name: Hluboká nad Vltavou Type: Sight/Castle Why go: The white castle here is often called the most beautiful in the country. It was inspired by Windsor Castle in England. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a romantic picnic. Best for: Fairytale photography and garden walks. Where: South Bohemia. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 2.5 hours by bus or car. Tip: Visit during the late afternoon for the best light on the white walls.

Planning Your Romantic Escape From Prague

Getting to these romantic towns near Prague for couples is quite simple. The Czech Republic has an excellent public transport network. Trains are often the most scenic way to travel. You can find many small towns near Prague by train easily. Buses are also reliable and sometimes faster for certain routes. Check the Visit Czechia website for travel updates.

If you prefer more freedom, consider renting a car. This allows you to visit multiple small villages in one day. Driving in the countryside is generally safe and peaceful. Parking in historic centers can be difficult, so look for lots on the outskirts. Always carry some local currency (Czech Koruna) for small shops. Many cafes in smaller towns may not accept cards.

Pack comfortable walking shoes for your trip. Most of these towns have old cobblestone streets. These can be hard on your feet after a few hours. Bring a portable charger for your phone to keep your maps working. A light jacket is also a good idea. Even in summer, the weather can change quickly in the hills.

The Best Seasons for Couples to Visit

Each season brings a different mood to these romantic towns. Spring is wonderful for seeing the gardens in bloom. The weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. It is a great time for photography at places like Hluboká. You will see many locals enjoying the first warm days of the year.

Summer is the most popular time for visitors. Many towns host music festivals and outdoor markets. The days are long, giving you more time to explore. However, popular spots like Český Krumlov can get very busy. Try to visit on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds. The rivers are also perfect for rafting or boat trips.

Autumn is perhaps the most romantic season of all. The trees turn vibrant shades of orange and red. The vineyards in Mělník are busy with the wine harvest. It is a cozy time to enjoy a glass of wine by a fireplace. The air is crisp, making it ideal for long walks. You will find the atmosphere very peaceful and calm.

Winter transforms these towns into snowy wonderlands. Many have charming Christmas markets in December. You can drink mulled wine and buy handmade gifts. While it is cold, the lack of crowds is a major plus. Visiting a castle like Prague Castle or Karlštejn in the snow is magical. Just be sure to dress warmly for the freezing temperatures.