Quick Picks for Your Hiking Trip

If you are short on time, use these quick recommendations. These picks highlight the best parts of the park for different needs. They help you prioritize your itinerary based on your interests.

• Best Overall: Pravčická brána (The largest sandstone arch in Europe).
• Best for Families: Edmund's Gorge (A fun boat ride through a canyon).
• Best Views: Mariina vyhlídka (Stunning panoramic forest vistas).
• Best for Adventure: Šaunštejn Castle (Steep ladders and narrow rock crevices).
• Best Free Activity: Walking through the village of Hřensko.

Top 10 Sights in Bohemian Switzerland

This list includes the most iconic spots in the national park. Each location offers a unique perspective on the sandstone landscape. Be sure to check local trail maps before you start your journey.

1. Name: Pravčická brána Type: Sight Why go: It is the symbol of the park and truly massive. Best for: Photography and iconic views. Where: Near Hřensko. Time: 3-4 hours round trip. Cost: Small entry fee for the viewpoint area. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
2. Name: Edmund's Gorge Type: Experience Why go: You take a silent boat ride between high rock walls. Best for: Families and relaxing nature views. Where: Kamenice River. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for the boat ferry. Tip: Check if the gorge is open, as it sometimes closes for maintenance.
3. Name: Mariina vyhlídka Type: Viewpoint Why go: A wooden hut sits atop a rock with 360-degree views. Best for: Sunset or sunrise photos. Where: Near Jetřichovice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: The climb is steep, so wear sturdy hiking boots.
4. Name: Bastei Bridge Type: Day trip Why go: This famous stone bridge is just across the German border. Best for: History and dramatic architecture. Where: Saxon Switzerland, Germany. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free to walk the bridge. Tip: This is a great addition to Prague to Dresden weekend getaway plans.
5. Name: Šaunštejn Castle Type: Experience Why go: Known as the "Robbers' Castle," it features exciting ladders and bridges. Best for: Thrill-seekers and history buffs. Where: Near Vysoká Lípa. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Not recommended for those with a serious fear of heights.
6. Name: Tiské stěny Type: Nature Why go: A labyrinth of rocks used as a filming location for Narnia. Best for: Exploring rock formations and easy walking. Where: Village of Tisá. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Tip: This area is usually less crowded than the main park center.
7. Name: Dolský mlýn Type: Sight Why go: The ruins of a 16th-century mill in a quiet valley. Best for: Folklore fans and peaceful walks. Where: Near Jetřichovice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: It is a very popular spot for Czech filmmakers.
8. Name: Rudolfův kámen Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers a rugged climb to one of the highest peaks. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Jetřichovice rock circuit. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: The final ascent involves metal ladders and railings.
9. Name: Malá Pravčická brána Type: Sight Why go: A smaller, natural stone arch that you can actually climb. Best for: Avoiding crowds at the main arch. Where: Red trail near Mezní Louka. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Combine this with a visit to Šaunštejn Castle nearby.
10. Name: Falkenštejn Castle Type: Experience Why go: Another rock castle with modern walkways and great forest views. Best for: Quick hikes and scenic overlooks. Where: Near Jetřichovice. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Great for a short evening walk before dinner.

Planning Your Bohemian Switzerland Hiking Guide

Getting to the park is simple and affordable for most travelers. You can find cheap weekend trips from Prague by train that head north. Take a train from Prague Main Station to the city of Děčín. From Děčín, local buses run frequently to Hřensko or Jetřichovice.

The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn. May and June offer lush green forests and mild weather. October is also beautiful because of the vibrant fall colors. Some trails may be icy or closed during the winter months.

Pack light but bring essential gear for a day in the woods. You should have a rain jacket, plenty of water, and snacks. Most trails are well-marked, but a digital map is always helpful. For more nature guides, check out the Adrspach-Teplice Rocks travel guide for similar landscapes.

Essential Safety and Park Rules

Protecting the environment is a top priority in this national park. Always stay on the marked trails to protect local plants. Wild camping and making fires are strictly forbidden throughout the area. These rules help prevent forest fires, which have caused damage in the past.

The Czech Republic uses a color-coded trail marking system. Red trails are usually long-distance or ridge paths. Blue and yellow trails are often connecting paths or shorter loops. You can find official maps at the Visit Czechia website. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on long hikes.

Entry to the park itself is generally free for visitors. However, specific attractions like the boat rides or the main arch have fees. These fees help maintain the paths and protect the natural heritage. For more general travel info, see the Prague.eu portal for regional updates.