Cesky Krumlov: A Fairytale Weekend Escape

Cesky Krumlov is arguably the most stunning town in the country after Prague. A Cesky Krumlov weekend itinerary from Prague transports you to a living medieval movie set. The town center is a UNESCO World Heritage site encircled by the Vltava River. It is popular, so staying overnight is the best way to beat the day-trip crowds. You will enjoy quiet mornings and atmospheric evenings after the tour buses leave.

Day 1: Morning: Catch an early FlixBus or RegioJet from Prague’s Na Knizeci station. Drop your bags at your hotel and head straight to the castle complex. Afternoon: Explore the castle interiors and climb the tower for panoramic views. Evening: Dine by the river and take a ghost tour through the dark, narrow alleys.

Day 2: Morning: Visit the Baroque Theater, one of the best-preserved in the world. Afterward, wander through the Egon Schiele Art Centrum for a dose of culture. Afternoon: If the weather is warm, rent a raft or canoe for a gentle ride on the Vltava. Evening: Enjoy a final craft beer at a local brewery before taking the bus back to Prague.

You can easily count this among the top romantic weekend getaways near Prague owing to its charm. Avoid driving if possible, as parking in the historic center is notoriously difficult.

Dresden: Culture and Shopping Across the Border

Dresden offers a complete change of pace and architecture just two hours away by train. This German city is rebuilt in splendid Baroque style and hosts world-class museums. A Prague to Dresden weekend getaway is seamless thanks to frequent Euromasters rail connections. It is an ideal mix of high culture and modern shopping.

Day 1: Morning: Arrive at Dresden Hauptbahnhof and walk the Prager Strasse shopping mile to the Old Town. Visit the Frauenkirche and climb its dome for a view of the Elbe. Afternoon: Explore the Zwinger palace complex and the Old Masters Picture Gallery. Evening: Cross the Augustus Bridge for dinner in the Neustadt district, known for its vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Morning: Discover the treasures inside the Green Vault (Grünes Gewölbe). Book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly. Afternoon: Stroll along the Brühl's Terrace, often called the Balcony of Europe. Then, check the train from Prague to Dresden cost and timetable for your return journey. Evening: Relax on the train ride back along the scenic Elbe valley.

Bohemian Switzerland: Hiking in Nature

If you crave fresh air, Bohemian Switzerland National Park is the perfect remedy. This region features dramatic sandstone formations and deep forests. Reading a Bohemian Switzerland National Park hiking guide is essential before you go. The terrain is rugged, but the trails are well-marked and accessible.

Day 1: Morning: Take a train to Decin and then a local bus to Hrensko. Begin your hike to the Pravcicka Brana, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at the Falcon’s Nest chateau nestled under the arch. Hike down through the forest trails back toward the gorge entrance. Evening: Stay in a local guesthouse in Hrensko or nearby Mezni Louka.

Day 2: Morning: Head to the Kamenice River gorges (Edmund Gorge). You will take a small boat punted by a guide who explains the rock formations. Afternoon: Hike the Gabrielensteig trail for more views if your legs are up for it. Evening: catch the bus back to Decin for your train to Prague.

For families, check camping sites in Bohemian Paradise for families if you prefer a gentler landscape. However, Bohemian Switzerland offers more dramatic scenery for a dedicated hiking weekend.

Karlovy Vary: The Ultimate Slower Pace

Karlovy Vary is world-famous for its thermal springs and grand architecture. It is a place to slow down and focus on wellness. A thorough Karlovy Vary spa weekend guide recommends sipping the mineral water as you stroll. The town is nestled in a valley, providing a cozy atmosphere year-round.

Day 1: Morning: Walk the Mill Colonnade and taste the mineral waters from special porcelain cups. Be warned, the water is hot and salty. Afternoon: Book a treatment at a spa or visit the public thermal pool at Hotel Thermal. Evening: Enjoy a luxurious dinner at ariverside hotel dating back to the 19th century.

Day 2: Morning: Take the funicular up to the Diana Lookout Tower. You can see the entire spa town surrounded by forests. Afternoon: Visit the lush forests or check out things to do in Karlovy Vary besides spas like the Jan Becher Museum. Learn how the herbal liqueur Becherovka is made. Evening: Buy some spa wafers as souvenirs before your bus trip home.

Practical Tips for Weekend Travel

Traveling from Prague is generally easy and affordable. However, a little planning ensures your weekend goes smoothly. Trains are usually more comfortable than buses, especially for destinations like Dresden or Plzen. You can find many cheap weekend trips from Prague by train if you book online.

Transport: Use the official Czech Railways (CD) app for trains. For buses, RegioJet and FlixBus offer reserved seating and Wi-Fi. Always buy tickets a few days in advance for Friday departures.

Timing: Leave Friday afternoon or early Saturday morning to maximize your time. Sunday evenings returning to Prague can be busy on the roads and rails. Check Visit Czechia for any national holidays that might affect schedules.

Packing: Pack light layers. The weather can change quickly, especially in hiking regions like Bohemian Switzerland.