Jan Nettig
12. Plzeň (~1.5 h). If you love beer.
Home of Pilsner Urquell — the original pilsner, invented here in 1842. The brewery tour is worth the trip, includes underground cellars and a fresh tank sample. Also has a lively student-town atmosphere and an underrated main square.
13. Prague Zoo. Fair, especially with kids.
Technically inside Prague city limits but far enough out (metro + bus) that it feels like a day trip. One of Europe’s better zoos.
14. Kokořín region. Only if you have a car.
Sandstone rock formations and forest hikes. Great for photography. Awkward without a car.
15. Průhonice Park. Nice if you’re already botanically inclined.
UNESCO-listed landscape park, best in April–May (rhododendrons) or October (autumn colors). 30 min from Prague by metro + bus. Skip if you’re on a short trip.
Practical planning gear
- Osprey Daylite Plus daypack — the perfect day-trip bag: water bottle sleeves, laptop pocket, comfortable straps.
- Rick Steves Prague & the Czech Republic — includes good chapters on Kutná Hora, Karlovy Vary, Český Krumlov, and Terezín.
- Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoes — appropriate for cobblestones, castles, and Bohemian Switzerland’s boardwalks.
- Anker Prime 20,000mAh power bank — day trips end at empty phone batteries otherwise.
Booking transport
- Trains: České dráhy (ČD) for most destinations, tickets on cd.cz. Buy in advance for cheaper Sparen fares.
- Buses: RegioJet (regiojet.com) is best for Český Krumlov, Karlovy Vary, and cross-border. Very comfortable, WiFi, snacks.
- Group tours: GetYourGuide has well-reviewed day tours if you don’t want to plan.
FAQ
Which day trip is best for a single day?
Kutná Hora — closest, easiest, and has a genuine wow moment (the ossuary).
Which day trip should I skip?
Průhonice Park and Kokořín unless you’re specifically into botany or rock formations.
Can I do Český Krumlov as a day trip?
Yes, but it’s tight — 5 hours round-trip travel, 5 hours in town. If you can spare one night, do that instead.
Are day trips easy without speaking Czech?
Yes for Kutná Hora, Karlovy Vary, Český Krumlov, Terezín, and Dresden — all have English signage and tourist infrastructure. Smaller destinations may need Google Translate.
