5 Extraordinary Places Beyond Prague in the Czech Republic

Visiting the Czech Republic and getting beyond Prague is must! This European country is spectacular and has so much to offer visitors beyond the capital city.

I have been to the Czech Republic three times and have had an opportunity to road trip all over the country, visiting more than two dozen cities over the years. While I absolutely love Prague, the truth is, it has become overrun with visitors and tourist traps. While I’m not suggesting that you skip Prague altogether, I would recommend spending fewer days there and checking out some other parts of the country. The Czech Republic is not very large, as a matter of fact, all of these suggestions are just around 2 hours from the capital city.

Here are my five favorite places beyond Prague when visiting the Czech Republic.

BOHEMIAN SWITZERLAND IS JUST 2 HOURS BEYOND PRAGUE

The picturesque region of Bohemian Switzerland showcases dramatic landscapes, lush forests, babbling brooks and idyllic villages. This wondrous place is perfect for outdoor enthusiast and is located just two hours from Prague in the northern part of the country. Customized experiences, or day trips, are available from the folks at Northern Hikes.

KARLOVY VARY (CARLSBAD) IS JUST 1:45 HOURS BEYOND PRAGUE

Rising from a forested valley of western Bohemia, Karlovy Vary is known for it’s healing thermal springs and opulent 19th century architecture. This spa town has impressive colonnades and riverside walkways. There are a number of drinking fountains to sip on the sulfurous waters that supposedly have healthy restorative properties.

LOKET IS JUST 2 HOURS BEYOND PRAGUE

Loket is considered the historical gem of Bohemia. Dominating the town’s panorama is Loket Castle, which was built on a rock near the Ohře river in the 12th century. Strolling the streets feels like walking through a storybook, or a movie set. As a matter of fact, parts of the 2006 James Bond movie, Casino Royale, were filmed here.

MIKULOV IS JUST 2:30 HOURS BEYOND PRAGUE

Mikulov is an enchanting little village in the midst of a stunning countryside in southern Bohemia, which is surrounded by vineyards in all directions. Mikulov is in the heart of wine country and home to one of the largest wine barrels in the world. The dominating Baroque château in the center of town is the focal point, with lush gardens and many places to take in the varying landscapes and stupendous views.

CESKY KRUMLOV IS JUST OVER 2 HOURS BEYOND PRAGUE

Český Krumlov in is an outstanding example of a small, central European, medieval town whose architectural heritage has remained intact thanks to its peaceful evolution over more than five centuries. It’s a place that is easy to fall in love with. The town is situated on the banks of the Vltava river and its fortified castle, built with Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance elements, is the focal point of town. It’s also the 2nd largest castle in the country, next to the Prague Castle.

If you’ve ever been to any of these places beyond Prague, please leave a comment below and share your experience. I’d like to give a shout-out to Allianz Travel for sponsoring the video portion of this post.