Best of Bohemia—discover 5 unmissable day trips from Prague

Wrapped around Prague like an elegant scarf, Central Bohemia is a region rich in ancient history and natural beauty. Once at the heart of the Holy Roman Empire and the Habsburg realm, its storied past is evidenced at every turn by a parade of picture-perfect castles and cathedrals. Perhaps more surprising — considering the region’s proximity to the Czech capital — is the abundance of unspoilt nature, from forest-fringed rivers and natural springs, to yawning limestone caves and grand canyons. Here are five excellent reasons to add Central Bohemia to your next Czech adventure.

1. Discover medieval wonders in Kutná Hora

Macabre Sedlec Ossuary is probably Central Bohemia’s most photographed sight (though this has been restricted in recent years). From the outside, it looks like an unremarkable Catholic chapel, but step across the threshold to discover an ornate interior adorned with the skeletal remains of more than 40,000 people. Skulls, ribs and vertebrae galore are artistically arranged into hauntingly beautiful decorations, including a colossal chandelier containing at least one of every bone in the human body.

Beyond its suburban ossuary, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Kutná Hora serves up a host of other magnificent medieval attractions. Explore miles of 13th-century silver mine tunnels, learn about minting coins in the Middle Ages at the Italian Court and stroll statue-lined cobbles up to the Gothic icon that is St Barbara's Cathedral.

2. Taste renowned Czech wines in Mělník

The Czech Republic has a long and proud history of winemaking. While most of its vineyards are in the southeastern region of Moravia, one Central Bohemian town has been producing quality wines since the Middle Ages. Situated at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe rivers, Mělník is a popular day-trip town with a handsome chateau and church — also with a small ossuary — plus a network of ancient underground passages, and some superb local wineries. Go traditional with a tour and tasting in the historic cellars of Chateau Mělník, or opt for the contemporary wine bar experience at Vinárna Kraus.

Throughout the warmer months, the Prague Steamboat Company offers all-day cruises to Mělník from the capital. Come in early autumn to taste burčák, a young, cloudy, partially fermented wine.

3. Explore Bohemian Karst castles, canyons and caves

Stretching southwest of Prague, the Bohemian Karst is a protected area of natural beauty with some of Central Bohemia’s greatest draws. There’s the fairytale Karlštejn Castle, a Disney-esque confection of turrets and towers nestled in wooded hills above the Berounka River. Not far from here is Velká Amerika, a lake-filled limestone quarry nicknamed the ‘Czech Grand Canyon’ — and featured almost as often in films. A hiking trail runs around its edge, and whilst access to the quarry itself is restricted, you can pre-book a guided tour with the Hagen Mořina Association to explore the labyrinth of tunnels beneath it. Then there are the caves: Koněprusy, with its mythical-past and domed chambers displaying unique rose-like rock formations; and Svatý Jan pod Skalou, with its Baroque monastery built around a hermit’s cave.

Follow the Berounka River further west, through the pretty town of Beroun, to reach another area of natural beauty: Křivoklátsko National Park. Amid the forest stands the orange-roofed Křivoklát Castle. Dating back to the 12th century, the former royal residence serves as the set for the Czech version of the reality show, The Traitors.

4. Soak up the spa water in Poděbrady

Western Bohemia’s famous spa towns, including Karlovy Vary, attract millions of visitors each year — yet there’s a far-closer Central Bohemian spa town in the vicinity of Prague. Poděbrady’s iron-rich mineral springs may be newer to the scene, having only been discovered in 1905, but they already have a deep-rooted reputation for treating ailments such as heart conditions.

Day-trippers can stroll the town’s flower-filled spa park and sip spring water from drinking fountains, but overnighting is suggested to experience the healing waters of the Lázně Poděbrady spa. Popular options include adults-only Spa Hotel Felicitas, and the town's newest luxury option, Hotel & Spa Chariclea. An extra day also gives you time to walk, cycle or cruise along the Elbe to see neighbouring Nymburk.

5. Step into Habsburg history at Konopiště Castle

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 is widely considered to be the spark that lit the fire of the First World War — and ultimately led to the end of the Habsburg Monarchy. Today, you can explore the imperial heir’s last residence at Konopiště Castle. A grand 14th-century hunting lodge set among acres of landscaped gardens and water features south of Prague, Konopiště is home to a vast collection of armoury, antiques, art and artefacts — including the bullet that ended an empire. 

Combine a visit to Konopiště with nearby Český Šternberk, a brooding, late-Gothic castle above the Sázava river. You can stay overnight at a third castle-turned-hotel between the two: Zámek Třebešice - said to date back to the 15th century.