Czech Republic in 7 Days: A Scenic Road Trip Adventure
This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
Let’s Explore Czechia 🇨🇿
We know so many people who only visit Prague because that’s what they’ve seen in movies or feel they should do to get the most out of their trip. And yes, Prague is incredible, but let me tell you—it’s just the beginning of what the Czech Republic has to offer! Our road trip from The Hague revealed some hidden gems, and it was an adventure worth every mile! While Prague is amazing, it’s just one piece of the puzzle, especially if you’re a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast like my family. There's so much more to explore beyond the city.
Sure, logistics might seem tricky, but don't worry—you can easily use public transport or book tours through GetYourGuide to see the best of the Czech Republic. For instance, take a look at the Full-day tour to Bohemian Switzerland and Saxon National Park departing from Prague. While we planned our trip ourselves, the best part is that we’ve laid out the entire journey below. So, buckle up—your adventure awaits!
Table of Contents: Czech Republic in 7 Days: A Scenic Road Trip Adventure How many days do you need for a road trip in the Czech Republic? Where to Stay in Czech Republic? Day 2: Bohemian Switzerland National Park and Kamenice Gorge Day 5: Prague - The City That Needs No Introduction |
In my blog post below, I’ve crafted an amazing itinerary that you can easily adapt for travel by bus or train. I’ve also highlighted the best accommodations we stayed at, so you can enjoy a comfortable and memorable trip. If you’d prefer other options, feel free to use my Booking.com link to find accommodations that suit your preferences and budget.
How many days do you need for a road trip in the Czech Republic?
A 7 to 10-day road trip is perfect for exploring the best of the Czech Republic! You'll have enough time to wander through Prague, visit the historic town of Kutná Hora, enjoy the natural beauty of Hřensko and Bohemian Switzerland, and check out Brno's lively culture. You can also stop by the picturesque village of Vavřinec. If you’re short on time, 4-5 days will cover the main highlights, but 7 days will give you a more relaxed and fun experience!
Where to Stay in Czech Republic?
Hrensko -Hotel Menzni Louka
The reception was fantastic—there were brochures about the place, and someone even helped carry our luggage up the stairs. Our stay here was amazing! The location is perfect, and our room was not so spacious and no fan or AC so it was really hot. But it was clean and the service was fantastic. We had breakfast included in our room tariff, and everything was absolutely delicious. We also enjoyed a few lunches and dinners at the hotel’s restaurant. The staff were all super friendly and welcoming. Plus, it is close to popular natural attractions like the Edmund Gorge (also called the Wild Gorge) and the famous Pravčická Brána, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. Highly recommend this hotel!
Brno - Hotel Arte
After a much exciting adventure, it was time to move to our next destination Brno. At Brno, we stayed at Hotel Arte. Driving from Kutná Hora to Brno is about 130 kilometers (80 miles) and typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The route generally follows the D1 highway, which is a direct and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
Hotel Arte Brno is a charming 4-star spot right in the heart of Brno. You’ll find comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a handy fitness center. The on-site restaurant serves up delicious local and international dishes. It’s perfectly located near the city’s main attractions, shops, and dining spots, making it a great choice for family travellers like us!
Prague - Residence Bologna
Our stay at Residence Bologna couldn’t have been better! Located right in the heart of Old Town Prague, we were just a short walk away from all the must-see spots. From the magical Old Town Square and the famous Astronomical Clock to the gorgeous Charles Bridge and the scenic Vltava River, everything was practically at our doorstep. We loved how we could explore so much without needing to travel far from where we stayed!
The spacious rooms offered plenty of comfort, and the fully functional kitchen was a welcome convenience. Despite the lively vibe of the neighborhood, the street noises magically stayed outside, letting us unwind in peace. And let’s not forget the fantastic variety of restaurants just downstairs, offering a delicious spread of options at our doorstep!
Day 1: Hrensko
Mezni Louka
After a long drive, we arrived around 2:30 pm at Hotel Mezni Louka and were happy to find a huge parking lot. Hotel Mezni Louka is located in the heart of Bohemian Switzerland National Park, in the Czech Republic. It is near the town of Hřensko.
✈️ The nearest airport to Hřensko is Václav Havel Airport in Prague (PRG), about 150 km away. You can fly into Prague from major European cities or connect through other hubs. 🚆 Prague’s main train station (Praha hlavní nádraží) offers connections to Děčín (15 km from Hřensko), from where you can take a bus or taxi. 🚌 Buses from Prague’s Florenc Station reach Hřensko in 2-3 hours. 🚗 Driving from the Netherlands to Hřensko takes around 8-10 hours, typically via Germany. |
Gabriela’s Trail
After a hearty lunch at the hotel’s restaurant, we decided to start with a hike. We started from Mezní Louka, or Rainwiese, that took us to the beautiful Edmund Gorge (Edmundova Soutěska) in Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Starting from the parking lot, it's an easy-to-follow path that leads you through Mezna village, just a 2 km walk away. From there, you can head down into the gorge and walk along the river, surrounded by amazing sandstone cliffs and greenery. The trail is well-maintained and great for all kinds of hikers, including families.
Even though it was August, the trail was really quiet, and we only saw a couple of other people. The gorge is stunning, and the path is well-maintained. The climb back up was a bit challenging, but totally doable if you take it slow. Even my 6- and 3-year-olds managed most of the walk, though we had to carry my daughter for a bit, which wasn’t too hard. The nature is so incredible, you forget everything else and just enjoy the hike.
🍽️ Hostinec Mezni Louka
We freshened up and then made our way for dinner. The restaurant downstairs offered authentic Czech food, so we were in for a delicious treat. We tried the beef goulash with dumplings, duck leg confit with red cabbage and dumplings, and a crispy chicken schnitzel with potato salad and of course pancakes for the kids !! After a sumptuous dinner, we just decided to retire in our rooms for the night. You may also try hearty dishes like svíčková (beef with creamy sauce) and smažený sýr (fried cheese) when in Hrensko.
Day 2: Bohemian Switzerland National Park and Kamenice Gorge
Hike at the Bohemian Switzerland National Park
The hike at Bohemian Switzerland National Park turned out to be quite an adventure! The kids were all excited and ready to tackle the trail to the Pravčická Gate, the park's most famous landmark, which is about 3.5 to 4 kilometers one way from Mezní Louka. Normally, it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the top, but with the kids, we managed to cover 2 kilometers in 1.5 hours. Just as we were about to continue after a quick water break, the weather took a sudden turn, and it started pouring down hard. Unfortunately, we hadn’t packed any rain gear, and with the thunder, the kids began to cry. We decided to turn back, but we were so proud of them for walking the entire way there and back!
Bohemian Switzerland National Park is a beautiful gem known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and dense forests, giving it a magical, fairy-tale vibe. Tucked away in the Czech Republic near the German border, it’s part of a larger area called Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland.
It is a must-see in the park is the Pravčická Gate, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. It offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery, making it one of the park’s top attractions. Unfortunately we couldn’t see it, but there is always a next time!
Hřensko Village
That very evening, we decided to explore Hřensko's village center and take a boat ride through the gorge. Parking was easy to find in public lots along the main road. Just as we expected, Hřensko was a picturesque village surrounded by cliffs and forests. It is tucked in the Elbe River valley. The village center was small but lovely, with charming traditional houses, guesthouses, and little shops. We spent some time strolling around, browsing souvenirs and local Czech-made crafts like pottery and honey.
Parking: The largest parking lot is near the village entrance, and it is within walking distance to the main attractions and trailheads. Prices range from about 100-200 CZK per day, depending on the season and the location. |
Boating at the Kamenice Gorge
The Edmund Gorge is where you can take boat rides along the river surrounded by towering cliffs. If you’re wondering, then yes, the Kamenice Gorge and Edmund Gorge refer to the same area. The Kamenice River flows through the Bohemian Switzerland National Park, and parts of the gorge are known as Edmund Gorge (also called the “Wild Gorge”). The gorge offers beautiful boat rides along the river through scenic rock formations, making it a popular attraction in the park.
We decided to go on the boat ride in the evening. We had a blast on a boat ride through the gorges! The ferryman kept everyone entertained, even though his commentary was entirely in Polish. He was hilarious, singing along the way, and had the whole boat cracking up. The ride through the Edmund Gorge took about 20 minutes, and then we cruised through the shorter Divoká Gorge in around 15 minutes. Between the two, we grabbed some refreshments before heading back. It was an adventure in itself!
The timings of the boat ride are 9 AM to 6 PM from April to September and in October it is until 5 PM. You may either hike down to the gorge from Mezni Louka or you can park your car in Hřensko, the nearby town. From the parking area, it’s typically a scenic walk to the entrance of the gorge. |
Day 3: Onward to Kutna Hora
St. Barbara’s Cathedral
If you’re heading to Kutná Hora, Saint Barbara’s Cathedral is an absolute must-see, and trust me, it’ll blow you away! Oh, and did I mention it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Yep! That means you’re not just visiting any old cathedral, you’re stepping into one of Europe’s most iconic Gothic structures! It’s dedicated to Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners—pretty fitting since Kutná Hora was a big silver mining town back in the day. The soaring spires, gorgeous stained glass, and those jaw-dropping flying buttresses will have you snapping pics left and right. Inside the cathedral, the vaulted ceilings and intricate frescoes will make you feel like you’re walking through a piece of history.
Location & Parking: Right in the heart of Kutná Hora, this Gothic gem is super easy to get to. Just park your car near the Jesuit College (there’s a parking lot there), and it’s only a 5-10 minute walk up to the cathedral—nothing too steep, just a nice little stroll! Timings: From April to October, it’s usually open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and in the winter months (November to March), it closes a bit earlier around 4:00 PM. So plan accordingly, and check the latest timings to be safe! |
We visited on a sunny day, and the way the sunlight hit those spires was just magical. Saint Barbara’s is not to be missed!
Tours to book:
Sedlec Ossuary
We visited the Sedlec Ossuary in Kutná Hora, also known as the Bone Church, and it was such a surreal experience! Inside this small chapel, the bones of over 40,000 people are arranged in the most intricate designs – there’s even a massive chandelier made entirely of bones! It’s eerie yet fascinating, especially knowing these remains date back to the Black Plague and various wars. Walking through this place gave us a deep sense of history and an unusual way people once dealt with death.
Tours to book:
Day 4: Vavřinec
Punkva Caves in Moravian Karst
We had an incredible adventure exploring the Punkva Caves in the Moravian Karst!
We had to first take the train to Punkva caves. The toy train from Skalní Mlýn to the Punkva Caves offers a scenic and eco-friendly ride through the Moravian Karst, taking just a few minutes to cover the forested path. It's a convenient and charming way to reach the cave entrance, perfect for families or those looking to enjoy the beautiful surroundings without the hike. Tickets are available at the Skalní Mlýn tourist center.
Once we reached there, the highlight was definitely the underground boat ride along the Punkva River. Gliding through narrow passages and massive chambers, we were in awe of the stunning stalactites around us. Reaching the Macocha Abyss was unreal – standing at the bottom of this 138-meter deep sinkhole felt like something out of a movie, and then seeing it from the top gave us a whole new perspective. The mix of walking through the caves and floating on the underground river made it such an unforgettable experience!
Tours to book:
Day 5: Prague - The City That Needs No Introduction
The drive from the Punkva Caves to Prague typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the exact route you take. It’s a scenic drive through the Czech countryside, making it quite enjoyable.
Old Town Square
On our own walking tour of Prague’s Old Town Square, we took in all the highlights at our own pace. We admired the Astronomical Clock’s show at the Old Town Hall at 12 PM, absolutely loved the Gothic architecture of Dum U Minuty (House At The Minute) which is adjacent to it, gazed up at the stunning Gothic spires of the Church of Our Lady Before Týn, and were captivated by the Baroque splendor of St. Nicholas Church. We stopped by the Jan Hus Memorial and enjoyed the beautiful historical buildings that surround the square. It was a wonderful way to commence our Prague old town exploration!
Old Czech Chimney cake
We also took the time to relax at local cafés and explore the shops, fully soaking in the charm of the square. Thats what people flock to Prague for right?
While wandering through one of the side streets, we stumbled upon the delight that is the ‘trdelník’ or ‘Chimney Cake’ for the first time. We found this treat at a shop originally known as Old Czech Chimney Cake, now called Little Chimney, on Karlova Street. The chimney cakes here are a bit on the pricier side, around Kč 100–200, but honestly, they’re worth every crown! It’s one of the busiest spots near Old Town Square, but the service is super fast. The one we tried was warm, coated in cinnamon and sugar, and topped with a drizzle of chocolate—absolutely delicious!
While you're exploring Prague, don’t miss out on trying the Old Prague ham. It's a local specialty that's savory and absolutely worth tasting for a true taste of Czech cuisine. Enjoy!
After that we decided to take a guided tour of the stunning Klementinum Library. The highlight was the Astronomical Tower, standing 68 meters high, where we enjoyed breathtaking views of Prague’s historical center! We also explored the beautiful Mirror Chapel, famous for its unique mirrored interior that you won't find anywhere else in the Czech Republic.
|
Charles Bridge
After that, we strolled across the iconic Charles Bridge, arguably one of the most iconic bridges in Europe. Tourists from all corners of the world flock here just to experience a walk across this renowned landmark. But what makes this bridge so special? It's not just a bridge—it’s a walk through history. Charles Bridge was constructed between 1357 and the early 1400s. It’s lined with beautiful statues, mostly of saints. The kids counted them and said there were some 30 odd. The bridge also offers stunning views of Prague’s Old Town and the Vltava River. The bridge is always buzzing with talented buskers, street artists, musicians, and lively crowds, giving it a joyous atmosphere. Plus, it connects two of Prague’s most famous landmarks—Old Town and Prague Castle.
Our next stop was the impressive Powder Tower (Prašná brána), a Gothic gem that gives a glimpse into Prague’s rich history.
Finally, we made our way to Čertovka (Devil's Canal), a peaceful waterway beside the Vltava River. The charming houses and serene atmosphere made it the perfect spot for a leisurely walk. One can hop on a small boat for a scenic ride along the canal, giving a unique view of this beautiful city, however we decided to take the kids to a cute little playground close by.
Prague Castle & St.Vitus Cathedral
We took a walk uphill from Charles Bridge to visit St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. The St. Vitus Cathedral is located within the Prague Castle complex. It’s one of the main highlights of the castle and an iconic symbol of the city, featuring stunning Gothic architecture and impressive interiors. The path to the castle complex was a gradual incline, but the journey was well worth it. The cathedral’s Gothic design, stunning stained glass windows, and soaring spires were truly breathtaking. It’s also the final resting place of many Bohemian kings and saints, including St. Wenceslas. Climbing the cathedral's tower offered us some of the most spectacular views of Prague, making the effort to get there absolutely worthwhile!
Tour to book:
Lobkowicz Palace Restaurant & Café
Just a 1-minute walk from Prague Castle, you’ll find the grand and historic Lobkowicz Palace Restaurant & Café. We sipped on a delightful glass of red wine while soaking in breathtaking views of Prague’s Old Town. Afterward, we explored the palace itself, which was a fascinating experience. Make sure to reserve in advance to snag a terrace table—it's worth it for the view alone! Don’t miss out!
Tours to book:
Day 6: The Allure of Prague Continues
Time for ‘zmrzlina’ and gelato!
On the second day of our wandering through Old Town Prague, we indulged in some delicious ‘zmrzlina’ (ice cream) and gelato. Sidd is more of an ice cream person, my kids gelato and me a sorbet person. In Prague, you’ll find both gelato and ice cream, but gelato seems to be the favorite, especially with tourists. Cute little gelato shops like Angelato and Crème de la Crème are super popular for their creamy, authentic Italian flavors. Gelateria Kofe is Known for its rich flavors and creamy texture, this gelato spot is a local favorite. Puro Gelato is Famous for its authentic gelato made with natural ingredients, perfect for a refreshing break.
We enjoyed the charming ambiance of these places and the delightful treat was the perfect way to cool down and sweeten our exploration!
LEGO Museum
We visited the LEGO Museum in Prague, and it was a fantastic experience! Located at Kozí 2, the museum boasts an impressive collection of LEGO creations, from intricate models to elaborate dioramas. The displays showcase everything from historical scenes to imaginative builds, capturing the creativity and artistry of LEGO. The kids were thrilled by the interactive elements and the chance to see so many unique and detailed LEGO structures. It was a fun and inspiring visit for the whole family, offering a deep dive into the colorful and inventive world of LEGO.
Day 7: Return journey with a stop at Pilsen
We kicked off the return journey bright and early, hitting the road around 5 AM to head straight back home. With about 900 kilometers ahead of us, we knew it would be a long 8 to 9-hour drive from Prague to The Hague, weaving through Germany and into the Netherlands.
One of the main towns about an hour away from Prague, heading towards the Netherlands, is Plzeň (Pilsen). Known for its famous Pilsner beer, Plzeň is a great stop along the way, offering a blend of rich history, charming streets, and, of course, a chance to taste some world-class beer! If you are as lucky as me, you can also find my favorite San Miguel Pale Pilsen in Pilsen 😉
Tour to book:
If you found my blog post enjoyable, consider giving it a thumbs-up 👍🏼and subscribing for future updates. Do leave me a comment and share it with friends and family. Wishing you safe and enchanting adventures.
Comments