The most popular destinations for foreign day-trippers are the castles of Karlstejn and Konopiste, which attract a daily swarm of coach parties but make up for it by being surrounded by beautiful wooded countryside. Alternatively, you could head north, away from the hills and the crowds, to the wine town of Melnik, perched high above the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe rivers. Further north is Terezin, the wartime Jewish ghetto that is a living testament to the Holocaust.
Another popular day-trip is to the mediaeval silver-mining town of Kutna Hora, 35 miles to the east, which boasts a glorious Gothic cathedral. For details of trains for out-of-town trips, consult the Czech Railways website at www.cd.cz/static/eng
Overnighters
The spa town of Karlsbad (Karlovy Vary) located about 120km (73 miles) west of Prag
ue is best known for its hot springs that rise to a height of 12m (40ft) at 70˚C. The waters are said to be good for your digestive system and there are over 200 spa buildings. The town also hosts the famous Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
About 140km (85miles) south of Prague, located on the foothills of Sumava Mountains along the Vlatava River is the picturesque town of Cesky Krumlov. The town has been recognized only second to Venice in importance on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The stunning Hluboka Chateau, located in the town of Hluboka nad Vltavou, is about 100km (67 miles) south of Prague. Built in the Windsor Neo-Gothic Style, the chateau is one of the most impressive buildings in all of Europe.
