15 Best Day Trips from Prague (that Kids Will Love)

Looking for some fun day trips from Prague that kids will love too? While Prague is packed with family-friendly things to do, Czechia has so much more to offer beyond the capital. From fairy-tale castles and spa towns to hiking trails and a waterpark that completely surprised us, there’s plenty within easy reach of the city.

We’ve done several of these day trips ourselves and planned for others but ran out of time (Prague was just too good!). Whether you’re looking for a change of pace, a little nature, or a smaller town to wander, these trips are all doable with kids, and a fun way to see more of the country without packing up and moving on.

Here are our top picks for the best day trips from Prague with kids, all organized by travel time to help you find the ones that best fit your itinerary.

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Easy Day Trips (Under 1.5 hours from Prague) 

These destinations are all within and hour and a half from Prague, making them ideal for families who want to see more of Czechia without spending too much time getting there. 

1. Karlštejn Castle

Just 40 minutes outside of Prague, Karlštejn Castle is one of the easiest day trips from Prague. This 14th-century Gothic castle was built by Emperor Charles IV and once protected the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire.

It’s perched on a hill above the village of Karlštejn, and the walk up takes about 20 minutes. It’s mostly uphill, so it’s worth wearing good shoes and bringing a carrier if you’re visiting with toddlers. Strollers can manage it, but they’ll be tricky in a few steeper spots and inside the castle.

Inside, guided tours are available in English and take you through beautifully preserved rooms, including a replica of the crown jewels and medieval furniture. The views from the castle walls are worth the climb on their own.

How to get there:

• By train, take a direct line from Prague’s main station (Hlavní nádraží) to Karlštejn. Trains run every 30 minutes and take about 40–50 minutes. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the castle.
• By car, it’s about 30–40 minutes from Prague. You can park closer to the castle if you want to skip the uphill village walk.
• You can also book a guided tour from Prague, that includes pickup from your hotel in Prague, transportation to the castle, as well as entrance fees. 

Good to know:

• There are a few casual places to eat in the village, including pizza and grill options that work well with kids.
• Tours can get booked up on weekends, especially in summer, so try to arrive early or book tickets in advance.

2. Liberec

Just over an hour from Prague, Liberec is a fun and easy day trip with kids—especially if you’re looking for something a little different from castles and historic towns. This northern Czech city has a relaxed vibe and plenty to keep families busy.

One of the top attractions is Ještěd Mountain, where you can take a cable car to the top for panoramic views of the region. At the summit, there’s a unique sci-fi–looking hotel and restaurant, originally built in the 1970s, that’s become a bit of an icon.

Back in town, iQLANDIA Science Centre is a great stop if you’re travelling with curious kids. It’s an interactive museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and tons of space to explore. Just down the road, DinoPark Liberec adds a smaller, fun stop with life-sized dinosaurs and a 3D cinema—good for younger kids or a rainy afternoon.

How to get there:

• By car, it’s just over an hour from Prague.
• Buses run regularly from Černý Most and take around 1.5 hours.
• Trains are longer, but also an option.

Good to know:

• Ještěd cable car may close during bad weather—check ahead.
• iQLANDIA and DinoPark are close enough to do in one day.
• The town centre has lots of kid-friendly cafés and bakeries.

3. Aquapalace Prague

Just 15 minutes from the city, Aquapalace Prague is the largest waterpark in Czechia, with wave pools, waterslides, a lazy river and a wellness area for adults. It’s probably not a day trip in the traditional sense, but it’s easy to spend hours here once the kids hit the slides.

There are zones for all ages, from toddler-friendly splash areas to adrenaline slides for older kids and teens. It’s a great way to mix things up if you need a break from sightseeing or want to give the kids a day that’s just for them.

Actually, after seeing how much fun Aquapalace was, I ended up booking a similar spot when we visited Québec City. It was a good reminder that a place that’s fun for kids and easy for parents can make a big difference when you’re travelling! 

How to get there:

• Just 15–20 minutes by car or taxi from central Prague.
• Public transit options are available but a bit slower—consider a taxi or rideshare is easier with kids.

Good to know:

• Tickets can be bought online or on-site. If you’re staying at the on-site hotel, access to the waterpark is included with your stay.
• Lockers and family change rooms are available.
• Weekends can get busy, so going earlier in the day is a good idea.

4. Pruhonice Park

If you’re looking for an easy day trip that still feels like a getaway, Pruhonice Park is a great option. Just 15–20 minutes from Prague, this UNESCO-listed landscape park is an easy escape into nature without needing to plan a full itinerary.

The park is massive, with 25 km of walking paths that wind through forests, around ponds and past beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s stroller-friendly, peaceful and great for letting kids run off steam.

You’ll also spot Pruhonice Castle next to the park entrance. While you can’t go inside, it’s a beautiful backdrop to your visit, and the view of the castle from inside the park makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

How to get there:

• About 15–20 minutes by car from central Prague.
• Public transit is also an option—take metro line C to Opatov, then bus 363 or 385 to Průhonice.

Good to know:

• There’s a small entrance fee for the park (290-400 czk for a family).
• A few cafés and restaurants are nearby for lunch or snacks.

5. Kutná Hora

Just over an hour from Prague, Kutná Hora is one of the easiest day trips to plan—and one of the most unique. It’s best known for the Sedlec Ossuary, or Bone Church, a small chapel decorated with more than 40,000 human bones arranged into chandeliers, garlands and a massive coat of arms.

It’s definitely not for everyone, and it might sound a bit dark, but it’s surprisingly interesting. Older kids might find it fascinating but for younger kids, you might want to prep them ahead of time – or skip it entirely – depending on comfort levels. 

My  kids were around 7.5 when we visited. They thought it was awesome at first, and once they realized the bones were real, it sparked some big questions and imaginations. They were curious about the stories the church could tell and what it meant to be remembered in such a different way.

Beyond the Bone Church, Kutná Hora is a walkable town with other family-friendly stops like a chocolate museum, a bobsled track in the nearby suburbs, and even a LEGO museum, similar to the one we visited in Gouda when we were in the Netherlands.

How to get there:

• About 1 hour by car.
• Trains run regularly from Prague and take about 1.5 hours.
• Day tours are easy to book and often combine the Bone Church with a local guide. Most organized tours do take the train though – but if you’re looking for a guided tour, it’s a good option.

Good to know:

• The Ossuary is small, so visits are usually quick—about 20–30 minutes.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to explore the town on foot.
• The LEGO museum and chocolate museum are both good rainy day options.

6. Konopiště Castle

Less than an hour from Prague, Konopiště Castle is a great day trip for families who want a classic castle visit without a long drive. It’s best known as the former home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand—yes, the one whose assassination sparked World War I.

The castle is set in a beautiful park with walking trails, fountains and even peacocks roaming the grounds. You can take a guided tour of the richly decorated interior, or just enjoy the grounds and gardens – which is what we did. There’s plenty of space to explore, and it made for a relaxed visit without worrying about keeping the kids engaged inside. 

If you do go inside, the guided tour takes you through ornate rooms and one of Europe’s largest private armouries. Kids, especially older ones, are often impressed by the weapons collections, trophy displays and the castle’s mix of elegance and oddity.

It’s also a nice spot for a more relaxed day. You can walk the grounds without doing a full tour, and there’s a playground nearby if you’re travelling with younger kids who just need to run around.

How to get there:

• About 50 minutes by car from Prague.
• By train, take a train to Benešov u Prahy (about 45–60 minutes), then walk about 2.5 km or take a quick local taxi to the castle.
• Day tours from Prague are also available if you’d rather not navigate the transport yourself. 

Good to know:

• The castle grounds are stroller-friendly, but the interior tour does include stairs. 
• English tours are available, and you can choose from several routes depending on how much time you have.
• There’s a small café on-site for snacks or lunch, or you can bring your own for a picnic in the park.

7. Plzeň (Pilsen)

Known as the birthplace of pilsner beer, Plzeň is a surprisingly family-friendly city, and only about 1.5 hours from Prague. While adults might be drawn to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, there’s also the Techmania Science Center, a hands-on museum with interactive exhibits, a 3D planetarium and a dedicated space for younger kids.

Techmania was actually the main reason we planned our visit, and although we didn’t end up making it there, it’s still at the top of our list for next time. It’s the kind of spot where you could easily spend a few hours, especially on a rainy or cooler day.

If you do want to visit the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, kids can come along on the tour as well. It’s more about the history and process than the tasting (though you’ll still get your sample at the end), and the old tunnels under the brewery are cool to walk through.

Plzeň’s town square is also worth a stop—there’s a huge Gothic cathedral, fountains shaped like golden camels, and plenty of places to sit down for lunch or ice cream.

How to get there:

• About 1.5 hours by car from Prague.
• Trains and RegioJet buses both run regularly from Prague and take about 90 minutes.
• Both Techmania and the brewery are walkable from the station or a short tram ride.

Good to know:

• Brewery tours should be booked in advance, especially in summer or on weekends.
• Techmania is indoors, so it’s great for a rainy or cooler day. 
• The city is flat and easy to explore with strollers or scooters.

8. Tábor

About 90 minutes south of Prague, Tábor is a beautiful town with a unique mix of medieval history, underground tunnels and peaceful town squares. It’s smaller and quieter than some of the bigger-name destinations, but it makes a great off-the-beaten-path day trip with kids.

The town was founded by Hussite reformers in the 15th century, and you can learn more about that history at the Hussite Museum, located in the old town hall. From there, you can also access the underground tunnel system that runs beneath the historic centre—one of the more unusual and fun things to do with older kids.

There’s also a botanic garden (one of the oldest in Czechia), a small aquarium, and plenty of cafés and bakeries around the cobbled main square. It’s a nice spot to slow down and enjoy a more local pace for the day.

How to get there:

• About 1.5 hours by car.
• Trains from Prague take around 1 hour and 20 minutes and arrive close to the town centre.

Good to Know:

• The underground tunnels have low ceilings and narrow passages—not ideal for strollers.
• The town is walkable, but hilly in parts—good shoes help.
• Most museums have English signage or audio guides.

Adventurous Day Trips (1.5 – 2 hours)

These day trips are perfect for families who want to get out of the city and explore some of Czechia’s beautiful landscapes surrounding Prague.  

Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park

Despite the name, Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park isn’t in Switzerland—it’s on the Czech–German border, about 2 hours from Prague. If your family enjoys hiking and dramatic landscapes, this is one of the most stunning day trips you can take from the city.

The park is known for its unique sandstone formations, forested trails and gorges that feel like they belong in a fantasy film. The most famous landmark is Pravčická brána, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. It’s a bit of a climb to reach it, but the views are incredible and the trail is part of the adventure.

Fun fact: Some of the scenes from The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe were filmed at the arch, which adds an extra layer of wonder for kids (and grown-ups) familiar with the film.

You can also take a boat ride through the Kamenice Gorge, where narrow cliffs rise on either side as you float through a peaceful canyon. Many tours combine the hike and boat ride, which is a good option if you’re short on time but want to experience the park’s highlights.

We didn’t make it here ourselves (December weather was a bit too chilly and wet) but it’s high on our list for a future summer visit.

How to get there:

• About 2 hours by car from Prague.
• Guided tours are available and often the easiest option, since they include transport, entrance fees and a local guide. This one from Viator or this full-day tour from Get Your Guide are both good options if you’d rather not plan the details yourself. 

Good to Know:

• Best for kids who enjoy walking—some trails are long or uneven.
• Bring snacks, water and good walking shoes.
• Spring through autumn is the best time to visit. Some trails may be closed in winter or after heavy rain.

Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj)

About an hour northeast of Prague, Bohemian Paradise is a great day trip if you’re looking to mix nature, castles and a bit of adventure. The name refers to a larger tourist region, but within that region is the Bohemian Paradise Protected Landscape Area – which is known for incredible sandstone rock formations, forests, and fairytale-like castles.

The most popular spot is the Prachov Rocks, a maze of narrow sandstone towers and well-marked trails for different levels. Some routes are gentle and stroller-friendly, while others are steeper and involve stairs and rock scrambles – perfect for kids like mine, who love to scramble and explore.

Nearby, the Hrubá Skála rock formations offer more of those towering sandstone cliffs, with walking trails that wind past lookout points and rocky viewpoints. You can also visit Hrubá Skála Chateau, perched on the cliffs with great views over the valley.

Another popular spot is Trosky Castle. With its ruins set high on a hill that can be seen from across the region, it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bohemian Paradise. While you can visit the site, you can also just enjoy the view of it from the surrounding area. If you are planning to visit, it’s best to go first thing in the morning before it gets too busy.

How to get there:

• It’s just over an hour by car.
• Public transit is possible via train to Turnov, then local buses—though driving is much easier with kids.

Good to know:

• Trails are well marked, but some involve steps and rock scrambles—wear sturdy shoes.
• Good for spring to autumn; trails may be muddy or closed in winter.
• Many areas are free to access, but some sites (like Prachov Rocks) charge small entry fees.

Additional Option: Terezín Memorial

While most of the trips on this list are suitable for all families, Terezín Memorial offers something very different. Located about an hour north of Prague, Terezín was a World War II concentration camp and ghetto. Today, it serves as a memorial and museum, with exhibits, guided tours and preserved historical buildings that share the stories of those who lived—and died—there.

It’s not a typical family outing, and it may not be the right fit for younger kids. But if you’re travelling with older children or teens, and feel they’re ready to engage with this part of history, it can be a powerful and important experience.

The site includes a small fortress, barracks, cemeteries and museums, with exhibits in both Czech and English. Guided tours are available and help explain the history in a way that’s accessible without being overwhelming.

How to get there:

• About 1 hour by car from Prague.
• Buses run regularly from the Nádraží Holešovice station and drop off near the memorial.
• Guided day tours from Prague are also available and can help add context to your visit. This Viator tour is highly recommended, and this Get Your Guide tour is another good option. 

Good to know:

• This is a heavy and emotional site—kids should be prepared for the seriousness of the visit and able to be respectful throughout. 
• Plan for 2–3 hours to explore the main sites.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a fair bit of walking between buildings.

Thinking about renting a car?
Some of the day trips on this list—like Bohemian Paradise, Karlovy Vary and Dresden—are easiest with your own car. While trains and buses are reliable, a car gives you more flexibility with timing and stops. We recommend checking prices and availability with Discover Cars.

Longer Day Trips from Prague (2+ Hours)

These destinations are a little farther from Prague, and maybe a bit long for a day trip if you’re travelling with young kids, but I’m including them as they are definitely worth experiencing. If you’ve got the time, staying overnight can make the visit more relaxed—but they’re still doable as day trip, just plan for a long day!

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a bit of a drive from Prague, but it’s one of my favourite spots—so I had to include it in this list. It first caught my attention as the home of Becherovka, but it’s also a beautiful and historic spa town set along the Teplá River.

The town is known for its mineral springs, each with its own unique taste and temperature. Pick up a little souvenir cup and wander the main street through town, sampling the different springs as you go. Not all of them taste great—but that’s part of the fun, and it keeps kids engaged while you explore. The souvenir cup also makes a fun keepsake.

The town is also the home of Becherovka, the popular herbal liqueur that is one of my personal favourites, and even rivals red wine for me. While the museum is more for adults, and includes tastings, my kids thought it was pretty interesting. You’ll also have a chance to learn about the herbs and old-school production methods, although they won’t reveal the actual recipe…

There are also great walking trails up to viewpoints like Diana Tower, which you can reach via a short funicular ride, and enough pretty cafés and bakeries to make it easy to spend a relaxing afternoon here.

How to get there:

• About 2 hours by car.
• Buses from Prague take around 2.5 hours and run frequently from Florenc station.
• Private day tours from Prague are also available. This guided tour with Get Your Guide includes transportation there, a short guided tour of the town, the funicular to the viewpoint, plus a few hours to explore the town on your own before heading back to Prague.

Good to know:

• It’s a walkable town, but there are a few gentle hills—wear comfortable shoes.
• You don’t need spa reservations to enjoy the springs or walking the town, but some hotels offer short treatments if you do want to try one.
• The souvenir sipping cups make a great keepsake—and keep the kids engaged.

Dresden, Germany

Just over the Czech border in Germany, Dresden is a surprisingly easy and fun day trip from Prague. With stunning Baroque architecture, spacious parks and a relaxed feel, it’s a great way to experience a different country without a complicated travel day.

It’s also home to one of the best Christmas markets in Germany, making it a fantastic spot to visit in winter.

The old town is beautifully rebuilt after being hit in WWII and very walkable, with landmarks like the Frauenkirche and Zwinger Palace. But there’s also some great family-friendly activities. Our favourite was the ropes course at Waldseilpark Dresden-Bühlau, a treetop climbing park set in the forest—it was a huge hit with the kids. We also loved the miniature railway in Großer Garten, where kids can ride a small train around the park’s paths.

How to get there:

• About 2.5 hours by train, which makes for a long day, but it’s a scenic ride through the Czech countryside.
• Just over 1.5 hours by car. Highways are well maintained and we recommend driving if possible-it makes the day much easier with kids. Check rental car options here. 

Good to know:

• You’ll need passports for crossing the border, but there’s no formal checkpoint. 
• The city centre is stroller-friendly and flat.
• Some attractions (like the ropes course) are seasonal—check hours ahead.
• It’s easy to explore in a day, but if you have extra time, you could extend with a night and see more of the museums and galleries.

Telč

If you’re looking for a postcard-perfect town with colourful facades and quiet streets, Telč is a great option. It’s about 2 hours from Prague, so on the longer side for a day trip, but the stunning architecture and relaxed atmosphere make it worth the effort.

The main square is the highlight here. Surrounded by Renaissance and Baroque houses painted in soft pastels, it feels like stepping into a storybook. The square is car-free, which makes it ideal for kids to explore safely, and there are plenty of cafés around the edges for lunch or a break.

You can also visit Telč Chateau, which sits right beside the main square. It has a large park and gardens behind it, and a tower you can climb for views across the rooftops and countryside. It’s a quieter spot, which can feel like a welcome break after time in busier cities.

We didn’t make it to Telč on our last trip (mostly because we ended up loving Prague more than expected and spent more time there) but it’s high on our list for next time.

How to get there:

• About 2 hours by car from Prague.
• Trains and buses are available but take closer to 3 hours with transfers, so a car is the most efficient option for a day trip.

Good to know:

• The main square is flat and stroller-friendly.
• The chateau has seasonal hours, so check ahead before visiting.
• It’s best to go on a clear day to make the most of the views and the walkable town centre.

Český Krumlov

Often called one of the most beautiful towns in Czechia, Český Krumlov feels like it’s been lifted straight from a fairytale. With its winding cobblestone streets, riverside cafés and castle overlooking the town, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular destination.

The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to the second-largest castle complex in Czechia after Prague. The castle grounds are free to wander, and the castle tower offers some of the best views of the town’s red rooftops and the Vltava River. There’s also a bear moat—yes, really—which kids always find memorable.

A Český Krumlov day trip from Prague is definitely doable, but it makes for a long day—so it’s best to start early if you’re only going for the day.

How to get there:

• About 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
• Trains run once daily and take nearly 3 hours—buses are more frequent but take just as long. RegioJet or Flixbus both cost around $10 one way. 
• Guided day trips from Prague are also available via Viator, and a good option if you don’t want to navigate on your own. This one from Get Your Guide, includes a tour of both Český Krumlov and České Budějovice

Good to know:

• The town is hilly and cobbled—bring good walking shoes and leave the stroller if you can.
• Restaurants can get busy with day-trippers, so eating slightly off peak times helps.
• You could easily stay overnight if you want to explore at a slower pace (and enjoy the quieter evening vibe after the day-trippers leave).

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Prague

Adding in a day trip—or two—is a great way to see more of Czechia beyond the city. From castles and quiet towns to nature trails and spa towns, there’s plenty to explore just outside of Prague.

Some spots are quick and easy to reach, like Karlštejn Castle, which is both fun and low-stress with kids. Others, like Kutná Hora, are more unique—where else can you walk through a church decorated with bones? If you’re looking for something that works for both kids and parents, Plzeň is a great option with a science centre and a world-famous brewery. And if you’re after a slower day with beautiful views, Karlovy Vary was my personal favourite.

Looking for more info and tips on visiting Prague? 

Check out our recommendations for things to do in Prague with kids and everything you need to know about exploring Prague with kids, as well as how to spend three days in Prague. And when it comes to where to stay, we’ve rounded up tips on where to stay in Prague and the best hotels in Prague for families to help you find something that works for your family.