Czech Republic Itinerary: A Week of Castles, Culture, and Moravian Charm
This 7-day itinerary takes you through the heart of the Czech Republic, starting with the historic capital of Prague, venturing to the majestic Karlštejn Castle, and concluding with the vibrant cities of Brno and Olomouc.
- 1Prague
- 2Brno
- 3Olomouc
Day 1: Arrive in Prague and Explore the Old Town
Begin your Czech adventure with an arrival in Prague, settling in before immersing yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Old Town Square and its iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Arrive at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) and travel to Praha hlavní nádraží, the main train station, located centrally.
- Consider alternative arrivals at Dresden Airport (DRS) or Vienna International Airport (VIE), both offering bus or train connections to Prague.
- Wander through the historic Old Town Square, admiring the Gothic and Baroque architecture surrounding you, including the famous Astronomical Clock.
Day 2: Prague Castle and Malá Strana's Historic Beauty
Dedicate your second day to exploring the vast Prague Castle complex, delving into its rich history, and then discovering the romantic lanes of Malá Strana.
Highlights
- Explore the expansive Prague Castle complex, a symbol of Czech statehood with palaces, courtyards, and grand views.
- Visit St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece within the castle grounds, known for its stained glass and royal tombs.
- Stroll through Malá Strana, a charming quarter filled with palaces, quiet streets, and church domes beneath Prague Castle.
Day 3: Day Trip to Karlštejn Castle
Embark on a scenic train journey from Prague for a day trip to the magnificent Karlštejn Castle, a Gothic royal fortress, and take in the dramatic views of Velká Amerika.
Highlights
- Take a train from Prague to Karlštejn, with services running from 00:30 and the latest return at 23:54, with tickets starting from €2.
- Discover Karlštejn Castle, a Gothic royal castle founded by Charles IV, famed for its imperial interiors.
- Visit the Velká Amerika Viewpoint, offering iconic panoramas of the large limestone quarry, often called the Czech Grand Canyon.
Day 4: Travel to Brno and Discover its Historic Core
Relocate to Brno by train, a journey offering a glimpse into Moravian landscapes, and begin your exploration with the city's commanding Špilberk Castle and Petrov Hill.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Prague to Brno, a journey taking approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, with tickets starting from €6.
- Arrive at Brno hlavní nádraží, the city's main train station, and head to Špilberk Castle, a hilltop medieval fortress with city views.
- Ascend Petrov Hill to admire the Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, a defining feature of Brno's skyline, and enjoy panoramic views.
Day 5: Brno's Modernist Architecture and Lively Squares
Spend a full day in Brno, exploring its unique modernist architecture, delving into regional history at the Moravian Museum, and soaking in the atmosphere of its main squares.
Highlights
- Visit Villa Tugendhat, a UNESCO-listed modernist villa by Mies van der Rohe, renowned for its groundbreaking open-plan interior.
- Explore the Moravian Museum, a major regional institution offering insights into natural science, history, and temporary exhibitions.
- Experience the lively Náměstí Svobody, Brno’s central square, surrounded by historic facades and public art.
Day 6: Journey to Olomouc and UNESCO Heritage
Travel by train to Olomouc, a city rich in history and home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, and begin your visit at the impressive Holy Trinity Column and Horní náměstí.
Highlights
- Take a train from Brno to Olomouc, a journey of about 1 hour and 51 minutes, with tickets starting from €3.
- Arrive at Olomouc hlavní nádraží, the main train station, and head to Horní náměstí, Olomouc’s main square.
- Marvel at the UNESCO Holy Trinity Column, a monumental Baroque plague column and the city’s most famous symbol.
Day 7: Depart from Olomouc
Enjoy a final morning in Olomouc, visiting its significant cathedral and museum, before departing from this charming Moravian city.
Highlights
- Visit Saint Wenceslas Cathedral, a major Moravian Gothic cathedral with a climbable tower and rich interior.
- Explore the Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc, featuring sacred art and Romanesque remains on the historic castle hill.
- Depart from Olomouc, with Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava (OSR) being the closest major commercial airport, accessible by train from Olomouc hlavní nádraží.
