1 Week in the Czech Republic: Ultimate Local-Approved Itinerary

The Czech Republic might be one of the most underrated countries in Europe – and one week is the perfect amount of time to see some of the country’s most beautiful hidden gems! From romantic castles to pastel-colored spa towns to towering rocks and rolling hills, there’s so much to pack into any 1 week itinerary in the Czech Republic. 

For my 1 week Czech Republic itinerary, I’ve pulled together years of my own local recommendations featuring beautiful nooks and romantic towns – tried and tested by yours truly. But no two travellers are alike and that’s why I’ve created two different one week itineraries for the Czech Republic to help you pick the best option for you and your family. Let’s dive in!

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Option 1: 1 Week Czech Republic Itinerary Exploring the South 

My first one week itinerary in the Czech Republic explores the southern part of the Czech Republic, which is known for its rolling hills, lakes and wine country. In my opinion, this is truly one of the most beautiful (and romantic!) parts of the Czech Republic. 

Day 1 and 2: Prague, Czech Republic

Start your one week Czech Republic itinerary off with a stay in Prague – this is where you will arrive and depart, so it only makes sense. The country’s magical capital city has so much to offer, with its winding cobblestone roads and pastel-colored buildings, reminiscent of another time. 

During this trip, you’ll see Prague’s most important historical highlights. My recommendations are below. 

Things to Do in Prague

Find my full guide on things to do in Prague right here. Alternatively, I recommend planning time to see:

• Charles Bridge, arguably one of the most famous sights in Prague. This iconic bridge was first built in 1357 and connects Old Town to the “Lesser Quarter,” known as Mala Strana in Czech. To this day, it remains one of the most picturesque parts of the city — and the perfect spot to snap those postcard photos. If you’re looking for a bird’s eye view, make sure to climb up the tower and take in the view.
• Prague Castle, or Pražský hrad. The Prague Castle is enormous…In fact, it’s been in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest ancient castle in the world. If you’re looking for a tour that covers it all, this is the one I always recommend. 
• Klementinum, a historic library established in 1722. A guided tour is the only way to experience this beauty. The library is home to 20,000 volumes of mostly foreign theological literature. There are few places as magical as this library. 
• Old Town Square, a 12th century square is home to Old Town Hall, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Baroque Church of St Nicholas, the Rococo Kinský Palace, the Gothic House at the Stone Bell and the monument to Jan Hus.  
• Vyšehrad, a neo-Gothic structure that shouldn’t be missed. This historic fort was built in the 10th century and became the seat of the first Czech ruler, King Vratislav II of the Přemyslid dynasty, a century later. 

Where to Eat in Prague

Prague is home to one of the most up-and-coming food scenes in Europe. Find my full guide on the best restaurants in Prague right here. If you’re only visiting for a short time, don’t skip these spots: 

• Výčep 
• Kro Kitchen 
• Kantyna or Naše Maso
• Baraqa
• Sodo

Where to Stay in Prague

• The luxury pick: The Mandarin Oriental: This might just be one of the best hotels in Prague, tucked away in the Mala Strana neighborhood. If you’re looking for a splurge, the presidential suite has a gorgeous private terrace to take in the sweeping views. 
• The mid-tier pick: Prague Carlo IV (NH Collection): The grand Carlo IV is housed in the 19th-century neoclassical palazzo and former bank – and it’s just as impressive outside as it is inside. The hotel also has a fantastic location: close to major public transit as well as Prague’s Old Town. There are plenty of great restaurants nearby, including some of my favorite restaurants in Prague.  
• The budget pick: Hotel Claris in Vinohrady or, in New Town, Seven Days or Hotel Caesar.

Day 3: Karlstejn, Konopiste and Tabor

On your third day in the Czech Republic, it’s time to explore the country’s outstanding castles. Did you know the Czech Republic is home to the most castles per capita? 

For our journey, you will need a car – though it can be done by train (it’ll just take longer). 

Start off by visiting Karlstejn, one of the most famous castles in Czech Republic. It’s about an hour from Prague, nestled in the hills southwest of Prague. 

Built in 1348 by Charles IV, the King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, Karlštejn Castle was designed as both a royal retreat and a fortified sanctuary for the empire’s most precious treasures — from sacred relics to the Imperial Crown Jewels.

This detour will take around an hour or two, depending on how much walking you do around the castle grounds (which are especially beautiful in the fall). 

From here, you’ll drive down to Konopiste Castle, one one of the most beautiful castles to visit in the Czech Republic. Known to many as the Franz Ferdinand Castle, this chateau was once home to Austrian Archduke and Heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand d’Este. 

Because Franz Ferdinand loved hunting, the castle is also home to an extensive and impressive collection of his hunting equipment in the armory. 

The Rose Garden is home to nearly a dozen peacocks, which roam the grounds during the summer. 

Here, you’ll spend another two hours (depending on if you take the tour of the interior, which I recommend!). 

Next, to finish off the day, drive down to Tabor, where you will spend the night. Tabor was founded in 1420 by Radical Hussites known as Taborites; these separatists from the medieval Catholic Church built a town that could be easily defended, hence Tabor’s beautiful hilltop location overlooking the rolling hills and the countryside. 

It’s a charming, well-preserved city with some wonderful gastronomy options, too. Try Restaurant Goldie or Triko Tabor, to start. 

Day 4: Hluboka Nad Vltavou Castle, Cesky Krumlov and Cervena Lhota Castle

From Tabor, you’ll drive further south to the southern region of the country – one of my favorites. Tonight, you’ll spend the night in the beautiful town of Český Krumlov, but before then, we’ll stop at several well-known spots. 

First, drive to Hluboka Nad Vltavou, a tiny town home to one of the most romantic castles in the country, Hluboka Castle. 

Zamek Hluboká nad Vltavou has more than 100 luxurious, brightened rooms and 11 great towers. 

My favorite parts are the castle grounds and the greenhouse-like structure next to the castle. Inside, the castle houses painted Chinese vases from the 18th century as well as other pristine gems. 

The neo-Gothic structure is absolutely a standout among Czech castles. 

Here, spend an hour or two – depending on if you do the interior tour. 

Next, we’ll drive east to visit  Červená Lhota Castle. This fairytale castle is so romantic, it actually served as the scene for numerous Czech movies, including the famous Zlatovlaska. 

The exterior of the castle alone is worth a visit, but don’t miss the interior, either: it’s pristine and well-maintained and features a unique look into a day-in-the-life of the former residents.

To finish the day, drive to Český Krumlov – perhaps the most beautiful city in Czech Republic. 

This fairytale spot is nothing short of stunning: a winding river, old streets with colorful buildings, a castle perched right above the city…there’s a lot to love here, and when the day trip tourists leave, it’s quiet and peaceful. 

Day 5: Explore Moravia 

On your fifth day, it’s time to drive to Moravia, Czech Republic’s wine country. You can find my full guide on Moravia right here, featuring the best wineries, hotels and things to do to plan your trip in greater detail. 

Moravia is truly unlike any other place in the world. As you make your way down south, you’ll pass historic wine regions like Mikulov and Velké Pavlovice, known for their crisp white wines and winding roads, perfect for biking with the whole family.

Nestled between rolling hills, find chateaux of former kinds and historical gems with pristine interiors.

Lednice Castle in Moravia 

During your stay, plan a trip to Lednice Castle – a must. Located in the heart of Moravia, Lednice Castle is an 1800s palace built on a Renaissance chateau and Gothic fort, with a riding hall and formal gardens. 

Where to Drink Wine in Moravia 

Moravia is perhaps best known for their open cellars. When visiting just about any wine town in the region, you’ll walk through downtown and notice families with open cellar doors, selling their local wines to anyone who wants to stop in. 

It’s part of the magic of Moravia: excellent wines sold out of cellars. If you’re interested in this option, I’d recommend the following areas and/or towns: 

• Šobes, known as one of the oldest areas (be sure to visit the villages of Šatov, Saldorf-Sedlešovice, Hnanice, Chvalovice and Jaroslavice)
• Blatnice pod Svatým Antonínkem (also known as the Burgundy of Moravia)
• Petrov (known for their beautiful cellars)
• Pavlov
• Dolní Dunajovice
• Sedlec 
• Horní Věstonice / Dolní Věstonice

Moravians are so friendly and so kind, you’re guaranteed to have a good time and even make a friend or two. If this doesn’t intimidate you, I’d highly recommend exploring your local town and opting for one of these cellars! 

Alternatively, consider some of these top-tier wineries: 

• Sonberk Winery (they have a LOVELY view!)
• Znovín Znojmo
• Vajbar Winery (Try their Award-Winning Palava!)
• Springer Winery 
• Vinařství u Kapličky
• Vinice Hnanice
• Špalek Winery
• Vinařství Volarik
• Vinium 
• Jan Stávek Winery (this family has been making wine for 5 generations!)

Where to Stay in Moravia

I personally recommend staying in Velké Pavlovice, Bořetice, Mikulov, Hustopeče. However, it’s easy to drive between towns once you’re in the region, so if you fall in love with a hotel – don’t worry! 

• The Luxurious Option: Šlechtitelka, Lotrinsky Hotel or Boutique Hotel – Vinařství Škrobák
• The Middle Ground: Penzion U TŘÍ RŮŽÍ or Vinařství a penzion Knápek
• The Budget Option: Penzion Živá Pálava, Pension Dolni Dunajovice
• The Unique Option: Bobule v sudu (stay in an old wine barrel!)

Day 6: Olomouc

On one of our final days, we’re visiting Olomouc. It’s an hour or two from Moravia – and perhaps one of the most beautiful, lesser-visited spots in the Czech Republic. 

This town, located in the eastern part of the country, is known for its iconic 18th-century Holy Trinity Column, a monument adorned with religious sculptures, as well as its six baroque fountains. 

The town is also home to the beautiful Gothic St. Wenceslas Cathedral and the Romanesque Bishop’s Palace. 

Olomouc is also home to another astronomical clock, similar to the one in Prague.

Day 7: The Pilgrimage church of St. John of Nepomuk and Kutna Hora

On our final full day in Czech Republic, we’re visiting the beautiful (and often overlooked) Pilgrimage church of St. John of Nepomuk and the town of Kutna Hora. 

First stop: Pilgrimage church of St. John of Nepomuk. The neo-Gothic/Baroque structure is completely unique – it’s a star-shaped structure! It’s a quick stop, but a beautiful piece of architecture (with some stunning rolling hills around). 

Then, you’ll drive to Kutna Hora. The historic town of Kutná Hora is just 80 kilometers east of Prague. Kutná Hora is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the country: the Baroque St. Barbara’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in 1338, Kacina Chateau, built in 1822 and the Gothic All Saints Chapel, known as the Bone Church. 

The Baroque St. Barbara’s Cathedral has an extravagant interior with frescoes featuring minting and mining and a mural of the Vision of St. Ignatius. Don’t forget to check out the Italian Court and the former residence of Bohemian King Vaclav IV.

Tonight, stay in Kutna Hora before heading back to Prague the next day.

Pro tip: Depending when your flight leaves, consider skipping this day and heading back to Prague instead.  

Day 8: Back to Prague 

On your final day, head back into Prague. This might be a great time to check out any non-touristy things to do in Prague – or perhaps explore the city’s cafe culture. From here, fly out to your next destination – or home! 

Option 2: 1 Week Czech Republic Itinerary Exploring the North

My second option for the perfect 1 week itinerary in the Czech Republic explores the northern half of the country, which offers more dramatic, old-world landscapes and sceneries. It’s a better option for hikers and history buffs alike. 

Day 1 and 2: Prague

Start your one week Czech Republic itinerary off with a stay in Prague – this is where you will arrive and depart, so it only makes sense. The country’s magical capital city has so much to offer, with its winding cobblestone roads and pastel-colored buildings, reminiscent of another time. 

During this trip, you’ll see Prague’s most important historical highlights. My recommendations are below. 

Things to Do in Prague

Find my full guide on things to do in Prague right here. Alternatively, I recommend planning time to see:

• Charles Bridge, arguably one of the most famous sights in Prague. This iconic bridge was first built in 1357 and connects Old Town to the “Lesser Quarter,” known as Mala Strana in Czech. To this day, it remains one of the most picturesque parts of the city — and the perfect spot to snap those postcard photos. If you’re looking for a bird’s eye view, make sure to climb up the tower and take in the view.
• Prague Castle, or Pražský hrad. The Prague Castle is enormous…In fact, it’s been in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest ancient castle in the world. If you’re looking for a tour that covers it all, this is the one I always recommend. 
• Klementinum, a historic library established in 1722. A guided tour is the only way to experience this beauty. The library is home to 20,000 volumes of mostly foreign theological literature. There are few places as magical as this library. 
• Old Town Square, a 12th century square is home to Old Town Hall, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Baroque Church of St Nicholas, the Rococo Kinský Palace, the Gothic House at the Stone Bell and the monument to Jan Hus.  
• Vyšehrad, a neo-Gothic structure that shouldn’t be missed. This historic fort was built in the 10th century and became the seat of the first Czech ruler, King Vratislav II of the Přemyslid dynasty, a century later. 

Where to Eat in Prague

Prague is home to one of the most up-and-coming food scenes in Europe. Find my full guide on the best restaurants in Prague right here. If you’re only visiting for a short time, don’t skip these spots: 

• Výčep 
• Kro Kitchen 
• Kantyna or Naše Maso
• Baraqa
• Sodo

Where to Stay in Prague

• The luxury pick: The Mandarin Oriental: This might just be one of the best hotels in Prague, tucked away in the Mala Strana neighborhood. If you’re looking for a splurge, the presidential suite has a gorgeous private terrace to take in the sweeping views. 
• The mid-tier pick: Prague Carlo IV (NH Collection): The grand Carlo IV is housed in the 19th-century neoclassical palazzo and former bank – and it’s just as impressive outside as it is inside. The hotel also has a fantastic location: close to major public transit as well as Prague’s Old Town. There are plenty of great restaurants nearby, including some of my favorite restaurants in Prague.  
• The budget pick: Hotel Claris in Vinohrady or, in New Town, Seven Days or Hotel Caesar.

Day 3: Karlstejn, Konopiste and Plzen 

No 1 week itinerary in the Czech Republic is complete without castles…. And this itinerary delivers! 

For our journey, you will need a car – though it can be done by train (it’ll just take longer). 

Start off by visiting Karlstejn, one of the most famous castles in Czech Republic. It’s about an hour from Prague, nestled in the hills southwest of Prague. 

Built in 1348 by Charles IV, the King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, Karlštejn Castle was designed as both a royal retreat and a fortified sanctuary for the empire’s most precious treasures — from sacred relics to the Imperial Crown Jewels.

This detour will take around an hour or two, depending on how much walking you do around the castle grounds (which are especially beautiful in the fall). 

From here, you’ll drive down to Konopiste Castle, one one of the most beautiful castles to visit in the Czech Republic. Known to many as the Franz Ferdinand Castle, this chateau was once home to Austrian Archduke and Heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand d’Este. 

Because Franz Ferdinand loved hunting, the castle is also home to an extensive and impressive collection of his hunting equipment in the armory. 

The Rose Garden is home to nearly a dozen peacocks, which roam the grounds during the summer. 

Here, you’ll spend another two hours (depending on if you take the tour of the interior, which I recommend!). 

Next, to finish off the day, drive to Plzen (yup, that Plzen!). This charming city is known for its Pilsner Brewery (absolutely worth a stop!), but there’s so much more to see. 

Take a tour of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery to sample unfiltered beer straight from the barrel, then explore Republic Square and climb the St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral tower for sweeping views. Don’t miss the Great Synagogue, the Patton Memorial Museum, or the city’s vibrant festivals that fill the streets with music, beer, and Czech hospitality.

Tonight, you’ll stay here. 

Day 4: Mariánské Lázně and Karlovy Vary 

On your fourth day, drive up to the Czech Republic’s spa town region; we’re visiting two of the most beautiful spa towns in the country: Mariánské Lázně and Karlovy Vary. 

Mariánské Lázně will be your first stop, a tiny town tucked away in the forest. Their historic spa buildings, central park and the singing fountain are the best things to do in town – just walking around and taking in the beauty. 

You’ll spend an hour or two here – and I’d recommend stopping for lunch, too, if you’re in the mood. 

Once you’re finished at Mariánské Lázně, hop in the car and head to Karlovy Vary. This gorgeous spa town, located west of Prague, is one of my all-time favorite day trip recommendations from Prague. 

Karlovy Vary is a riverfront city known for their thermal springs (you can drink from them in town!) and spa resorts, but you don’t have to head to the spa to really enjoy this town. The never-ending rows of spectacular buildings along the river make this town so special and so scenic.

While you stroll around, you’ll encounter some of the city’s many colonnades with hot spring foundations inside. This town also offers some great hiking nearby. 

If you’re looking to take your Karlovy Vary trip to the next level, consider booking a tour with a local (this one is my favorite!) who will show you around Karlovy Vary and take you to ALL the best food spots. 

Come for the views, but stay for some of the most authentic Neapolitan pizza in Czech Republic. 

Tonight, stay here – and book a spa hotel with a nice sauna, if you can! Hotel Thermal is my favorite. 

Day 5: Bohemian Switzerland National Park 

On our fifth day in the Czech Republic, we’re driving further north to Bohemian Switzerland National Park, a stunning hiking area on the border with Germany. Pine forest, deep valleys, rock towers and ravines set the scene for a magical landscape. 

Start your visit at Hřensko, the gateway to the park. The must-do hike is to the Pravčická Gate, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch, offering stunning panoramic views. 

For a quieter experience, explore the Edmund Gorge or Wild Gorge, where you can hike and take a peaceful boat ride through narrow river canyons. 

Another great trail leads to Mariina Skála, a scenic viewpoint perfect for sunrise or sunset.

Truly, there’s so much beauty here. Stay just outside the park – or drive to Mlada Boleslav and stay there. 

Day 6 and 7: Adršpach Rocks National Park

For the final part of our one week Czech Republic itinerary, we’re heading to the breathtaking Adršpach Rocks National Park. This often-overlooked part of the country offers so much spectacular beauty.  

Here, towering sandstone formations, deep gorges, and hidden waterfalls are perfect for adventure seekers, families and hikers alike. Don’t miss the serene Adršpach Lake, where rowboats let you glide beneath cliffs, or the Teplice Gorge, offering a slightly more challenging hike with incredible views. There’s so much to explore here in this beautiful region! 

Day 8: Back to Prague, with a stop in Mlada Boleslav 

On your final day, head back into Prague. 

But first, a stop in Mlada Boleslav, a charming town northeast of the capital. Here, you will find a charming castle, colorful Old Town and, of course, the Museum of Škoda. 

The city has long been influenced by the founder of Škoda automaker, bookseller, able organizer and manager V. Klement (1868-1938) and talented mechanic and engineer V. Laurin (1869-1930). 

Even if you don’t like cars – this museum is simply a can’t-skip. 

If you make it into Prague early, this might be a great time to check out any non-touristy things to do in Prague – or perhaps explore the city’s cafe culture. From here, fly out to your next destination – or home! 

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Samantha Tatro

Samantha Tatro is a Czech-American third culture kid who grew up living and traveling abroad. Many years later, after living in California and working as a journalist, she decided to take the leap and move abroad again…this time to Prague, Czech Republic. Samantha started Undiscovered Path Home to help couples and solo female travelers find the courage to visit countries – and locations – off the beaten path. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, NBC News, The Adecco Group, and more.