Why Choose Scenic Train Rides From Prague?

Train travel in the Czech Republic is a classic experience. The tracks often follow river valleys and climb through forests. You get to see parts of the country that cars cannot reach. Most trains are modern and very comfortable for passengers. They offer large windows designed for sightseeing.

Tickets are quite cheap compared to Western Europe. You can travel across the country without spending much money. It is a green way to explore the region. You also avoid the stress of city traffic and parking. Trains run frequently to most major attractions.

The rail network connects small villages and grand cities. You can see the real Czech countryside from your seat. Local people often use these trains for weekend trips. This gives you a chance to see local life up close. It is a peaceful way to spend a day.

10 Scenic Train Rides From Prague Not to Miss

Here are the top routes for your next rail adventure. Each one offers unique views and a great destination. Use our cheap train tickets in Czech Republic guide to save money. These are the most scenic train rides from Prague not to miss in 2026.

1. Name: The Prague Semmering Type: Scenic route Why go: This route crosses high stone viaducts with amazing city views. Best for: Photographers and rail fans. Where: Between Smíchov and Jinonice. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Standard city ticket. Getting there: Take line S65 from Smíchovské nádraží. Tip: Sit on the left side when leaving the city for the best view.
2. Name: Karlštejn Castle Route Type: Iconic sight Why go: The train follows the Berounka River through a deep limestone valley. Best for: History lovers and families. Where: Southwest of Prague. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Approximately 3 to 5 USD. Getting there: Direct trains from Praha Hlavní nádraží. Tip: Walk up to the castle for a classic hilltop photo.
3. Name: Kutná Hora Express Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Travel through flat Bohemian farmland to reach a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: East of Prague. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Around 6 to 8 USD. Getting there: Use the Kutná Hora and Bone Church train route. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the local shuttle bus.
4. Name: Sázava Pacific (Posázavský Pacifik) Type: Unique local experience Why go: A historic route that winds through river canyons and wooden cottage settlements. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Sázava River valley. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: 5 to 7 USD. Getting there: Trains depart from Praha Vršovice or Hlavní nádraží. Tip: Take this train on a sunny weekend for the best atmosphere.
5. Name: Elbe River Canyon to Děčín Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: This route follows the massive Elbe River into the heart of Bohemian Switzerland. Best for: Dramatic landscape views. Where: North of Prague. Time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Cost: 8 to 12 USD. Getting there: Direct EuroCity trains toward Dresden. Tip: Sit on the right side to see the river cliffs.
6. Name: Český Krumlov Journey Type: Neighborhood/Experience Why go: A longer ride that showcases the diverse rolling hills of South Bohemia. Best for: Romantic day trips. Where: South of Prague. Time: 2 hours 50 minutes. Cost: 15 to 20 USD. Getting there: Check our Český Krumlov day trip guide for schedules. Tip: Book a seat reservation as these trains get very full.
7. Name: Pilsen Beer Route Type: Unique local experience Why go: Fast trains zip through the western forests to the home of Pilsner Urquell. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: West of Prague. Time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Cost: 7 to 10 USD. Getting there: Frequent departures from the main station. Tip: Visit the brewery museum right after you arrive.
8. Name: Konopiště Castle Route Type: History/Nature Why go: A quiet ride to Benešov through lush green parklands and hunting forests. Best for: A relaxing afternoon. Where: South of Prague. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 4 to 6 USD. Getting there: Take the S9 line or fast trains to Benešov u Prahy. Tip: The walk from the station to the castle is 2 kilometers.
9. Name: Dresden Day Trip Type: Day trip (Near) Why go: An international route that offers stunning views of the Saxon Switzerland mountains. Best for: Seeing two countries in one day. Where: Across the German border. Time: 2 hours 15 minutes. Cost: 15 to 25 USD. Getting there: EuroCity (EC) trains run every two hours. Tip: Bring your passport even though there are usually no stops.
10. Name: Poděbrady Spa Route Type: Spa town/Nature Why go: A very flat and peaceful ride along the Labe river to a famous spa town. Best for: Seniors and leisure walkers. Where: East of Prague. Time: 50 minutes. Cost: 5 to 7 USD. Getting there: Direct trains from Praha Hlavní nádraží. Tip: Taste the local mineral water for free at the fountains.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Train Adventure

Planning your rail trip is simple with the right tools. Download the PID Lítačka app for local routes. It allows you to buy tickets directly on your phone. For longer trips, use the České dráhy (ČD) website. You can find more info on the Prague.eu portal. It is always better to buy tickets before boarding.

Arrive at the station at least fifteen minutes early. The main station, Hlavní nádraží, is very large. It has many shops and places to buy snacks. Most trains have screens showing the next stops. This makes it easy to know when to get off. You do not need to speak Czech to navigate.

Consider traveling on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds. Saturday mornings are often very busy with hikers. If you travel in a group, look for group discounts. These can save you a lot of money on long trips. Always keep your ticket ready for the conductor to check.