Czech castles & spas 10-day road trip

Prague

Day 1: Arrive in Prague

After arrival, check into your hotel, then start the day by exploring the Czech Republic's largest city and capital, set on the banks of the flowing Vltava River.

Wander the enchanting cobbled streets and majestic squares of its magical Old Town, soak up the vibrant cultural scene and visit one of the world-renowned breweries. Pay a visit to one of the excellent museums and stroll along the medieval Charles Bridge, taking in the views of the city's countless spires of historic churches and the incredible 9th-century castle.

In the evening, join a walking tour (around 1.5 hours) to explore the mysterious world of medieval Prague. Feel the atmosphere of bygone times in the dark alleys of Prague's Old Town, a unique and fascinating way to get to know the oldest part of the city. 

Prague

Day 2: Walking tours around castle and city

Prague Castle has always been the historical and political heart of the Czech Republic. Perched high up on a hill overlooking the town and spread over seven hectares, it enjoys some of the best views of the city. After breakfast, join your private guide to explore this labyrinth of palaces, churches, monasteries, museums, fortifications and watchtowers. The tour winds its way through the castle and its grounds, then passes the home of Franz Kafka, before drawing to a close surrounded by the beautiful churches in Mala Strana. 

Later, experience an exclusive walk (around two hours) through the city with a local expert by your side. From Prašná brána to the Dancing House, explore Prague’s most iconic landmarks and the historic events that made them famous. Discover how Prague’s history as a cultural and political centre of the Bohemian Kingdom impacted modern day culture. 

Prague - Kutna Hora - Hradec Králové

Day 3: Medieval marvels

After breakfast, begin your journey from Prague back in time to the Middle Ages in Kutna Hora. Once the medieval centre of silver mining, this rich city is UNESCO protected and offers a wealth of historic sites to explore. Your guided tour will include the Gothic Cathedral of St Barbara and its unique 15th-century stone fountain, and a visit to the ossuary, a fascinating site decorated by more than 40,000 human bones. 

From Kutná Hora continue the journey to Hradec Králové, set on the banks of the Elbe River. The city is vibrant and historical, so spend the afternoon exploring the cobbled streets of the historic centre. Admire the Gothic cathedral, marvel at the stunning Bílá věž tower and visit the city's excellent museums. Nearby Hrádek u Nechanic Chateau is well worth a visit before the day draws to a close; spend the evening relaxing in the comfort of your hotel.

Hradec Králové - Litomyšl - Brno

Day 4: Majestic architecture and historical cities

After breakfast, set off for the small town of Litomyšl, just under an hour away. Best-known for its grand Renaissance chateau, it has UNESCO World Heritage Site status and dazzles with majestic architecture and extravagant interiors.

Birthplace of the composer Bedřich Smetana, the town has a lovely historic centre with excellent museums and churches. At its heart is a bustling main square lined with colourful Baroque and Renaissance buildings, with a tempting array of cafes and restaurants.

Continue on to your hotel in Brno, capital of Moravia and the Czech Republic's second-largest city. It is a vibrant hub of culture and history. From the towering hilltop cathedral to the modern Villa Tugendhat, Brno is an appealing blend of old and new. Meander through the historic streets and busy squares of the Old Town; stroll through the museums, relax and soak up the vibrant cafe culture.

Moravian Karst - Třeboň - ČEský Krumlov

Day 5: Caves and cobbled streets

After breakfast this morning, enjoy a trip out to see the Czech Republic's largest cave complex. Conveniently located just north of Brno, these otherworldly karst caves, their sparkling underground rivers and incredible stalactites, sit in a protected natural landscape. 

Departing from the caves, a three-hour drive brings you to Třeboň, a must-see in the region of South Bohemia. Stroll through the town’s historic cobbled streets, admire the elegant Renaissance and Baroque architecture in Masaryk square, then relax in one of the arcaded cafes or restaurants. Nearby Třeboňsko Protected Landscape area is well worth exploring too.

Today's last destination is beautiful Český Krumlov. Settle in to the hotel, then head out to one of many charming cafes or lively bars to experience the magic of this town.

ČEský Krumlov

Day 6: Transport yourself back in time

Set in the Czech Republic's South Bohemia region and boasting UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Český Krumlov is a truly picturesque stop, overlooked by a spectacular 13th-century castle and bisected by the meandering Vltava River.

After a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, spend the day strolling through the medieval streets and discovering the Old Town, filled to the brim with Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture that will transport you back in time. Walk by the river or climb the hill to the castle for a wonderful view. Enjoy dinner in your hotel or explore one of the lovely local restaurants for an authentic evening out.

ČEský Krumlov - Pilsen

Day 7: Birthplace of Pilsner beer

After breakfast, a drive of just under three hours takes you from Český Krumlov to the town of Pilsen.

Check in to your new hotel, then head out to discover the city, best-known as the birthplace of the world-renowned Pilsner, which attracts flocks of beer enthusiasts from far and wide. But beyond the Pilsner Urquell brewery, the town has an array of wider historical, cultural and architectural attractions. From the stunning Gothic cathedral and the Great Synagogue to the medieval underground passages and diverse range of museums, there is plenty to discover here.

Of course, a stroll around the town is a great way to work up an appetite - and thirst - ready to enjoy good local food and the region's speciality beer. Cheers!

Pilsen - Karlovy Vary

Day 8: Healing waters and film festivals

After breakfast, a short trip of just over an hour brings you to Karlovy Vary.

Renowned for its thermal springs since the 18th century, Karlovy Vary was once the destination of choice for the likes of Beethoven, Goethe and the Russian Tsar Peter the Great. The spa town remains a magnet for visitors wishing to soak up its healing waters and enchanting atmosphere. Although the spas are its main draw, Karlovy Vary has much to offer, with its picturesque riverside setting, spectacular architecture, and for an extra boost of culture, the annual International Film Festival.

Why not book a spa treat to soothe sore muscles after a busy day exploring, before enjoying a delicious dinner in the hotel restaurant?

Prague

Day 9: Mineral springs and local liqueurs

Fuel up at breakfast and spend the morning on a walking tour, getting to know this beautiful spa town better. Dating back to the 14th century, the time of Charles IV, as well its the curative springs, the town also has a natural fountain that reaches 12m high. Admire the range of historical and modern colonnades before tasting water from 12 natural mineral springs. The tasting is accompanied by delicious wafer biscuits and, of course, the traditional local liqueur Becherovka, made from a unique blend of herbs and spices. Following the tour, there's plenty of time to enjoy lunch and spend a pleasant afternoon enjoying the spa facilities before heading to Prague for your last evening in the Czech Republic.

Prague

Day 10: Beer spa experience

After breakfast, complete your trip with a unique Czech experience. Beer spa treatments are a Czech speciality. Used for centuries as a way to relax and as a curative treatment, they are designed to leave your skin soft and smooth, while refreshing your mind and quenching your thirst.

This luxury experience includes 30 minutes in a warm bubbling tub of Bernard’s beer, followed by 30 minutes of relaxation on a heated bed: the perfect way to unwind and let the skin absorb all the nutrients from the beer, before a relaxing 20-minute massage. This is a singular opportunity to increase blood circulation, remove toxins and have lots of fun! Spa experiences are in private rooms, and each visitor receives an original bottle of Beer Bernard with the historical seal and certificate of completion. don't forget to toast this memorable tour!

Fully relaxed, head to the airport for the flight home.