Open the chapter on a fairytale journey through Czechia by rail, from the seductive architecture of Prague to the charms of Český Krumlov’s enchanting old town. Leisurely glide through the valleys and farmlands of Central Europe to unpeel layers of Bohemian heritage in imperial castles and historic spa towns, stopping to sample Europe’s finest beer in Pilsen, escape the world in the unspoiled wilds of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park, or uncover cultural wonders on the cobbled streets of Olomouc.
Our tailor-made rail itineraries let you travel at a pace that gives you time to breathe and savor the moment, combining comfort and convenience for unforgettable experiences that showcase the best of Czechia’s absorbing heritage.
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Czechia boasts one of Europe’s most comprehensive rail networks. Prague, the capital, is well-connected to cities across Central Europe, making the capital an enticing destination on a European rail odyssey and gateway to exploring Czechia. If you want to go beyond Prague, frequent trains weave around dense forests and along the rivers that shape the country’s gentle landscape, connecting landmark cities and gems off the tourist trail.
From Prague’s iconic Old Town Square to Kutná Hora’s macabre Sedlec Ossuary, Czechia’s cities are steeped in history. Frequent trains knit together medieval towns, Baroque villages, and cultural treasures that reveal more of the country’s storied heritage with every stop. Plunge into the royal spas of Karlovy Vary, wander the colorful streets of Český Krumlov, and glory in the splendor of Olomouc; our European rail experts will plot a compelling tour of Czechia by train that goes far beyond the ordinary.
Roaming Czechia by rail is a hassle-free pass to see more of the country at a speed that works for you. With hotels and seamless connections taken care of by our travel team, you can enjoy tranquil moments between cities while seeing more of the country in comfort. And with fast, modern rail connections to neighboring countries, you can nip across borders to electrifying cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Berlin in one unhurried and nuanced vacation.
Check out our popular tours threading together Central Europe’s most compelling destinations, or speak with our team to customize your dream rail vacation in Czechia and across this captivating region.
All tracks lead to Prague when exploring Czechia by train. The spirited capital, the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is actually home to around 500 spires in a cityscape studded with timeworn churches and imperial landmarks that recall Prague’s vital role in European history. Alongside stately buildings like the 9th century Prague Castle, Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, and the iconic Charles Bridge, travelers can lose themselves in the labyrinthine lanes of an evocative Old Town. After dark, Prague’s café culture and sizzling nightlife ensures you won’t spend much time in your hotel.
Day trips from Prague are a breeze by train, including a short journey to Karlštejn Castle, a dramatic royal fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled on hills outside the capital.
Distilling the character of Bohemia in one seductive town, Český Krumlov transports you to a bygone Czechia. Curled around a bend of the Vltava River, cobblestone streets wind through a wonderfully preserved medieval jumble of old-world houses crowned by a stunning Renaissance castle. It’s another UNESCO World Heritage gem and the most popular destination after Prague, rewarding rail travelers with a gentle journey through the hilly farmlands of South Bohemia. With an even more compelling trip through history upon arrival.
A short train ride from Prague, Kutná Hora’s attractions include the haunting Sedlec Ossuary— lined with the human bones of 40,000 plague and war victims —and the magnificent Gothic Saint Barbara’s Church. This UNESCO World Heritage old town brims with charisma and invites you to literally descend into Czechia’s medieval mining past at the Czech Silver Museum, where you can don helmets and head underground for an exhilarating experience as a rookie miner.
Beer enthusiasts will want to make a beeline to Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner beer, a world first. Czech beer is widely considered the best in Europe, even if several European nations might dispute this. You can decide for yourself by taking an under two-hour train trip west of Prague to tour the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery and enjoy more subterranean escapades in Pilsen’s network of atmospheric medieval tunnels.
One of the three historical regions in Czechia, Moravia is the country’s premier wine region and a land of rolling vineyards and sandstone villages. Start with a two-to-three hour train ride to Brno, Czechia’s second-largest city and an absorbing modernist contrast to Prague. Continue a bespoke journey around Czechia by train, stopping to see the Baroque fountains and cultural treasures of Olomouc, or head deeper into wine country, pausing in Znojmo, a pretty hilltop town overlooking the Dyje River.
The direct InterCity train from Prague to Český Krumlov glides through farmlands and around forests, transporting visitors in airconditioned comfort between Czechia’s two most compelling cities. Recline in a first-class seat or grab a bite to eat in the dining car as you flash through Bohemia, arriving in the heart of Český Krumlov in under three hours, refreshed and raring to explore an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town on the Vltava River.
Rolling through rocky valleys and viaducts along the Vltava and Sazava rivers, the Sázava Pacific is perhaps the most scenic journey through Czechia by rail. The two-hour train trip begins in the Prague suburbs, terminating in Cercany. But the destination plays second fiddle to a panoramic journey showcasing the picturesque countryside around Prague. Catch a fast train back to Prague in around 45 minutes on a day trip to be back before night falls over Prague.
A scenic two-hour train journey on slick RegioJet trains connects Prague with Ceske Budejovice, the capital of South Bohemia. The journey offers views of the Bohemian countryside before dropping passengers in laidback Ceske Budejovice. In this riverside city, you can wander around a diverting old town, visit the original Budweiser brewery, and head out to Hluboká Castle, a Baroque jewel and one of Czechia’s prettiest castles.
From Ceske Budejovice, you readily transform your rail vacation around Czechia into a multi-country odyssey, with Vienna less than four hours away. Let our travel team know, and we can arrange a smooth cross-border adventure to more cultural jewels.
Three rail operators are key to journeys around Czechia by train.
The majority of trains are run by Czech Railways (České dráhy), a mix of intercity services and functional regional and commuter trains.
The fastest trains are slick SuperCity Pendolino trains that reach speeds of 124 mph (200 km/h) and link major cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava with limited stops for maximum speed and comfort.
Express CD services are supported by RailJet trains (also seen in Austria) and modernized InterCity trains, which stop at smaller stations between cities.
Slower regional trains fan out to towns and villages, forming one of Europe’s densest rail networks.
Competing with České Dráhy on many intercity lines are sleek, modern RegioJet trains connecting cities in Czechia and across the border to Slovakia and Austria.
another modern competitor on many intercity lines in Czechia. Leo Express also runs trains to six other countries, including Slovakia and Poland.
All three services operate on Czechia’s busiest intercity lines, offering a greater variety of departure times, fares, and amenities.
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Czechia’s central location makes it a fantastic gateway to Europe, with all tracks leading to Prague Hlavni Nadrazi, the capital’s main rail terminal. Direct trains from Czechia’s three operators plus ÖBB (Austrian railways) link Prague with Vienna, Berlin, and Budapest and cities in between.
Direct sleeper services connect with the Netherlands and Belgium, via Amsterdam and onwards to Brussels.
Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, luggage racks, air-conditioning, and dining options are standard on InterCity services for all rail operators. First-class and sometimes business-class tickets are available and always prioritized when booking with Rail Escape. Family and quiet carriages are often provided (speak with our team when booking if you have a preference).
Regional trains offer basic but reliable services, ideal for shorter journeys.
Uncover the best of Czechia by train with thoughtfully designed travel packages that feature scenic rail routes, captivating destinations, and handpicked accommodations. With airport transfers and seamless connections included, your journey is stress-free from start to finish.
We prioritize stays at boutique hotels and premium accommodations near major train stations. Whether it’s a historic property in Prague or a cozy retreat in Český Krumlov, our curated selections include breakfast to set you up for another day of rail adventures.
Travel in style and comfort with first-class rail tickets, where available, ensuring a relaxing journey across Czechia by rail. We carefully select efficient and scenic connections, giving you more time to explore and less time worrying about logistics.
Leave the planning to us. From train schedules to hotel bookings and electronic tickets, every detail is handled. Need assistance during your trip? Our dedicated travel experts are just a call away to ensure your Czech rail vacation is smooth and enjoyable.
Our team of European rail travel specialists knows Czechia’s rail network inside and out. From in-demand destinations like Český Krumlov and Karlovy Vary to alternative gems like Telč or the home of Budweiser, Ceské Budejovice, we craft immersive itineraries that showcase the best of the country.
Whether you’re interested in wine tastings in Moravia, hiking in the Bohemian Switzerland National Park, or exploring UNESCO sites like Kutná Hora, we tailor your Czechia by rail experience to your passions.
Expand your rail adventure by connecting Czechia with neighboring countries. Combine your trip with stops in Vienna, Budapest, or Berlin to create a multi-country journey packed with unforgettable experiences.
Czechia's rail system is perfect for travelers of all ages, whether you're on a family vacation, a couple's getaway, or a solo adventure. From picture-postcard castles to vibrant cities, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Experience authentic Czech culture as you glide effortlessly between charming towns and bustling cities. Enjoy leisurely train rides through picturesque countryside and take your time connecting with the country's rich history, vibrant traditions, and welcoming locals.
Czechia by rail is one of the most eco-friendly ways to explore the country. Reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to dramatic cliffs, that make this destination so enchanting. Start planning your Czechia by train adventure with us today for a journey filled with culture, convenience, and unforgettable memories!
Czechia’s well-connected and reliable rail network is the ticket to uncovering historic towns and dynamic cities peppered with scenic snapshots of the countryside in one rousing vacation. Many compelling trips through Czechia by train are on modern express trains, offering a comfortable and convenient way to weave through the country’s heritage and culture. With customizable itineraries and reserved seating, traveling by rail is more than practical, it makes the journey part of the adventure.
Exploring Czechia by train unlocks the freedom to explore far beyond Prague, letting you weave together a vacation that calls in at iconic landmarks and offbeat treasures. Combine one of Europe’s most extensive networks with a carefully crafted itinerary and you can focus on seeing what matters to you, on and off the tourist trail. Luxuriate in Karlovy Vary’s soothing spas, sip Moravian wines in authentic wineries, or bounce between contrasting cities like Brno and Olomouc; the possibilities are legion when you travel Czechia by rail. And all at a pace that fits your travel style.
Prague and other major stations in Czechia benefit from excellent cross-border rail connections, placing magnetic destinations like Vienna, Budapest, Berlin, Krakow, and Bratislava within half a day’s travel. Even more adventures await on sleeper trains to Brussels, Amsterdam, and other Western European cities, creating a world of possibilities for a singular European rail vacation.
Our rail travel experts thread together inspirational journeys across Europe and can place Prague at the center of a rail vacation like no other.
Czechia is a popular destination with a growing reputation for rail travel, especially during peak seasons like summer (June-August) and winter holidays. We recommend booking early to secure the best seats, accommodations, and a tailored itinerary, especially for high-speed or international connections.
Definitely! Czechia’s trains are spacious and offer family-friendly amenities, such as family carriages and online entertainment via the free Wi-Fi. With thrilling attractions like Prague Zoo or the Moravian Karst caves, there’s plenty to engage travelers of all ages. Our travel experts can help craft a smooth and enjoyable rail adventure for families.
Long-distance and international trains in Czechia often provide free Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning, and dining services. First-class options include more spacious seating and quieter carriages. Regional trains may lack these amenities but are reliable and well-suited for short trips to towns and countryside locations.
Yes, many Czech trains and major stations are accessible, featuring step-free boarding, wheelchair spaces, and assistance services when arranged in advance. Our team can ensure your Czechia by rail experience is inclusive and comfortable, tailored to your specific needs.
Czechia is part of the Schengen Area, so passport checks are rare when traveling from other Schengen countries. However, always carry your passport or ID, as spot checks are possible.
Seat reservations are required on high-speed and international trains such as the Railjet or EuroCity services. Reservations are not needed for regional trains, as they operate with open seating. We arrange the bookings you need for a stress-free Czechia by train experience.
Yes, most long-distance and high-speed trains feature dining cars or onboard service, offering Czech staples like chlebíčky (open-faced sandwiches), complete meals, or sweet pastries. You’re also welcome to bring your own food and beverages on board.
Yes, Czechia boasts high-speed rail services like Railjet and Pendolino, which connect major cities such as Prague, Brno, and Ostrava. These modern trains reduce travel time significantly while offering comfortable and efficient journeys.
Wi-Fi is commonly available on high-speed and intercity trains in Czechia, though connectivity may vary in rural areas. Regional trains may not offer Wi-Fi but compensate with stunning views of the Czech countryside.
Absolutely! Many of Czechia’s iconic castles, such as Karlštejn and Český Krumlov, are easily accessible by rail. Pair train travel with short walks or local buses to visit heritage sites and immerse yourself in Czech history.
Bohemian Switzerland, known for its dramatic sandstone formations, is reachable by train from Prague to Děčín, followed by local buses or hiking trails. This scenic route showcases the natural beauty of Czechia by rail.
Moravia, famous for its vineyards and Baroque architecture, is well-connected by trains between Brno, Mikulov, and Znojmo. Combine rail travel with bike rentals, buses, or wine tours for a delectable journey through Czechia’s wine country.
Travel Czechia by train any time of the year! Here’s a snapshot of what makes each season unique.
Train travel in Czechia during winter takes you to festive Christmas markets in Prague, Brno, and beyond. Aside from the Christmas markets in Prague, expect fewer tourists in the off-season as you gaze at snow-dusted castles and warm up in cozy cafes. For some sporting fun, head to the Krkonoše Mountains to ski and for a slice of wintry beauty.
As the temperature creeps up, exploring Czechia by rail is especially scenic and relaxing. Historic cities like Prague and Olomouc are less crowded, beer gardens stir into life, and city parks are a joy to walk around and sometimes even warm enough for a picnic! Meanwhile, countryside scenes across all three Czech regions become ever more pleasing to the eye, making it a golden time to hike along the Vltava River or to see the snow melt into spring blooms in the Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
As summer crowds spread across Europe and Prague once again becomes a European city break favorite, sunny days are embraced. Café terraces and beer gardens bubble and there is no better time for picnics overlooking the river in Letna Park or for family days at the immense Prague Zoo. A summer tour of Czechia by train offers easy access to less-visited cities and outdoor adventures. Head to the spa town of Karlovy Vary for its International Film Festival or extend your journey around Czechia by train far above it all in the mountains surrounding Czechia.
The autumn months bring cooler temperatures and pleasing views as you cruise through the changing colors of Czechia’s picturesque countryside. Wine lovers can revel in the wine festivals or roam Moravia’s vineyards in harvest. Fans of fall foliage might want to visit photogenic castles as sunsets arrive earlier or visit the famous sandstone arch in the Bohemian Switzerland park. Urban explorers can probe around uncrowded historical landmarks in Prague and Český Krumlov and enjoy a pilsner in leafy beer gardens as the autumnal light fades.
From Prague’s fairy-tale allure to Moravia’s rolling vineyards, exploring Czechia by train is an immersive and unforgettable travel experience that lets you see more at a pace that works for you. We’ll craft a journey tailored to your interests, with perfectly timed connections and superior accommodation in all the right places, so you can kick back and savor an unforgettable rail escape.
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