START CLOSE TO PRAGUE
One of the easiest escapes is Karlštejn, founded by Charles IV in 1348. Rising above a wooded valley, the castle once protected royal treasures, holy relics and the Imperial Crown Jewels. The walk through the village to its gates is part of the experience, and direct trains from Prague make it an easy day trip.
Not far away, Křivoklát offers a more secluded atmosphere. Surrounded by the forests of Central Bohemia, this medieval royal castle combines Gothic architecture, historic interiors and beautiful countryside. South of Prague, Konopiště tells another story as the former residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, whose assassination in Sarajevo preceded the outbreak of the First World War.
FROM HIDDEN TREASURES TO FAIRY-TALE PALACES
Further west, Bečov nad Teplou hides one of the country’s most fascinating stories. Its Romanesque Reliquary of St Maurus was concealed beneath the floor of the castle chapel and rediscovered in 1985. Today, the original masterpiece can be seen within a remarkable complex combining a Gothic castle, Renaissance palace and Baroque chateau.
For pure romance, head south to Hluboká nad Vltavou. With its white towers, richly decorated interiors and landscaped grounds, it looks as though it belongs in a fairy tale. It also makes a natural stop on a longer journey through South Bohemia.
PALACES, PARKS AND EUROPEAN HISTORY
Close to the Austrian border, Lednice is about much more than the chateau itself. Its Neo-Gothic architecture is surrounded by an extensive park filled with romantic landmarks, including a minaret, greenhouse and artificial castle ruins. Together with neighbouring Valtice, it forms part of the UNESCO-listed Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape.
History takes centre stage at Slavkov, known internationally as Austerlitz. The elegant Baroque chateau stands close to the landscape where Napoleon defeated the Austrian and Russian armies in the famous Battle of the Three Emperors in 1805.
And if Renaissance architecture is more your style, continue to Litomyšl. Its UNESCO-listed chateau is famous for its decorated façades, elegant interiors and beautifully preserved historic theatre.
MAKE THE JOURNEY PART OF THE EXPERIENCE
You do not need to see them all. Choose a castle near Prague for an easy day trip, combine Hluboká with South Bohemia, discover Lednice while travelling through Moravia or simply pick a place you have never heard of before.
Because beyond Prague, the Czech Republic has another side waiting to be explored – one filled with castles, chateaux, gardens, forests and stories that make the journey itself part of the experience.
