Prague’s compact size makes it the perfect city to base yourself for exploring beyond its charming streets. While many visitors spend their time wandering the Old Town or visiting Prague Castle, a full-day tour can reveal a richer, more diverse side of this region. Whether you’re drawn to breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles, or cultural excursions, Prague offers a variety of full-day experiences that suit all interests. We particularly love the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland tour for its striking natural scenery and the Cesky Krumlov private tour for its fairy-tale charm. Both provide more than the usual city break and give you a taste of the Czech countryside and history. For a quick, active escape, the E-bike trip to Karlstejn Castle combines exercise with scenic views, while the Vienna private tour is ideal if you’re craving a taste of Austria’s capital in a single day.
Each of these tours is designed with different travelers in mind—whether you want a relaxing sightseeing experience, an active outdoor day, or a comprehensive culture. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at ten of the best full-day tours around Prague, complete with what makes each unique and who it’s best suited for.
1. From Prague: Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Full-Day Tour
At number 1, this full-day escape takes you into the stunning landscapes of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Parks. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure, all just a short drive from Prague—only about two hours in a comfortable van. The tour includes crossing the iconic Bastei Bridge, which offers sweeping views over the Elbe River, and visiting the Pravčická Arch, Europe’s largest sandstone natural arch. You’ll also explore the Tisa Walls, a filming location from The Chronicles of Narnia, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the Wild Gorge.
This tour is ideal for those who want to experience wild scenery without the hassle of planning multiple stops. It’s rated 4.7/5 with over 1,200 reviews, and the reviews highlight the variety of sights and engaging guides. The itinerary includes hiking, sightseeing, and a boat ride, all packed into around 10-12 hours. The price is $138 per person, and it offers excellent value considering the number of highlights and the natural beauty you’ll see. Perfect for active travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and scenery.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one nature and history day trip that offers unforgettable vistas and a chance to stretch your legs without leaving the Czech border.
2. E-Bike Full-Day Trip From Prague: The Mighty Karlstejn Castle
At number 2, the E-bike trip to Karlstejn Castle is a superb option for those who want to combine outdoor activity with historical sightseeing. For around $86, you get an easy, flat-paced ride along riverside paths and through forests, with bike rental, helmet, and train tickets included. The tour takes roughly 7 hours, with a visit to the 14th-century Karlstejn Castle, built by Charles IV to house the crown jewels.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its scenic cycling routes and relaxed pace—”beautiful scenery and great lunch,” according to reviews. The guided option includes a hearty Czech meal and beer, making it a full package for a day outside Prague. The tour is perfect if you’re comfortable on a bike, enjoy light exercise, and want an active way to explore Czech countryside. The train ride back to Prague adds a charming touch, making it a smooth, stress-free day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers wanting to combine history, nature, and a bit of exercise, all within a manageable day trip.
3. Full Day Cesky Krumlov Private Tour from Prague
Number 3 on our list is the private tour to Cesky Krumlov, rated 5.0/5 with glowing reviews. For about $418, this tailored experience takes you from your hotel directly to one of the Czech Republic’s most picturesque towns. The tour includes round-trip transport, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Cesky Krumlov Castle, and a leisurely stroll through the hilly cobblestone streets. The guide can customize the itinerary, allowing you to explore at your own pace—whether that means more castle time or wandering local shops.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and private service—”very knowledgeable guide and great for customizing,” says one reviewer. The town’s charm lies in its colorful architecture, narrow streets, and the impressive castle overlooking the Vltava River. You’ll also visit the Minorite Monastery and enjoy scenic viewpoints of the town. It’s a perfect day for couples, history lovers, or those wanting a quiet, personalized experience outside Prague.
Bottom Line: The best choice if you want a private, customizable day trip to one of Czechia’s most enchanting towns.
4. Full Day Countryside Bike Tour to Karlstejn Castle (small group)
Number 4 features a small-group bike tour to Karlstejn Castle, rated 5/5 and priced at $97.50. It’s a great blend of outdoor activity and cultural highlights, with about 8-9 hours of riding. The tour starts with a guided bike ride from Prague, following river routes and passing through quaint villages. Once you arrive at Karlstejn, you can enjoy a traditional Czech lunch (own expense) and an optional guided tour of the castle, famous for housing the crown jewels.
Guests praise the relaxed pace and scenic stops, like Cernosice and Hlasna Treban. The tour suits active travelers who want to enjoy the countryside and learn about local history, with reviews highlighting friendly guides and smooth logistics. The ride includes stops for breaks and scenic photo ops, and the train back to Prague makes for a relaxing end to the day.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those who enjoy cycling and want to see a castle with significant historical importance, all in a small-group setting.
5. Prague: Full-Day Guided Tour of Prague in a Small-Group
Number 5 offers a comprehensive city tour aimed at travelers who want a deep dive into Prague’s highlights. For around 5 hours, the tour covers landmarks like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Jewish Quarter, and more. It’s ideal if you prefer a structured sightseeing day with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
Rated 4.8/5, this tour includes visits to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old-New Synagogue, and scenic stops at the John Lennon Wall. Guests value the small group size, which ensures personalized attention and easier access to sites. The tour concludes near the Dvořák Museum or at the Rudolfinum, making it easy to continue exploring or relax afterward.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers or those with limited time but wanting a thorough overview of Prague’s top sights.
6. Private Kutna Hora with Sedlec Ossuary and Local brewery Full Day Trip
Coming in at number 6, this private tour provides an intimate exploration of Kutná Hora, including the Sedlec Ossuary, known for its bone-chandelier and eerie displays. For about $249, the day includes visits to St. Barbara’s Cathedral, the town’s cobbled streets, and a local brewery for tasting Czech beer.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ease of transfers, making it ideal for those wanting a relaxed, informative experience. The Sedlec Ossuary is the highlight, with visitors often mentioning how striking it is—”a must-see for its macabre beauty,” says one review. The tour balances historic sites with culinary experiences, making it appealing for culture and beer lovers alike.
Bottom Line: An engaging, private experience that combines history, architecture, and local flavor, perfect for those who want to avoid crowds.
7. Full-Day Vienna Private Tour from Prague
Number 7 takes you across the border to Vienna, with a private 12-hour tour rated 4.5/5. The journey begins early in Prague, and after about 3.5 hours on the road, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The tour is flexible, allowing you to explore at your own pace with a private guide.
Guests love the ease of the round-trip transport and the ability to customize the itinerary. The guide shares rich stories about Vienna’s history, making the experience more meaningful. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day in Austria’s capital, with plenty of time to explore, photograph, and enjoy.
Bottom Line: Best suited for culture lovers looking to see Vienna’s highlights in a single day with the comfort of private transport.
8. From Vienna: Full-Day Trip to Prague
Number 8 offers a full day trip from Vienna to Prague, rated 4.2/5. It’s perfect for those based in Vienna who want to see Prague’s main sights like Charles Bridge, the National Theatre, and Old Town Square. The roughly 13-hour itinerary includes free time for shopping or sampling Czech beers, making it flexible for your interests.
While less detailed than some other options, it’s a good way to maximize a day if you’re already in Vienna. The tour is best for travelers short on time but eager to tick off Prague’s top attractions without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: A practical option for Vienna visitors wanting a taste of Prague, particularly if they prefer guided logistics over a DIY approach.
9. Full-Day Trip to Äeský Krumlov from Prague
Number 9 takes you to Český Krumlov, a fairy-tale town rated 4.0/5. For about $104, the 10-hour trip includes a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed town, with visits to Český Krumlov Castle and the medieval streets.
Guests love the storybook setting and relaxed pace—”beautiful town, great restaurants,” says one review. The tour offers an immersive experience with enough free time to explore shops or sit by the river. It’s perfect for history and architecture fans who want to see one of the Czech Republic’s most scenic spots without a full private tour.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking an authentic, picturesque Czech village experience with minimal fuss.
10. Karlovy Vary Full Day Tour from Prague
Rounding out the list, Karlovy Vary offers a more relaxed spa experience rated 3.5/5. For about $77, the 9-hour tour includes visiting mineral springs, colonnades, and tasting the famous mineral water. It’s ideal for travelers interested in wellness or looking for a quieter, scenic retreat outside Prague.
While reviews note the trip’s efficiency and the guide’s knowledge, some mention the town’s quieter vibe compared to other tours. It’s suited for those seeking a restorative day or interested in the spa culture.
Bottom Line: A good pick for wellness-minded travelers or those wanting a peaceful day in a historic spa town.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Prague
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate outside Prague. For active travelers craving outdoor adventure, the E-bike trips offer a perfect mix of exercise and sightseeing, while history buffs might prefer the private Cesky Krumlov or Kutná Hora tours for their in-depth experiences. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the day trips to Vienna or Karlovy Vary, which are cost-effective and flexible.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours like Cesky Krumlov or Vienna, to secure your preferred date. Think about the travel style you enjoy most—guided group, private, or self-guided—and pick accordingly. And remember, some tours include lunch, tickets, or transport—check what works best for your plans.
Final Thoughts
Prague’s surrounding region offers a treasure trove of full-day experiences, from scenic mountain hikes and fairy-tale towns to imperial palaces and spa retreats. If you’re after a nature-packed adventure, the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland tour is hard to beat. For those seeking history and culture, the private Cesky Krumlov or city-focused tours deliver depth and flexibility.
For active travelers, the E-bike trips stand out as a fun, healthy way to explore, while family or group travelers might prefer private options like Kutná Hora for a guided, relaxed experience. Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable day trips that make Prague a hub for exploring beyond its historic streets.