A Day (or Two) Beyond Prague: Castles, Medieval Towns, Wild Horses and Ancient Forests

Most visitors exploring Czechia tend to stay close to Prague — and while the capital is a treasure in itself, some of the country's most fascinating places lie just beyond its borders. Within an hour or two from the city, you can experience medieval fortresses, a former Gothic metropolis, Dutch- founded towns, herds of wild horses and untouched ancient forests.

This itinerary takes you east and southeast of Prague on a beautifully varied loop: Český Šternberk → Kutná Hora → Nymburk → Milovice → Tismice → Voděradské bučiny → back to Prague.

It's the perfect 1–2 day adventure for travellers who want to go beyond the obvious and dive into the lesser-known heart of Bohemia.

1. Leave Prague and Step Into a Castle Above the Sázava River: Český Šternberk

Your journey begins with a scenic drive through rolling Czech countryside toward Český Šternberk, one of the most imposing castles in the entire country. Sitting dramatically on a cliff above the Sázava River, this 13th-century Gothic fortress has remained in the hands of the same aristocratic family for over 770 years.

Stroll through its courtyards, enjoy views of the river gorge, and walk along the village lanes below the castle. Despite its grandeur, Český Šternberk remains pleasantly quiet compared to Prague's more famous fortresses — a true hidden gem for travellers seeking authenticity.

2. Explore the Former Gothic Metropolis: Kutná Hora

From the castle, continue into the heart of Central Bohemia to Kutná Hora, once one of Europe's richest and most powerful cities thanks to its medieval silver mines.

While most visitors rush straight to the Sedlec Ossuary, the real magic lies in the town's historic centre:

 narrow, winding streets

 pastel Renaissance façades

 hidden courtyards

 and the majestic Gothic St. Barbara's Cathedral, rising above the vineyards like a stone crown

Walk through the Old Town and imagine the life here in the 14th and 15th centuries, when Kutná Hora rivalled Prague in influence and wealth. Today, the city feels peaceful and intimate — ideal for slow wandering, photography and a coffee in one of the local cafés.

3. Discover the Dutch Heritage in Nymburk

Heading north, the landscape opens into flat farmland as you approach Nymburk, a historic town on the Elbe River. Look for the massive brick fortification walls, which were originally strengthened by Dutch settlers invited here in the Middle Ages to drain the wetlands and fortify the town.

Walk along the riverbank or explore the narrow streets behind the walls — it's a peaceful stop with a unique historical twist and a very local atmosphere.

4. Meet Wild Horses in the Open Landscape of Milovice

From Nymburk, continue toward Milovice, once a giant Soviet military zone, now transformed into

one of the most unique nature projects in Europe. Here you can find:

 wild horses (Exmoor ponies)

 European bison

 aurochs-like cattle

All roaming freely in vast grasslands that are slowly being returned to a natural steppe ecosystem. There are marked walking paths where you can observe the animals from a safe distance. It's peaceful, quiet and surprisingly emotional — a glimpse into how Central Europe looked thousands of years ago.

5. Step Back into the Romanesque Past in Tismice

A short drive south brings you to something completely different: the tiny village of Tismice, home to one of the most remarkable Romanesque churches in all of Czechia.

The 12th-century Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary stands here almost untouched by time — massive stone walls, rounded arches, calm and quiet surroundings. It feels like stepping into early medieval Bohemia. Few travellers ever come here, which makes the visit even more atmospheric.

6. Wander Through Ancient Beech Forests: Voděradské bučiny

Finish the journey with a walk through Voděradské bučiny, one of the largest and oldest beech forests in the country. With its moss-covered trunks, soft forest floor and centuries-old trees, it's a perfect place to slow down after a day filled with history and culture.

Choose from several easy hiking circuits — even a short walk gives you a taste of the serene, untouched Central Bohemian landscape.

7. Return to Prague, Full of New Impressions

After leaving the forest, the road gradually leads back to Prague. In less than an hour, you're once again in the vibrant capital — but with a completely different picture of Czechia in your mind.

This loop combines castles, medieval towns, wildlife, sacred architecture and pure nature in just one trip. It's perfectly suited for independent travellers, families, photographers, or anyone who wants to see the real country beyond its tourist hotspots.

And as always — if you would like, HiddenGemsCzechia can plan this route individually for you, suggest stops, viewpoints, cafés, or create a personalised version based on your travel style.