Two Weeks Through Bohemia & Moravia
From Prague's Golden Spires to Moravian Caves and Spa Towns
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week journey explores Czechia's rich tapestry of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Beginning in Prague's enchanting capital, you'll delve into medieval castles, Art Nouveau masterpieces, and quirky museums before venturing into the spa towns of Western Bohemia. The itinerary continues through the dramatic landscapes of Bohemian Switzerland, explores the underground wonders of the Moravian Karst, and discovers the cultural treasures of Brno and Olomouc. With a moderate pace allowing time to savor traditional Czech cuisine, sample world-class beer, and absorb centuries of Central European culture, this journey balances iconic landmarks with authentic local experiences. You'll experience everything from Gothic cathedrals to communist-era architecture, mountain hiking to cave exploration, creating a complete portrait of this fascinating country.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Prague Castle District
Where to Stay Tonight
Malá Strana (Lesser Town) (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse in a historic building)
Perfectly positioned between the castle district and Old Town, offering authentic atmosphere and easy access to major sights
Prague's Artistic & Quirky Side
Where to Stay Tonight
Žižkov or Vinohrady (Budget-friendly hotel or apartment)
Experience Prague's residential neighborhoods with excellent local dining and nightlife at lower prices than the historic center
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town or New Town (Mid-range hotel near Wenceslas Square)
Central location provides easy access to museums, restaurants, and evening entertainment
Art, Technology & Interactive Fun
Where to Stay Tonight
Holešovice or return to previous accommodation (Modern hotel or apartment)
This up-and-coming district offers excellent value, authentic local atmosphere, and easy metro access
Where to Stay Tonight
Malá Strana (Boutique hotel in a converted historic building)
Staying in this picturesque neighborhood puts you in the heart of baroque Prague with evening tranquility after day-trippers leave
Journey to Karlovy Vary
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Karlovy Vary near the colonnades (Spa hotel or guesthouse)
Central location allows easy exploration of the compact spa district on foot and access to spa treatments if desired
Spa Town Relaxation & Culture
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Karlovy Vary (Same accommodation as previous night)
Staying put allows you to fully relax and enjoy the spa town atmosphere
To Bohemian Switzerland
Where to Stay Tonight
Hřensko or nearby village in Bohemian Switzerland (Guesthouse or pension)
Staying in this small village provides immediate access to hiking trails and authentic countryside experience
Hiking Bohemian Switzerland
Where to Stay Tonight
Hřensko area (Same guesthouse as previous night)
Staying put eliminates the need to pack and move after a full day of hiking
Mountain Waterfalls & Journey to Brno
Where to Stay Tonight
Brno city center (Mid-range hotel near the main square)
Central location provides easy access to Brno's attractions and serves as base for exploring Moravian Karst
Underground Wonders of Moravia
Where to Stay Tonight
Brno city center (Same hotel as previous night)
Staying put in Brno provides stability while exploring the surrounding region
Brno's Architecture & Culture
Where to Stay Tonight
Brno city center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Continuing in the same accommodation maximizes time for exploration
Olomouc Day Trip
Where to Stay Tonight
Brno city center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Return to Prague & Departure
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Practical Information
Getting Around
Czechia has an excellent public transportation network. Trains connect major cities efficiently and affordably; book through České dráhy (Czech Railways) or private operators like RegioJet and Leo Express. Within Prague, purchase a multi-day transit pass for unlimited travel on metro, trams, and buses. For reaching Bohemian Switzerland and some rural areas, consider renting a car for a day or two. Buses (Student Agency/RegioJet and FlixBus) offer comfortable intercity connections. Download the IDOS app for comprehensive journey planning across all transport modes.
Book Ahead
Book Villa Tugendhat tours as early as possible (often 2-3 weeks ahead). Reserve Punkva caves tours at least several days in advance during peak season. Speculum Alchemiae benefits from advance booking due to small group sizes. Accommodation in small villages like Hřensko should be booked ahead as options are limited. Train tickets between major cities can be purchased in advance for better prices, though same-day purchase is usually possible.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestone streets and hiking trails. Layers for variable weather and cool cave temperatures. Light rain jacket year-round. Modest clothing for churches and religious sites. Reusable water bottle and day pack for hiking. Power adapter (Type E plugs, 230V). Swimsuit if planning spa treatments. Camera for stunning architecture and landscapes. Small Czech phrasebook or translation app appreciated by locals.
Total Budget
$1,120-1,540 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses ($20-35/night) and use kitchen facilities to prepare some meals. Purchase multi-day transport passes and travel during off-peak times. Focus on free attractions like castle grounds, parks, and walking tours. Limit museum visits to top priorities. Buy picnic supplies from supermarkets instead of restaurant lunches. Skip spa treatments in Karlovy Vary and simply sample the free spring water. Choose budget wine bars over upscale restaurants. Use overnight trains to save on accommodation. This can reduce daily costs to $50-70.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay in five-star hotels like the Augustine or Aria in Prague, luxury spa hotels in Karlovy Vary with full wellness programs, and boutique properties throughout. Book private guided tours of museums and historic sites. Enjoy fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants in Prague and Brno. Arrange private drivers between destinations for comfort and flexibility. Include premium spa treatments, private wine tastings at Moravian vineyards, and exclusive after-hours access to attractions. Stay in premium rooms at Villa Tugendhat's adjacent hotel. Budget $250-400+ per day.
Family-Friendly
Focus on interactive museums like Museum of Senses, Museum of Fantastic Illusions, and Museum of Bricks Praha which engage children. Shorten hiking days in Bohemian Switzerland with the boat ride being the highlight. Skip some specialized museums in favor of outdoor activities and parks. Choose family-friendly accommodations with connecting rooms or apartments with kitchens. Allow more flexible time for children's pace and interests. Include playgrounds and green spaces in daily plans. Consider the Prague Zoo, one of Europe's best. The Punkva caves boat ride thrills children. Budget extra for ice cream stops and child admission fees.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Czechia