Prague is a wonderful city steeped in history and historical buildings but during your Prague holiday you may wish to go further afield and visit some of the nearby treasures Czechoslovakia has to offer.

KARLSTEJN CASTLE & TOWN

A trip to Karlstejn Castle is about 45 minutes by train from Prague. It is a majestic castle that was built in the 14th century and well-worth visiting for a day. When you arrive at the castle there is a choice of the 50-minute tour or a 70-minute tour, the latter requires booking in advance. Apart from the castle, Karlstejn town has a good choice of places in which to eat and drink and there is a fine selection of shops. There is also a golf course.

KARLOVY VARY

Karlovy Vary is a spa town that has been renowned for its curative hot springs since the 14th century. The simplest way to get to Karlovy Vary is the express coach which leaves from Florenc bus station and takes about 2.5 hours. When you reach Karlovy Vary there is much to see although most of it is focussed on the hot springs. Make sure to visit some of the wonderful churches and the local museum.

KUTNA HORA

Kutna Hora was once the site for a medieval coin mint, which made the town important and very prosperous. Today, visitors can see what remains of the mint in the Museum of Silver and of the early mining industry. To get to Kutna Hora from Prague catch the bus from the Florenc bus station. The journey takes little more than an hour. Kutna Hora is a charming, medieval town with a 15th century castle. Other places to visit within the town include the Alchemy Museum, which is in Sankturin House, and St. Barbara’s Cathedral.