Once you’ve had your fill of Prague, one fun, easy day-trip is to catch the train out to Karlštejn, 35km southwest of the capital, to see magnificent Karlštejn Castle. Treat yourself to a guided tour of the interior of the medieval fortress – which wouldn’t look at all out of place on Disney World’s Main Street – and then stroll through the charming little town that surrounds the structure.
Take the "Basic" Tour of the Castle
Two main guided tours of the castle are available, but most visitors opt for the shorter, hourlong "basic" tour. This option admittedly omits some of the more-impressive interiors, but provides a good overall introduction. You'll get glimpses into the Knight’s Hall – still daubed with the coats-of-arms and names of the knight-vassals – as well as views of Charles IV’s bedchamber, the Audience Hall and the Jewel House. Note that this tour option runs year-round and does not require advance booking.
Dive Deeper into the Castle Interiors
Real castle aficionados should opt for the longer "exclusive" tour (adult/child from 640/510Kč). Bear in mind that this option – which runs to 100 minutes – is only offered from May to October and must be reserved in advance. The reward is the chance to see the most valuable chambers, including the castle's star attraction: the exquisite Chapel of the Holy Cross, with its walls and vaulted ceiling adorned with thousands of polished semiprecious stones set in gilt stucco in the form of crosses. Note that kids might find the information overload a little dull.
