Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland: Day Trip from Prague with Lunch

Summary

Sandstone arches, forest trails and bridges near Prague

You’ll hike through forests and sandstone arches in Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland, cross the famous Bastei Bridge high above the Elbe River, and share stories over a hearty Czech lunch (with vegetarian options). Expect small surprises — local drinks, hidden trails — and honest moments you’ll remember long after you’re back in Prague.

What’s the experience like?

Hands wrapped around a mug of Kofola (which tastes sort of like cola’s quirky cousin), I watched our guide Jan pull a raincoat from the van and hand it over without a word. He’d already spotted the clouds rolling in above Hrensko before any of us did — that’s how you know he grew up here. The drive out from Prague felt quick, maybe because Jan kept pointing out odd little things along the way — old border posts, a bakery he swears is haunted, that kind of stuff. By the time we reached Bohemian Switzerland, the air had that pine-and-wet-stone smell I always forget I love until I’m back in it.

The first real “wow” moment (I mean, there were plenty but this one stuck) was standing under Pravcicka Gate. It’s bigger than you expect — not just tall but wide, like some ancient doorway left open for giants. The hike up wasn’t too tough, though my legs definitely noticed those last few switchbacks. We stopped to catch our breath and Jan told us how his grandfather used to sneak across this border when it was still closed. There’s something about hearing those stories right where they happened — makes everything feel closer somehow.

Lunch was at this Czech place tucked into the woods, nothing fancy but honestly better than anything I’d had in Prague so far (don’t tell my hotel). I tried svíčková for the first time — creamy sauce, dumplings, beef — and yeah, I still think about that plate sometimes. Someone ordered vegan goulash and said it was great too. After that we drove over to Saxon Switzerland for the Bastei Bridge. The wind up there made my eyes water but maybe that was just the view: river curling below, those weird table mountains in every direction. A couple next to us took about 50 selfies; can’t blame them really.

On the way back to Prague everyone got quiet for a while — tired legs or just full from lunch? Not sure. Jan played some Czech folk music on low volume and pointed out the window where his family used to pick mushrooms as kids. Funny what sticks with you after a day like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland

• Pick up from Prague accommodation
• Drive through Hrensko village
• Visit Bohemian Switzerland National Park
• Hike to Pravcicka Gate sandstone arch
• Boat ride in Kamenice River Gorges
• Visit Saxon Switzerland National Park
• Explore Bastei Bridge and Neurathen Castle ruins
• Enjoy à la carte lunch with drinks
• Return to Prague

Top questions

How long does the Bohemian & Saxon Switzerland day trip take?

The tour usually lasts from early morning pickup (around 7:15-8:15 am) until return to Prague between 6 pm and 8 pm.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Prague?

Yes, lunch at a regional Czech restaurant is included with vegetarian and vegan options available.

What sites are visited on this tour?

You’ll visit spots like Pravcicka Gate, Bastei Bridge in Saxon Switzerland, and possibly Kamenice River Gorges or Tisa Rocks depending on your chosen option.

How difficult is the hiking during this tour?

The hikes are moderate; Pravcicka Gate involves about 3 miles with some incline but taken at an easy pace.

Is hotel pickup provided for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup anywhere in Prague is included as part of your booking.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children under 5 are only allowed on private tours for safety reasons; booster seats are available for older kids.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meals are available; dietary needs can be accommodated if mentioned when booking.

What’s special about Bastei Bridge?

Bastei Bridge offers panoramic views over the Elbe River canyon and access to medieval ruins; it’s Germany’s most popular natural attraction.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup anywhere in Prague by comfortable minivan with Wi-Fi, all park entry fees covered, expert English-speaking local guide (CPR trained), gear rental if needed (like raincoats or hiking sticks), snacks along the way plus an à la carte lunch at a regional restaurant with your choice of drink before heading back to town in the evening.