Prague to Bohemian Switzerland: Private Tour with Pravcicka Gate & Bastei Bridge

Summary

Private journey from Prague to sandstone wonders and river canyons

You’ll travel from Prague with a local guide who knows every story behind Bohemian Switzerland’s sandstone arches and river canyons. Expect forest walks, a peaceful boat ride through Kamenice Gorge, hearty Czech lunch, and time wandering Bastei Bridge’s dramatic viewpoints. It’s not just about photos — you’ll feel those quiet moments long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“You know, this forest always smells like moss after rain,” our guide Pavel said as we stepped out of the minivan near Pravcicka Gate. He was right — there was this damp, earthy scent that hit me before I even noticed the arch itself. The drive from Prague had been two hours but honestly, it felt shorter with Pavel’s stories about smugglers and movie crews (apparently Narnia fans come here just for that rock). I didn’t expect the path to be so soft underfoot — pine needles everywhere, muffling our steps. Our group kept stopping for photos but none of us could really capture how tall that sandstone arch looked when you’re standing right under it.

Lunch was at a local spot where the waitress smiled at my attempt to order “svíčková” — Li laughed and tried to help but I still probably butchered it. The sauce tasted like something between cream and root vegetables, and there was this faint smell of dill in the air. After eating way too much bread dumpling (it’s heavier than it looks), we headed for the Kamenice Gorge. That part surprised me — you walk through these narrow tunnels and suddenly you’re on a tiny boat gliding between mossy cliffs. It got quiet except for water dripping somewhere above us. Pavel pointed out a kingfisher darting past; I almost missed it because I was busy watching the light shift on the rocks.

The last stop was Bastei Bridge over in Germany — just across the border but somehow everything felt different: signs in German, people hiking with big dogs, even the air seemed sharper. We wandered across that old stone bridge with views down into the Elbe canyon that made my stomach drop a little (in a good way). There were castle ruins too, half-swallowed by trees. By then my phone battery was nearly dead from all the photos but I didn’t really care anymore — sometimes you just have to stand there and let it sink in, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day tour of Bohemian Switzerland

• Pick up at Prague hotel
• Drive to Bohemian Switzerland National Park
• Guide shares info about park and Czech Republic
• Walk to Pravcicka Gate sandstone arch
• Lunch at local Czech restaurant
• Walk through Kamenice river canyon gorges
• Take small river boat cruise in canyon
• Visit Bastei rock formation in Germany
• Walk across sandstone bridge and explore castle ruins
• Return to Prague hotel

Top questions

How long is the private day tour from Prague to Bohemian Switzerland?

The tour lasts 10-12 hours including transport, walks, lunch, and all stops.

Is lunch included on this Bohemian Switzerland day trip?

Yes, lunch at a local Czech restaurant is included in your tour price.

What are the main sights visited on this tour?

You’ll visit Pravcicka Gate, cruise Kamenice Gorge, and walk Bastei Bridge in Germany.

Does this tour include hotel pickup in Prague?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Prague are both included.

Is this private tour suitable for large groups?

Yes, private transport is available for up to 20 or 30 people depending on vehicle choice.

Are entrance fees covered in the price?

All entrance fees are included as part of your booking.

How much walking is involved during this day trip?

A moderate amount of walking is required; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Prague with a friendly local guide leading every step. You’ll travel by modern minivan or bus (depending on your group size), enjoy snacks and water throughout the journey, have all entry fees covered for Pravcicka Gate and Kamenice Gorge boat cruise, plus a hearty Czech lunch with drinks before heading back in comfort at sunset.