9-Day Czech Republic Road Trip from Carlsbad traveling south to Prague, Ceske Budejovice, and Plzeň

Welcome to Carlsbad, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Czech Republic! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Carlsbad's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Carlsbad is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Park Colonnade or taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Carlsbad. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Czech Republic. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carlsbad. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurace Le Marché Karlovy Vary, a top-rated dining spot in Carlsbad. If you're in the mood for something new, try Smíchovský pavilon, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at BAGEL Lounge. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carlsbad.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Ratini. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Pubs Tequila Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Escobar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in the Czech Republic!

On day 2 of your road trip in Czech Republic, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Carlsbad and Bečov nad Teplou. In the evening, you’ll end up in Prague, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, Karlovy Vary. This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,975 visitors.

Next, make your way to Rozhledna Diana. This top attraction is an observation tower with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,307 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Mill Colonnade. This colonnade is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,623 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Vřídelní kolonáda. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,457 travelers.

Upon reaching Bečov nad Teplou, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see State Castle Bečov. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,847 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Prague, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Prague. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Divinis, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible italian menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Field is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Prague. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at BeerGeek Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Hemingway Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Anonymous Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in the Czech Republic.

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Mariánské Lázně for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Your discoveries in Mariánské Lázně do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Mariánské Lázně on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Prague.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The Grand Mark Prague, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lokál is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Gastro Bar 1401 Praha. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Prague tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Black Angel's Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, DÉJÁVU Music Club Prague offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out NIGHTMARE Prague Horror Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in the Czech Republic.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Czech Republic with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Prague for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Cheb and Lázně Kynžvart.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cheb, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lázně Kynžvart may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Lázně Kynžvart, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Náměstí Krále Jiřího z Poděbrad (Cheb). This street is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 777 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cheb Castle. This castle ruin is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,149 travelers from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Cheb, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lázně Kynžvart. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Make Kynžvart Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,455 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Prague and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Prague's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Louvre, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try U Pivrnce? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at V Zátiší as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Prague.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Brothers Bar & Cafe, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Czech Republic!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Prague has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Prague by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Prague Castle. This castle gets 512,800 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 167,293 reviews.

Next up, make your way to St. Vitus Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 80,048 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Charles Bridge. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 160,223 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Prague Astronomical Clock. This astronomical clock is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,492 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Old Town Square. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 103,139 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Prague. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurace Malostranská beseda, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, U Parlamentu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Jen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Prague.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Czech Republic!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Czech Republic, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hluboká nad Vltavou and Český Krumlov. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ceske Budejovice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Český Krumlov. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The State Chateau of Hluboká. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 23,761 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ohrada Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,244 reviews. Usually, around 201,500 people visit Ohrada Zoo every year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hluboká nad Vltavou, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Český Krumlov. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Český Krumlov Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 24,749 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 196,400 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Lazebnický most. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,281 visitors, this bridge deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to The Castle Garden. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,448 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Ceske Budejovice. Ceske Budejovice offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Ceske Budejovice's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Potrefená husa IGY, České Budějovice, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Paluba boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Alchymista. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ceske Budejovice.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Dark, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe Hostel, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Singer Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Czech Republic!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Czech Republic. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nový Svět, Prachatice, Blatná, and Plzeň. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plzeň, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Nový Svět’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ceske Budejovice behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min. Nový Svět welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Chalupská slať. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,874 visitors.

Prachatice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Šumava National Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,979 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Plzeň, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Plzeň. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Raven Pub City, a top-rated dining spot in Plzeň. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurace & Hotel U Salzmannů, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Parkan. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Plzeň.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Francis - Beer Café, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, My Friends Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plzeň. Cafe la Rose, Ltd. Is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in the Czech Republic!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Czech Republic. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Rabí, Sušice, Velhartice, and Švihov. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carlsbad. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Rabí and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rabí beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Rabí Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 61,572 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This castle ruin is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,900 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rabí, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sušice may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Sušice, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Rozhledna Svatobor u Sušice, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,399 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carlsbad, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carlsbad.

Have a fantastic dining experience at U Křížovníků, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Velkopopovická Karlovy Vary offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Charleston restaurant Karlovy Vary is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carlsbad.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Czech Republic!

Day 9 of your road trip in the Czech Republic is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Carlsbad before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Czech Republic unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Carlsbad’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the town’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Czech Republic. Keep the spirit of your trip to Czech Republic alive with these special souvenirs.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Smetana orchards. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,961 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Czech Republic, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carlsbad.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Tapas & Steak - Sabor Mediterraneo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Thomas Restaurant - Carlsbad / Karlovy Vary? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Carlsbad. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Czech Republic!