14-Day Ultimate Budget Backpacking Route in Czechia
Czechia is a dream destination for the budget-conscious traveler, offering a rich tapestry of history, stunning architecture, and world-class beer at prices that often beat the rest of Western Europe. This 14-day journey takes you beyond the tourist traps of Prague into the heart of Moravia and South Bohemia, focusing on authentic local experiences and ultra-lean spending.
By utilizing the extensive rail and bus network, staying in social hostels, and indulging in affordable 'chlebíčky' (open-faced sandwiches) and street-side sausages, you can witness the majesty of the Czech Republic for just $24 a day. This itinerary balances iconic landmarks with hidden local haunts to ensure an epic journey through one of Europe's most accessible gems.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Prague, Czechia - Arrival & The Royal Route
Arrival at Václav Havel Airport
Touch down and take the 119 bus to Nádraží Veleslavín, then transfer to the Metro. It's the cheapest way into the city center.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
Marvel at the Astronomical Clock and the gothic Týn Church. Grab a 'Trdelník' from a street stall—touristy, but a must-try snack.
Charles Bridge Walk
Walk across the historic bridge before the sunset crowds arrive. Rub the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck.
Budget Dinner at Lokál
Enjoy affordable, high-quality traditional Czech food and fresh Pilsner in a communal, lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Prague, Czechia - Castle District Exploration
Prague Castle Free Grounds
Skip the paid interiors and walk through the free courtyard areas of the largest ancient castle in the world.
St. Vitus Cathedral
Enter the front section of the cathedral for free to admire the stunning gothic architecture and stained glass.
Nový Svět
Wander through this 'New World' neighborhood nearby, a hidden cluster of tiny historic houses mostly ignored by tourists.
Petřín Hill Sunset
Hike up the hill for the best free panoramic view of the 'City of a Hundred Spires' as the sun goes down.
Day 3: Prague, Czechia - Alternative Žižkov
Žižkov Television Tower
View the giant crawling babies sculptures by David Černý on the outside of this communist-era tower.
Olšany Cemetery
Explore this peaceful, atmospheric graveyard, the largest in Prague, filled with beautiful crumbling monuments.
Vítkov Hill National Monument
Visit the massive bronze equestrian statue and enjoy another incredible (and free) vantage point of the city.
Beer Garden at Riegrovy Sady
Join locals for a budget-friendly beer in one of the city's most popular green spaces with views of the castle.
Day 4: Prague, Czechia - Vyšehrad & Riverbanks
Vyšehrad Fortress
Visit this historic fort on a rock above the river. It's much quieter than the main castle and the park entry is free.
Vyšehrad Cemetery
Pay respects to famous Czechs like Dvořák and Mucha in this stunningly artistic final resting place.
Náplavka Riverbank
Walk along the Vltava river. On Saturdays, there is a fantastic farmers market where you can get cheap local snacks.
Dancing House Photo Op
Stop by the Frank Gehry-designed 'Fred and Ginger' building for a quick look at modern architectural history.
Day 5: Kutná Hora, Czechia - Bone Church Day Trip
Train to Kutná Hora
Take a cheap regional train from Prague’s main station (Hlavní nádraží) for a 1-hour journey to this UNESCO site.
Sedlec Ossuary
Visit the world-famous chapel decorated with the bones of over 40,000 people. It is a hauntingly beautiful site.
St. Barbara's Cathedral
A masterpiece of late Gothic architecture that rivals the cathedrals of Prague, built for the local silver miners.
Italian Court (Vlašský dvůr)
See where the silver Prague groschen were once minted in this former royal palace.
Day 6: Olomouc, Czechia - The Moravian Secret
RegioJet to Olomouc
Take a high-speed train across the country. Olomouc is a student city with Prague-level beauty at half the price.
Holy Trinity Column
See this massive Baroque monument in the Upper Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Astronomical Clock
Compare this unique socialist-realist clock with Prague’s version; it features workers instead of saints.
Try Olomoucké tvarůžky
Brave the pungent smell of this famous local cheese at a local deli. It's cheap, healthy, and a true local delicacy.
Day 7: Olomouc, Czechia - Parks & Cathedrals
Saint Wenceslas Cathedral
Explore this Neo-Gothic cathedral with the second tallest spire in the country.
Bezručovy Sady Park
Walk along the old city walls and through the botanical gardens in this lush green space.
Olomouc Fountains
Hunt for the 6 Baroque fountains scattered throughout the city center, each depicting Roman mythology.
Student Pub Crawl
Follow the students to local pubs where a large beer can still be found for under $2.00.
Day 8: Brno, Czechia - The Hip Second City
Train to Brno
A short 1-hour train ride takes you to the capital of Moravia, known for its modernist architecture and cafe culture.
Zelný trh (Cabbage Market)
Explore this ancient vegetable market and see the Parnas Fountain. Grab fresh fruit for a cheap snack.
The Brno Dragon
Visit the Old Town Hall to see the legendary 'dragon' (actually a crocodile) hanging in the gateway.
Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody)
Relax at this triangular square and try to catch a marble from the phallic-shaped astronomical clock.
Day 9: Brno, Czechia - Fortresses & Functionalism
Špilberk Castle
Hike up to the royal castle and former prison. The park surrounding the castle offers great free views.
Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
Visit this landmark on Petrov hill. Note that its bells ring noon at 11:00 AM—a quirky local tradition from the 30 Years' War.
Villa Tugendhat (Exterior)
Walk to see this UNESCO-listed functionalist masterpiece. Interior tours book up months in advance, but the exterior and park are worth the stroll.
Bar Který Neexistuje
Visit 'The Bar That Doesn't Exist'. It's famous, but you can enjoy the atmosphere with a single reasonably priced drink.
Day 10: Mikulov, Czechia - Vineyards & Holy Hills
Bus to Mikulov
Take a 1-hour bus south to the heart of Czech wine country, bordering Austria.
Holy Hill (Svatý kopeček)
Hike up this white limestone hill through the Stations of the Cross for a view of the Mikulov Castle.
Mikulov Castle Grounds
Wander the formal gardens and courtyard of this stunning Baroque chateau for free.
Wine Cellar Tasting
Visit a local 'Vinný sklep' (wine cellar) for a very affordable glass of local Pálava white wine.
Day 11: České Budějovice, Czechia - South Bohemian Hub
Travel to South Bohemia
A longer bus or train journey across to the home of the original Budweiser beer.
Přemysl Otakar II Square
One of the largest town squares in Europe. Admire the Samson Fountain and the beautiful Town Hall.
Black Tower (Černá věž)
Pay a small fee to climb the 225 steps for a view that reaches all the way to the Alps on a clear day.
Riverside Walk
Enjoy a peaceful stroll where the Vltava and Malše rivers meet, a popular local spot for evening relaxation.
Day 12: Český Krumlov, Czechia - Fairy Tale Town
Bus to Český Krumlov
A quick 30-minute hop brings you to this UNESCO-listed medieval wonder.
Castle Gardens & Moat
Explore the vast castle gardens and see the famous bears that guard the castle moat for free.
Latrán District
Wander the narrow, winding streets of the old inner town, full of colorful buildings and craft shops.
Vltava River Viewing
Watch the rafters and kayakers navigate the weir from the wooden bridges—a classic Krumlov pastime.
Day 13: Plzeň (Pilsen), Czechia - The Birth of Lager
Bus to Plzeň
Head north-west to the city that gave the world Pilsner lager.
St. Bartholomew's Cathedral
Visit the square to see the tallest church spire in Czechia and the modern golden fountains.
Great Synagogue
See the second-largest synagogue in Europe, a stunning example of Moorish-Romanesque architecture.
Dinner at a Beer Hall
Enjoy a hearty pork knuckle or goulash at a local pub like 'Na Parkánu' for a traditional end to your trip.
Day 14: Prague, Czechia - Final Farewells
Train back to Prague
A final 1.5-hour train ride brings you back to the capital for last-minute souvenir shopping.
Havelská Market
Pick up some cheap Czech puppets or spa wafers as gifts at one of Prague's oldest markets.
Strahov Monastery Library
Visit the beautiful philosophical and theological halls for one last dose of Czech history.
Departure to Airport
Take the Airport Express bus or public transport back to Václav Havel Airport for your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Czechia
The best time for budget backpackers to visit Czechia is during the shoulder seasons of Spring (May–June) and Autumn (September–October). During these months, the weather is pleasant for walking, the crowds are significantly thinner than in mid-summer, and hostel prices are more competitive. December is also magical for the Christmas markets, though prices can spike around the holidays. Winter (January–March) is the cheapest time for accommodation, but be prepared for freezing temperatures and shorter daylight hours.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK). While the Euro is accepted in some tourist spots in Prague, the exchange rate is almost always terrible; always pay in CZK. Cards are widely accepted in cities, but smaller 'hospoda' (pubs) and rural areas often remain cash-only. Avoid Euronet ATMs, which charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates. Instead, use ATMs attached to major banks like ČSOB, Komerční banka, or Česká spořitelna. Tipping is generally done by rounding up the bill or adding 10% for good service.
Getting Around Czechia
Czechia has one of the best and most affordable public transport systems in Europe. For intercity travel, RegioJet and FlixBus offer incredibly cheap bus and train tickets with free Wi-Fi and coffee. The national rail carrier, České dráhy (CD), covers almost every corner of the country. For urban travel, Prague’s integrated Metro, tram, and bus system is world-class. Pro-tip: Download the 'IDOS' or 'PID Lítačka' apps to plan your routes and buy tickets directly on your phone to avoid the hassle of finding ticket machines.
