How to Get From Prague to Kutna Hora: A Complete Guide
Are you looking for how to get from Prague to Kutna Hora for a day trip? The quickest and most reliable way is taking a direct train from Prague Main Station. This journey usually takes about one hour and is very affordable for most travelers.
While the train is the top choice, you can also join an organized tour or take a local bus. Tours are great if you want a guide to explain the history of the famous Bone Church. Buses are an alternative but often take longer than the train.
Kutna Hora is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the most popular day trips from Prague by train. Planning your transport ahead of time will ensure you have more hours to explore the silver mines and cathedrals.
How to get from Prague to Kutna Hora: Quick Answer
The best way to travel is by taking the direct R9 train from Praha Hlavní Nádraží. This station is the central hub of the city. Trains depart roughly every hour throughout the day. You will arrive at Kutna Hora Hlavní Nádraží in approximately 60 minutes.
Tickets generally cost between 100 and 180 CZK for a one-way trip in 2026. You can buy them at the station or via a mobile app. This route is efficient and offers beautiful views of the Czech countryside. It is a staple of any 3 days in Prague itinerary.
If you prefer not to navigate public transport, consider a private shuttle or a guided tour. These options provide door-to-door service from your hotel. However, they cost significantly more than the train. Most independent travelers find the rail system very easy to use.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Train Journey
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey to the historic town. The process is straightforward if you know where to go. Always check the live departure boards at the station for any last-minute changes.
- Step 1: Arrive at Prague Main Station. Spend about 15 minutes navigating to Praha Hlavní Nádraží. It costs nothing to enter the station. Avoid the mistake of going to the Masarykovo station by mistake for this specific route.
- Step 2: Purchase your tickets. This takes 5–10 minutes. Expect to pay 100–180 CZK. Use the official Czech Railways (České dráhy) ticket office or their website. A common mistake is buying a ticket for the wrong time slot on regional trains.
- Step 3: Board the train. The ride takes about 60 minutes. Locate your platform on the large digital screens. A common mistake is boarding a slow regional train that stops at every village, doubling your travel time.
- Step 4: Transfer at Kutna Hora hl.n. The main station is far from the center. Take the small local train (shuttle) to Kutna Hora Město. This costs about 20–40 CZK and takes 5 minutes. Avoid walking, as it is a long and boring 30-minute trek.
Once you arrive at the Město station, you are in the heart of the town. From there, most major sights are within walking distance. You can also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Centre website to learn about the monuments you will see.
Choosing the Best Way to Travel
Different travelers have different needs when visiting Visit Czechia sites. Use this simple guide to decide which transport method fits your style. Your choice depends on your budget and how much time you have.
- If you want the lowest price: Take the train. It is cheaper than any other motorized option.
- If you want total comfort: Book a guided tour. They handle all the tickets and transfers for you.
- If you are traveling in a large group: A private taxi or van might be cost-effective.
- If you want to see the Bone Church only: The train is perfect because the church is near the main station.
Most visitors find that the train offers the best balance. It is fast enough to allow for a full day of sightseeing. It also allows you to return to Prague whenever you are ready. You are not tied to a group schedule.
What to Prepare Before You Leave
Preparation is key for a stress-free day trip. Kutna Hora is a small town, so some services may be limited compared to the capital. Use this Prague city guide to help organize your departure from the city center.
- Download the "Můj vlak" app for live train schedules and easy ticket buying.
- Carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) in cash for small souvenir shops or cafes.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the town has many cobblestone streets.
- Pack a portable power bank to keep your phone charged for photos and maps.
- Check the opening hours for the Sedlec Ossuary, as they can change seasonally.
Having these items ready will save you time once you arrive. The town is very walkable, but you will be on your feet for several hours. Proper footwear is the most important item on this list.
Troubleshooting Common Travel Problems
Even the best-planned trips can face small hurdles. Knowing how to handle them will keep your day enjoyable. Here are the most frequent issues travelers encounter on this route.
- Missed the local shuttle: If you miss the small train to the center, look for bus number 802. It runs frequently between the station and the town.
- Platform changes: In Prague, platforms are often announced only 10 minutes before departure. Stay near the main screens.
- Language barrier: Most ticket agents speak some English. If not, point to your destination on a map or phone.
- Ticket validation: If you buy a paper ticket from a machine, check if it needs a stamp. Digital tickets do not need validation.
- Sold out tours: Popular tours can fill up. Always book at least 48 hours in advance during the summer months.
- Wrong station: Ensure you are at Kutna Hora hl.n. for the return trip to Prague. The smaller stations do not have direct express trains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the train ride from Prague to Kutna Hora?
The direct train ride takes approximately 60 minutes. Some regional trains with more stops may take up to 90 minutes. It is best to check the schedule for the R9 fast trains to save time during your journey.
Can I buy train tickets online for Kutna Hora?
Yes, you can buy tickets on the official České dráhy website or their mobile app. Buying online is often faster and allows you to skip the queues at Prague Main Station. You can show the digital ticket on your phone to the conductor.
Is Kutna Hora worth a day trip from Prague?
Kutna Hora is definitely worth a visit for its unique history and architecture. The Sedlec Ossuary and St. Barbara's Cathedral are world-famous landmarks. It offers a quieter, more historic atmosphere compared to the busy streets of central Prague.
Getting from Prague to Kutna Hora is a simple and rewarding experience. Whether you choose the efficiency of the train or the ease of a tour, you are in for a memorable day. Remember to check the schedules in advance and bring comfortable shoes for the cobblestones. For more ideas on exploring the region, check out our guide on day trips from Prague by train. Enjoy your journey to this historic Czech gem!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
