From Prague: Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Full-Day Tour

Experience the natural beauty of two countries in one day with this full-day guided tour from Prague. For around $137, you’ll explore the Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Parks, crossing the famous Bastei Bridge, marveling at Europe’s largest sandstone arch, and walking through landscapes that feel straight out of a fantasy novel. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight—all in a comfortable, well-organized package.

What we love most are the stunning panoramic views from the Bastei Bridge and the unique natural formations like the Pravická Arch. These are truly photo-worthy spots that make the effort worthwhile. Plus, the local, a la carte Czech lunch provides a delicious break amidst the outdoor exploration. On the downside, some of the hikes can be a bit strenuous, especially for those with limited stamina or mobility, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking and outdoor scenery but also appreciate cultural stories and local cuisine. If you’re looking for a full day of breathtaking landscapes, engaging guides, and a taste of authentic Czech and German scenery, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Explore sandstone formations, river valleys, and panoramic views.
• Iconic Landmarks: Cross the Bastei Bridge and visit the Pravická Arch, Europe’s largest sandstone arch.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides bring history, geology, and wildlife to life.
• Balanced Activities: Choose between more active hikes or a lighter, fantasy-inspired experience.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a traditional Czech lunch with vegetarian and vegan options.
• Flexible Options: Two tours—Hiking or Narnia—catering to different fitness levels and interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in Two Countries: The Experience

This tour offers a fantastic chance to see both Czech and German landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple trips or car rentals. Starting from Prague, you’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned van—something we really appreciate, as it sets a relaxed tone for the day. The journey itself is smooth, with friendly guides ensuring everyone feels comfortable and informed.

Once you arrive at Bohemian Switzerland, the adventure begins. The first stop is typically the stunning Bastei Bridge in Germany. This legendary sandstone bridge spans a deep canyon, offering jaw-dropping views of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Many reviews highlight how spectacular the views are, with Alexandra calling it “the highlight of the holiday,” and others describing it as “a must-see for anyone who loves dramatic scenery.” You may find yourself taking dozens of photos here, trying to capture the perfect shot of the bridge framed by the surrounding cliffs.

From there, the tour often moves into the Czech Republic, where you’ll visit the Pravická Arch, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. The hike to this formation is moderate but rewarding. As one reviewer put it, “the walks are quite strenuous — a lot of uphill — but so worth it for the views and the sense of achievement.” If you’re up for it, this section offers a real sense of accomplishment and a chance to walk among ancient geological marvels.

The Hidden Gems: Tisa Walls and Wild Gorge

One of the more enchanting stops includes the Tisa Walls, a film location from The Chronicles of Narnia. This maze of rocks and cliffs provides a magical setting, especially in winter when the landscape feels even more otherworldly. Reviewers rave about the “magical rock labyrinth” and the fact that it’s a favorite among fans of the movies.

A highlight for many is the boat ride through the Wild Gorge. This peaceful journey along a river canyon lets you soak in the scenery from a different perspective. Several reviews mention how calming and scenic the boat trip is, offering a relaxing break after several hikes.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Morning Pickup and Start

The tour begins early, with hotel pickups arranged in Prague. The vans are well-equipped, ensuring comfort during the two-hour drive to Bohemian Switzerland. The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, as Alexandra notes, “Yvette was brilliant, friendly but professional, genuinely interested in all participants.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Bastei Bridge

Arriving at the German side, you’ll cross the Bastei Bridge—a symbol of the region. The views are spectacular, with panoramic vistas over the Elbe River canyon. For those who love photography, this spot offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle pictures of cliffs, the river, and the bridge itself.

Czech Republic’s Pravická Arch and Forest Trails

Next, you’ll cross the border into the Czech Republic to visit the Pravická Arch. The hike to this large sandstone formation involves walking approximately 7.5 miles (12 km) on moderate terrain, with some uphill sections. The landscape here is a geological wonder—massive rock formations, lush forests, and quiet river valleys.

Many guests appreciate the guides’ storytelling, with reviews emphasizing how guides like Yvette bring the landscape alive with tales of its history, geology, and wildlife. The walks are challenging but doable with proper footwear and a decent fitness level.

Tisa Walls and the Narnia Connection

Another stop is the Tisa Walls, offering a more fantasy-like experience. It’s a labyrinth of rocks where filming of The Chronicles of Narnia took place. Visitors often find it magical, especially in winter or in the early morning light. It’s a shorter walk, about 5 miles (8 km), on an easier terrain, making it suitable for those less inclined to strenuous hikes.

The Wild Gorge Boat Ride

The day concludes with a boat ride through the Wild Gorge. This scenic cruise provides an easy, relaxing way to view the landscape, and many say it’s a peaceful, memorable part of the trip. The boat glides along calm waters, showcasing towering cliffs and lush vegetation—a perfect wind-down after a day of active exploration.

Return to Prague

After the boat, the group heads back to Prague, arriving around 5-8 pm, depending on the chosen option (Hiking or Narnia). The return journey is usually smooth, with guides checking in on everyone’s experience and sharing stories about the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Stunning Scenery and Iconic Landmarks

The combination of famous landmarks like the Bastei Bridge and the Pravická Arch makes this tour a visual feast. The dramatic cliffs and river vistas are perfect for photography or just soaking in the beauty of nature. Reviewers repeatedly mention the “spectacular scenery” and “breathtaking views,” confirming that this tour delivers on its promise.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides for their expertise, friendliness, and storytelling skills. Alexandra describes Yvette as “brilliant, friendly but professional,” and others say guides know “how to make the experience both educational and fun.” These guides help you appreciate the geology, history, and wildlife, elevating the experience from simple sightseeing to an engaging learning adventure.

Flexible Tour Options

The two main options—Hiking or Narnia—allow travelers to pick based on their fitness level and interests. The Hiking Tour is for active explorers who want more challenging walks and panoramic views, while the Narnia Tour offers a lighter, more fantasy-oriented experience, perfect for families or less energetic visitors.

Authentic Czech Cuisine and Relaxing Breaks

Lunch at a local restaurant offers a chance to taste regional dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Many reviews highlight the quality and atmosphere of the meal, making it a highlight of the day. The inclusion of a well-organized, delicious lunch adds excellent value to the overall experience, especially considering the scenic locations.

What Should You Keep in Mind?

While the tour offers many perks, a few considerations are worth noting. The hikes can be strenuous, with some walking up to 12 km on uneven terrain, which may not suit everyone. Good shoes and a reasonable fitness level are recommended. Also, weather can influence the experience—some reviews mention that even if it rains, the landscape remains dramatic, but proper clothing is essential.

The group size can vary, but reviews suggest that with 4-14 people, the experience feels intimate and flexible. You’ll want to be comfortable with walking and some uphill sections to get the most out of the trip.

The Sum Up

This tour from Prague offers a complete package of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and outdoor adventure. For those who love stunning landscapes and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, it’s a fantastic value at $137, especially given the included lunch and transport. The guides’ expertise shines through, making each stop informative and engaging.

It’s especially ideal for active travelers, photography enthusiasts, and families looking for a memorable day outside the city. If you appreciate well-organized trips with a mix of scenic vistas and cultural insights, this tour will not disappoint.

However, if you’re not comfortable with walking or uneven terrain, or have mobility issues, you might find some parts of the tour more challenging. Planning ahead and wearing suitable footwear will help ensure you enjoy the full experience.

This is a highly recommended way to see some of Europe’s most captivating sandstone landscapes, with enough flexibility and comfort to make the day both enjoyable and memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 years old or those with mobility impairments, as some walks can be moderate to strenuous, involving uphill climbs and uneven surfaces.

How long does the trip last?
The full-day tour generally lasts from around 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, depending on the selected option and traffic conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, and weather-appropriate clothing. It’s wise to carry some water and snacks, although lunch is included.

Can I choose between the hiking and Narnia options?
Yes, you must select your preferred tour option when booking—either the more active HIKING TOUR or the lighter NARNIA TOUR.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a live guide, entrance fees, and a traditional Czech à la carte lunch with vegetarian and vegan options.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If gorges are closed due to flooding or safety concerns, the program may be adjusted accordingly.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Drones are not allowed during the trip.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot now with the option to pay later—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

This full-day journey to Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland promises a wonderful blend of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and outdoor fun, perfect for those looking to escape the city and experience some of Europe’s most dramatic natural landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: