13 Things to Do in Kutná Hora: The Perfect Day Trip from Prague
If you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Prague, consider exploring nearby Kutná Hora. With plenty of fun things to do including historical tours, trying local cuisine, and ticking off UNESCO-listed landmarks, Kutná Hora shouldn’t be missed!
Only an hour east of Prague lies a hidden gem that often escapes the well-trodden tourist path: Kutná Hora. This picturesque UNESCO town is overflowing with Gothic beauty, medieval history, and local folklore. After living in Europe for over a decade cumulatively, I’ve developed a knack for stumbling upon charming towns, and Kutná Hora is one of my favorite finds from my European travels!
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking an escape from Prague’s busyness, a day trip to Kutná Hora offers an ideal combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Filled with UNESCO-listed landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Sedlec Ossuary (the Bone Chruch) and the magnificent Saint Barbara's Church, Kutná Hora provides a window into the medieval past of the Czech Republic. In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about Kutná Hora, including how to get there, where to eat, what to do, and how to get around.
A brief history of Kutná Hora ↴
“Kutná” comes from the Czech word “kutat”, which means mine and “hora” means a hill or mountain. So it is perfectly fitting that Kutná Hora has a rich mining history dating back to the 10th century. Small silver coins were discovered in the area, which led to a silver mining boom in the 13th century. When news of the silver wealth spread to neighboring countries, people moved in droves to Kutná Hora, making it a political and economic hub rivaling Prague. The region continued to experience immense prosperity until 1300 when King Wenceslaus II of Bohemia issued a royal decree that stated all silver belonged to the king. The wealth influx was halted after years of war, fire, and floods in the 14th century. Today, Kutná Hora is a town filled with Czech history and culture.
How to get to Kutná Hora ↴
Getting to Kutná Hora from Prague is a straightforward and convenient journey, making it the perfect day trip destination. The most popular and hassle-free way to reach Kutná Hora is by taking a train from Prague's main train station, Praha hlavní nádraží. Trains to Kutná Hora run regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour, depending on the type of train you choose. Be sure to check the train schedule in advance to plan your departure time, and you can purchase your tickets either at the station or online for added convenience. You can purchase your train tickets online, but the hostel staff where I stayed recommended grabbing tickets directly from the train station. My train journey to Kutná Hora was comfortable, with cushioned seats and heating (much needed in the middle of December). I highly recommend taking the train!
Alternatively, you can take the bus to Kutná Hora. There is a direct bus line that connects Prague with Kutnà Hora every hour. Tickets are affordable, but the journey takes almost twice as long as the train ride. The bus is a good option for anyone on a tight budget but not a tight schedule. You can jump on the bus at Haje station, which is located along the city’s red metro line. You should note that the Kutná Hora bus station is roughly 1 kilometer from the city center. You’ll need to either walk or try to grab a cab from the bus station into Kutná Hora’s Old Town.
How to get around Kutná Hora ↴
While getting to Kutná Hora by train is actually pretty simple, getting around the town once you arrive at the train station is a bit less breezy. The town is not the most pedestrian-friendly. The sidewalks end in some spots and there aren’t always pedestrian crossings. In the warmer months, you could definitely walk from the train station to the attractions if you aren’t pressed for time. I actually walked to get around Kutná Hora in the middle of December, which was freezing cold, but manageable.
You could also utilize Kutná Hora’s public buses or hiring a taxi. The buses in Kutná Hora are, apparently, quite unreliable and timetables are more like suggestions than actual schedules, which is very different from my experience with public transport in Prague. If you have the time and don’t feel like walking, try the bus for an affordable alternative. Taxis are the most convenient option, but they aren’t always easy to find and are often quite expensive.
13 best things to do in Kutná Hora ↴
SEDLEC OSSUARY
The Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the Bone Chruch, houses the skeletons and bone remains of more than 40,000 people. Those bones have been artistically arranged to form decorations and furnishings for the chapel. The centerpiece of the bone church is a massive chandelier that contains at least one of every bone in the body. The ossuary is the second-most visited tourist attraction in the Czech Republic, attracting nearly 200,000 visitors every year.
Many people opt for a tour guide, but guides are heavily overpriced and unnecessary. The Bone Church is small and there are cards provided for visitors to read the history of the church in multiple languages. I don’t recommend getting a guide, but I do recommend arriving at Sedlec Ossuary early. By noon the church gets packed with droves of tourists. You’ll have to purchase admission to enter Sedlec Ossuary, but I purchased a combination pass to see three of the most famous churches in the town instead of paying admission at each place.
THE CHURCH OF SAINT JAMES
Walking from Sedlec Ossuary, you’ll come to the main road’s intersection and see the Church of Saint James. It’s beautiful, though honestly a little underwhelming after the history and uniqueness of the ossuary. I enjoyed the spiral staircase leading to the “attic”, for lack of a better word, of the church. The giant archways were impressive in stature, but overall this was my least favorite of the three churches I visited by a mile.
ST. BARBARA’S CHURCH
St. Barbara's Church is a Roman Catholic church and a UNESCO Heritage Site. It’s one of the most famous Gothic-style churches in Europe. Kutná Hora was once a town of silver mining, and St. Barbara is considered the patron saint of miners. Construction for the cathedral-style church began in 1388, but it wasn’t completed until 1905. Originally, the church was intended to be twice its current size, but when the silver mining economy slowed funding stalled. The giant stained glass windows and pointed spires of the church, along with its massive organ, make it visually stunning and a great addition to your Kutná Hora itinerary.
wander the Historic Center
I highly recommend wandering the town center of Kutná Hora. The cobblestone streets are filled with quaint cafés, picturesque plazas, and historical buildings. You can mindlessly stroll the streets, but I’ve included the top sights in the center below:
Stone House
Palacky Square
Sankturin House
Tyl House
Plague Column
Church of St. James
Church of St. John of Nepomuk
Italian Court
The Italian Court in Kutná Hora is a historical and architectural gem that reflects the rich heritage of the region. The Gothic-style building was constructed in the 13th century as the royal mint for the Kingdom of Bohemia. It’s called the “Italian Court” because Italian experts were invited to work on minting coins during the silver mining era of the town. The building's architecture is characterized by its elegant stone facades, ornate vaulted ceilings, and a central courtyard adorned with an Italian-style fountain. Its history is intertwined with the flourishing silver mining industry of Kutná Hora, which contributed to the wealth of the Bohemian kings.
Jesuit College
The Jesuit College, founded in the early 17th century, played a crucial role in educating young nobility and clergy during the Counter-Reformation period. The building's Baroque architecture, complete with an ornate façade and frescoed ceilings, will leave you stunned. The Jesuit College still houses an impressive Jesuit library containing a collection of rare manuscripts and books.
Stone Fountain
You cannot miss the Stone Fountain on Rejsek Square while visiting Kutná Hora. The ornate fountain is a masterpiece from the 15th century, a time when the town required a water reserve to keep up with its rapid development. The fountain makes a beautiful photo opportunity and is another example of Gothic design.
Hrádek Castle
Hrádek Castle holds both intriguing historical significance and unique architectural charm. Originally constructed in the 13th century, this compact castle served as a royal residence and fortress for the Bohemian kings and their guests during the Middle Ages. One of its distinctive architectural features is its Gothic style, which is beautifully complemented by Renaissance and Baroque elements added over the centuries, resulting in a harmonious blend of architectural influences.
For first-time visitors, it's important to note that Hrádek Castle boasts an impressive collection of medieval art and historical artifacts, making it a captivating museum where you can explore the rich heritage of Kutná Hora. The castle also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and its iconic St. Barbara's Church. When planning your visit, consider checking the opening hours, as they can vary seasonally, and guided tours are often available to provide in-depth insights into the castle's history. Hrádek Castle provides a fascinating journey through time and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting town of Kutná Hora.
Church of the Assumption of Our Lady + Saint John the Baptist
This impressive Gothic church is a significant religious site and a UNESCO-protected monument in Kutná Hora, featuring beautiful interior decorations and architecture. Founded in the 10th century, it is a convent church of the former oldest Cistercian monastery in Bohemia. It is considered one of the oldest preserved Gothic monasteries in the world. The Church of the Assumption is set in the oldest area of Kutná Hora, so it goes without saying that the holy place is spattered with historical context.
Its architecture is reflective of its origins, combining German and Baroque Gothic design elements. Inside the church lie precious relics and artifacts, including one the most precious jewels of Central Europe: the original Sedlec Monstrance. I highly recommend a visit to the church rectory while you’re in Kutná Hora.
Hradek - Czech Museum of Silver
Due to Kutná Hora’s silver mining history, one of the must-do things in Kutná Hora is to visit a museum of silver and the medieval mine, also known as Hradek (Czech Museum of Silver). This residence once belonged to a wealthy miner, before being rebuilt the house into a palace. The museum explains its history of mining and the area’s geology.
try the local cuisine
Czech cuisine tends to be heavy and meat-centered, but Kutná Hora has a number of local restaurants that serve traditional dishes. I recommend trying the following classic Czech food while you have the opportunity.
Svíčková | a classic Czech meal featuring marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy vegetable sauce, bread dumplings, + cranberry sauce
Trdelník | a sweet, cylindrical pastry that's roasted on an open flame and coated with a sugary cinnamon-nut mixture, which is especially popular in the winter months
Česnečka | a hearty garlic soup
Bramboráčky | potato pancakes
Kutná Hora Festivals
I recommend checking the local event calendar and timing your visit with cultural happenings, like the annual Silver Festival or St. Wenceslaus Celebrations. Many of the cultural festivals in Kutná Hora date back to the Bohemian kings and the town’s origin. You can find the local traditional festivals here.
bike or hike the Surrounding Countryside
The Czech countryside landscape makes a picturesque background for a casual bike ride or a hike. I highly recommend going for a long, casual stroll or renting a bike during the warmer months so that you can take full advantage of all the views. There are a number of good walking routes that feature historical and architectural highlights around Kutná Hora. For our winter visit, I found this article about walks in the area useful.
Where to eat in Kutná Hora ↴
For a small town, Kutná Hora has plenty of options for travelers needing to grab a light lunch or a hearty dinner.
Organzza Café | Organzza is small bistro with a delicious and affordable menu. Organzza serves homemade pastries, sandwiches, salads and coffees, as well as its fantastic soup of the day. My vegan minestrone soup cost me 55 CZK and came with a side of fresh bread. It’s a cute wee place that I highly recommend.
Dačický - Old Bohemian Tavern + Restaurant | Traditional Czech cuisine is served here. Prepare for hearty dishes and comfort foods!
Blues Café | Head here for homemade cakes and a rotating soup menu! Perfect for a chilly day exploring.
Map ↴
Find everything you need for the perfect day in Kutná Hora on the map below.
