Rate in Euros

From2,240

Save To Wish List

4811

Czech Republic – Prague to Dresden Hiking Tour

7 Nights / 8 Days
Difficulty: Fit 3/5
Self Guided Hiking Tour
mid-April - mid-Sept.
Hiking 13 km/day

Prague to Dresden Self-Guided Hiking Tour: Embark on a breathtaking self-guided hiking tour from the enchanting city of Prague, the storied capital of the Czech Republic, to the resplendent Dresden in Germany. Your journey follows the paths of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers, guiding you through the heart of the Czech Basin and across the mountain divide into Germany. In Dresden, a city reborn from the devastation of World War II, you’ll marvel at its incredible restoration and beauty. Along the way, enjoy the serene countryside along the Elbe, where medieval castles, stunning Renaissance and Baroque chateaus, and tranquil riverscapes await. As you approach the dramatic Lusatian Mountains—a natural border between the two nations—you’ll pass through the awe-inspiring Czech-Saxon Switzerland region and National Park, renowned for its sculpted rocky formations, deep canyons, and panoramic views. This highland area, a hiker’s paradise, seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural wonder, creating a journey you’ll cherish forever.

Learn more about this breathtaking region from our blog!

Plan your Prague to Dreden self-guided hiking tour!

1. Call or email with questions: +1-970-230-5896 or email us.

2. Book the trip, pay a deposit, get excited about your adventure!

Arrival & Departure Location

Your self-guided hiking tour starts in Prague and finishes in Dresden. We recommend flying in/out of Prague and returning from Dresden to Prague by train at the end of your tour.

Price Includes

Private welcome briefing upon arrival for a personalized start to your journey
Accommodation in hand-picked hotels and pensions, ensuring comfort and charm
Delicious daily buffet breakfasts to energize your adventures
Daily luggage transfers for hassle-free travel between destinations
English route descriptions with easy-to-follow guidance
Detailed hiking maps for every step of your journey
Town maps and local information to enhance your exploration
GPS console for added navigation support
Transportation by car as outlined in the program for convenience
Stand-by support with a fluent English-speaking contact person and cell phone access

Not Included:

Airport transfers on arrival/departure
Travel Insurance

Lodging

Included Deluxe Hotels:

Melnik: Penzion U Zamku (1 night)
Litomerice: Grandhotel Salva (1 night)
Decin: Hotel Ceska Koruna (1 night)
Hrensko: Hotel Praha (1 night)
Bad Schandau: Elbhotel Bad Schandau (2 nights)
Dresden: Hotel Rothenburger (1 night)

About the Lodging: Our standard tour program features 7 nights in delightful 3- and 4-star guest houses and boutique hotels, each offering charm and character. A variety of dining options are available either on-site or within a short walk of each property. All accommodations include private bathrooms and a range of thoughtful amenities. Upgraded rooms may be available upon request—please inquire for more details.

Optional Add-Ons

Pre-Tour Nights in Prague or Extra Days Along the Route
City Tours
Travel Insurance is Required

Guides & Local Support

Local Expert: Tomas, our trusted partner in the Czech Republic for over 10 years, knows his country and these routes inside out! As a native of the Czech Republic and fluent English speaker, Tomas brings unmatched expertise and a deep passion for sharing the beauty and history of his homeland. He looks forward to welcoming you on your Prague to Dresden Self-Guided Hiking Tour!

Tour Highlights - Prague to Dresden Self-Guided Hiking Tour

Breathtaking Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland landscapes
Historic ruins, castles, palaces, war memorials, and other landmarks steeped in culture and history
Libechov Chateau, Kokorinsko, and Castle Kokorin, each offering unique charm and intrigue
Dramatic high-cliff trails, serene forest paths, and picturesque river views
Intricate sandstone rock formations and tranquil wetlands that captivate the imagination
Exquisite regional wine and cuisine, offering flavors unique to this extraordinary area
Travel Resources

Need to Know:

The best time to visit this region is June through mid-September
Packing tips for a self-guided hiking tour
Travel Insurance is required on all Pure Adventures tours.

Photos

Map

Itinerary

Day 1Prague to Melnik: 14 km / 9 mi

Today, you will travel from Prague to Melnik by train. Upon arrival, you will have a thorough tour briefing, followed by a short car transfer to Stromovka Park Your first day’s walk will start at Prague’s Stromovka Park, a former royal game preserve sloping down to the Vltava River. After crossing the river you can visit the Baroque-style Troja Palace, the Prague City Gallery, the extensive Botanical Gardens with their magnificent Fata Morgana Greenhouse, and the vineyards covering the hill above the palace. The trail then follows the bank of the Vltava River. The only climb comes at the very end when you leave the riverbank and walk uphill to the center of Klecany village. A car transfer at the end of the day will take you to the castle town of Melnik, which is at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers.

Overnight: Melnik

Day 2Melnik to Litomerice: 13 km / 8 mi

Your journey begins at the enchanting Libechov Chateau and park, adorned with whimsical architectural follies and captivating statues and carvings by romantic-era sculptors. The trail meanders through gently rolling terrain, passing charming villages and popular recreation areas within the protected Kokorinsko landscape. It concludes at the picturesque Castle Kokorin, a romantic reconstruction of a medieval fortress. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to Litomerice, a gem of the Bohemian region nestled at the confluence of the Elbe and Oder Rivers, boasting a historic center of timeless charm.

Meals: breakfast
Highlights: Libechov chateau, Kokorinsko, Castle Kokorin
Overnight: Litomerice

Day 3Litomerice to Decin: 11 km / 7 mi

The trail begins in the city center, following a peaceful stream before ascending gently through villages and forests. You’ll climb through scenic countryside to the summit of Varhost (elevation 639 m), where a 15-meter observation tower provides a stunning 360-degree view of the landscape, including the Labe (Elbe) River and its eight branching waterways. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to Decin. Alternatively, or as an additional option, you can begin your day with a 10 km (6-mile) walk to the historic WWII concentration camp at Terezin.

Meals: breakfast
Highlights: beautiful forest & countryside, tower views
Overnight: Decin

Day 4Decin to Hrensko: 21 km / 13 mi

Today’s hiking begins by ascending from the city center to the top of the bluff overlooking the Elbe River. From there, the trail offers a delightful trek along a high ridge with breathtaking views of the river and its dramatic cliffs. The final stretch takes you through the serene, forested canyon of a mountain stream. Your hike concludes at your hotel in Hrensko, the last Czech town before the German border and the entrance to the breathtaking Czech Switzerland National Park.

Meals: breakfast
Highlights: high cliff trails, river views, Hrensko
Overnight: Hrensko

Day 5Czech-Saxon Switzerland Loop – Bad Schandau: 15 km / 9 mi

The most impressive Czech-Saxon Switzerland National Park features striking sandstone rock formations, narrow passes, rocky viewpoints, and lush green woods stretching to the German border. The trail leads you to Europe’s largest natural arch, the iconic Pravcicka Gate. On your descent to Hrensko, you’ll wander through verdant forests and into the mysterious Kamenice River canyon, so narrow that you’ll journey through part of it by boat. Your day concludes with a scenic steamboat ride to Bad Schandau, a charming riverside spa town in Germany.

Meals: breakfast
Highlights: rock formations & Pravcicka Gate, canyon & boat trip
Overnight: Bad Schandau

Day 6Bad Schandau Loop: 12 km / 7.5 mi

Begin your day with a delightful morning steamboat ride to the trailhead in the charming German border town of Schmilka. The hike starts with a steep ascent, followed by a leisurely stroll through the forest, where the majestic river valley stretches out on your left and striking rock formations rise on your right. Conclude your walk with a scenic descent from the bluff in a historic elevator, and perhaps unwind with a refreshing swim in the pool of the local spa.

Meals: breakfast
Highlights: forest walking, rock formations
Overnight: Bad Schandau

Day 7Kurort Rathen Loop: 5.5 km / 3.5 mi

Today, you’ll discover the most iconic landmark of Saxon Switzerland National Park—the stunning Grosse Bastei (Big Bastion). Your adventure begins with an enchanting steamboat ride along the Elbe River, setting the tone for a remarkable day. After a steep but rewarding climb, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the Elbe River, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages below. Conclude your journey with a delightful ferry ride, marking the perfect end to your unforgettable tour. Enjoy every moment of this captivating experience!

Meals: breakfast
Highlights: Grosse Bastei
Overnight: Dresden

Day 8Departure Day from Dresden

Today concludes your adventures in this beautiful region, and departure is on your own today. We hope you enjoyed your Prague to Dresden self-guided hiking tour!

Meals: breakfast

Dates & Rates

Dates: Plan your trip at a time that best fits your schedule! Pure Adventures tours have flexible start dates.

2025 Self-Guided Tour Rates: (based on double occupancy)

Superior Three & Four Star Hotels:

2 persons: 2240 euros/person
Single Supplement: 637 euros/person (applies when 2 or more traveling but in separate single-use rooms)
Solo travelers may be able to join a Guided Trip; please inquire about dates.

New! Travel Insurance is now required to participate in this tour. You can book through our preferred vendors or your own. Proof of coverage will be required.

Make it Guided: Want a guided tour? Guided departures are available for individuals/solo travelers, to join and ride with others with the assistance of a guide. Limited dates are available; please inquire!

How do our tours compare to similar trips? You Get More! If you compare prices, we are much less than guided trips with similar experiences. In our private, independent format, you get much more than what most traditional self-guided tours offer, plus it’s a better experience! Our team has gone to great lengths to build and create exceptional tours all over the world, vacations that will give you lifelong memories. From the accommodations to the routes themselves, we hold each component of our tours to a very high standard. We are dedicated to empowering people through travel!

Plan your Prague to Dresden self-guided hiking tour!