Bohemia and the wider Czech Republic have developed an impressive network of signed cycling routes over the past two decades. Whether you are looking for a flat riverside path for a Sunday afternoon ride or a multi-day touring route through rolling hills and historic towns, the options are genuinely good. This guide covers some of the most accessible and rewarding routes, starting in Prague and extending into the surrounding countryside.
Understanding the Czech Cycling Route System
The Czech Republic uses a national numbering system for cycling routes, managed by the Czech Cycling Club (KCT). Routes are marked with colour-coded signs on roads and paths, similar to the hiking trail system. Numbers below 100 are typically long-distance routes, while higher numbers indicate regional or local paths.
The most comprehensive map of all signed routes is available at Cykloserver.cz, which allows you to filter by surface type, difficulty, and region. The Mapy.cz app is also excellent for navigation on the road.
Prague City Cycling
Prague's cycling infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years, though it remains less developed than cities like Amsterdam or Vienna. The most reliable routes are along the Vltava riverbanks, where dedicated paths run for several kilometres on both sides of the river.
Vltava Riverside Path (Route A2)
The path along the right bank of the Vltava between Holešovice and Braník is one of Prague's most pleasant urban cycling experiences. The surface is mostly smooth asphalt, the route is largely flat, and on weekdays it is not overly crowded. On summer weekends, expect to share the path with many pedestrians and inline skaters.
Botič Valley Path (Route A23)
Running from Vršovice southward along the Botič stream, this route passes through a surprisingly green corridor in the middle of the city. It connects to the outer ring routes and is popular with commuters as well as recreational cyclists.
Day Trips from Prague
Several excellent routes begin within Prague or at easily accessible train stations and allow for a full day of cycling in the countryside.
Vltava Cycling Route (EuroVelo 7 section)
Following the Vltava river southward from Prague, this route passes through Zbraslav, Davle, and continues toward Štěchovice and beyond. The terrain is gentle along the riverbank sections, with some hills where the path moves away from the water. The scenery is consistently beautiful, with wooded hillsides and occasional castle ruins visible from the route.
The stretch from Prague to Štěchovice is approximately 35 km one way. You can return by train from Štěchovice, making it a comfortable day trip without needing to retrace your route.
Berounka River Route
The Berounka river valley west of Prague offers some of the most scenic cycling in Central Bohemia. The route follows the river through the Bohemian Karst (Český kras), a protected landscape area with limestone formations, caves, and wooded gorges. The path is mostly flat along the valley floor, with the option to climb to viewpoints above.
Start from Beroun, which is reachable by train from Prague in under an hour, and cycle eastward back toward the capital, or continue westward toward Plzeň.
Multi-Day Touring Routes
For cyclists with more time, Bohemia has several long-distance routes worth planning a trip around.
Greenways Prague-Vienna
This 400 km route connects Prague with Vienna through South Bohemia, passing through Třeboň, Český Krumlov, and the Austrian border region. The route is well-signed and passes through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Czech Republic. Most sections use quiet country roads and dedicated paths.
Elbe Cycling Route (EuroVelo 4)
The Elbe (Labe) river route enters the Czech Republic near the German border and follows the river through the Bohemian Switzerland national park and on to Prague. The Bohemian Switzerland section is particularly dramatic, with sandstone rock formations and deep river gorges. This route is part of the European EuroVelo network and is well-documented.
Practical Notes for Cyclists in Czech Republic
- Helmets are not legally required for adults in the Czech Republic, but are strongly recommended, especially on roads.
- Lights front and rear are required by law when cycling after dark.
- Bike rental is available in Prague from several operators near the Old Town and along the Vltava embankment.
- Most regional trains in the Czech Republic accept bicycles for a small additional fee. Check the Czech Railways (CD.cz) website for current rules.
- The cycling season runs roughly from April to October, though mild winters allow year-round riding on paved routes.