We're going to be in Prague for a week in May and we're considering an overnight trip somewhere around Prague. We've been looking at Dresden or Cesky. Anyone have any feedback about those two areas? Or is there a third alternative around Prague we haven't considered? We are active seniors that enjoy exploring the churches, palaces, some museums and tasting the local treats.
All of historic old Dresden was built between 1990 and 2000, if that matters. But they did a remarkably good job. Its my impression that Cesky Krumlov is about 90% real. Tgey both sound interesting.
When we were in Dresden, we went over to Prague for several days, and it was a really good combination. We took the train. Yes, Dresden has been rebuilt, but as Mr. E said they did an excellent job with it. For the church, when it was rebuilt, they actually tried to put every stone exactly where it had been. We did a walking tour the first day and it was very good!
I’m also an “active senior”, and have been to both. Dresden certainly has much more to see and do than Cesky. However, if you are planning on travelling from Prague, staying one night, and leaving, then that becomes less of a factor. If that’s the case, I’d recommend Cesky. It can be pretty thoroughly experienced in that sort of timeframe, and is a quaint and fascinating little city. If you want to spend more than one night, then go to Dresden.
I vote for Dresden. Cesky Krumlov is a pretty little town, but Dresden has a lot more to see and do. Although Dresden was rebuilt, it's a nice city to walk around and there are several pretty good museums and churches. I think Dresden deserves about three nights.
It is difficult to overstate how much world-famous fine art and decorative arts there are to see in Dresden. Meissen is missable. But CK is unique and beautiful, if a bit hard to get to. You can't really see Dresden in two days, but you can CK. The Baroque Theater in CK is better than the castle-mansion. (Opinion.)
Thank you so much for all your responses! We have decided to go to Cesky since we will only have one day and don't want to take more time away from Prague. We will possibly be going back to Germany and Switzerland the following year so we will carve out more time to do Dresden right since it sounds wonderful and we didn't get there the last time we were in Germany.
For Cesky Krumlov, get tickets for the Baroque Theater tour. (The English tour is usually at 10am. Get a ticket in any lanaguge..they should have English text as a back up)
There is only 1 daily train from Prague to CK....otherwise, transfer in Ceske Budejvoice.
The bus will get you closer to the historic center. The walk from the train station is fine if the weather is okay and since you won't have luggage.
Enjoy lunch at Papa's Living Restaurant or Svejk
Look for the bears in the castle moat.
Visit the gardens beyond the castle.
If possible, try to stay overnight. It is a magical place..., esp after the day tourists leave.
The bus will get you closer to the historic center.
CK or Bean shuttle will pick you up at your Prague hotel and get you as close to your Cesky Krumlov hotel or chosen destination as the roads permit.
Clayton and Mr. E, thanks for wonderful suggestions! We are actually spending two nights in Cesky so that gives us one full day. We will certainly check out everything you two mentioned. Looking forward to seeing Cesky!
Also in CK is the Gypsy Bar if you wan try to catch some Gypsy music.
Website for the theater tour
https://weblist-npu.colosseum.eu/Tours?mrsid=358
There is an excellent perch of the city just.beyond the theater. Great spot for photos if you are an early riser.
Sidenote..at Svejk restaurant I often get the beef.cheeks.
Closer to your visit, we can look for festivals and events for you.
By chance you visit the first of May there are some celebrations and also last day of April is interesting..