How to Visit the Bone Church from Prague: A Simple Guide
Are you wondering how to visit the Bone Church from Prague for a day trip? The quickest and best way is taking a direct train from Prague Main Station. This journey takes about one hour and is very affordable for most travelers. You can also join a guided Kutna Hora Sedlec Ossuary trip for a stress-free experience. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is another option. This guide will show you exactly how to make the trip happen easily.
Quick Planning for Your Bone Church Trip
Planning your visit is simple if you know the basics. Most people choose the train because it is reliable and scenic. Trains run almost every hour from the city center. You should check the train schedule and prices before you leave your hotel. This helps you avoid long waits at the station.
The Bone Church is located in the suburb of Sedlec. This is about 2 kilometers from the main historic center of Kutna Hora. You can easily walk or take a local shuttle between these two areas. Many travelers combine the ossuary with a visit to the town center. This makes for a full and rewarding day of sightseeing.
For a great overview of the country, visit the Visit Czechia website. It offers many tips for exploring regions outside of Prague. Remember that the Bone Church is a sacred site. Please dress respectfully and follow all local signs during your visit. This ensures the site remains preserved for everyone.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Visit the Bone Church from Prague
Follow these steps to reach the Sedlec Ossuary without any stress. The process is straightforward once you are at the station. Here is the best way to manage your journey.
- Buy your tickets: Go to Prague Main Station (Praha Hlavní Nádraží). Use the ticket office or a machine. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: ~200-250 CZK return. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting to buy a return ticket, which saves time later.
- Board the train: Look for trains heading toward Brno or Olomouc that stop at Kutna Hora hl.n. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Included in ticket. Where: Main platforms. Mistake to avoid: Boarding a train that does not stop at the "hl.n." station.
- Transfer to the shuttle: At Kutna Hora hl.n., find the small yellow train on a nearby track. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in your ticket. Where: Side platform. Mistake to avoid: Walking 20 minutes to Sedlec when the shuttle is waiting.
- Visit the Information Center: Walk from the Sedlec station to the ticket office first. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: ~160 CZK for entry. Where: Zamecka street. Mistake to avoid: Trying to buy tickets at the church door; they are not sold there.
Preparation and Essential Tips for 2026
Before you depart, you must prepare for new rules. As of recent years, photography is strictly limited inside the Bone Church. You often need to request permission in advance for professional shots. Most tourists are asked not to take photos at all to show respect. This rule is strictly enforced by the staff on site.
Check the weather before you go. You will be walking between different sites in Sedlec and the town center. Comfortable shoes are a must for the cobblestone streets. Also, bring a small amount of Czech Koruna in cash. While many places take cards, small souvenir shops may not.
- Checklist:
- Pre-booked entry tickets (highly recommended).
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Valid ID or Passport.
- Portable phone charger.
- Small umbrella or rain jacket.
Exploring Beyond the Sedlec Ossuary
Kutna Hora is more than just the Bone Church. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible architecture. After seeing the bones, head to the town center. You can find many other things to do in Kutna Hora that are equally fascinating. The walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
St. Barbara's Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic design. It is one of the most famous churches in Central Europe. The interior features unique frescoes and beautiful stained glass. You can also visit the Italian Court, which was once a royal residence. This site played a huge role in the city's silver mining history.
If you enjoy this trip, consider other best excursions from Prague. The Czech Republic has many hidden gems within reach. Kutna Hora remains a top choice for its unique atmosphere. Spend at least four to five hours in the town to see everything properly.
Troubleshooting Your Kutna Hora Day Trip
Travel can sometimes bring unexpected challenges. One common problem is the two different train stations in Kutna Hora. The main station is far from the center. Always look for the local connection to "Kutna Hora město" if you want the town center. This small detail saves a lot of walking time.
Another issue is ticket validation. If you buy a paper ticket, ensure you know if it needs a stamp. Most digital tickets from the official app are ready to go. If you miss the last direct train, look for connections through Kolin. This is a nearby transit hub with frequent service to Prague.
- Troubleshooting List:
- Missing the shuttle train at the main station.
- Arriving at the church without a pre-purchased ticket.
- Confusion between Kutna Hora hl.n. and Kutna Hora město.
- Trying to take photos where signs forbid it.
- Finding the Information Center closed on specific holidays.
- Not having enough cash for the local bus.
- Forgetting to check the last train departure time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy Bone Church tickets at the entrance?
No, you cannot buy tickets at the entrance of the Bone Church. You must purchase them at the Sedlec Information Center nearby. It is located about 200 meters away on the main road. It is best to book online in advance to secure your spot.
How long does it take to see the Bone Church?
A visit to the Sedlec Ossuary usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. The chapel is quite small. However, you should allow at least three to four hours for the entire trip. This includes travel time and visiting the nearby Cathedral of the Assumption.
Is the Bone Church open every day?
The Bone Church is open most days of the year. However, it may close or have shorter hours on major religious holidays. Always check the official Prague.eu portal for current opening times. It is wise to check before traveling in winter.
Visiting the Bone Church from Prague is a highlight for many travelers. By following this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy a smooth journey to Kutna Hora. Remember to respect the rules and explore the historic town center as well. For more ideas on where to go next, check out our list of the best excursions from Prague. Enjoy your trip to this unique UNESCO site!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
