Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is renowned for its pristine architectural grandeur and storied past. Beer is on the agenda, but there’s much more to it than just the nightlife. Beyond its atmospheric streets and Gothic allure, Prague and its surrounding regions also offer a host of high-octane experiences to satiate the thirst of adrenaline junkies. Whether you’re on a gap year or stag do, there are plenty of things going on in the capital (and surrounding areas).
Here are six action-packed activities that promise to inject a healthy dose of thrill into your Czech adventure.
Shooting Range
Guns aren’t all that common in Europe, which is why AK 47 shooting in Prague is first on the list of activities. Immerse yourself in a heart-pounding experience at one of Prague’s popular shooting ranges, located in the city centre. Prague Ranger offers tourists the chance to try out a range of firearms in a safe, supervised environment. With professional instructors on hand, even novices can fire weapons, from pistols to the infamous AK-47s, with confidence. With both an indoor and outdoor range, you can transfer your video game experience to real life for an afternoon. Sniper rifles are even on the menu…
White Water Rafting in Cesky Krumlov
An hour’s drive south from Prague takes you to Cesky Krumlov, a charming town famous for its Castle complex and the wild Vltava River that courses through it. The river offers exciting white water rafting opportunities, with varying levels of difficulty to suit beginners and seasoned rafters alike. Local operators, such as Outdoor Adventures, equip you with safety gear and provide expert guidance to ensure an exhilarating, yet safe adventure down the river’s fast-flowing channels. For people into water sports, heading to a city like Prague doesn’t mean there aren’t some high-octane water-based activities going on.
Tank Driving
For a unique and exhilarating experience, head towards Milovice, a short drive northeast of Prague. Here you’ll find Tank Day, a facility that offers visitors the opportunity to drive genuine Cold War-era tanks. Whether you’re manoeuvring a BMP armoured vehicle or an authentic T-55 tank, the thrill of controlling these massive machines is unparalleled. The sheer size and weight of these machines is a once-in-a-lifetime feeling. The experience is typically accompanied by a historical overview too, providing context to your adrenaline-pumping ride so you leave the city even more informed.
Karting
If you prefer speed on a smaller scale, it’s possible to use one of the many indoor karting tracks in Prague. Places like Kart Planet Prague provide top-notch equipment and large, intricate tracks, ensuring your experience is fast, safe, and competitive. The feeling is akin to participating in a miniature Formula One race, and the karts get up to some surprisingly high speeds.
Paintballing
Located in various spots around Prague, paintballing is an adrenaline-filled activity that blends strategic thinking with physical abilities. Sites like Paintball Prague give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a variety of game scenarios in their expansive outdoor fields. The site’s woodland and constructed urban zones, each with its unique terrain and cover options, ensure every game is unique and intensely exciting. This is ideal when travelling in a large group, such as a stag do, but it’s also possible to play with strangers on your own.
Bungee Jumping
Finally, for the ultimate adrenaline rush, why not try bungee jumping? Head to the Zvikov Bridge in South Bohemia, approximately two hours south of Prague, for one of the most exhilarating jumps in the country. With a drop of 40 metres over the stunning Orlik reservoir, thrill-seekers can take the plunge in a spectacularly scenic location. While there, make sure to enjoy the sight of Zvikov Castle, adding a dash of cultural enrichment to your adventure.
If you like heights (or if you don’t like heights but want to challenge yourself), you can up the ante and go skydiving too. These are some great ways to see Prague from a new perspective, from top down, and have a memorable experience.
Conclusion
Prague offers an ideal blend of adrenaline-pumping activities that go beyond its historical allure and architectural splendour. Whether you’re navigating the white waters of the Vltava, feeling the power of a Cold War-era tank, or leaping off a bridge with a bungee cord attached, the city and its surrounding regions offer thrilling experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
It’s worth pre-booking some of these activities in advance, just to err on the safe side and avoid missing out on tickets. And, if none of these ideas is exactly what you’re looking for, there are still some other options such as zorbing (rolling down a hill in a big inflatable ball), and a hot air balloon for a more slow-paced aerial activity.
