BEST TIPS FOR VISITING PRAGUE CASTLE IN 2026
Best time to visit Prague Castle | Where to buy tickets | How to avoid crowds at Prague Castle
Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Prague Castle
Visiting Prague Castle feels like stepping into centuries of history, culture, and beautiful architecture. This remarkable castle, home to kings, emperors, and presidents, dominates the city’s skyline and offers stunning views of Prague. Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest ancient castle, Prague Castle is a highlight for anyone exploring the Czech capital. From the iconic St. Vitus Cathedral to the charming Golden Lane, every corner of the castle tells a story. Whether you want to see its Gothic towers, medieval courtyards, or impressive art collections, Prague Castle promises a memorable experience.
About Prague Castle
Prague Castle is a significant cultural and historical site in the Czech Republic and a key symbol of its heritage. Founded in the 9th century by Prince Bořivoj of the Přemyslid dynasty, it has served as the seat and residence of Czech rulers for over a thousand years.
The castle complex is the largest ancient castle in the world, covering nearly 70,000 square meters. It has undergone various architectural transformations, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles. One of its most famous landmarks is St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic architectural masterpiece where Bohemian kings were crowned and laid to rest. Other important sites include the Old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George, and the colorful Golden Lane, once home to castle guards and craftsmen. Beyond its rich history and historical significance, Prague Castle is a lively cultural center, hosting state ceremonies, art exhibitions, concerts, and other events. Today, it continues to function as the presidential home and office of the President of the Czech Republic and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its dominant position on Hradčany Hill offers a stunning city view and is a highlight for anyone exploring Prague.
What to except during your visit to Prague Castle
When visiting Prague Castle, expect to enter a world of history and beauty. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the main entrance and explore the Old Royal Palace and grand Vladislav Hall, still used for official ceremonies and state events. Inside St. Vitus Cathedral, see its stained glass windows and royal tombs. Walk through Golden Lane and explore its colorful, preserved houses, once home to castle guards, craftsmen, servants, goldsmiths, artisans, and later to artists like Franz Kafka.
Discover museums and exhibitions displaying medieval artifacts and royal treasures. You may even catch a concert or cultural performance inside the castle. Enjoy a panoramic view of Old Town, Charles Bridge, and the Vltava River from the Southwest Gardens. For an aerial view of Prague, climb the Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral, the highest viewpoint inside the castle. In warmer months, you can walk and relax in the beautiful castle gardens. At night, the illuminated buildings create a unique ambiance, making Prague Castle unforgettable at any time of day.
Must-see Prague Castle Attractions
St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral was the first church built in Prague Castle. Originally a small circular church dedicated to St. Vitus, it traces its origins to Prince Bořivoj. In the 11th century, the building was expanded and improved. The Gothic transformation began in 1344 under Charles IV, shaping today’s grand cathedral. It has hosted the coronations of Czech kings and queens and serves as the final resting place for several patron saints and historical figures. Highlights include its stunning stained glass windows, royal tombs, and St. Wenceslas Chapel, which houses the tomb of St. Wenceslas.
The Great South Tower of Saint Vitus Cathedral
The Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral is the highest viewpoint in Prague Castle. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and Prague Castle. Visitors who climb its 287 steps to the viewing platform are rewarded with views of Prague’s skyline, the Vltava River, and historical landmarks.
Old Royal Palace
One of the oldest parts of Prague Castle is the Old Royal Palace. It was initially a wooden site constructed around the turn of the 9th and 10th centuries. In the 12th century, it was built as a Romanesque palace and later expanded in Gothic and Renaissance styles to serve as the residence of Bohemian kings. Over time, a small chapel was added. The highlight is Vladislav Hall, a grand space once used for royal banquets and coronations that now hosts state ceremonies. You can also visit the Defenestration Window, a significant historical site where the 1618 events that sparked the Thirty Years’ War occurred.
Golden Lane
Golden Lane in Prague Castle is a small, colorful street and one of the castle’s most charming and popular parts, lined with historic houses, exhibits, and shops. Built in the 16th century to accommodate castle guards and their families, it later became home to goldsmiths, earning its name from their attempts to turn metal into gold. Over time, it housed various residents, including writer Franz Kafka. These preserved houses have been transformed into historical exhibits, displays, and artisan stores, offering a glimpse into centuries of life within Prague Castle. Walking through Golden Lane is a unique experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and see how people once lived and worked inside the castle walls.
St. George’s Basilica
St. George’s Basilica dates back to the 10th century, making it the second oldest church in Prague. It is a prime example of Romanesque architecture with a simple and elegant design. The basilica houses royal tombs, including those of Prince Vratislaus I, the church’s founder, and St. Ludmila, the first Czech saint. The basilica now serves as a concert venue and an exhibition space, displaying medieval art and history.
Lobkowicz Palace
Lobkowicz Palace, located within Prague Castle, is a must-visit for its stunning art collection, rich history, and panoramic views of Prague. As the only privately owned building in the castle complex, this 16th-century palace houses the Lobkowicz Collections, featuring masterpieces by Canaletto, Bruegel, and Velázquez and original manuscripts by Beethoven and Mozart. The Lobkowicz Palace is now a museum and offers an audio guide narrated by the Lobkowicz family, providing a personal insight into Czech history. Visitors can buy Lobkowicz Palace concert tickets to enjoy classical music in its elegant halls and relax at the rooftop terrace café overlooking the city.
The Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard at Prague Castle is a ceremony that demonstrates military precision, discipline, and historical pageantry. Held every hour at the castle gates, the main ceremony occurs daily at noon in the First Courtyard. The Castle Guard, dressed in blue uniforms, performs with a fanfare and flag exchange. The ceremony is conducted by the Castle Guard, responsible for protecting the President of the Czech Republic.
The gardens within the Prague Castle complex
The gardens of Prague Castle are open to the public for free and offer a peaceful escape from the city. They are beautiful, peaceful spots to relax and enjoy nature. The Royal Garden is the most famous, featuring colorful flowers and fountains. The South Gardens and the Garden on the Ramparts offer stunning views of Prague, and the Vltava River. The Stag Moat and other parts of the castle grounds are also lovely areas to explore. The Garden on the Bastion is open year-round, offering more stunning views of Prague, while other gardens typically open from April to October.
Enjoy your Prague visit with our skip-the-line ticket deals!
Prague Castle & Lobkowicz Palace Visit
Prague Castle Skip-the-line Ticket
Skip the lines and discover the world’s oldest and largest medieval castle complex. Explore Prague Castle, including Lobkowicz Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, Old Royal Palace, and St. George’s Basilica. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Prague from the castle’s hilltop, with stunning sights of the city's red rooftops, the Vltava River, and iconic landmarks. Use the audio guide to delve into the history of the Lobkowicz family and their private art collection.
1-hour classical concert
Lobkowicz Palace Concert Tickets
Enjoy a 1-hour classical concert performed by the members of the Czech Philharmonic. The concert is held at the glorious Baroque Concert Hall in Lobkowitz Palace. To upgrade your experience, choose the ticket option with access to the Lobkowicz Palace Museum.
The panoramic viewpoints from Prague Castle
Thanks to Prague Castle’s hilltop location, several spots offer stunning city views:
- South Gardens: The most accessible viewpoint overlooks the Vltava River, Charles Bridge, and Old Town.
- Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral: The highest viewpoint, offering a 360° aerial view after climbing 287 steps.
- Castle ramparts: A great spot to see Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and the castle courtyards.
- Old castle stairs: A scenic descent with breathtaking rooftop views.
- Daliborka Tower: A historic prison tower with unique views of Golden Lane.
- Lobkowicz Palace terrace: A relaxed setting with a café and stunning city views.
- Vyhlídka Na Opyši: An open terrace near the east entrance, offering a panoramic view of Prague.
Best time to visit Prague Castle
The best times to visit Prague Castle are typically during the spring and autumn. Spring offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful gardens in bloom. During autumn, you can expect pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Avoid the summer months, especially July and August, due to the high crowds and hot weather. The best days to visit the castle are usually weekdays, especially in the morning.
Is Prague Castle accessible by public transport?
Prague Castle is easily accessible via public transportation:
Tram: Take Tram No. 22 to the Pražský hrad stop. It’s a short walk to the castle’s 2nd Courtyard.
Metro: Ride Line A (Green Line) to Malostranská station. From there, you can either walk up the hill to the castle or take Tram No. 22 from the nearby stop.
FAQ - Visit Prague Castle
Are there any facilities and activities suitable for children when visiting the Prague Castle?
Prague Castle is a family-friendly location. During the summer, it offers open spaces like the Royal Garden and Stag Moat for kids to explore and interactive tours tailored for children.Can I buy souvenirs inside the castle grounds?
Multiple gift shops are located within the Prague Castle grounds, offering souvenirs and publications about the castle's rich history and art collections.Which location offers the best viewpoints?
Prague Castle has several spots that offer great panoramic views, each providing a different perspective of the city skyline and landmarks. One of the most popular viewpoints is South Gardens, which offers the most iconic and accessible panoramic view of Prague’s skyline, bridges, and historic districts without a long climb.What is free of charge at Prague Castle?
You can enter the Prague Castle without purchasing a ticket and walk the castle grounds. However, to enter any of the buildings within the complex and the Golden Lane, you will need a Prague Castle entry ticket.Is The Story of Prague Castle exhibition worth visiting?
The Story of Prague Castle is a permanent exhibition in the Old Royal Palace that tells the story of more than a thousand years of history of Prague Castle. It is worth visiting to explore royal artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays and learn about the castle's past and role in Czech history.Are backpacks allowed in Prague Castle?
Large bags, oversized items, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted inside the castle complex. Prague Castle implements strict security checks to protect its historic structures and ensure visitor safety.How long does it take to explore Prague Castle?
Exploring Prague Castle usually takes 2 to 6 hours, depending on how much you want to see. A quick visit takes 2 to 3 hours while exploring museums, exhibitions, and gardens can take 5 to 6 hours or more. You can spend all day on the grounds, as there are cafés, restaurants, and gardens to relax. However, some areas have specific opening hours, so it's recommended that you plan ahead.What is the dress code for visiting Prague Castle?
There is no strict dress code for Prague Castle. However, you should remember to dress appropriately if you plan to visit St. Vitus Cathedral and other religious buildings.Where can I find restrooms at Prague Castle?
Prague Castle offers several public restrooms for visitors, located near the entrance to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Prague Castle Picture Gallery at the end of Golden Lane, and the Stag Moat Park.Is Prague Castle accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Prague Castle is largely accessible, with barrier-free entry to key sites like St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and the Prague Castle Picture Gallery. Some areas, such as the Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral, Daliborka Tower, and the Powder Tower, are not wheelchair accessible due to their historical architecture.Are there places to eat and drink in Prague Castle?
There are several dining options within and near Prague Castle, where you can relax and enjoy food and drinks.Prague Castle DOs and DON’Ts
DO arrive early
To avoid crowds and enjoy sights at a more relaxed pace, we highly recommend visiting Prague Castle as early as possible.
DON’T rush
The castle is large, so take your time to enjoy all its historical and architectural beauty.
DO dress comfortably
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on cobblestone streets and exploring large areas.
DON’T miss the gardens
If you’re visiting in warmer months, make sure to stroll through the scenic castle gardens.
DO take a guided tour
A knowledgeable local guide can greatly improve your experience with interesting insights and stories about the castle’s history.
Visit Prague Castle in the best way with our guided tours!
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Guided tour
Prague Castle Tours
Join this guided tour and see the largest castle in Europe! Enter quickly with the skip-the-line access. Follow your expert local guide, who will take you through all parts of the castle. You will visit St. Vitus Cathedral, the Golden Lane, and St. George's Basilica. Also, explore the chamber where the Defenestration of Prague happened. This event led to the Thirty Years War.
Available in 6 languages
Prague Walking Tour
Discover Prague’s rich history with an expert guide. Explore the city’s most famous landmarks and learn about its history. Walk through the Old Town, see the iconic Astronomical Clock, the Church of St. Nicholas, and other top monuments. Cross the historic Charles Bridge and explore the Prague Castle. Enjoy panoramic views of Prague from the castle grounds.