Prague Castle (Pražský Hrad)

The basics

There's plenty to do at Prague Castle, and this huge complex almost feels like a small town. Take in great views of Prague from the Lobkowicz Palace—the only privately owned building in the complex—or check out the Vladislav Hall, a massive hall that was once used for regal events. Design fans should check out the Italian Renaissance architecture at Queen Anne's Summer Palace in the Royal Gardens. The Daliborka Tower, which was originally used as a prison, is another must-see.

To allow visitors ample time to explore, Prague Castle tickets are valid for two days: the day of purchase and the following day. Nearly all Prague city tours include a stop at Prague Castle. A variety of tickets are available depending on how much of the Prague Castle complex you want to see.

Explore the castle independently with a skip-the-line ticket or book a guided Prague Castle tour for a more in-depth experience. To take in even more of Prague's highlights, combine a visit to Prague Castle with a cruise on the Vltava River or a Prague Old Town walking tour.

Things to know before you go

• Entrance to the castle grounds is free, and tickets to Prague Castle's different historical buildings are sold at several spots around the grounds.

• History buffs may want to allow an entire day to take everything in.

• Interior photography is prohibited in certain exhibits and allowed only with a permit in others.

• Don't miss the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, which takes place daily at noon.

• Be prepared to wait up to 30 minutes to go through security upon entering the castle grounds.

How to get there

Easily reach Prague Castle by taking tram 22 to Prazský hrad. Other options include taking a tram to Královský letohrádek or Pohořelec or taking the metro to Malostranská or Hradčanská.

When to get there

Prague Castle is open year-round with slightly shorter hours in the winter. To beat the crowds, arrive early in the morning, and avoid weekends and holidays.

Prague Castle highlights

Prague Castle is rich with architectural and historical marvels, including the neo-Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, which may be the most recognizable part of the complex. Inside, don't miss St. Wenceslaus Chapel and its magnificent decorations. The treasury is one of the largest in Europe and includes a relic of St. Vitus' arm.  

St. George's Basilica, with its austere interior, provides an interesting contrast to the elaborate cathedral. The small homes along Golden Lane originally belonged to servants, goldsmiths, and marksmen. Keep an eye out for House 22, where writer Franz Kafka once lived. The Old Royal Palace is now home to an interactive exhibition providing an overview of the city's history, the Story of Prague Castle.

Can you tour inside Prague Castle?

Yes, you can tour inside Prague Castle. The castle is a walled area atop Hradcany (Castle Hill) that includes the prominent St. Vitus Cathedral and many palaces, residences, churches, gardens, and other attractions. Most of these can be toured or visited independently.

How long should I spend at Prague Castle?

Ideally you need between half a day and a full day at Prague Castle. To see the highlights, such as St. Vitus Cathedral, you only need an hour or two. However, there are many other churches, palaces, gardens, and attractions within the castle complex that are worth visiting.

Is it worth visiting Prague Castle?

Yes, it is worth visiting Prague Castle. It is one of Prague’s most popular and prominent tourist attractions, and it contains sights and activities that will appeal to travelers with a wide range of interests.

What is the best time of day to visit Prague Castle?

To avoid crowds, visit Prague Castle in the early mornings or evenings, but note that daytime is the best for touring inside. The complex is open from early morning until late in the evening in peak season, but the historical buildings are only open from mid-morning to mid-afternoon.

Which entrance is best for Prague Castle?

There are several Prague Castle entrances, and the best one depends on which direction you’re coming from and your mode of public transport. The Second Courtyard, Courtyard IV, and Royal Summer Palace entrances are best if you’re taking tram 22. Na Opyši Gate entrance is best when traveling by metro.

How many steps is Prague Castle?

There are two sets of steps leading to the hilltop Prague Castle: the New Castle Stairs, with around 220 steps, and the Old Castle Stairs, with around 120 steps. The latter is one of the more popular paths to the castle, as tourist can head there straight from Hradčany Square.

Ways to explore

There’s plenty to do at Prague Castle, and the huge complex feels like a small town. Take in great views across the city, check out the Italian Renaissance architecture at Queen Anne’s Summer Palace, and admire the colored light filtering through the stained-glass windows of St. Vitus’ Cathedral. Nearly all Prague city tours include a stop at the castle. A variety of tickets are available depending on how much you want to see.

Accessibility

Most areas are wheelchair accessible, but Golden Lane in particular is challenging for wheelchair users. To get there in a wheelchair, take low-floor tram No. 22 from accessible metro stations I. P. Pavlova (Line C) or Narodni Trida (Line B) to the “Prazsky Hrad” stop. From there, adapted walkways lead to the castle. Plastic braille guides are available to borrow.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Picnic lunch, sun hat, collapsible umbrella

What to wear

Flat, comfortable shoes (many outdoor areas are cobbled)

Not allowed

Drone photography—Prague Castle is a no-fly zone.

Amenities

Audio guides, restrooms, souvenir and book stores

Address

Prague Castle sits atop Hradcany Hill and is visible from many parts of the central city. You can get there on a tour, by walking from elsewhere in central Prague, or by tram.

Driving

Driving isn’t the best way of reaching the castle, as parking is very limited. However, if you do opt to drive, there are some paid parking lots in the vicinity.

Public transportation

Several tram lines run along Marianske Hradby, the road north of the castle. The Prazsky Hrad stop is most convenient for the main entrance, but the Brusnice and Kralovsky Letohradek stops also get you close. The nearest metro station is Malostranska, at the bottom of the hill in the Lesser Quarter, but it’s a steep walk from there up to the castle.

Best times to visit

Arrive early in the morning to wander around the complex before the historical buildings open and the crowds arrive. The site opens earlier, and closes later, than the buildings within.

Best days to visit

The castle is always busy—and open seven days a week—but weekends are busier than weekdays, so come midweek if you can.

Best months to visit

Prague is most pleasant in the warmer months (April–October), as the winters are cold and snowy.

Special events

Prague Castle hosts festivals and events throughout the year. A highlight is the Wine Harvest Festival in September.