Prague Castle Tickets
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Opening hours
Prague Castle complex 6:00 am - 10:00 pm
Historical buildings 9:00 am - 5:00 pm/p>
How to get there
119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
There are several tram stops near the castle complex, including Královský letohrádek, Pražský hrad, and Pohořelec. There are also two metro stations: Malostranská and Hradčanská. Most visitors use tram No. 22 and stop at Pražský hrad, and leave via the Old Castle stairs to metro station Malostranská.
FAQ
How large is the castle complex?
Prague Castle has the distinction of being the largest ancient castle in the world, measuring 753,474 square feet. The entire castle district is a beautiful and historic area, featuring several chateaux and palaces. Wallenstein Palace, home to the Czech Senate, includes 26 houses and six gardens. The Prague Castle complex borders on an area known as the Lesser Quarter, or Mala Strana. Historical buildings include the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Daliborka Tower, the Powder Tower, and Rosenberg Palace.
What is the St. Vitus Cathedral?
St Vitus was a Sicilian who died a martyr to the Christian faith at the hands of the Roman Empire in the 4th century. The cathedral bearing his name sits at the center of the Prague Castle complex and contains one of the largest collections of sacred relics in Europe. Included is the arm bone of St Vitus, who is now considered the patron saint of dancers, entertainers, and people with epilepsy.
When was Prague Castle built?
The castle's age is one of its most fascinating facts. The original structure was built of wood, and its exact location within the complex is not documented. What's now known as the Old Royal Palace is a stone Romanesque palace commissioned by Prince Soběslav in the 12th century. The Old Palace was attached on the eastern side to All Saints' Chapel, which was consecrated in 1185.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. The castle staff offer professional guided tours in Czech, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Russian. The basic tour includes the Cathedral of St. Vitus and the Old Royal Palace and takes one hour to complete. Wait times can be reduced by making advance reservations. Tickets for guided tours are on sale in the information centre in the third courtyard. If you prefer to explore on your own, audio guides are on offer featuring information in the abovementioned languages.
Must-know
Don't miss the Great South Tower of the Cathedral
The construction of the tower was started in the Gothic style by architect Peter Parler at the end of the 14th century. In the 16th century, the view gallery and helmet were added. The original helmet was replaced by a new dome in the 18th century. Reaching the bells in the tower requires a climb of 280 steps, almost 100 metres up. The bell, the biggest in the country at about 15 tons, is from 1549. Ringing the bell requires six bell ringers. A trip up the tower yields fabulous views of the city of Prague.
Pay a visit to the Orangery, a greenhouse of tropical plants.
You may be surprised to see tropical plants, including citrus trees, growing in the Czech Republic. In the 16th century, Rudolf II had a garden of tropical plants at Prague Castle. The current greenhouse was the project of Olga Havlová, the first wife of former president Václav Havel, in 1999. This tube-shaped modern greenhouse set in the Royal Gardens is open to visitors from April 1 to October 31.
Bring the kids to see the Toy Museum
Another surprise inside the castle complex is the Toy Museum, located in the Chambers of the Old Count. Don't miss the seven rooms filled with toys spanning centuries, from Ancient Greece to more modern times. A highlight is a collection of traditional Czech toys featuring old Marklin engines as well as airplanes, trains, and toy cars.
Places nearby
Strahov Monastery Brewery
Just steps from the massive Prague Castle complex, the Strahov Brewery is a delightful oasis in the heart of the bustling city. This microbrewery serves about ten variations of St. Norbert beer (three all year and seven seasonally) and also has a bitter amber blend that is unique and memorable. If you've struggled up those steps to the Bell Tower, what could be better than a relaxing pint in a quiet atmosphere?
Strahov Monastery Brewery. chasdesign / Shutterstock.com
The Deer Moat
Also just next to the Prague Castle complex is this beautiful natural ravine made from the Brusnice Stream. The moat, once part of Prague Castle’s northern fortification, is now one of the most peaceful places to take a walk in the city. On your visit to the Deer Moat, look for the whimsical Bear Keeper’s Cottage before strolling through a sleek tunnel built in 2002.
The Deer Moat
Golden Lane
Just behind Prague Castle is a charming street of small houses called Golden Lane. Many of the buildings are now used as book and souvenir shops. The street is quiet and pedestrian friendly, a perfect stop after your tour of the castle complex. Franz Kafka once lived in and wrote about Golden Lane.
Golden Lane