Your Detailed Guide to Visiting Prague Castle | Timings, Getting There, Tickets & More

Built in the 9th century, Prague Castle, or Pražský hrad is the largest ancient castle in the world. The castle complex covers over 70,000 square meters and is currently used as the office of the President Of the Czech Republic. With its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views, this magnificent castle is a must-visit destination in Prague. Keep reading to find all the information you need to plan an unforgettable visit to Prague Castle.

Prague Castle at a glance

Prague Castle

Timings: The castle complex is open from 6am to 10pm.

Location: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czech Republic

Entrances: There are 4 Prague Castle entrances:

  1. The I Courtyard Entrance (West)
  2. The II Courtyard (North)
  3. The Na Opyši Gate (East)
  4. The Royal Summer Palace Entrance (North)
    No. visitors per year: More than 2 million
Prague Castle

What are the Prague Castle opening hours?

Summer season (April 1st - October 31st)

  • Prague Castle Complex: 6am - 10pm every day
  • Historical Buildings: 9am - 5pm
  • St. Vitus Cathedral: 
    Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm
    Sunday: 12pm - 5pm
  • Exhibition halls: 10am - 6pm

Winter season (November 1st - March 31st)

  • Prague Castle Complex: 6am - 10pm every day
  • Historical Buildings: 9am - 4pm
  • St. Vitus Cathedral: 
    Monday - Saturday: 9am - 4pm
    Sunday: 12pm - 4pm
  • Exhibition halls: 10am- 6pm

Closed on: December 24

Last entry: 30 minutes before closing time.

Prague Castle opening hours

Best time to visit Prague Castle

Best Time to Visit Prague Castle
  • Early morning or late afternoon: It's best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to fully appreciate the grandeur of Prague Castle without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. 
  • Weekends: Weekends tend to attract more visitors, so try to plan your visit for a weekday. 
  • Spring and Autumn: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather and thinner crowds, making them ideal seasons to explore the castle's grounds. Avoid visiting during peak tourist months of July and August, as the castle can become quite crowded.

Please note: The castle opens at 9am, while the castle grounds are open at 6am. Try to visit the Castle grounds by 8:40am to spend some time in the beautiful Prague Castle gardens before exploring the historical buildings.

Where is Prague Castle located?

Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czech Republic
Find on map

Location: Prague Castle is located in the heart of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. It stands proudly on a hillside overlooking the Vltava River and offers breathtaking views of the entire city.

Closest landmarks:

Prague Castle directions

Getting to Prague Castle

Prague has a well-planned network of public transportation services, that can help you reach Prague Castle from anywhere in the city.

By tram

Tram line: 22

Tram is probably the easiest way to get to Prague Castle as tram number 22 conveniently connects various parts of the city to Prague Castle. Get down at the Pražský hrad tram stop, and you will reach the 2nd Courtyard entrance of the Castle after a short 5 min walk.

By bus

Bus number: 192

Take bus number 192 which will take you directly to Prague castle's main entrance. Taking a bus is a convenient and budget-friendly option if you're coming to Prague Castle from the Lesser Town area or any other nearby areas.

By metro

Metro line: Line A (Green)

Take the Metro Line A (green line) and alight at the Malostranská station. From there, a pleasant walk through the charming Lesser Town will lead you to the castle's entrance. This option is convenient if you're staying in distant parts of the city connected by the metro.

By car

ETA from airport: 22 min

You can use Prague’s taxi service or rent a car for yourself to drive to Prague Castle. You can get off at the Hradčanské square or at the tram stop Pražský hrad tram stop to reach the castle. Taxis in Prague are readily available and offer a convenient door-to-door service.

Know before you go

Prague Castle Entrances
  1. The I Courtyard Entrance: For those taking a tram to Pohořelec or those coming from the Lesser Town area.
  2. The II Courtyard: For those taking a tram to Pražský hrad station.
  3. The Na Opyši Gate: For those planning to reach Prague Castle via metro by getting down at Malostranská.
  4. The Royal Summer Palace Entrance: For those traveling by tram 22 to get down at Královský letohrádek during summer season.
Prague Castle entrances
Prague Castle Facilities
  • Wheelchair Access: Prague Castle is wheelchair accessible, featuring ramps and elevators in many areas. However, it's important to note that due to the historical nature of the site, there may be limitations in accessing some parts of the castle.
  • Guided Tours: For visitors with mobility challenges, the castle offers guided tours specifically designed to accommodate their needs. These tours provide accessible routes and knowledgeable guides who are experienced in assisting visitors with disabilities.
  • Audio Guide: If you have visual impairments, Prague Castle offers audio guides that provide descriptive information about the castle's highlights and picturesque surroundings. These audio guides ensure that you fully immerse yourself in the castle's beauty and history.
Prague Castle Dress Code
  • Modest Attire: Prague Castle is a place of historical and cultural significance. Please avoid wearing revealing clothing or clothing with offensive slogans to show respect. Instead, opt for modest attire that reflects the grandeur of the surroundings.
  • Comfortable Shoes: The castle grounds are vast and require a fair amount of walking, so choose footwear that will keep you comfortable throughout your visit.
  • Layered Clothing: The weather in Prague can vary, so it's a good idea to dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
Prague Castle
  • Explore lesser-known sights: While St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace are must-see attractions, don't miss out on the lesser-known gems within the castle complex. Take the time to wander through the charming Golden Lane, lined with colorful houses that once housed castle guards and artisans.
  • Take a guided tour: Consider joining a guided tour to delve into the rich history and stories behind Prague Castle. Expert guides will lead you through the castle's fascinating past, sharing intriguing anecdotes and legends along the way.
  • Enjoy the changing of the guard: Witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony is a quintessential Prague Castle experience. The ceremony takes place daily at noon in the first courtyard, and it's an opportunity to observe the grandeur of this age-old tradition.
  • Visit in different seasons: Prague Castle takes on a different charm with each passing season. Whether it's the vibrant blooms of spring, the golden hues of autumn, or the snow-dusted rooftops in winter, each season offers a unique backdrop for your visit. 
Prague Castle Rules
  • Respectful Behavior: Please respect the historical significance of the castle and its surroundings. Avoid littering, defacing property, or causing disruptions.
  • Photography: Feel free to capture your memories, but be mindful of any restrictions on photography in certain areas. Flash photography may be prohibited in certain locations.
  • Stay on Designated Paths: Stick to the designated paths and avoid trespassing into restricted areas.
  • No Pets: Except for service animals, pets are not allowed within the castle grounds.
  • Silence in Sacred Spaces: Some areas within the castle may have religious significance. Please maintain a respectful silence when visiting these spaces.
  • Security Checks: Be prepared to go through security checks upon entry. Please follow the instructions of the security personnel for a smooth process.
Prague Castle - Where to Eat
  • Lobkowicz Palace Café (54 m): Indulge in delightful pastries and aromatic Czech coffee while enjoying stunning views of Prague.in this beautiful cafe.
  • U Zlaté Studně (700 m): Experience exquisite gourmet cuisine with a fusion of Czech and international flavors in this Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Café Kaficko (1 km): Grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink at this charming café offering sandwiches, salads, and homemade lemonades.
Prague Castle - Where to Stay

Luxury Options:

  • Aria Hotel Prague (650 m)
  • Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa (700 m)
  • Golden Well Hotel (750 m)

Mid-Budget Options:

  • Hotel Three Storks (750 m)
  • Domus Balthasar Design Hotel (800 m)
  • Archibald at the Charles Bridge (1 km)

Low-Budget Options:

  • The MadHouse Prague ( 2 km)
  • Sophie's Hostel (3.2 km)
Prague Castle Nearby
  • Charles Bridge (1 km): It is an iconic bridge spanning the Vltava River, offering breathtaking views of Prague's skyline.
  • Old Town Square (1.4 km): It is a historic square featuring the Astronomical Clock, Gothic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Petrin Hill (2 km): Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this beautiful park and climb the Petrin Tower to see panoramic views of the city.
  • Vyšehrad (3.8 km): Explore this ancient fort with its picturesque park, historical cemetery, and stunning views over the city.
  • National Theater (1.9 km): Attend a performance at this iconic theater, renowned for its stunning neo-Renaissance architecture.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Prague Castle

Prague Castle is located at Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia. Please check the Prague Castle map and location before visiting.

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