Prague Castle: reviews, price and Exclusive Promo Code

+39
recos
5/5 9 reviews
Hradčany, 119 08 Prague, Czechia
Hradčany, 119 08 Prague, Czechia
From 750 CZK (about $33)*
Booking recommended
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Visiting Prague Castle

A history rooted in Bohemia

As a national icon of Czechia and the largest ancient castle complex in the world, Pražský hrad, the essential Prague Castle, draws millions of visitors annually. Stretching nearly a kilometer from east to west, its massive silhouette dominates the entire city skyline.

Founded in 870 by the first Prince of Bohemia, Bočivoj, the current architecture reflects major renovations overseen by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. While much of the complex consists of former royal apartments, the grounds also feature manicured gardens, picturesque 16th-century dwellings, the soaring St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Romanesque St. George's Basilica.

What to see inside

Zlatá ulička, the Golden Lane, once known as the Goldsmiths' Lane, is detailed at house number 15. Look for house number 22 where the famous Prague writer Franz Kafka once lived. At the end of the lane, you can explore the dungeons of the Daliborka Tower.

The first courtyard opens through a massive sculpted gate depicting the battle of the Titans. The imposing Matthias Gate remains the oldest entrance to the castle. At noon, the formal changing of the guard, complete with blue uniforms, a brass band, and a flag-raising ceremony, lasts about 20 minutes.

The second courtyard houses the Picture Gallery and the Spanish Hall. Finally, the third courtyard extends to the south of St. Vitus Cathedral. Here you will find the Old Royal Palace, where an exhibition on the history of the castle provides deep insight into major national events and Czech culture. The Vladislav Hall and its accompanying chambers, along with the Riders' Staircase, are highlights.

To fully experience its medieval character, arrive early in the morning before the tour buses arrive.

From 750 CZK (about $33)*Booking recommended
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Opening hours

Open every day from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM between November and March, and from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM from April to October. The monuments are open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the first period, and until 5:00 PM for the second.
Hours are indicative and subject to change

*Information subject to change

Reviews of Prague Castle

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Summary of 9 reviews
5/5
Average rating
+39
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.8
As a couple
5
With friends
4.9

Avygeo ranking

#19
in the world
#19
in Europe
#1
in Czechia
#1
in Prague

A must-see complex

I went there at opening time to avoid the lines. Without a guided tour, I opted for the paid audio guide, which I think is essential to discover and understand the site. The castle itself is beautiful, but it only makes up a small part of the architectural complex, which is rich in churches, palaces, and exhibits. I really liked St. Vitus Cathedral, which features sumptuous stained glass windows, Golden Lane, and the presentation of the castle's history inside the Mihulka Tower. On the other hand, the painting collection at the Picture Gallery disappointed me a bit. Plan on a good half day to see everything.

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Strolling around the castle

You have two options. You can either book an entry ticket for Prague Castle, which is actually more of a museum. Or, you can simply walk around the castle district for free. You will get magnificent views of the city of a hundred spires and the Vltava River, and you can also access its inner courtyard. Golden Lane, which you go through to get there, is spectacular.

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The most classic neighborhood in Prague

Prague Castle isn't really a castle in the traditional sense. It is an entire neighborhood of the city in its own right. The area is incredibly well preserved and features typical architecture that will transport you straight into the Middle Ages. The small cobblestone streets are very pleasant, as are the building facades. The district is also home to several museums and sites to visit.

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A trip back to medieval times

The name "castle" is misleading. It is actually an entire neighborhood surrounded by ramparts that has frozen in time. Cobblestone streets, old houses and palaces, a Gothic cathedral, artisans... A real journey into the Middle Ages.

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Perfect for Christmas

The castle grounds contain an entire lively neighborhood that comes to life even more at the end of the year with its Christmas market. You will find crafts, a blacksmith working right before your eyes, grilled food, and trdelniks, all in a setting that has kept its medieval vibe.

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The must-see of Prague

It would be a real shame to come to Prague without visiting the Castle. Positioned on a hill that overlooks the city, the immense Castle includes a cathedral, palaces, period dwellings, traditional artisans... a real trip back in time!

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A must-see in Prague

At the top of a fortified hill, the castle is a complex of buildings and streets that you can access for free. There will be a good half-hour wait to get through security, but after that, you can wander around the area freely, except for a few buildings or museums that require a ticket.
It is honestly worth the trip. You will find the cathedral, a little Christmas market in winter, the old royal palace, pretty views over the city, and the changing of the guard.

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An entire neighborhood overlooking the city

Prague Castle is a bit of a misleading name. It is actually an entire neighborhood enclosed by a partially preserved wall, set at the top of a hill that overlooks the city and its river.

The climb up the hill from the river and the Charles Bridge is a nice walk. Entry into the Castle area is free. You will run into a line with a bit of a wait at the entrance, as that is for security checks. Inside the district, you will find palaces, some shops, a Christmas market around the Gothic cathedral, museums, and the changing of the guard every hour at the exit. Like Birdy says, some parts require a ticket. Plan on spending several hours there.

A quick note on the Christmas market: at a craft stall, a blacksmith was at work, creating a metal rose with his pliers, hammer, and forge, old school style! It was interesting, and my daughter and I were mesmerized.

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Huge and informative

Prague Castle is huge, featuring several buildings and courtyards built over the ages. Some parts are free to enter, others are not. It is actually not always very clear. I particularly liked Golden Lane.

Since the castle is built on a hill, you will find some pretty views there.

Plan for half a day if you want to see it all.

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