Karlštejn Castle, Prague Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover Karlštejn Castle, a magnificent Gothic fortress near Prague, built by Charles IV to safeguard royal treasures and crown jewels.

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Karlštejn Castle

A brief summary of Karlštejn Castle

Discover Karlštejn Castle, a magnificent Gothic fortress near Prague, built by Charles IV to safeguard royal treasures and crown jewels.

Karlštejn Castle, founded in 1348 by Charles IV, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Located near Prague, it served as a safeguard for royal treasures and offers visitors a glimpse into Czech history and a fairy-tale experience.

4.6 Excellent · 24,073 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • MonClosed
  • TueClosed
  • WedClosed
  • ThuClosed
  • Fri10 am–3 pm
  • Sat10 am–3 pm
  • Sun10 am–3 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
Karlštejn 172, 267 18 Karlštejn
Phone
Website

Getting there

Public Transport

The easiest way to reach Karlštejn Castle from Prague is by train. Trains depart approximately every 30 minutes from Prague Main Station (Praha Hlavni Nadrazi) in the direction of Beroun. The journey takes about 40 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs approximately 120 CZK. Upon arrival at Karlštejn train station, turn right, cross the Berounka River, then turn right again and after 50 meters turn left. Follow the main road uphill for about 15 minutes to reach the castle.

Taxi

A taxi from Prague to Karlštejn takes approximately 37 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare ranges from 1,000 to 1,300 CZK. Taxis will drop you off at the central parking lot in Karlštejn. From there, it is a 15-minute walk uphill to the castle. Keep in mind that the town of Karlštejn is a pedestrian zone.

Walking

From Karlštejn train station, exit and turn right. Follow the trail across the bridge. Turn right again and follow the road into Karlštejn. From there, follow the road uphill towards the castle. The walk from the train station to the castle is approximately 2.1 km (1.3 miles) and takes about 15-20 minutes. Be prepared for a steep incline.

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Overview

Karlštejn Castle, a majestic Gothic fortress, stands proudly atop a hill in the village of Karlštejn, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Prague. Founded in 1348 by Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, the castle served as a secure haven for royal treasures, including the Imperial Regalia and the Bohemian Crown Jewels. Charles IV personally supervised the castle's construction and decoration, emphasizing its importance as both a royal residence and a symbol of Czech statehood.The castle's architecture is a sight to behold, showcasing a unique design influenced by the presence of holy relics. Over the centuries, Karlštejn has undergone several reconstructions, including late Gothic and Renaissance styles. The most recent restoration, completed in the late 19th century, gave the castle its present fairy-tale appearance.Visitors can explore the castle's historic interiors through guided tours. The Imperial Residence tour showcases valuable furnishings from the 14th to 19th centuries, while the Castle Chapels tour grants access to the Church of the Virgin Mary, St. Catherine Chapel, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a highlight, adorned with thousands of polished semi-precious stones and unique medieval wall paintings.Beyond the castle walls, the village of Karlštejn offers charming streets, shops, and restaurants. The surrounding area boasts hiking trails and the beautiful Czech Karst Protected Landscape Area.

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