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Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Golden Lane: A Fairytale Street in Prague Castle
Discover the charm of Prague Castle's Golden Lane, a historic street with colorful houses, captivating stories, and a touch of magic.
Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička) is a picturesque, historic street within Prague Castle, known for its tiny, colorful houses built into the castle walls. Originally home to castle guards and goldsmiths, it later attracted artists like Franz Kafka. Today, it features charming shops and exhibits showcasing the lane's unique history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Golden Lane
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9 am-5 pm
Tuesday
9 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9 am-5 pm
Thursday
9 am-5 pm
Friday
9 am-5 pm
Saturday
9 am-5 pm
Sunday
9 am-5 pm
Discover more about The Golden Lane
Golden Lane, or Zlatá ulička in Czech, is one of Prague Castle's most enchanting spots. This narrow street is lined with small, vibrant houses built in the late 15th century as part of the castle's northern fortifications. Initially, these dwellings housed the castle's marksmen and goldsmiths, giving the lane its name. Legend says alchemists resided here during the reign of Rudolf II, though this is likely a myth.
Over the centuries, Golden Lane evolved, becoming home to a diverse group of residents, including artists and writers. The most famous resident was Franz Kafka, who lived in house number 22 for a short time. Today, the houses have been transformed into shops and exhibits, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived here.
Visitors can explore several of the houses, each with its own unique story. House No. 13 showcases the form of a 16th-century dwelling, while House No. 14 displays a model of a pre-World War II home. A staircase in House No. 12 leads to a terrace overlooking Daliborka Tower, a cylindrical cannon tower that once served as a prison. The colorful facades, designed by artist Jiří Trnka, add to the lane's fairytale atmosphere.
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Getting There
Public Transport
The easiest way to reach Golden Lane is by taking Tram 22 to the 'Pražský hrad' stop. From there, it's a short, mostly level walk through the Prague Castle complex. Follow the signs to Golden Lane, passing St. Vitus Cathedral and St. George's Basilica. Alternatively, take Metro Line A to 'Malostranská' station and walk up the Old Castle Stairs. This is a steeper climb but offers scenic views. A single tram or metro fare costs 30 CZK for 30 minutes or 40 CZK for 90 minutes.
Walking
From Old Town Square, cross the Charles Bridge and continue to Malostranské náměstí (Lesser Town Square). From there, you can either take the Old Castle Stairs directly to the castle entrance (a steep climb) or walk along Nerudova Street and then Zámecká to the New Castle Stairs. Once inside the castle complex, follow signs to Golden Lane. Note that the walk from Malostranské náměstí is uphill and takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off at Hradčanské náměstí (Prague Castle Square), near the main entrance. From there, it's a short walk through security to the castle complex and Golden Lane. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Wenceslas Square) will cost approximately 240-300 CZK, depending on traffic and the specific location. Be aware that parking near Prague Castle is very limited.
A brief summary to The Golden Lane
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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