Old Castle Stairs, Prague Travel Guide

4.7 (426)

Ascend the historic Old Castle Stairs for breathtaking Prague views and a unique entrance to Prague Castle. A timeless journey!

The Old Castle Stairs, also known as Staré zámecké schody, are a historic stone staircase in Prague that connects the Lesser Town with Prague Castle. Dating back to the 16th century, these 121 steps offer a picturesque and challenging climb with rewarding panoramic views of Prague's rooftops and architecture.

A brief summary to Old Castle Stairs

Staré zámecké schody, Malá Strana, 118 00, CZ

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Castle Stairs.

Wear comfortable shoes as the steps are steep and uneven.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.
Take breaks during the climb to rest and admire the views.
Combine your visit with a tour of Prague Castle and a walk through the Lesser Town.

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Getting There

Walking

From Malostranská metro station (Line A), follow the signs towards Prague Castle. Walk along the street (Pod Bruskou) parallel to the tram line for approximately 100 meters, then turn left onto the Old Castle Stairs. The climb takes about 10-15 minutes. No costs are associated with walking this route.
Public Transport

From various points in Prague, take Tram 22 or 23 to the Malostranská stop. From there, follow the walking directions (above). A single public transport ticket valid for 90 minutes costs 40 CZK.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Take a taxi or ride-share service (such as Uber, Bolt, or Liftago) to the base of the stairs near Klárov. From the Old Town Square, a taxi ride will typically cost around 150 CZK. Be aware of potentially higher prices from local taxis and always confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Discover more about Old Castle Stairs

The Old Castle Stairs, or Staré zámecké schody, provide a memorable and photogenic route from Prague's Lesser Town (Malá Strana) to the majestic Prague Castle. These historic steps, believed to follow a path used since the 9th century , were formalized in the 17th century and reconstructed in the 1830s. The name ‘Old Castle Stairs' has been officially used since 1829.Climbing the stairs offers stunning views of Prague's cityscape, including its charming Baroque architecture, red rooftops, and the Vltava River. Street performers often line the route, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The staircase emerges at the eastern gate of Prague Castle, known as Na Opyši.While the climb can be strenuous, especially during the summer, it's a rewarding experience for those seeking a unique and historical approach to Prague Castle. The steps are open 24/7 and are free to access.