Prague Castle: A Majestic Journey Through History
Explore the grandeur of Prague Castle, a historical marvel that showcases centuries of Czech history and breathtaking architecture.
Perched atop a hill in the Hradčany district, Prague Castle is a vast and historic complex that serves as a cultural icon and the seat of Czech kings and presidents. Spanning over 70,000 square meters, it is recognized as the largest ancient castle in the world, providing a stunning backdrop against the picturesque skyline of Prague. Visitors can wander through the majestic courtyards, admire the intricate details of St. Vitus Cathedral, and explore the Royal Palace and its opulent interiors. The castle's rich history dates back to the 9th century, with architectural styles ranging from Romanesque to Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance, showcasing the evolution of Czech architecture over the centuries. The castle grounds also include beautiful gardens and stunning viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the Vltava River and the charming city below. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the picturesque gardens, or take a moment to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere. The changing of the guard ceremony adds an extra layer of spectacle, captivating tourists with its precision and tradition. For history buffs, the castle houses several museums, including the Czech Glass Museum and the Picture Gallery, which feature a rich collection of artworks and artifacts. Accessibility is convenient, with opening hours from 6 AM to 10 PM every day, allowing ample time for exploration. Whether you’re captivated by the history, architecture, or stunning views, Prague Castle is an essential stop on any itinerary, providing a glimpse into the heart of Czech heritage and culture. Be sure to allocate enough time to fully appreciate this majestic landmark.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket to save on entry fees for multiple attractions within the castle complex.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle involves a fair amount of walking on cobblestone paths.
- Check the schedule for the changing of the guard ceremony for a unique photo opportunity.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the castle grounds.
A brief summary to Prague Castle
- Hradčany, Prague 1, 119 08, CZ
- +420224373368
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you're in New Town, a scenic and direct way to reach Prague Castle is by walking. Start at Wenceslas Square, and head northwest towards the National Museum. From there, walk up the hill towards the Prague Castle area. Follow the signs to Hradčany, which will take you through beautiful streets. The walk will take approximately 30-40 minutes, and it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes as the route includes some uphill sections.
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Tram
You can also take Tram 22 from various stops in New Town. For example, board the tram at 'Václavské náměstí' (Wenceslas Square) or 'Muzeum' (Museum stop). Ride the tram towards 'Koleje Strahov' and get off at 'Pražský hrad' (Prague Castle) stop. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Please note that a single journey ticket costs around CZK 40 (approximately €1.50) and must be validated before boarding.
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Metro and Walking
Another option is to use the Metro. From New Town, head to the 'Muzeum' station and take Line A (Green line) towards 'Nemocnice Motol'. Get off at 'Malostranská' station. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk to Prague Castle. Follow the signs towards the castle, passing through the picturesque Malá Strana district. This option allows for a mix of public transport and scenic walking.
Attractions Nearby to Prague Castle
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Story of Prague Castle
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Vladislav Hall
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Empress Maria Theresa Entrance
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Old Royal Palace
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St. George's Basilica
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St. Vitus Cathedral
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Mihulka Powder Tower
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Býčí schodiště
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Great South Tower
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Fountain and statue of Saint George, Prague Castle
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Zahrada Na valech
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Obelisk at Prague Castle
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Rosenberg Palace
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Deer Moat
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Ball Room of Prague Castle
Landmarks nearby to Prague Castle
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Prague Castle Riding School
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Mihai Viteazul Marker
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Column of the Holy Trinity
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Waldstein Palace (Wallenstein Palace)
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Statue of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, Prague
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Gardens below Prague Castle
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Liechtensteinský palác (Malostranské náměstí, Prague)
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St. Nicholas Church
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Fürstenberg Garden
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Malostranské nám.
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Historická ulice
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Dripstone Wall
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The House at the Two Suns
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Hradcany Square
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Old Castle Stairs