Prague Castle dates back to the 9th century and boasts impressive architecture, imposing buildings and a sense of nostalgia all around. If you like medieval style, you will certainly love this large castle area stretching for over 70,000 square meters. You will be able to learn more information about the history of Prague, as you wander through the castles and enjoy the wonderful surroundings.
Over the centuries, Prague Castle has hosted some of the most prominent personalities in the city. It used to be home to the kings and emperors of Czech Republic, while now it is the house of the President. If you visit the castle, you will have the opportunity to admire the precious jewels of the Bohemian Crown. A unique experience, without a doubt!
In the premises, there is a plethora of buildings that will catch your eye. Besides the awe-inspiring churches, you will also visit the Palaces and Halls, Towers and of course the lush gardens. This is a marvellous visit for those who value history and at the same time enjoy a day out in the open air.
Opening Hours of Prague Castle
Prague Castle is open to the public throughout the year, although the opening hours vary according to the winter or summer season.
The summer season is from April 1st till October 31st – opening hours:
Prague Castle complex
6.00 – 22.00
Historical buildings
9.00 – 17.00
The winter season is from November 1st till March 31st – opening hours:
Prague Castle complex
6.00 – 22.00
Historical buildings
9.00 – 16.00
Be sure that you check the official website to see the opening hours, so you make sure that the premises are open at the time of your visit. Of course, exterior places are accessible more hours a day than the ticketed areas, and hence you need to be careful when scheduling your visit.
Tickets to Prague Castle
It is equally important to get a ticket to Prague Castle as soon as possible. In this way, you will be able to enjoy the magnitude of a large castle area care-free. The tickets are available in Information Centres of Prague Castle, in the Prague Castle Picture Gallery, in the Old Royal Palace and in the offices located in the Golden Lane.
The prices of tickets varies depending on which circuit or exhibition you choose. THe price varies from 70 CZK (approx. 2,5 EUR) for a visit of the Powder Tower – Exhibition of the Castle Guard to 350 CZK (approx. 13 EUR). More details about prices and available discounts you can find on the official website. What is great is the fact that many monuments are disabled-friendly, which means that everyone can enjoy the stunning location and historic value of the place.
How to Get to Prague Castle
There are multiple ways allowing you to reach Prague Castle. If you enjoy walking, you can take Nerudova Street and find yourself to the main entrance of the castle area. The Castle Steps will allow you to get to the Garden of the Ramparts, whereas the Old Steps will help you get to Jiřská Street for a magnificent view from above.
Alternatively, you can use the Tram of the city and get off on one of the following stops:
- Královský letohrádek (taking you to the Royal Garden)
- Pražský hrad (where you can find the Second Courtyard)
- Pohořelec (to reach the main entrance)
Golden Lane
Golden Lane (in Czech: Zlatá ulička) is a small street close in the arena of Prague Castle. It is connected with 16th century alchemists, who were according to legends trying to produce gold here from other materials, from here also the name comes. Golden Lane consists of small and brightly coloured houses. There are souvenir shops and also a medieval museum located in these houses.
Also recent history of Golden Lane is interesting. House no. 22 is connected to Franz Kafka, who was using this house for writing during the years 1919 and 1917. In one of the houses lived in 1929 also another famous writer Jaroslav Seifert, who won the Nobel Prize in 1984.