Prague Castle
Castle in Prague
Prague Castle is not just the city’s most iconic landmark—it’s also the largest ancient castle complex in the world, spanning over 70,000 square meters. Perched high above the Vltava River, it has served as the seat of power for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors, and modern-day presidents. Its sweeping silhouette dominates the city’s skyline and captures the imagination with its blend of architectural styles, from Romanesque and Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque. Walking through the castle grounds feels like traversing centuries of Czech history in one place.
At the heart of the castle complex lies St. Vitus Cathedral, the spiritual symbol of the Czech nation. Towering over the castle courtyard, the cathedral dazzles with its ornate stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and majestic spires. Inside, visitors can view the tombs of Czech kings, the crown jewels (in a secure chamber), and the chapel of St. Wenceslas, adorned with semi-precious stones. The cathedral alone could occupy hours of exploration, but it’s only one piece of the castle’s grandeur.
Also within the complex are several noteworthy structures: the Old Royal Palace with its grand Vladislav Hall, the medieval Basilica of St. George, and the enchanting Golden Lane, a row of tiny, colorful houses once inhabited by castle guards, goldsmiths, and even Franz Kafka for a brief time. The Royal Garden and the Southern Gardens offer stunning viewpoints over the city, especially at sunset, when the rooftops and river below are bathed in golden light.
Prague Castle is more than a static monument—it’s a living symbol of Czech culture and resilience. Daily ceremonial guard changes, rotating art exhibitions, and the rich presence of state institutions keep the complex lively and relevant. Whether you take a guided tour or wander on your own, a visit to Prague Castle provides a deep and memorable connection to the city’s soul.
The Prague Castle appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Prague Castle
Castle Grounds Hours: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Historic Buildings Hours: Summer 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Winter 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Adult tickets range from 250–350 CZK
Nearby Attractions
- Old Royal Palace, Prague (0.1) km
Palace in Prague - St. George's Basilica at Prague Castle (0.1) km
Basilica in Prague - St. Vitus Cathedral (0.1) km
Cathedral in Prague - Golden Lane (0.2) km
Street in Prague - Lobkowicz Palace (0.2) km
Palace in Prague - Wallenstein Palace & Gardens (0.3) km
Palace in Prague - Archbishop’s Palace, Prague (0.3) km
Palace in Prague - Nerudova Street (0.3) km
Street in Prague - Lesser Town Square (0.4) km
Square in Prague - Church of St. Nicholas, Prague (0.4) km
Church in Prague
