Prague Castle: A Symbol of Czech Heritage
Book Prague Castle Tour with Local Guide
Why to Book Prague Castle Tickets Online?
Prague Castle Tickets Options
This is the most budget friendly ticket option available which you can take for visiting Prague Castle. The ticket is valid for two days and includes entry to the various attractions inside Prague Castle complex. On your exploration tour of Prague Castle complex, you will - visit the largest and most important church of the city of Prague, St. Vitus Cathedral and be mesmerized by its stunning architecture; learn about the Bohemian kings at the seat of the emperors, the Old Royal Palace; pay your respect to Saint George at St. George’s Basilica; take a stroll through the cobblestoned streets of the beautiful Golden Lane.
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This tour will let you experience the glorious past and the fascinating present of Prague along with acquainting you to the city’s rich history, Prague Castle architecture, and legendary folk tales. By selecting this ticket option, visitors can get a chance to discover both the Old Town and the Prague Castle on a fully guided walking tour. The attractions that the tourists can explore are Prague's Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Church of St. Nicholas, Charles Bridge, and of course the Prague Castle.
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With this ticket, you can skip the line of entry and directly embark on a fascinating 2.5 hour guided tour of Prague Castle. To make this tour more educational, you will be aided with expert commentary from a knowledgeable professional local guide. After meeting your guide at the Malostranská metro station, you will take a tram and reach Prague Castle. Once your guide provides you the headphones to listen to the live commentary, you will embark on your tour. See the chapels, tombs, and stained glass windows of St. Vitus. Visit the Old Royal Palace and admire the striking vaulted ceiling of the stunning Vladislav Hall. Marvel at the stone walls and 12th-century frescoes of St. George Basilica. Walk through Golden Lane and check out the renovated homes and workshops.
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With this ticket, you can head on a self-guided tour of two of the best attractions of Prague, the Lobkowicz Palace and the Prague Castle. On this Prague Castle tour, you can explore the five most important and popular attractions that are inside the castle complex, including the Golden Lane, the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, and St. George's Basilica. One of the major highlights of this tour is that you will be able to witness Central Europe’s oldest and largest art collection at the fascinating private museum of the Lobkowicz Palace. Marvel at the brilliant masterpieces created by legendary artists, including Velázquez, Brueghel, and Canaletto at the intriguing Museum of the Palace.
By selecting this ticket option, visitors can skip the line of entry at three famous attractions of Prague and embark on their self guided tour. On this tour, they can explore the historical Prague Castle, Jewish Quarter, and the Astronomical Clock Tower. You can learn the glorious history and marvel at the spectacular interiors at Prague Castle.At Jewish Quarter, you can experience the breathtaking cultural heritage. Heading to the Clock Tower, you can soak in the mesmerizing views of the entire city of Prague.
With this ticket, you will get a unique and exquisite opportunity to experience the beautiful Prague city both by water and land. This 6-hour fascinating tour will let you explore Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and many other famous attractions of the city. You will take the tram and reach the Prague Castle complex. Post a coffee break, you will head to explore the culturally-impressive Jeweish Quarter and the cobblestoned streets and quaint alleys of the Old Town. This will be followed by a toothsome lunch with local delicacies at a famous local restaurant. Next, you will enjoy the serene cruise ride down the beautiful Vltava river and soak in the panoramic views of Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge.
By booking this ticket, you can head on a 2 hours guided tour of Prague Castle and Castle District. This tour will take you back in time as you learn about the magical Czech history, marvel at the various iconic monuments and admire the age-old courtyards of the castle. You can explore the postcard-perfect, colourful Royal Gardens, the most important church of the city, St. Vitus Cathedral; the second church of the complex, St. George's Basilica; and the ever-charming Charles Bridge.
By selecting this ticket option, you will choose for yourself a completely unique experience of Prague castle and head on a 3-hour night tour, exploring the untold mysteries of this iconic landmark. Throughout your tour, you will be guided by an experienced and knowledgeable local guide, who will narrate you interesting stories of ancient Prague. You will also be able to soak in the mesmerizing views of Prague city illuminated beautifully with colourful lights.
This combo ticket will let you skip the long ticket line and directly head to explore the Prague Castle, National Museum, and Old Town Hall. Wander around the Prague Castle complex and check out the stunning towers, palaces and halls, flaunting brillant architectural designs. You can visit popular attractions and landmarks including St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Daliborka Tower, and Golden Lane in Prague Castle. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Prague city, standing atop this beautiful Gothic-style Astronomical Clock Tower.
Prague Castle Highlights
Dating back to 1135, the Old Royal Palace happens to be one of the oldest structures at the Prague Castle. As history has it, this palace was constructed on the remnants of the Romanesque Soběslav Palace. Featuring breathtaking renaissance and Gothic architectural designs, this beautiful Prague Castle palace is nothing less than a visual treat. Initially, this palace was used by the Czech princesses and later, between the 13th and the 16th century, the palace was used by the king.
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Established almost 500 years ago and known to be one of the largest secular halls in the Prague Castle, the Vladislav Hall flaunts a mesmerizing Late Gothic architectural design. The magnificent Vladislav Hall served as the venue for the important royal events of the state, such as the knight’s tournaments, coronation festivals, and gala dinners. The hall serves for similar purposes even today and is used for ceremonial gatherings, presidential elections, and other prime events organized by the state.
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Known to be Pague’s largest temple, St. Vitus Cathedral flaunts impressive gothic and neo-gothic architectural designs with its beautiful stained glass windows. The beautiful bronze door of the cathedral features reliefs that showcase various historical scenes. This cathedral served as the venue for coronation ceremonies and religious events of the royal family. Apart from that, the cathedral was also used as the burial site of many saints and noblemen.
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The renowned St. George's Basilica is known to have been restored, reconstructed, and extended multiple times in the past. This basilica happens to be the second church built in the complex and is also considered to be one of the oldest churches here. At present the basilica serves as a venue for various important cultural events and concerts conducted by the state. The main nave of the basilica, features the tombs of the various members of the Premyslid dynasty.
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Lying on the north-eastern corner of the Prague Castle, the charming Golden Lane is basically a postcard perfect cobblestoned street. The street is beautifully bordered by small, quaint houses, dating back to the 16th century. During your Prague Castle tour, you can take a walk through this lane and you will feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Renaissance era.
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The magnificent and beautiful Great South Tower of the Cathedral happens to be a 100-meter high tower, dating back to the 15th century. It is popular for the Zikmund, its classic bell, which is also known to be the Czech Republic’s largest bell. There is a set of 287 steps to reach the top of this gigantic Great South Tower. Upon reaching the summit, visitors can soak in the breathtaking, rewarding views.
Your Prague Castle tour would be incomplete without immersing yourself in the lush tranquillity of the Prague Castle Gardens. The gardens, nestling in Malá Strana, present a delicate blend of manicured lawns, aromatic flower beds, and striking architectural gems, including Queen Anne's Summer Palace. Ascend the terraces and you're greeted with a captivating panoramic vista of Prague's skyline. The Royal Garden in Prague Castle, with its rich legacy since 1534, stands out as a serene retreat, while the Prague Castle South Gardens tell tales of Archduke Ferdinand's private space, capturing the essence of Prague's historical charm.
Stepping into Daliborka Tower, you'll find yourself traversing through Prague Castle's enigmatic history. A stark reminder of the castle's grim past, this tower, hidden at the Golden Lane's eastern end, unveils tales of dungeons, mediaeval punishments, and its notorious prisoner, Dalibor of Kozojedy, for whom it's named. Today, Daliborka houses a fascinating display of prison relics. As you meander through the Golden Lane, memories of literary icon Franz Kafka might just inspire you, making your Prague Castle tickets online purchase truly worthwhile.
No visitor should miss the majestic Changing of the Guard during their tour of Prague Castle. Taking place daily at noon in the castle's first courtyard, this ceremony is a mesmerising confluence of tradition, precision, and pageantry. As the clock strikes, watch with bated breath as the guards, resplendent in their emblematic uniforms, demonstrate an impeccable shift change, augmented by resonant fanfare and vibrant banners. Securing your Prague Castle tickets ensures that you are part of this age-old spectacle, resonating with the heartbeats of Prague's cultural heritage.
Prague Castle History
Who Built Prague Castle?
The Architecture Of Prague Castle
Interesting Facts About Prague Castle
- Historical Significance: The castle, founded in the 9th century, is one of the oldest and largest Castles in the world. It is an enduring symbol of Czech history and sovereignty.
- Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral: The stunning St. Vitus Cathedral within the Castle complex took nearly 600 years to complete, with construction spanning the 14th to the 20th centuries. It is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
- Largest Castle Complex: It is not just a single building but a complex of palaces, churches, and other structures. It covers an area of about 70,000 square meters, which makes it the largest Castle complex globally.
- Presidential Residence: Since 1918, the castle has also been the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic and this tradition is ongoing till date.
- Secret Passageways: The Castle is rumored to have hidden passageways that connect it with other parts of the city. These secret tunnels add an air of mystery to the site.
- Crown Jewels: The Bohemian Crown Jewels, including the Crown of Saint Wenceslas, are stored at the Castle and are on public display in the Crown Jewels exhibition.
- Art Collections: Under the Prague Castle ticket price, see impressive art collections, including the Lobkowicz Palace, which displays priceless European art and historical artifacts.
- Golden Lane: Book Prague Castle tickets in advance and see this charming lane within the Castle complex is lined with tiny, colorful houses and was once home to goldsmiths and servants. You can explore the lane as it is now a popular tourist attraction.
Know Before You Go To Prague Castle
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Location: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
Timings:
- April 1st to October 31st: 09:00 A.M. to 05:00 P.M
- November 1st to March 31st: 09:00 A.M. to 04:00 P.M
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Prague Castle is during the early morning hours. Try to arrive before the opening hours of the castle, ideally around 08:30 a.m., which will help you to enjoy the serenity of the majestic grounds and intricate architecture without the bustling crowds. As the day advances, the venue gets busier, so an early start ensures a peaceful and immersive experience.
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- By Tram: One of the most convenient ways to reach Prague Castle from the city centre is via a tram ride. You can board tram numbers 22 or 23, and get off at the Pražský hrad stop. This stop is located a short 5-minute stroll from the Prague Castle at the 2nd Courtyard. Alternatively, you can get down at Pohořelec for a picturesque 10-minute descent to the castle via Courtyard IV.
- By Metro: You can also opt for metro line A (the green line) to the Malostranská station, which is located just a 7-minute walk from the castle.
- By Bus: If you are near the Lesser Town or adjacent neighbourhoods, you can avail a ride on bus number 192, and get off right in front of the castle.
- By Taxi: If you are taking a taxi to the castle, you have to get off at Hradčanské Square and then enter the castle after passing through the security checkposts.
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- Na Opyši: You can enter the castle through Na Opyši gate, if you are taking the metro.
- Courtyard II: You can enter the castle through Courtyard II, if you are getting off at Pražský hrad.
- Courtyard IV: You can enter the castle through Courtyard IV, if you are getting off at Pohořelec.
- The Royal Summer Palace: You can enter Prague Castle through the Royal Summer Palace, if you are taking tram 22 and getting off at Královský letohrádek.
- Gate of Giants: You can enter through the Gate of Giants, if you are taking the stairs up the Hradčanské square.
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- Be prepared for potential security checks and allow your bags to be inspected. Heed all instructions from the security team.
- When in areas like St. Vitus Cathedral, remain silent and show respect, as they're places of worship.
- While photos in the castle's exterior are generally permitted, be aware of specific restrictions.
- Always respect signage and staff directions regarding photography.
- Refrain from smoking throughout the entire castle grounds.
- For those who wish to smoke, utilise designated areas outside the castle.
- Old Town Square: A bustling hub steeped in history; it's highlighted by architectural gems such as the Church of Our Lady before Týn.
- Charles Bridge: A testimony to mediaeval engineering, this stone bridge offers picturesque views of the Vltava River and the city.
- National Museum: This grand repository showcases rich Czech history, from archaeological wonders to diverse art collections.
- Astronomical Clock: An iconic mediaeval timepiece, it thrills visitors with its intricate mechanics and hourly show at the Old Town Hall.
- Wheelchair Accessible: Prague Castle is wheelchair accessible, and you can find elevators as well as ramps in certain sections of the castle for guests with disabilities.
- Guided Tours: Visitors with disabilities can also avail of a guided Prague Castle tour, which is conducted by expert guides using accessible routes within the castle complex.
- Audio Guides: Visitors with visual impairments can also make use of the audio guides available at the castle with their Prague Castle tickets and enrich their experience.
Tips To Visit
FAQs
Do I need to book Prague Castle tickets in advance?
While not obligatory, booking your Prague Castle tickets online in advance is highly recommended. Doing so ensures not only a seamless entry but also minimises time spent in queues, which can be considerably long during tourist-heavy seasons. Additionally, advance bookings often come with exciting offers, or even a discounted Prague Castle ticket price, thereby enhancing the overall experience.
What is included in the Prague Castle Tickets?
There are many types of tickets for Prague Castle and each one comes with different benefits and features. The common inclusions that come with all the tickets are entry fee to the castle, tram tickets to reach the location, and guided tours.
How to buy tickets for Prague Castle?
The best way of booking your Prague Castle tickets is online. Booking your slot online in advance will let you skip the line of entry to the castle and offer you a convenient and hassle-free visit. You can also avail many combo deals and discounts on your Prague Castle tickets price online, which will eventually save you a lot of money and time.
Are there any discounts available on booking Prague castle tickets online?
Yes, some discounts are available on the Prague Castle tickets. You can check for these exciting deals and discounts while booking your Prague Castle tickets online.
Are guided tours available for Prague Castle?
Yes, there are guided tours available for Prague Castle. You can avail of these tours with your Prague Castle tickets and get insights into its storied past and architectural significance. These tours are designed to provide insights that might be overlooked during self-guided visits. The skip-the-line tours, in particular, are beneficial for time-pressed visitors or those looking to bypass the regular queues.
Where is Prague Castle located?
The castle is situated in the Hradčany district of Prague, Czech Republic. This iconic historical complex dominates the city's skyline as it sits on the top of a hill, offering magnificent views of Prague. With the Prague Castle ticket price, you can see a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic and Baroque, making it a must-visit destination for visitors.
Which landmark is nearest to Prague Castle?
The nearest landmark to Prague Castle is the Šternberský Palace. Prague Castle is located just 40 meters away from the Šternberský Palace, which is a distance of only one minute.
Why is Prague Castle so famous?
Prague Castle is famous for its huge size of 70,000 square meters, which makes it the largest coherent castle in the world. It is also known popularly for its breathtaking Bohemian and Roman architectural designs. The gigantic castle is also popular for its beautiful churches and churches and lush gardens.
How to get to Prague Castle?
- By Tram: From the city centre, take a ride on either tram 22 or tram 23, and get off at the Pražský hrad stop, which is located a brief 5-minute walk to the 2nd Courtyard of Prague Castle. If you wish to take a scenic route, get off at Pohořelec and enjoy a 10-minute downhill walk via Courtyard IV.
- By Metro: You can also avail a ride on Metro line A (green), which will take you to Malostranská station, situated just 7 minutes away from the Prague Castle on foot.
- By Bus: From the Lesser Town or nearby areas, board bus number 192. It conveniently stops directly in front of the castle.
How long should I spend at Prague Castle?
A typical Prague Castle tour will take you approximately around 2 to 3 hours. This duration accounts for the castle's vastness, encompassing numerous historic towers, gardens, and panoramic views. During this time, you will also get to delve deep into the rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture of the castle complex.
What to see at Prague Castle?
With Prague Castle tickets, you can see various attractions, including the castle complex with its historical buildings, courtyards, and gardens. There are St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George, and the picturesque Golden Lane. You can also enjoy the tradition of the Changing of the Guard. Book Prague Castle tickets online and have a unique perspective on the Castle's rich history & architecture.
What are Prague castle opening hours?
Prague Castle welcomes visitors from 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. between April 1st and October 31st. As daylight hours shrink in winter, from November 1st to March 31st, the operating hours are slightly reduced to 09:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m. Checking the castle's official website is a good practice for any seasonal variations or special events.
What is the best time to visit Prague Castle?
The ideal times to explore Prague Castle are during early mornings, right when the castle opens for the day, or during late afternoons after the morning rush has subsided. These periods typically witness fewer crowds, ensuring a more relaxed experience. Furthermore, visiting on weekdays further reduces the chances of encountering large groups, making the exploration more intimate.
How big is Prague Castle?
The castle is one of the largest Castles globally, covering an expansive area of approximately 70,000 square meters. Its vast complex includes a variety of historical buildings, courtyards, gardens, and architectural wonders, making it a significant and prominent feature in the city of Prague. During the Prague Castle tour, explore the expansive area that includes numerous attractions and historic sites within the Castle grounds.
Who lived in Prague Castle?
Throughout its rich history, it has been home to various rulers, including kings, emperors, and presidents. Prominent figures who lived within its walls include Charles IV, Rudolf II, and Franz Joseph I. It remains the official residence of the Czech President. Over the centuries, the Castle has played a crucial role in the political, cultural, and historical development of the Czech Republic.
How long does it take to visit Prague Castle?
The time spent exploring the castle depends on your interests and the areas you wish to visit. On average, a comprehensive visit might take approximately 2 to 3 hours. The Prague Castle tour includes the Prague Castle complex, the architecture, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Golden Lane. However, if you wish to see the museums and exhibitions, you might want to allocate more time.
How to get to Prague Castle by public transport?
To reach the castle by public transport, you can take tram number 22 from various points in the city center, such as Malostranská, Národní třída, or Staroměstská. Tram 22 will take you to the Pohořelec stop, which is a short walk from the Castle's entrance. This convenient and scenic tram ride offers an easy and budget-friendly way to access the historic Prague Castle complex.
How to get to Prague Castle from Charles Bridge?
To get from Charles Bridge to the castle, you can take a picturesque walk through the charming Mala Strana district. After crossing Charles Bridge from the Old Town side, head up the hill toward Prague Castle. Walk through the historic streets of Mala Strana, explore shops & cafes, and enjoy beautiful views of the city along the way. It's a pleasant and straightforward route.
How old is Prague Castle?
Prague Castle, a cornerstone of Czech heritage, has roots that extend over a millennium or 1000 years. Its rich chronicles span various eras, monarchs, and significant historical events, making it one of Europe's oldest and most continuously inhabited edifices.
When was Prague Castle built?
Prague Castle's initial foundation traces back to the 9th century, during the early half of 870. Throughout its existence, it has undergone numerous reconstructions, adaptations, and expansions, especially post the Velvet Revolution. Each epoch and ruler added layers to its architecture and history, resulting in the grandeur we witness today.
What is the dress code for Prague Castle?
Though Prague Castle doesn't impose a rigid dress code, you are advised to opt for modest attire. This is particularly important when visiting places of worship like St. Vitus Cathedral within the castle precincts. Respecting local customs and beliefs enhances the cultural experience for everyone involved.
Where to eat near Prague Castle?
Several dining options are available near the castle. For a fine dining experience with Czech and international cuisines, Kampa Park and Bellevue Restaurant are popular choices. If you prefer a more casual atmosphere, try Strahov Monastic Brewery for traditional Czech dishes and craft beer. Café Nový Svět offers a charming spot for coffee and pastries.
Are there any Indian restaurants near Prague Castle?
Yes, there are several Indian restaurants near the castle. You can find options like Royal Indian and Maharaja Indian Restaurant within a reasonable distance from the Castle. These establishments offer a taste of Indian cuisine for those looking to explore international flavors while visiting the historic Castle and its surroundings. After exploring the Castle, you can tingle your taste buds with various Indian dishes.
Can you take pictures at Prague Castle?
Yes, you can take photographs in Prague Castle. However, some interiors or artefacts might have flash restrictions to prevent potential damage or to maintain the sanctity of specific zones. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a harmonious visit for all and the preservation of the site's treasures.
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