Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička) is a narrow street of tiny, brightly painted houses tucked into the arches of Prague Castle's fortifications, built at the end of the 16th century. Once home to castle guards and goldsmiths, it is best known as the place where writer Franz Kafka worked in house No. 22 in 1916–1917. After a 2010–2011 restoration, nine of the houses are furnished as exhibitions recreating five centuries of daily life, and in 2026 the lane remains one of the most popular stops on the Prague Castle circuit. Plan it as a short but fairy-tale-like walk woven into your wider castle visit.
Kafka's House No. 22 — the little blue cottage of his sister Ottla, where Kafka wrote several short works; today a bookshop devoted to his life and writing.
The row of 11 miniature colored houses set into the castle wall — the low doorways and 16th-century lane itself are the main attraction.
Nine furnished exhibition houses recreating real residents: castle guards, a goldsmith, a herbalist, the fortune-teller Matylda Průšová (Madame de Thebes), and film collector Mr. Kazda.
Daliborka Tower — a round cannon tower and prison from 1496, named after its first inmate Dalibor, with its old dungeon still preserved.
The defensive corridor above the houses — an upper passage displaying knights' armour and weapons, worth exploring together with the lane.
Good to know
RulesGolden Lane cannot be visited on its own; you need a Prague Castle circuit ticket (2026: roughly CZK 450 adult, 300 concession, 950 family). Expect airport-style security screening with bag checks at the castle gates, so allow extra time. Always confirm current prices and circuit options.
SeasonIn the summer high season (Apr–Oct) the lane gets very congested midday because it is so narrow. Arrive right at opening (09:00) or late afternoon for a calmer visit. Winter (Nov–Mar) is quieter but closes earlier at 16:00.
RulesAfter the paid hours (typically 09:00–17:00 summer, 09:00–16:00 winter) you can walk through the lane for free, but the house interiors and exhibitions are closed. Enter during opening hours if you want to see the exhibitions.
SafetyPrague Castle and tram 22 are known pickpocket hotspots. Wear bags in front, keep zips closed, and mind wallets and phones. The castle hill is cobbled and uneven, so comfortable walking shoes help.
MannersThe houses have very low ceilings and the lane flows in one direction. Stopping in doorways for long photos causes bottlenecks, so keep moving and watch bags and umbrellas inside the tight interiors.
CautionPrivate exchange booths near the castle and Old Town offer poor rates, and unlicensed taxis overcharge. Buy tickets only from official sites or castle box offices, and prefer public transport and card payment.
Practical info
Golden Lane sits inside the Prague Castle complex; the easiest approach is metro line A to Malostranská, then tram 22 to the 'Pražský hrad' stop and a short walk. Interiors are generally open summer (Apr–Oct) 09:00–17:00 and winter (Nov–Mar) 09:00–16:00, with free walk-through after closing but no exhibitions; always check current tickets and hours on the official Prague Castle site.
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