Karlštejn Castle is a Gothic fortress founded in 1348 by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, perched above the Berounka River about 30 km southwest of Prague. It was built to safeguard the imperial coronation regalia, the Bohemian crown jewels and holy relics, and its crowning jewel is the Chapel of the Holy Cross in the Great Tower — walls encrusted with thousands of semi-precious stones and 129 panel paintings by court painter Master Theodoric, a masterpiece of 14th-century art. Its dramatic terraced silhouette owes much to Josef Mocker's neo-Gothic restoration in the late 1800s. In 2026 it remains one of Czechia's most visited castles and a favourite day trip from Prague; the interiors can only be seen on a guided tour.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross (Kaple sv. Kříže) — gem-studded walls and 129 panel paintings by Master Theodoric, the castle's great highlight (seen only on the reservation-only tour)
The mighty Great Tower (Velká věž) crowning the hill, with sweeping views over the Berounka valley
The Imperial Palace of Charles IV — the emperor's bedchamber, St Wenceslas Chapel, Knights' Hall and other 14th-century interiors
The terraced Gothic architecture climbing the ridge, the Marian Tower and St Catherine's Chapel (Charles IV's private oratory)
The scenic walk up through Karlštejn village and its surrounding vineyards
Good to know
SafetyIt's a 20–25 minute uphill walk on cobblestones from the station and village to the gate. The path is steep and slippery when wet, so wear comfortable shoes; much of it is hard going for strollers and wheelchairs.
SeasonThe Chapel of the Holy Cross (Tour 2) generally runs only from about May to October and is closed in winter (Nov–Apr). The castle is also closed on Mondays and runs reduced days (e.g. Fri–Sun) from November, so visit in summer or autumn if the chapel is your goal.
RulesInteriors are accessible by guided tour only, and the chapel tour (Tour 2) requires advance booking for all visitors. Daily capacity is limited and photography inside is prohibited, so reserve a time slot in advance via the official website or by phone.
MannersStay with your guided group, keep quiet inside the chapels, and do not touch the jewelled walls, panel paintings or other exhibits.
CautionThe wax museum, torture museum and souvenir shops lining the approach are private attractions unrelated to the castle ticket. Buy tickets only at the official box office or official site, and check prices before accepting parking, carriage or shuttle offers.
SeasonJuly and August are peak season and timed tickets sell out fast. Book online ahead or arrive early in the morning to avoid disappointment.
Practical info
From Prague's main station (Praha hlavní nádraží), take the S7 suburban train (~40 min) to Karlštejn, then cross the river and walk 20–25 minutes uphill through the village to the castle. As of summer 2026 it is generally open Tue–Sun (closed Mondays), but opening hours, per-tour prices and the chapel tour's operating season change seasonally, so always confirm the latest details on the official website before you go.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
