Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) is the largest coherent castle complex in the world, founded in the 9th century and listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Today it is the seat of the Czech president and a national symbol, gathering St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace and the Golden Lane within a single hilltop precinct that ranks as Prague's top attraction. As of 2026 it remains fully open: the castle grounds and courtyards are free to wander, and paid tickets are needed only for the historic interiors. It pairs well as a half-day visit with the sweeping views it offers over Prague's Old Town and the Charles Bridge below.
St. Vitus Cathedral - Gothic spires and stained glass (including a window by Alfons Mucha), St. Wenceslas Chapel, and the viewing tower
Vladislav Hall in the Old Royal Palace - a vast pillar-free late-Gothic vaulted ceiling
Golden Lane (Zlatá ulička) - a row of tiny, colorful houses, including No. 22 where Franz Kafka once worked
St. George's Basilica - the oldest surviving Romanesque building inside the castle
The changing of the guard with fanfare and standard exchange in the First Courtyard daily at noon, plus panoramic city views
Good to know
CautionTram 22 up to the castle and the crowds at the gates are notorious for pickpockets. Keep bags zipped and worn in front, and never carry a phone or wallet in a back pocket.
SafetyEvery entrance has airport-style security screening (metal detectors and bag checks) that can create long lines. To catch the noon ceremony, clear security by around 11:15, and generally arrive 15–20 minutes early.
RulesThe grounds and courtyards are free, but the cathedral, palace, basilica and Golden Lane interiors require a combined ticket. Tickets are valid for two consecutive days with one entry per monument. Buy from official information centres or official online channels rather than street touts.
MannersSt. Vitus Cathedral is an active place of worship, so modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is advised; stay quiet during services and mass, and avoid flash photography inside.
SeasonSummer (Apr–Oct) is peak-crowded and winter (Nov–Mar) closes interiors an hour earlier; some gardens (e.g. the Royal Garden) open only from April to October. Arrive right at the 9:00 opening to beat the crowds.
CautionPrivate exchange booths near the castle often give poor rates, and paying in euros usually triggers an unfavorable conversion — pay in Czech koruna (CZK) where possible, and be wary of self-appointed 'guides' pushing paid tours on the spot.
Practical info
Reach the castle on foot from Metro line A (green) at Malostranská or Hradčanská, or via tram 22 at the 'Pražský hrad' or 'Pohořelec' stops. The grounds are free and open daily 06:00–22:00; interiors are typically 09:00–17:00 in summer and 09:00–16:00 in winter (last entry 30 minutes before closing), subject to seasonal and event changes. The combined ticket runs around 450 CZK for adults, but always reconfirm exact prices, hours and any special closures on the official site (hrad.cz) before your visit.
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