Prague Castle is one of the most visited and fascinating landmarks in Europe. With its vast complex of palaces, churches, and gardens, it naturally raises many practical questions before a visit. This FAQ brings together answers to the most common questions — about tickets, opening hours, access, visit duration, photography, accessibility, security, and guided tours.
Here you’ll find all the essential information to help you plan your visit smoothly and make the most of this iconic site — a true symbol of Czech history.
Tip: Book your tickets online before your visit. You’ll avoid waiting lines, enjoy guaranteed access to all open areas, and experience a pleasant, hassle-free visit to the largest castle complex in the world.
General Questions
What is Prague Castle?
Prague Castle is a vast historic complex located on Hradčany Hill, in the heart of the Czech capital. It brings together palaces, churches, courtyards, museums, and gardens. A symbol of political and spiritual power for over a thousand years, it is today the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
When was Prague Castle built?
Prague Castle dates back to the 9th century, when Prince Bořivoj built the first wooden fortress on the hill. Over the centuries, it was expanded and transformed by various dynasties, notably under the reign of Charles IV in the 14th century. Its present appearance is the result of over a thousand years of architectural evolution.
How big is Prague Castle?
With an area of about 70,000 m² and a length of more than 570 meters, Prague Castle is recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest castle complex in the world. It includes numerous historic buildings such as St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, the Old Royal Palace, and the famous Golden Lane.
Is Prague Castle still in use today?
Yes, Prague Castle remains an active seat of power. It houses the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic as well as several administrative offices and ceremonial halls. Some buildings, such as the Rosenberg Palace, are also used for exhibitions, concerts, and official events.
Are there guided tours of Prague Castle?
Yes, guided tours are available daily, including in English (book here). These tours allow visitors to explore the castle’s main monuments with an expert guide specializing in history and architecture. It’s recommended to book a guided tour ticket in advance (book here) to secure your spot and enjoy a more insightful experience.
Rules and Visitor Conduct
Are there security checks at the entrance?
Yes, all visitors must pass through a security screening when entering Prague Castle. Metal detectors and scanners are used to inspect bags and personal belongings. It’s recommended to arrive 15–20 minutes before your time slot to allow for this process. Large bags and metallic items may slightly extend the waiting time.
Can I visit with my pet?
Pets are not allowed inside Prague Castle or in any of its historic buildings. Only guide dogs and assistance dogs are permitted. However, leashed dogs are tolerated in certain outdoor areas, such as the South Gardens, provided owners maintain cleanliness and respect the site.
What is the dress code at Prague Castle?
There is no strict dress code, but appropriate clothing is recommended, especially in religious spaces such as St. Vitus Cathedral or St. George’s Basilica. Avoid clothing that is too short or revealing, and wear comfortable shoes, as visiting the complex involves a fair amount of walking on cobblestones and stairs.
Can I take photos or videos inside Prague Castle?
Photography is permitted in most indoor and outdoor areas, but without flash or tripods. In certain buildings, such as St. Vitus Cathedral or the Old Royal Palace, restrictions may apply to protect artworks. Visitors are asked to follow posted guidelines and respect the peaceful atmosphere of the site.
Can I bring luggage or a stroller into the castle?
Backpacks and small bags are allowed, but large suitcases cannot be brought inside the castle grounds. There are no luggage storage facilities on site. Strollers are permitted in the courtyards and gardens, though some historic areas include stairs or narrow passages that may limit access.
Can I eat or drink inside Prague Castle?
Eating and drinking are not allowed inside the monuments and exhibition halls. However, you may enjoy a picnic in designated garden areas or visit one of the nearby cafés. Please dispose of any waste in the bins provided to help preserve this exceptional heritage site.
Accessibility / Visitors with Disabilities
Which entrance should I use?
For visitors with reduced mobility, the most convenient entrance is Pražský hrad (tram 22), which leads directly to the Second Courtyard without significant stairs. The entrances via Pohořelec and the Royal Gardens are also relatively flat. The Malostranská entrance, however, involves a steep climb up old stone steps and is therefore not recommended.
Is Prague Castle accessible for wheelchair users?
A large part of the complex is wheelchair accessible, including the courtyards, St. Vitus Cathedral, and St. George’s Basilica. However, some historic buildings have steps or uneven cobblestone surfaces. On-site staff can provide assistance and help direct visitors to the most suitable routes for reduced mobility.
Are there accessible restrooms and facilities on site?
Yes, several restroom facilities are available throughout the complex, including some designed for visitors with reduced mobility. Accessible toilets can be found near the Second Courtyard and the exit of the Golden Lane. Staff members are available to indicate the nearest facilities depending on your visit route.
Are there elevators?
Yes, some newer or renovated buildings — such as the Prague Castle Picture Gallery and certain areas of St. Vitus Cathedral — are equipped with elevators. However, most of the medieval buildings do not have them due to their historic architecture. Wheelchair users can ask staff for assistance in accessing the step-free areas.
Tickets and Prices
You can find more information about the different ticket types and prices on our page Prague Castle Tickets and Prices.
Should I book my Prague Castle tickets in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during the high season. This helps you avoid long lines at the ticket offices and choose a time slot that suits you. Electronic tickets provide direct access and can usually be cancelled for free up to 24 hours before your visit.
Can I buy tickets on site?
Yes, ticket counters are available at the main entrances of the castle. However, waiting times can be long, particularly during the summer months and on weekends. To save time and secure your entry, it’s best to book your tickets online. Tickets purchased on site are valid only for the same day.
Can I visit Prague Castle for free?
Access to the courtyards, gardens, and certain outdoor areas of Prague Castle is free. However, entry to the historical buildings — such as St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane — requires a paid ticket. Reduced rates are available for children, students, and families.
Is my ticket valid all day?
Yes, your ticket for Prague Castle is valid for the date selected at the time of booking and can be used throughout the day. You may explore the included sites at your own pace, but each monument can be entered only once. Access to the courtyards and gardens remains open all day.
Are there combined tickets available?
Yes, several combined tickets are available. Some include a Vltava River cruise (see ticket), while others include a visit to the Astronomical Clock (see ticket). These options are a great way to discover Prague’s highlights at a discounted price. Booking is quick and easy online.
Opening Hours
You can find more information on this topic on our page Prague Castle Opening Hours.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
To fully enjoy Prague Castle, plan around 2 to 3 hours to explore the main buildings and monuments. If you’d like to visit the gardens, museums, and temporary exhibitions, allow for about half a day. History and architecture enthusiasts can easily spend 5 to 6 hours exploring without seeing everything.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Morning, right after opening (from 9:00 a.m.), is the best time to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Late afternoon is also lovely, especially for admiring the golden light over Prague’s rooftops. The busiest hours are between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., particularly in summer.
Which days are the quietest?
The quietest days to visit Prague Castle are usually Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Weekends and public holidays attract large numbers of visitors, as does the summer season. For a more relaxed experience, visit on a weekday morning right when the site opens at 9:00 a.m.
Do opening hours vary by season?
Yes, Prague Castle’s opening hours change depending on the season. From April to October, the buildings are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and from November to March, closing time is at 4:00 p.m. The courtyards and gardens remain accessible longer, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Is Prague Castle open on public holidays?
Yes, Prague Castle is open on most public holidays, including weekends. However, some buildings or exhibitions may be temporarily closed during official ceremonies or national celebrations. It’s advisable to check the exact hours on the official website before your visit to avoid any inconvenience.
Access and Transportation
More detailed information is available on our page Access: How to Get to Prague Castle.
How can I get to Prague Castle?
Prague Castle is easily accessible by public transport. The most convenient option is tram 22 (or 23), with stops at Pražský hrad or Pohořelec. You can also take the metro Line A (green) to Malostranská, then either walk or transfer to tram 22. Buses 143 and 149 also serve the western side of the castle area.
Is Prague Castle accessible by public transport for visitors with reduced mobility?
Yes, several tram stops and metro stations near Prague Castle are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. The Pražský hrad stop is the most convenient, as it provides direct access to the Second Courtyard without stairs. Modern trams are equipped with ramps to facilitate wheelchair access.
What is the nearest metro station to Prague Castle?
The nearest metro station is Malostranská on Line A (green). From the exit, you can walk uphill to the castle (about a 15–20 minute walk) or take tram 22 toward Pražský hrad. This metro + tram combination is the fastest route from Prague’s historic center.
Can I come by bicycle?
It’s possible to reach Prague Castle by bike, but the climb up Hradčany Hill is steep and the streets are cobblestoned. Bicycles are not allowed inside the castle complex. However, bike parking areas are available near the Royal Belvedere and the Malostranská metro station.
Parking
Can I park near Prague Castle?
Prague Castle is located in a historic area where parking is limited. There is no parking directly inside the castle complex. Visitors can park in nearby public car parks, particularly around Pohořelec, Malostranské náměstí, or near the Malostranská metro station.
Is there parking available for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, a few parking spaces are reserved for vehicles displaying a disabled parking permit, mainly near the Pražský hrad entrance and close to the Royal Belvedere. As the number of spaces is limited, it’s best to arrive early or use accessible public transport instead.
How much does parking cost around Prague Castle?
Parking fees vary depending on the area and duration. In general, expect to pay between 40 and 60 CZK per hour (around €1.50–€2.50). Some parking lots offer daily rates. Payment can be made at parking meters or via mobile apps such as ParkDots or Citymove.
Are there alternatives to parking near the castle?
Yes, the easiest option is to park in a Park & Ride (P+R) facility on the outskirts of Prague, then take the metro or tram to the city center. The P+R car parks along Line A (green) — particularly at Dejvická or Petřiny — provide a convenient and affordable way to reach the castle without the hassle of city parking.
The Castle
Our page with all the details for your visit: Visiting Prague Castle.
Which areas can I visit with my ticket?
The main entry ticket includes access to the castle’s major monuments: St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane. Depending on the ticket type, you may also visit the Powder Tower, the Prague Castle Picture Gallery, or certain temporary exhibitions. Courtyards and gardens are free to enter.
What are the must-see highlights?
The must-sees of Prague Castle include the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture; the charming St. George’s Basilica in Romanesque style; the grand Vladislav Hall in the Old Royal Palace; and the colorful Golden Lane. Don’t miss the Royal Gardens and the stunning panoramic views of Prague from the southern ramparts.
Can I join a guided tour?
Yes, you can book a guided tour of Prague Castle with a English-speaking guide (available here). These tours offer fascinating insights into the castle’s history, architecture, and legends. You can book your guided tour ticket online or at the ticket offices, depending on availability. Audio guides in French are also available.
Practical Tips
Is Prague Castle illuminated at night?
Yes, Prague Castle is beautifully illuminated every evening. Its façades and towers are bathed in light, creating a stunning spectacle visible from many points across the city — especially from Charles Bridge and the opposite bank of the Vltava River. The lighting highlights the castle’s grandeur and gives it a magical atmosphere at sunset.
Where can I find the best view of Prague Castle?
The best views of Prague Castle can be enjoyed from the South Gardens for an inner panorama, or from Charles Bridge and the Malá Strana riverbank for a full view of the complex. The Letná Park viewpoint also offers a spectacular perspective over the entire castle and the Old Town.