Getting to Prague Castle is easier than it may seem — there are several ways to reach it depending on your starting point, how much you feel like walking, and your budget.
In this guide, you’ll find the most convenient options for reaching this majestic historic complex perched on Hradčany Hill, whether you’re coming from the city center, the airport, or by car.
Book Your Prague Castle Tickets Now
Skip the queues at the ticket offices and save time with online booking. With your electronic ticket, you can enter the castle complex directly and enjoy seamless access to all major sites: the St. Vitus Cathedral, the St. George’s Basilica, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane. All tickets include free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit.
Where Is Prague Castle Located?
Prague Castle stands in the historic Hradčany district, on the left bank of the Vltava River. Rising high above the city, it’s one of Prague’s most famous landmarks and offers spectacular panoramic views across the Czech capital.
Several major sights are located nearby, including the Charles Bridge, the Malá Strana district, and St. Vitus Cathedral, which is part of the castle complex itself.
The exact address is: Pražský hrad, 119 08 Praha 1, Czech Republic.
The castle is easy to reach by public transport — most conveniently via tram 22 (stops “Pražský hrad” or “Pohořelec”) or the Malostranská metro station (Line A – green).
1. By Public Transport: Tram, Metro, and Bus
Prague’s public transport system is excellent, making it the most practical and affordable way to get to and visit Prague Castle. Tram line 22 is often mentioned as the classic route. Get off at the Pražský hrad stop — from there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the castle’s second courtyard.
Other tram and bus stops are also nearby (see list below), but Pražský hrad is the easiest one to remember.
Metro Stops for Prague Castle
For visitors arriving by metro, take line A (the green line) to Malostranská station. From there, you can either walk uphill or take tram 22 for a short and easy ride to the castle. This option is especially convenient if you’re staying farther from the city center or using the metro to get around Prague.
Tram and Bus Stops for Prague Castle
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) is very well served by public transport. The tram is the most practical and pleasant way to reach it, but several bus routes also offer convenient connections depending on your starting point.
🚋 Tram Stops Near Prague Castle
| Stop | Tram lines | Recommended access | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pražský hrad | 22, 23 | Entrance to the 2nd Courtyard | The most direct stop — just a 5-minute walk to the main castle complex. Ideal if you prefer to avoid uphill walking. |
| Pohořelec | 22, 23 | Entrance via 1st Courtyard (Hradčanské náměstí Square) | A gentle downhill walk to the main gate with wonderful views over Prague’s rooftops. Perfect if you enjoy a light stroll downhill. |
| Královský letohrádek (Royal Summer Palace) | 22 | Access through the Royal Gardens (seasonal) | Leads through the Royal Garden and Queen Anne’s Summer Palace — a beautiful approach in spring and summer. |
| Malostranská | 22, 23, 12, 20 | Access via Na Opyši Hill | Great for visitors who’d like to climb the “Old Castle Stairs” from the Vltava River. Offers a stunning panoramic view of the city. |
| Brusnice | 22 | Rear entrance to the castle | Less crowded route, ideal for reaching the southern gardens and quieter areas of the complex. |
🚌 Nearby Bus Stops
| Stop | Bus lines | Access / notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pohořelec | 143, 149 | Direct connection to Petřiny metro station (Line A). Convenient if you’re coming from western districts of Prague. |
| Malostranské náměstí | 192 | Tram/metro interchange. You can walk from here or take tram 22 directly to the castle. |
| Hradčanské náměstí | (occasional or tourist service) | Drop-off point for taxis and private transfers, located right in front of the main castle entrance. |
💡 Practical Tips
- Tram 22 is the most iconic line for reaching Prague Castle — it passes several major sights such as Národní třída, Újezd, Malostranská, Pohořelec, and Pražský hrad.
- Tram 23 follows the same route but uses beautifully restored historical tramcars — a charming experience in itself.
- Buses 143 and 149 connect the castle with outer districts via Petřiny metro (Line A).
- All trams and buses are wheelchair accessible and accept PID electronic tickets (Prague’s integrated transport network).
- Services run frequently — every 5 to 10 minutes during the day.
👉 Tip: To avoid uphill walks, get off at Pražský hrad or Pohořelec. For a scenic climb with great views, start from Malostranská.
2. The Different Entrances to Prague Castle
Depending on where you get off, you’ll arrive at a different entrance — each offering its own walk, level of effort, and experience. Here are some of the most common access points:
- 2nd Courtyard Entrance: Take tram 22 to Pražský hrad, then enjoy a short 5-minute walk to the castle gates.
- 1st Courtyard Entrance: Get off at Pohořelec and walk gently downhill to Hradčanské Square, leading directly to the main entrance.
- Na Opyši Gate: For those who enjoy a bit of exercise, get off at Malostranská and climb the “Old Castle Stairs” — a scenic uphill route with panoramic views.
- Royal Summer Palace Entrance (seasonal): Take tram 22 to Královský letohrádek and walk through the beautiful Royal Garden to reach the castle.
Each route offers a different experience depending on your energy, schedule, or preference for scenic walks. In any case, we recommend purchasing your Prague Castle ticket in advance to reduce waiting times.
3. On Foot or via a Scenic Route
If you enjoy walking or want to take in the atmosphere, reaching Prague Castle on foot from the Malá Strana district or after crossing the famous Charles Bridge is a wonderful experience. You’ll walk up charming cobbled streets with beautiful views of Prague’s rooftops as you go.
Do note, however, that some sections are steep or include stairways. For visitors with limited mobility or families with strollers, it can be a bit demanding. In that case, it’s best to take a tram to one of the higher stops to minimize the climb.
4. By Car, Taxi, or Ride-Share
If you’re arriving by car or prefer to be dropped off near the castle, it’s possible — but with certain restrictions. Vehicle access is limited, and parking spaces nearby are scarce and often full, especially during peak season.
A convenient alternative is to take a taxi or a ride-share service such as Bolt or Uber, which can drop you off at Hradčanské Square or the Pražský hrad tram stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to the main entrance of the castle.
5. Accessibility and Practical Tips
- Accessibility: Prague Castle is partially accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, particularly through the 1st and 2nd Courtyard entrances, which have minimal stairs.
- Security Checks: Security screening is required at all entrances. During busy periods, lines may form — booking your tickets online will help save time.
- Footwear: The streets leading to the castle are cobbled and sloped. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid high heels.
- Navigation: Once you exit the tram or metro, follow the signs for Pražský hrad or Hradčany. The directions are clear, but a map or navigation app can be helpful.
- Recommended Times: To avoid the crowds, arrive early in the morning (before 10:00 a.m.) or later in the afternoon. Tram 22 is usually quieter early in the day.