Prague Castle travel guide

Set on a hill overlooking the city, Prague Castle is a paramount symbol of the Czech capital with a history as captivating as its architecture. The castle's origins can be traced back to the 9th century, when it was established as a wooden fortification by Prince Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty.

Over the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous transformations, reflecting the changing artistic styles and political climates. It evolved from a Romanesque palace in the 12th century, to a Gothic masterpiece under Charles IV in the 14th century, and finally a Renaissance and Baroque style under the Habsburgs.

Prague Castle has always been the seat of Czech rulers, and today it serves as the official residence of the President. This historic complex, with its palaces, churches, and gardens, offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of the Czech nation's rich history and is a must-visit for any traveller.

Prague Castle is not just a single structure, but a complex of various palaces, buildings, and churches, making it the largest ancient castle complex in the world. It spans over an impressive 70,000 square meters. The castle houses the Gothic-style St. Vitus Cathedral, which is home to the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors. Inside the castle, one can also find the Old Royal Palace, displaying the original seat of Prague's princes.

The castle's Golden Lane is a charming, picturesque street lined with tiny, colorful houses, once home to the castle's goldsmiths and marksmen. Today, they've been transformed into quaint shops and museums. The castle also features the Daliborka Tower, a former prison that now serves as a museum of medieval torture instruments. Another standout feature is the castle's changing of the guard, a ceremonial event that occurs every hour and draws numerous spectators. With its rich history, architectural diversity, and numerous attractions within, Prague Castle offers a unique experience that is unparalleled.

Located in the dynamic Hradčany, the popular Prague Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Prague or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Czech Republic.

Prague is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Prague offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Prague and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague Astronomical Clock, and Dancing House.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Prague has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Prague, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Czech Republic!

Prague Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Prague, the Czech Republic. If you're flying in, Václav Havel Prague Airport is approximately 6.3 miles (10.2 km) away from Prague. From there, you can easily reach Prague Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Prague, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Prague Castle, which is located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Prague Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia, the Czech Republic.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Prague Castle!

The best time to explore Prague Castle is arguably during the late spring and early fall months, particularly May and September. These periods offer temperate weather and are less crowded than the peak summer season, providing a more relaxed experience. Prague's autumn foliage in September also adds a stunning backdrop to the castle's architecture. Alternatively, for a distinctly magical experience, consider visiting during the winter months. Despite the colder temperatures, the castle's grounds are often blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland, particularly in the early morning or late evening. Furthermore, the castle hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, such as the magical Christmas markets in December or the Royal Summer festivities. These events add an extra layer of cultural immersion and enjoyment to your visit. Regardless of when you choose to visit, it's advisable to arrive early in the day to avoid larger crowds and to ensure you have ample time to explore the castle's extensive grounds.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Prague Castle and the Czech Republic's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Václav Havel Prague Airport and the city of Prague, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in the Czech Republic cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Prague and beyond.

Conveniently explore Prague Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Prague by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Prague Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Prague has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Prague Castle below.

Aside from Prague Castle, Prague is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Prague, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and St. Vitus Cathedral.

Charles Bridge is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Prague, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 160,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Charles Bridge is Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

Another appreciated attraction in Prague is Old Town Square. Like Charles Bridge, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 100,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Staroměstské nám. , 110 00 Praha 1-Staré Město, Czechia.

St. Vitus Cathedral is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Prague. This church and top attraction in Prague has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 80,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of III. Nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Prague below.