Prague Castle is one of the most visited attractions in the capital city of Czech Republic. A landmark that can be seen from all across Prague, the castle complex sits on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and the Mala Strana district, which is home to the famous John Lennon Wall and some really quirky public sculptures.
As the largest ancient castle in the world, visiting Prague Castle takes a bit of planning, simply because it is a sprawling complex, and not all areas of the castle are open to tour.
This Prague Castle review includes the most important information to know before your visit and tips to make the most of your tour.
About Prague Castle
Established in the 9th century, Prague Castle once served as the seat of Czech royalty and is now the official residence and workplace of the president of the Czech Republic.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is more than just a famous European castle, it is an entire complex with multiple buildings, some open to visit and others that are closed because of their official purposes.
Spanning 70,000 square meters, the castle grounds are free to visit, but you’ll need to buy a ticket to enter any of the accessible buildings.
Our Experience Visiting Prague Castle
We have personally visited Prague Castle twice on two different trips to the Czech Republic years apart. The first time we visited Prague our daughter was just a toddler. She didn’t remember the trip or the castle, so when we returned to Prague a few years later, we made sure to include this iconic landmark on our itinerary again.
While there are parts of the castle complex that will admittedly be boring for children, other parts will definitely be fun and memorable, which is why we consider the castle to be one of the best things to do in Prague with kids.
Children will particularly love Golden Lane and the dungeon at the end of it. And kids with a lot of energy will also enjoy the challenging climb up the South Tower of St. Vitus.
What to See at Prague Castle
As we mentioned, Prague Castle is a complex of multiple buildings and exhibitions. There are different ticket types that get you into the different buildings. The most popular ticket you can book is the Main Circuit, which includes admission to the following buildings:
Old Royal Palace
The Old Royal Palace is one of the main historical buildings you can visit at Prague Castle. It dates back to the 12th century, serving as the residence of Bohemian kings and later as the seat of the royal court. Its most famous area Vladislav Hall is a vast, vaulted space that was used for royal ceremonies and banquets.
The Old Royal Palace also houses the Royal Old Chapel, one of the oldest parts of the castle complex, and the Bohemian Diet Hall, where the leaders from across the region met to discuss government matters.
Don’t expect to see bedrooms and other living quarters in the Old Royal Palace. There are only a few rooms open to the public on the main floor. If you are wanting to see how royalty and wealthy people in Prague lived in the past, head to the Lobkowicz Palace Museum, the only privately owned building in the castle complex.
Basilica of St. George
One of the oldest and most important churches in the Czech Republic, the Basilica of St. George was founded in the year 920. It is simple yet striking, featuring thick stone walls, rounded arches, and a large crypt.
Over the centuries, it has undergone various modifications, which you can see evidence of when touring the basilica. Although renovated, it has retained much of its original character, including the ancient frescoes inside.
Golden Lane
Golden Lane will likely be your kids’ favorite area within the Prague Castle complex. It is a charming, historic street lined with tiny, colorful houses.
The lane originally housed castle guards, craftsmen, and later goldsmiths, which is how it earned its name. Over the centuries, the houses became home to writers, artists, and other residents, including the famed author Franz Kafka, who briefly lived at No. 22 while writing some of his works.
You can wander the preserved and reconstructed houses, some of which serve as shops selling Prague souvenirs and others are more like small museums offering glimpses into medieval life. On the second floor above the houses, you’ll find a long hallway with displays of armor used throughout the centuries.
At the very end of the colorful lane, take the staircase down to the dungeon where you’ll find medieval torture devices that will make you squirm in fascination.
St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is the crown jewel of Prague Castle. At the center of the complex, this stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous churches in Europe.
Construction began in 1344 and spanned nearly six centuries. The cathedral is beautiful inside and houses the tombs of Bohemian kings, saints, and notable historical figures.
Its spires can be seen for miles soaring above the city. Inside, large stained-glass windows immediately greet you. The cathedral also safeguards the Czech Crown Jewels, stored in a secure chamber with seven locks, each key held by a different official.
Other things to see at Prague Castle
Aside from the main circuit you can also purchase a ticket that provides admission to Rosenberg Palace, the Picture Gallery, the Story of Prague Castle, and the Castle Guard Exhibition. Admittedly, children may quickly lose interest in these exhibitions.
Additionally, you can pay to climb the South Tower of St. Vitus. This is a challenging, yet rewarding climb up a narrow, spiral staircase. It is 287 steps to the top viewing platform. From the top, you can see the entire city.
Tips for Visiting Prague Castle
To make the most of your visit to Prague Castle, you’ll want to plan ahead. This isn’t one of those attractions that you can show up to on a whim and have an enjoyable time.
Go Early
Plan to get there first thing in the morning, and if possible, arrive 15 minutes before the castle opens so you can be the first in line. You can also buy skip-the-line tickets online to avoid the queue.
Getting there early will also help you avoid the crowds, which brings us to the next of our Prague Castle tips.
Expect Crowds
Prague is a very popular and therefore very crowded city. Particularly during the peak tourism season, you should expect huge crowds of people.
Even if you arrive early, don’t expect to stroll down the picturesque Golden Lane alone or see the majestic St. Vitus without standing in a queue with hundreds of other visitors.
Start at Golden Lane
Golden Lane is at the far end of the castle complex, on the complete opposite side from the ticket office. Regardless, start your visit here.
This narrow street can quickly become overwhelmed with people later in the day. So, if you arrive first thing in the morning, go straight to the Golden Lane to enjoy this colorful cobblestone row with fewer people.
Wear Good Walking Shoes
One of the most important things to know before visiting Prague Castle is that it is located high up on a hill overlooking Mala Strana, one of the best areas of Prague to stay in. The walk up to the castle is no joke! You’ll want to wear a good pair of walking shoes the day you visit Prague Castle.
Take your time and enjoy the walk. There are often musicians playing for tips on the steps along the walkway. Be sure to stop at the top of the staircase from Mala Strana before entering the complex to enjoy one of the best views in Prague.
Skip the Guided Tour
Joining a guided tour is a great way to get more historical context, but you will walk around the complex with a group the entire time.
There are parts of the complex where you may want to linger longer than a group tour might allow. Instead, for historical context, get an audio guide that will provide fascinating stories of the castle complex.
Allocate at least half a day to fully explore the area and be sure to catch the changing of the guards’ ceremony at Prague Castle. It takes place each day at noon in the first courtyard.
After visiting Prague Castle, there are places within the complex and just outside of it where you can grab lunch and reflect on your time spent at this amazing attraction.
Is Prague Castle worth visiting?
Prague Castle is one of the more expensive attractions to visit in Prague. If you want to visit both the main circuit plus the extra exhibitions and climb the tower, the cost per person can add up quickly. However, despite the expense, the castle complex is well worth visiting.
You not only get to see the world’s largest ancient castle and a phenomenal cathedral, but you’ll leave with a better appreciation of Bohemian history and a deeper love for Prague.
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1 comment on “Visiting Prague Castle | Tips and Important Things to Know”
I loved how you highlighted the importance of planning ahead, as it’s such a vast and historic site. The tips for getting there early and exploring Golden Lane first are especially helpful to avoid the crowds. As a family, it’s great to know there’s something for everyone, including the fun and fascinating Golden Lane for kids. The views from the South Tower must be worth the climb, and I can’t wait to see the beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral in person.