Prague Castle is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the Czech Republic and is a must-see for anyone traveling to Prague. Here’s a guide on how to visit Prague Castle
How to get to Prague Castle
Prague Castle is located in the Hradčany neighborhood and is easily accessible by public transportation, including the metro, trams, and buses. We walked to taking our sweet time getting up the stairs from the city center.
History of Prague Castle
Prague Castle is one of the largest castles in the world, with a rich history that dates back to the 9th century. The castle has been the seat of Czech kings and presidents for centuries and has played an important role in Czech history. The complex consists of several buildings, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George, and the Golden Lane.
What is must see in Prague Castle?
The castle consists of several buildings.
- St. Vitus Cathedral: This Gothic masterpiece is the most prominent building in the complex, with its soaring spires, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows. Inside, visitors can explore the nave, the choir, and the various chapels, each with its unique decoration.
- Old Royal Palace: This palace was the residence of Czech kings until the 16th century and now houses exhibitions and concerts.
- Basilica of St. George: This Romanesque basilica was built in the 10th century and is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the castle complex. It now houses a collection of Czech art from the 19th century.
- Golden Lane: This narrow street is lined with small houses that were once home to castle guards and artisans. Today, the houses have been converted into shops and galleries.
How to chose the best ticket for Prague Castle
You can purchase tickets for Prague Castle at the box office located near the entrance to the castle. There re several ticket options. The most popular are Circuit A ticket, which includes access to St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Basilica of St. George, and Golden Lane and Circuit B ticket, which includes access to the Powder Tower, Rosenberg Palace, and the Picture Gallery. You will also be able to purchase a separate ticket for St. Vitus Cathedral. We purchased Circuit A ticket and a separate St. Vitus Cathedral ticket.
Where to buy souvenirs in Prague Castle
There are several souvenir shops located within the Prague Castle complex, where visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and traditional Czech handicrafts.
How much time needed to explore Prague Castle
To fully explore Prague Castle and all its buildings, visitors should plan to spend at least half a day at the site. The time needed may vary depending on the individual’s pace of exploration.
In conclusion, Prague Castle is a must-visit when in Prague, and visitors should take the time to explore each building individually to fully appreciate its historical significance and architectural beauty. It’s recommended to purchase a Circuit A ticket to see all the significant buildings in the complex, and to allow enough time to fully explore this magnificent site.
