Prague Castle Official Entry Tickets

Prague Castle, the largest castle complex

Prague Castle dominates the skyline above the Vltava river and is one of the largest castle complexes in the world. Founded in the ninth century, it has been the seat of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors and Czech presidents, and it remains the symbol of the Czech state. If you are searching for Prague Castle tickets, this official ticket gives you access to the main historic buildings, valid for two consecutive days.

The castle grounds and courtyards can be walked without a ticket, but the interiors need one. The changing of the guard is a popular sight, and the ceremony at noon in the first courtyard draws crowds, so arrive early if you want a good view.

St Vitus Cathedral

St Vitus Cathedral is the largest and most important church in the country and the resting place of Bohemian kings and saints. Construction began in 1344 under Emperor Charles IV and was completed only in the twentieth century, which explains its combination of Gothic soaring vaults and later additions. The stained-glass windows include a famous window by Alfons Mucha.

The chapel of St Wenceslas, decorated with semi-precious stones and medieval paintings, is one of the most revered spaces in the cathedral. The Crown Jewels are kept elsewhere in the castle and rarely shown. Allow forty-five minutes to an hour inside, and remember that the cathedral can close for religious services.

The Old Royal Palace and St George's Basilica

The Old Royal Palace is the oldest part of the castle, and its huge Vladislav Hall, built in the late fifteenth century, is large enough for knights to have ridden their horses through. In the palace's chancellery rooms, the Second Defenestration of Prague took place in 1618, when officials were thrown from a window, an event that helped trigger the Thirty Years' War.

St George's Basilica, the oldest surviving church in the castle, dates from the tenth century and keeps its Romanesque interior with a red-painted baroque facade. Together they show how the castle developed over a thousand years, and both are included in your ticket.

Golden Lane and practical tips

Golden Lane is a row of tiny, colourful sixteenth-century houses built into the castle wall, once occupied by castle guards, craftsmen and, according to tradition, alchemists. Franz Kafka stayed in house number 22 for a time. Today the houses hold small exhibitions and shops.

Historic buildings generally close in the late afternoon, and the last entry is shortly before closing, so plan your time. You can start at any building. To get to Prague Castle, take tram 22 to the Prague Castle stop or the metro to Malostranská and walk uphill; there is a security check at the entrance. Some buildings may close for state events without refund, so check the castle's notices.