Planning Your Trip to the Castle

Before visiting Prague Castle complex, you must understand how the ticketing works. The grounds are generally free to enter and walk through. However, you need a ticket to see the famous interiors. Most people buy the Circuit ticket which covers the main historical buildings. You can check the official Prague Castle site for current prices. It is wise to compare options like the Prague sightseeing pass before you arrive. This can save you money if you plan to see many museums. Arrive early in the morning to beat the large tour groups. Security lines at the entrance gates move faster before 9:00 AM.

11 Best Sights When Visiting Prague Castle Complex

The complex is like a small city with many different styles of architecture. You will see Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings standing side by side. Here are the top 11 sights you should not miss during your tour.

• Best overall: St. Vitus Cathedral
• Best for families: Golden Lane
• Best rainy-day: Old Royal Palace
• Best free activity: Changing of the Guard

1. Name: St. Vitus Cathedral Type: sight Why go: It is the spiritual heart of the country and a Gothic masterpiece. Best for: Architecture lovers and history buffs. Where: Third Courtyard. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Included in main circuit ticket. Getting there: Walk from the main castle entrance. Tip: Look for the stained glass window designed by Alfons Mucha. It is one of the most beautiful churches in Prague.
2. Name: Old Royal Palace Type: sight Why go: See the massive Vladislav Hall with its unique vaulted ceiling. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Third Courtyard. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Included in main circuit ticket. Getting there: Located next to the cathedral. Tip: Visit the Bohemian Chancellery where the famous Defenestration of Prague happened.
3. Name: Golden Lane Type: experience Why go: These tiny colorful houses once housed castle guards and goldsmiths. Best for: Photographers and families. Where: Northern part of the complex. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in main circuit ticket. Getting there: Follow the signs from St. George's Basilica. Tip: House number 22 was once the home of writer Franz Kafka.
4. Name: St. George's Basilica Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest surviving church building within the castle complex. Best for: Fans of Romanesque architecture. Where: St. George's Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in main circuit ticket. Getting there: Located behind St. Vitus Cathedral. Tip: The red facade is very striking for photos against the grey cathedral.
5. Name: Great South Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the highest and best views over the city rooftops. Best for: Active travelers who want a workout. Where: St. Vitus Cathedral exterior. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Separate ticket required. Getting there: Entrance is on the south side of the cathedral. Tip: There are 287 steps to climb, so take your time. It is one of the best scenic viewpoints in Prague.
6. Name: Lobkowicz Palace Type: museum Why go: This is the only privately owned building in the complex with amazing art. Best for: Art and music lovers. Where: Near the Eastern Gate. Time: 60-90 minutes. Cost: Separate ticket required. Getting there: Walk towards the Golden Lane exit. Tip: The audio guide is narrated by the Lobkowicz family themselves. This is one of the best museums in Prague for private collections.
7. Name: Royal Garden Type: nature Why go: It is a peaceful escape from the crowds with beautiful flowers. Best for: Relaxing and nature walks. Where: North of the castle moat. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access via the bridge over the Deer Moat. Tip: Visit the Singing Fountain in front of the Queen Anne's Summer Palace.
8. Name: Changing of the Guard Type: experience Why go: Watch the formal ceremony with music and precision marching. Best for: All visitors. Where: First Courtyard (main entrance). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Be at the main gates by noon. Tip: The noon ceremony is the most elaborate with a full brass band.
9. Name: Deer Moat Type: nature Why go: A lush green ravine that offers a different perspective of the walls. Best for: Getting away from the tourist path. Where: Northern edge of the complex. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter near the Powder Bridge. Tip: It is usually only open during the summer season.
10. Name: Daliborka Tower Type: sight Why go: A former prison tower named after its first famous prisoner. Best for: Fans of dark history and legends. Where: At the end of Golden Lane. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in main circuit ticket. Getting there: Walk through the Golden Lane. Tip: Check out the old torture instruments on display inside.
11. Name: Rosenberg Palace Type: museum Why go: Learn about the Institute for Noblewomen that once operated here. Best for: Social history buffs. Where: Near the Lobkowicz Palace. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in some circuit tickets. Getting there: Located on the main street of the castle. Tip: The chapel inside has very beautiful ceiling frescoes.

Practical Tips for Your Castle Tour

When visiting Prague Castle complex, safety is a priority. You must pass through a metal detector at every entrance. Do not bring large backpacks or sharp objects with you. The Visit Czechia board recommends booking tickets online. This helps you skip the long ticket office lines. Most buildings are not heated well in winter. Dress in layers if you visit during the colder months. Photography is allowed but usually requires a small extra fee for interiors. Respect the silence inside the cathedral and other religious spaces. There are several cafes inside, but they can be expensive. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your long walk.