Prague, a medieval metropolis, is at the top of every traveler’s bucket list. The city’s unique architecture, rich royal history, and budget-friendly attractions make Prague a must-visit destination. Any trip to Prague is incomplete without a visit to its premiere castle complex, so be sure you know how to get to Prague Castle.
Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world due to its enormous 70,000 square-meter complex. The castle sits on a high hill overlooking the city, protected by a wall that kept enemies and outsiders at bay.
If you’re the planner in your travel group, then you’re probably trying to figure out how to get to Prague Castle. Below is a breakdown of all the best ways to get to Prague Castle, so you can have a stress-free visit.
A brief history of Prague Castle
Prague Castle began as a lonely medieval fort at the end of the 9th century before it became the official seat of the head of state in the 10th century.
As the centuries progressed, each inhabitant added their own buildings with stylish flourishes. When King Charles IV became the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire in the 14th Century, the Castle incorporated more of the Gothic style and became an official royal residence.
When the Habsburgs took residence in the 16th century, the castle was rebuilt in the Renaissance style with art and scientific collections. However, it was abandoned many times between the 16th and 18th centuries, so only minor additions were made to the castle then. Today, Prague Castle is the official seat of the head of state of the Czech Republic and holds the Guinness World Record for the largest ancient castle in the world.
How to get to Prague Castle
Prague Castle is located above Lesser Town, known as Malá Strana, in Prague Quarter 1. Prague Castle is hard to miss up on a hill overlooking the city, located on the banks of the Vltava River.
Prague has an enviable public transportation system, making it easy to journey to all its top attractions. You can take a few different routes to Prague Castle, each featuring amazing views of the city.
🚃 How to get to Prague Castle by Tram
To get to Prague Castle, take the number 22 Tram from either the Malostranská metro station or Národní třída. You can get off at the main Prague Castle stop, Pražský hrad. If you prefer to add a short, scenic walk, then travel to the Pohořelec stop and walk downhill to the main Castle entrance.
🚇 How to get to Prague Castle by Metro
Taking the Metro to Prague Castle involves a bit of walking but is perfect for travelers eager to enjoy the fresh air. To take the metro to Prague Castle, grab Metro Line A (the Green Line) to the Malostranská metro station, then you’ll walk about 500 meters up the Old Castle stairs to the Na Opyši gate.
🚙 How to get to Prague Castle by Car
There are plenty of taxi services throughout the city, making it easy for those who need a lift. If you take a taxi to Prague Castle, get dropped off at Hradčanské Square or the Pražský hrad tram stop. From there, you’ll pass through the security checkpoints.
If you rent a car, you can either pay for parking at U Prašného Mostu Street or try your luck at parking near the Pražský hrad tram stop. Prague Castle is about a 22-minute car ride from Václav Havel Airport Prague.
🚶♀️How to get to Prague Castle on foot
You can walk to Prague Castle from a few different starting points. Foot soldiers can climb up the Old Castle Staircase from the Malostranskà underground station. This way brings you up the Eastern side of the castle, featuring unforgettable views of Prague. Keep in mind that the climb is fairly steep, so this path is not for the faint of heart.
The other way to get to Prague Castle on foot is by taking Charles Bridge. Charles Bridge connects Prague’s Old Town to the Castle complex from across the Vltava River. The bridge is about a 16-minute walk on the Western side of the Castle, allowing you to meander picturesque cobblestone streets filled with street vendors and performers.
✨ What’s one of the best ways to get to Prague Castle?
One of the best ways to get to Prague Castle is to take the number 22 tram up to the Castle and then head back down to the city on foot. You’ll catch incredible views of the city, and fully enjoy the medieval atmosphere of the area. Why not buy some souvenirs whilst you’re there too?
Prague Castle Tours
Tickets for Prague Castle: Entry + Mobile Guide & 15-Minute Orientation
This entry ticket allows you to wander the Castle grounds at your own pace but with a quick orientation for a stress-free visit. This ticket gives you access to Circuit B, which includes St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower. Upon arrival at your designated time slot, you’ll have a 15-minute orientation giving you an overview of the grounds, some quick history facts, and how best to use your time.
Tickets for Prague Castle: 1-Hour Guided Tour + Fast Track
This entry ticket pairs you with an expert guide, so you can make the most of your visit to Prague Castle. An English-speaking guide will share all the salacious drama of Prague Castle’s history on a fast-track tour of the complex. This ticket is perfect for travelers short on time but still desire an in-depth experience while visiting Prague Castle.
Prague Castle: Skip-The-Line Ticket with Audioguide & Minibus Transfer
This ticket is for travellers looking for an easy journey to Prague Castle. Get skip-the-line access to the Castle grounds along with a mini-bus transfer from Old Town Square, helping you access the best of Prague that much faster. You’ll also enjoy an online audio guide, available in six different languages, so you can learn all about the ups and downs of the residents within Prague Castle.
Planned how to get to Prague Castle? Here’s a helpful guide to 48 hours in the Czech Capital.
