The sunlit First Courtyard facade at Prague Castle, with visitors in the square. — PHOTO“19.7.16 Prague Castle 05 (28395630146).jpg” by donald judge · CC BY 2.0. Resized and converted to WebP for this site.

EUROPE PRAGUE · CZECHIA

Prague Castle courtyards

Walk the castle hill's public courtyards for St Vitus Cathedral views and a broad look over Prague.

What to expect

The Castle complex occupies a 45-hectare hilltop above the Vltava. A courtyard walk takes in the palace façades, the forecourt and St Vitus Cathedral from outside; the paid visitor circuit covers selected historic buildings, exhibitions and Golden Lane.

Free grounds

Before you go

Entry and costs

Entry to the Castle grounds is free under the published visitor rules. Tickets are required for the paid visitor circuit, some exhibitions and the Great South Tower; cafés and other services are separate.

Visitor notes

Prague City Tourism currently lists the Castle complex open daily from 06:00 to 22:00; this is not the opening schedule for individual buildings or gardens. Security checks can take time, and ceremonies or operational changes may close entrances or courtyards. The official access guide says most visitor buildings have barrier-free entrances, except towers and the Golden Lane defence corridor; it does not describe every courtyard surface. Check the Castle's live visitor notice before setting out.

Opening hours

Date you plan to visit

Select a date to see the published regular schedule.

Published hours checked 1 November 2026. For holidays, temporary closures or event changes, check the official source below.

Good for

Castle architectureCathedral exteriorCity views

Official sourcePrague City Tourism — Prague Castle

Prague Castle Administration — visitor regulations and grounds admission

Checked 1 November 2026. Hours, entry rules and access can change; check this page again before you visit.

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