Hotels near Prague Castle

Founded around 870 CE by Prince Borivoj, Prague Castle holds the Guinness record as the largest ancient castle complex in the world, covering 70,000 square metres. The complex houses St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, and Golden Lane - a row of tiny, colourful houses built into the castle fortifications where Franz Kafka once lived at number 22. The castle remains the official residence of the Czech president, and the ceremonial changing of the guard happens at noon daily at the main gate.

The Circuit B ticket (250 CZK / EUR 10) covers St. Vitus Cathedral interior, Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, and Golden Lane - the most useful combination for a first visit. The castle grounds themselves are free to enter and open from 6am, offering sweeping views over Prague's rooftops before the ticket offices open at 9am. St. Vitus Cathedral's stained-glass windows, including one by Art Nouveau master Alphonse Mucha, are reason enough for the ticket.

Pro Tip: Enter through the eastern gate (Na Opysi) rather than the main western entrance at Hradcanske namesti. The eastern gate has a fraction of the queue and puts you directly at St. Vitus Cathedral. Arrive by 8:30am to walk the free grounds before ticket sales begin.