If you’re planning a trip to Prague, visiting Prague Castle is likely on your itinerary. The castle is one of the city’s most popular attractions and has been an integral part of Czech history for over a thousand years.
But can you actually go inside the castle? Let’s explore.
What is Prague Castle?
Prague Castle, known as Pražský hrad in Czech, is a massive complex that serves as the official residence of the country’s president. It’s located in the Hradčany neighborhood and spans over 70,000 square meters. The castle includes numerous buildings and structures, including St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, and the Golden Lane.
Can You Go Inside?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. While you can technically enter the outer courtyards of Prague Castle for free, many of the interior buildings require tickets or guided tours.
What Can You See for Free?
If you just want to get a glimpse of Prague Castle without paying any fees, you can enter its three outer courtyards: The First Courtyard, Second Courtyard, and Third Courtyard.
In these courtyards, you’ll be able to see various architectural styles from different periods of history. You’ll also have excellent views of the city from certain vantage points within the complex.
What Requires Tickets or Guided Tours?
If you want to explore some of Prague Castle’s interior buildings or learn more about its history and significance through guided tours, you’ll need to purchase tickets.
Some of the most popular buildings that require tickets include:
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- The Old Royal Palace
- The Story of Prague Castle exhibition
- The Powder Tower
- The Treasury
It’s worth noting that some of these buildings have restricted hours or may be closed on certain days. Be sure to check the castle’s official website for up-to-date information.
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on which buildings you want to visit and whether you opt for a guided tour. As of 2021, here are some of the prices you can expect:
- St. Vitus Cathedral: 350 CZK (about $16 USD) for adults
- The Old Royal Palace: 350 CZK for adults
- The Story of Prague Castle exhibition: 250 CZK (about $11 USD) for adults
- The Powder Tower: 70 CZK (about $3 USD) for adults
- The Treasury: 300 CZK (about $13 USD) for adults
Conclusion
So, can you go inside Prague Castle? The answer is yes, but it depends on what parts of the castle you want to explore.
While the outer courtyards are free to enter, many of the interior buildings require tickets or guided tours. If you’re interested in learning more about Czech history and architecture, a visit to Prague Castle is well worth it.