Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of those places that earns its reputation without much effort. Stretching across a ridge above the Vltava River, it is the largest ancient castle complex in the world by area — a sprawling city within a city, encompassing palaces, gardens, galleries, a cathedral, and even a lane of tiny houses where craftsmen once lived.

Standing in the main courtyard and looking out over the red rooftops of Malá Strana below, it is genuinely difficult not to feel the weight of a thousand years pressing in around you.

The complex is largely open to explore on foot for free, though the main attractions — including the magnificent St Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane — require a ticket. A standard circuit ticket runs around 250 CZK and covers the highlights comfortably. Crowds are heaviest between 10am and 2pm, particularly during summer, when tour groups flood the narrow passages near the cathedral.

Arriving at opening time (9am) or in the late afternoon gives you noticeably more room to breathe and better light for photographs from the castle walls.

Getting there is straightforward: tram 22 drops you near the main western gate at Pražský hrad, or you can walk up the steep lanes from Malostranská metro station, which is the more scenic approach. Wear comfortable shoes regardless — the cobblestones throughout the complex are uneven and can be slippery after rain.

The castle grounds are also worth a visit in winter, when the crowds thin considerably and a dusting of snow over the baroque gardens is quietly spectacular. Bring a layer even in summer; the elevated position catches a surprising wind.