Prague Castle - Frequently Asked Questions
Article updated on: September 24th, 2026
Here are the answers to the most frequent questions about Prague Castle.
Visited by over 2 million people every year, Prague Castle, or Pražský hrad, is the most popular tourist attraction in the Czech Republic. On this page, you will find answers to the most frequent questions that people ask us about the Castle before their visit.
ADMISSION & SIGHTS OF PRAŽSKÝ HRAD
Is Prague Castle free?
You can explore the historical courtyards and the Prague Castle grounds for free. The Castle gardens are also free to visit when open, while access to the historical interiors, including the main tourist route through St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica and Golden Lane, requires a ticket. We visit the free part of the castle on our daily free Charles Bridge & Castle tour. You can check the schedule for this free tour here.
What is in the paid part of Prague Castle?
The old A, B and C circuits no longer exist. Today, the standard option is the Prague Castle Main Circuit, which includes St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica and Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower. The standard adult ticket costs CZK 450, the reduced ticket CZK 300 and the family ticket CZK 950.
See the official website of Prague Castle for more detailed information.
WHEN TO VISIT PRAGUE CASTLE
What is the best time to visit the Castle of Prague?
It depends how much time you wish to spend in the Castle and if you want to buy the tickets or just enjoy the free part. For the free part, we recommend coming around 17:00, so that you can enter the Golden Lane for free, when the museum exhibitions are closed. In the winter season (1 November-31 March) the museum closes at 4pm.
If you don’t mind buying the ticket to the exhibitions, we recommend coming in the morning before the arrival of the organized tour groups. The Prague Castle museum opens at 09:00 am, the earlier you visit the better. You will find more information about the opening hours of the Castle here.
What time is the changing of the guard in Prague Castle?
The changing of the guard happens every hour from 07:00 to 20:00 in the summer season and from 07:00 to 18:00 in the winter season. The ceremonial changing of the guard with fanfar and banner exchange takes place in the First Courtyard of Prague Castle at 12:00.
OTHER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CASTLE
Can I take a selfie with the castle guards at the entrance gates of Prague Castle?
As per the official rules and regulations of the castle you must stay at least half a meter away from the Castle guards. It is forbidden to touch, interfere with or ridicule the guards. So rather not.
Are there public toilets in Prague Castle?
Yes, there are several public toilets within the Prague Castle complex. The official toilets operated by Prague Castle, such as the one next to St. Vitus Cathedral, are free of charge.
Can I bring food and drinks into Prague Castle?
Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the Prague Castle grounds. Bringing a bottle of water is a good idea, especially in summer, as exploring the Castle complex involves quite a lot of walking. There are also cafés and restaurants in and around Prague Castle if you want to stop for a drink or a meal.
Is it possible to attend a holy mass in the Cathedral of St. Vitus?
Yes. St. Vitus Cathedral is an active Roman Catholic church and visitors are welcome to attend Mass. Regular services are held Monday to Saturday at 07:00, with an additional Mass on Fridays at 18:00. On Sundays, Mass is usually celebrated at 08:30 and 10:00. Attendance is free and no prior registration is required.
The schedule may change on religious holidays and for special services, so we recommend checking the official website of St. Vitus Cathedral before your visit.
Is it possible to enter the Prague Castle complex with a dog?
It is not forbidden to enter the castle grounds with a dog if the pet has a muzzle and is on a leash. Walking into any interiors and entering the royal gardens with a dog is not allowed.
What should I know about the security check in Prague Castle?
Security checks are no longer carried out on every visitor entering Prague Castle. However, random security checks may still take place, so avoid bringing large bags or unnecessary luggage with you. During special events or periods of increased security, additional checks may also be introduced.