Prague Castle isn’t a single building but a whole hilltop city of palaces, churches and courtyards, the largest ancient castle complex in the world. On this free walking tour a local guide meets you in Malá Strana, walks up with you to the castle and shows you its highlights and the stories behind them. There’s no fixed price: at the end you tip what you think the tour was worth.
What you’ll see on the free Prague Castle tour
Inside the castle grounds you’ll explore the courtyards and the mix of Gothic, neo-Gothic and Baroque architecture that has grown up here over more than a thousand years. For opening hours and tickets if you’d like to go inside the buildings afterwards, see our Prague Castle guide.
Tour highlights
- St. Vitus Cathedral: the Gothic masterpiece at the heart of the castle, burial place of Bohemian kings and saints.
- Castle courtyards and the Changing of the Guard: the ceremonial heart of the seat of the Czech president.
- Old Royal Palace and St. George’s Basilica: centuries of royal history and Prague’s best-preserved Romanesque church.
- Golden Lane: the tiny, colorful houses where castle craftsmen once lived, and where Franz Kafka briefly worked.
- Panoramic views: some of the best views over the red rooftops and spires of Prague.
The exact route may vary slightly depending on the guide and the weather.
Good to know
- Start time: every day at 14:30.
- Meeting point: the Starbucks on Malostranské náměstí (Malostranské nám. 28/5, Malá Strana).
- Language: English.
- Price: pay what you want. At the end of the tour you decide how much to tip your guide.
- Booking: free, but required to guarantee your spot. Each booking can include up to 8 people.
- Please note: the route includes slopes and stairs, so it can be tiring with a stroller.
Tip: wear comfortable shoes, bring water in summer and a warm layer in winter, and arrive 10 minutes before the start.
Keep exploring
Haven’t seen the Old Town yet? Join our Free Walking Tour of the Old Town and Jewish Quarter, or read our guide to Charles Bridge.
