With 1.8 million annual visitors, Prague Castle is the country’s most-visited attraction; hence, it can be very crowded.
If you want to avoid crowds at the castle, knowing the best time to visit Prague Castle is essential.
The best time to visit Prague Castle is early morning at 9 am or late afternoon after 3 pm. This time offers a quiet atmosphere with fewer people.
Tip: Prague Castle’s grounds are free to visit and open at 6 am.
Additionally, you can also visit during the weekdays, as they tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.
This handy guide provides detailed information on the best time to go to Prague Castle, depending on the season, crowds, and cheapest tickets.
Best Time of Year to Go to Prague Castle: Peak vs. Low Season
The Prague Castle remains busy all year except for short windows.
If you want to avoid crowds during your visit, the best time of the year to visit the castle is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
During these months, the crowds are thinner and the weather is also pleasant, offering a perfect combination to explore the castle.
April and May are particularly beautiful, as trees and flowers fully bloom.
These months offer the possibility of sunny days and warm weather. But some days can also be rainy and stormy. You can carry a raincoat or jacket just in case.
If you love snow and are unafraid of cold temperatures, you can also explore the castle in winter.
The winter season lasts from December to February and January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of around -1 °C.
Unlike other castles, Prague Castle remains open during the winter and you can enjoy a quiet visit with a scenic atmosphere.
Prague Castle seeks the highest number of visitors from June to August. This time can be good for those who enjoy a jolly atmosphere.
However, if you want fewer crowds, you must avoid planning a visit during this time.
The Best Time of Day to Visit Prague Castle
The castle complex is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, but the monuments don’t open until 9 am.
To avoid the overwhelming crowds of tourists and long security lines, arriving about 15 to 20 minutes before it opens (around 8.40 am) is recommended.
If you’re visiting Prague in a season other than summer, you’ll likely still run into some crowds, so it’s best to come early.
Give yourself at least 3 hours to tour the castle complex.
If you start in the morning, you’ll be done in time to grab lunch within the Castle Quarter or at one of the many traditional restaurants nearby.
If you plan to visit the castle during the week, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds than on weekends.
The castle complex has four entrances, all of which have security checks.
You will be asked to open your bags and walk through a security frame. Liquids are okay to bring with you.
Best Time to Get Cheapest Tickets for Prague Castle
The winter months and low season from November to March offer a unique opportunity for budget-conscious travelers.
As the city experiences weeks of gray skies, cold temperatures, and occasional rain or snow, the tourist pace considerably slows down.
This seasonal lull results in lower ticket demand, presenting a chance to secure more affordable prices for Prague Castle admissions.
You can also enjoy a quieter and more intimate visit during this time.
Besides the reduced ticket prices for Prague Castle, you can also save on hotel accommodations.
Additionally, the winter snow enhances the castle’s beauty, offering stunning views.
While in Prague, you can also see the beautiful Charles Bridge, which is occasionally covered in snow.
How Long to Spend at Prague Castle?
The Prague Castle has many attractions to see, and even a day is not enough to explore it completely.
Depending on your time constraints, you can allocate half a day or one day to visit the castle.
However, if you find yourself short on time, you must dedicate a minimum of three to four hours to experience the highlights of Prague Castle.
You can read our article on how to reach Prague Castle easily.
FAQs
What is the best time of day to visit Prague Castle?
The best time of day to visit Prague Castle is early in the morning or late afternoon.
The castle opens at 9 am, and arriving shortly after allows for a quieter experience with fewer visitors.
Late afternoon, after 3 pm, is another good time, although it gives you less time to explore the castle.
How much time do you need at Prague Castle?
The time needed to explore Prague Castle depends on individual preferences and interests.
On average, visitors spend 2 to 3 hours to half a day exploring the castle’s highlights, such as St. Vitus Cathedral and others.
Is it worth it to go inside Prague Castle?
Prague Castle is worth going to as it houses numerous attractions, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and St. George’s Basilica.
The castle complex has historical and cultural significance.
Whether interested in stunning architecture, historical artifacts, or stunning views, going inside Prague Castle provides a rewarding experience for tourists.
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