The Prague Castle complex opens from 6 am to 10 pm, providing a broad window of opportunity to explore the attraction at their own pace.
However, it’s crucial to remember that specific areas, like St. Vitus Cathedral, exhibition halls, and the charming Prague Castle Gardens, may have varying opening hours.
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit, you should check the specific opening hours for the areas you plan to explore within the castle complex.
You can start your visit at 8.45 am for a crowd-free experience.
Note: Prague Castle remains open year-round except for Christmas Eve on 24th December.
Prague Castle Opening Hours: Summer vs Winter
The Prague Castle hours of operation also depend on the season.
The historic buildings of the castle are open from 9 am to 5 pm during the summer season (1 April to 31 October).
In winter (1 November to 31 March), they open at 9 am and close early at 4 pm.
The historical buildings of the castle include the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower.
To ensure a seamless experience, most of the buildings grant the last entrance 30 minutes before closing time.
| Buildings | Summer Timings (1 April to 31 Oct) | Winter Timings (1 Nov to 31 March) |
|---|---|---|
| Historic Buildings | 9 am to 5 pm | 9 am to 4 pm |
| St. Vitus Cathedral | Mon-Sat: 9 am – 5 pm Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm Last Entry: 4.40 pm | Mon-Sat: 9 am – 4 pm Sunday: 12 pm – 4 pmLast Entry: 3.40 pm |
| Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral | 10 am to 6 pm | 10 am to 5 pm |
| Exhibition halls | 10 am to 6 pm | 10 am to 6 pm |
The Prague Castle Exhibition Halls include the Riding School, Imperial Stables, Royal Summer Palace and Theresian Wing.
St. Vitus Cathedral Hours: Weekdays vs Weekends
St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most popular buildings within Prague Castle.
Known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, it is also the country’s largest and most important church.
The opening hours of St. Vitus Cathedral differ depending on the day of the week.
It opens its doors to visitors at 9 am and closes at 5 pm on the weekdays from Monday to Saturday.
On Sunday, the church opens at 12 pm.
Prague Castle Gardens Opening Hours
Most of the Prague Castle Gardens open at 10 am, except for the Garden on the Bastion, located on the castle’s western edge, which opens at 6 am.
The closing hours of these gardens vary between 4 pm and 8 pm, depending on the time of year.
Royal Garden and Stag Moat Opening Hours
| Months | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| March – April | 10 am – 6 pm |
| May, June & September | 10 am – 7 pm |
| July – August | 10 am – 8 pm |
| October – February | 10 am – 4 pm |
South Gardens Opening Hours
| Months | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| March – April | 10 am – 6 pm |
| May – June | 10 am – 7 pm |
| July – August | 10 am – 8 pm |
| September | 10 am – 7 pm |
| October | 10 am – 4 pm |
The Garden on the Bastion Opening Hours:
| Days | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Daily | 6 am – 8 pm |
FAQ’s
What time can you visit Prague Castle?
Prague Castle Complex opens early at 6 am, allowing visitors to explore the Garden on the Bastion and exterior areas.
However, most buildings within the castle are open from 9 am to 5 pm.
Is Prague open on Christmas Day?
Prague Castle is not open on Christmas Eve, 24 December. However, the castle is open on Christmas Day, 25 December.
It is advisable to plan your visit accordingly, considering this closure.
What are Prague Castle Gardens opening hours?
Most of the Prague Castle Gardens open at 10 am, except for the Garden on the Bastion, located on the castle’s western edge, which opens at 6 am.
The closing hours of these gardens vary between 4 pm and 8 pm, depending on the time of year.
Is Prague Castle open in December?
Yes, Prague Castle is open year-round, including December, except for Christmas Eve on December 24th.
You can visit the castle in December. It’s a great time to experience the castle’s unique charm during the festive season.
How much time is needed for Prague Castle?
4-5 hours allows you to explore several key sights within the castle complex, including St. Vitus Cathedral (interior and exterior), the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, and the Golden Lane.
You can also dedicate time to specific exhibitions or gardens that pique your interest.
What time does the castle close?
The main complex of Prague Castle closes down at 10 pm. Meanwhile, the other parts of the castle have different closing times per season.
Is Prague open on Sunday?
Yes, Prague Castle is open on Sundays! In fact, it is open every day of the week, including holidays.
However, the opening hours of specific areas within the complex may vary.
Featured Image: Petr Polak