Why Visit the Best Castles Near Prague?

Bohemia has a very unique landscape. Castles were built here to protect trade routes and royal treasures. Today, they serve as incredible museums and viewpoints. Many of these sites are recognized by UNESCO for their cultural value. You can see how kings lived and where they hid during wars.

Visiting these sites is very convenient for travelers. Most locations are reachable within an hour from the city center. You can enjoy the rolling hills of the Czech countryside. Many castles also host seasonal festivals and medieval markets. These events make the history come alive for visitors of all ages.

The variety of styles is another major draw. You will find rugged medieval strongholds and elegant chateaus. Each site has a unique story to tell. Some feature rare art collections, while others offer dark dungeons. Exploring the best castles near Prague is the best way to understand local culture.

10 Best Castles Near Prague to Explore

Here are the most stunning castles you can visit from the capital. These picks include famous landmarks and hidden gems. We have included details on how to get there and what to expect. This list will help you plan the perfect day outside the city.

• Best overall: Karlštejn Castle
• Best for families: Konopiště Castle
• Best for nature: Kokořín Castle
• Best for art lovers: Nelahozeves Castle

1. Name: Karlštejn Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the most famous castle in the country. It was built by Emperor Charles IV to hold royal treasures. Best for: History buffs and first-time visitors. Where: Karlštejn village, Southwest of Prague. Time: 4–5 hours. Cost: Moderate (tours required for interiors). Getting there: Direct train from Prague Main Station takes 40 minutes. Tip: Read more about Karlštejn Castle from Prague before you go.
2. Name: Konopiště Castle Type: Unique experience Why go: This was the final home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. It features a massive collection of antlers and a famous bear moat. Best for: Families and hunters. Where: Near Benešov. Time: 5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a train to Benešov u Prahy, then walk or take a bus. Tip: Check the Konopiště Castle opening hours and bear moat details for 2026.
3. Name: Křivoklát Castle Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: One of the oldest royal hunting castles. It has a stunning Gothic chapel and a deep library. Best for: Fans of dark, authentic medieval atmosphere. Where: Rakovník District. Time: 5–6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train with one transfer at Beroun. Tip: Compare Křivoklát Castle vs Karlštejn Castle to see which fits your style.
4. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: A massive complex overlooking a fairytale town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a Baroque theater. Best for: Romantic couples and photographers. Where: Southern Bohemia. Time: Full day (12 hours). Cost: High. Getting there: Take a direct bus or book a Prague to Český Krumlov day trip. Tip: Climb the castle tower for the best view of the Vltava River.
5. Name: Průhonice Castle Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: This castle sits in a vast botanical park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its rhododendrons. Best for: Relaxing walks and nature lovers. Where: Just outside Prague city limits. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Metro line C to Opatov, then bus 363 or 385. Tip: Visit in late May to see the flowers in full bloom.
6. Name: Český Šternberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: A dramatic fortress perched on a rocky cliff. It has been owned by the same family for centuries. Best for: Seeing living history and river views. Where: Sázava River valley. Time: 4–5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Scenic train ride (the "Posázavský Pacifik") from Prague. Tip: Look for the unique copper engravings inside the staterooms.
7. Name: Mělník Castle Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This Renaissance chateau sits at the confluence of the Elbe and Vltava rivers. It is famous for its wine cellars. Best for: Wine tasting and river views. Where: Mělník town. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct bus from Nádraží Holešovice. Tip: Try the local Ludmila wine in the castle restaurant.
8. Name: Nelahozeves Castle Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: A beautiful Renaissance palace with a world-class art collection. It was the birthplace of composer Antonín Dvořák. Best for: Art enthusiasts and music lovers. Where: North of Prague. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct train from Prague Masarykovo nádraží. Tip: Visit the Dvořák family home located just below the castle.
9. Name: Kokořín Castle Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: A "knight's castle" hidden in a deep forest canyon. Its tall tower offers views of the sandstone rocks. Best for: Hikers and adventure seekers. Where: Kokořínsko Protected Landscape Area. Time: 6 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Bus to Mělník, then a local bus to Kokořínský důl. Tip: Combine this with a hike to the "Pokličky" rock formations.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: Often called the most beautiful castle in the Czech Republic. It was modeled after Windsor Castle in England. Best for: Fairytale vibes and intricate wood carvings. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: Full day. Cost: High. Getting there: Train to České Budějovice, then a local bus. Tip: Book the "Kitchen Tour" to see the historic technology used for royal feasts.

Practical Tips for Visiting Czech Castles

Planning your visit requires some basic knowledge of local customs. Most castles are closed on Mondays, so plan your week carefully. Many sites also close during the winter months. If you travel in the cold season, check for winter day trips from Prague specifically. Always check the official website for tour times.

Public transport is the best way to travel. The Czech rail network is very dense and affordable. You can easily find day trips from Prague by train for most locations. Buying tickets at the station is simple and fast. Use the IDOS app for the most accurate schedules.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for every trip. Most castles are located on hills with steep paths. You should also carry some cash in Czech Koruna. While many shops take cards, small village kiosks might not. Finally, remember that interiors are usually only accessible via guided tours. These tours often sell out on weekends.