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The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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The Vtrba Garden
(AKA Vrtbovská Zahrada)
The Vrtba Garden is a mesmerizing and enchanting garden nestled in the heart of Prague, Czech Republic. Located in the Lesser Town (Mala Strana) district, this hidden gem is a perfect escape from the bustling city streets.
The garden dates back to the 18th century and is considered one of the finest Baroque gardens in Europe. It was meticulously designed by František Maximilián Kaňka, a renowned Czech architect, and it showcases the elegance and grandeur of that era.
The garden is terraced, with each level offering a unique and picturesque view of the surrounding area. As you wander through the perfectly manicured hedges, flowerbeds, and pathways, you’ll be greeted with a symphony of colors and fragrances. The garden is meticulously maintained, ensuring that every corner is a visual delight.
One of the highlights of the Vrtba Garden is its stunning central staircase, adorned with intricate statues and decorative details. This architectural masterpiece leads to the upper terrace, where you’ll find a charming pavilion. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Prague’s iconic landmarks, including Prague Castle, St. Nicholas Church, and the Vltava River.
Visit Notes
This terraced garden is a peaceful respite from the rest of the city. When we visited there was a wedding reception on the lower terrace, so we couldn’t access that part of the garden. The ticket lady gave us a discount.
The rest of the garden was perfectly lovely and the views from the upper terraces were panoramic. We particularly enjoyed giving some of the bigger shrubberies a little shake. They wiggle like jello.
Details
Karmelitská 25, 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia
10:00 – 19:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
Other Sights
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St. George’s Basilica
(AKA Bazilika Svatého Jiří)
St. George’s Basilica is a magnificent architectural gem nestled within the Prague Castle complex in Prague, Czech Republic. It is one of the oldest surviving churches in the city, dating back to the 10th century, and is steeped in history and religious significance.
As you approach the basilica, you’ll be captivated by its Romanesque-style façade, adorned with intricate stonework and ornamental details.
The interior boasts a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, creating a captivating atmosphere. The soaring nave, with its vaulted ceilings and gracefully arched windows, creates an aura of tranquility and reverence.
One of the highlights of the basilica is the breathtaking St. George’s Chapel, which houses an impressive collection of Baroque-era art and artifacts. As you explore this sacred space, you’ll come across the tombstones of prominent Czech nobles and members of the royal family, lending an air of historical significance to the place.
Another notable feature of St. George’s Basilica is the remarkable wooden sculpture of the Madonna and Child, known as the Madonna of St. George. This masterpiece, dating back to the 14th century, is revered for its intricate detailing and artistic craftsmanship.
Visiting St. George’s Basilica offers a chance to immerse yourself in Prague’s rich heritage and experience the city’s spiritual side. The tranquility, architectural splendor, and historical significance of this remarkable church make it a must-see destination for any visitor to Prague Castle.
Visit Notes
The basilica is included with your Prague Castle – Basic Circuit ticket. It won’t be nearly as crowded as St. Vitus, so it’s more pleasant to look around. It’s also not as large as St. Vitus so it can be a quick visit, if you so choose.
Details
Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
April through October
9:00 – 17:00
November through March
9:00 – 16:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
Other Sights
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Old Royal Palace
(AKA Starý Královský Palác)
The Old Royal Palace, located within the Prague Castle complex in the enchanting city of Prague, Czech Republic, is a remarkable historical site that shouldn’t be missed by any visitor. With its rich history, architectural grandeur, and stunning views, the palace offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s royal past.
The Old Royal Palace, also known as the “Stary Královský Palác” in Czech, has witnessed centuries of significant events and served as the residence of Czech monarchs, emperors, and presidents. Its origins date back to the 9th century when it was constructed as a fortified castle, gradually transforming into a majestic palace over the years.
As you approach the palace, you’ll be greeted by a marvelous courtyard, providing a foretaste of the architectural beauty that awaits. The palace is an amalgamation of various architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, reflecting the different periods of its construction and renovation.
One of the highlights of the Old Royal Palace is the Vladislav Hall, an awe-inspiring space that has hosted grand ceremonies, banquets, and coronations throughout history. Its vast dimensions and elegant vaulted ceiling adorned with intricate Gothic ribbing create a truly mesmerizing atmosphere. Don’t forget to check out the Riders’ Staircase, designed with horses in mind. This special staircase made it possible for knights to enter the hall on horseback for the jousting competitions held in Vladislav Hall.
Another notable feature is the Czech Chancellery, a beautiful Renaissance room that once served as the meeting place for the Bohemian estates. The chancellery is adorned with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from mythology, adding to the palace’s artistic splendor.
In addition to its architectural marvels, the Old Royal Palace offers breathtaking panoramic views of Prague. From its elevated position within the castle complex, you can feast your eyes upon the city’s red-roofed buildings, picturesque bridges, and the meandering Vltava River. The view alone is worth the visit!
As you explore the palace, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the intriguing story behind the famous “Second Defenestration of Prague” that occurred here in 1618, a pivotal event in Czech history that sparked the Thirty Years’ War.
Visiting the Old Royal Palace provides an immersive experience, transporting you back in time to a bygone era of royal power and prestige. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a captivating cultural experience, this iconic landmark is sure to leave a lasting impression on your visit to Prague.
Visit Notes
The Old Royal Palace is included with your Prague Castle – Basic Circuit ticket. What you’re allowed to visit is interesting, but the majority of the building is off-limits to visitors. Since you’ve likely already paid for admission, it’s worth the walk around.
Other parts of the building may be open for special exhibitions, which would be an additional fee, but may be worth it just to see more of the building.
Details
Třetí nádvoří Pražského hradu 48, 119 00 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
April through October
9:00 – 17:00
November through March
9:00 – 16:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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Golden Lane
The Golden Lane at Prague Castle is a charming and historic street tucked away within the magnificent Prague Castle complex, located in the heart of the city of Prague, Czech Republic. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and picturesque surroundings.
The Golden Lane, also known as Zlatá ulička in Czech, is a small, narrow alley lined with colorful, miniature houses that date back to the 16th century. Originally built to accommodate the castle’s guards, goldsmiths, and marksmen, the lane later became home to many artisans and writers.
Walking along the Golden Lane feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The houses are incredibly quaint, with their small, colorful facades, tiny windows, and wooden doors. Each house has been transformed into a unique museum or exhibit, showcasing different aspects of Czech history and culture. From medieval armor and weaponry to displays of traditional crafts and everyday life, the Golden Lane offers visitors a glimpse into the past.
One of the most famous houses on the Golden Lane is No. 22, where the world-renowned writer Franz Kafka once lived. It has been transformed into a museum dedicated to his life and works, allowing visitors to explore the environment that inspired his writing. Another notable house is No. 14, which showcases a reconstruction of an alchemist’s workshop, giving visitors insight into the mysterious world of medieval alchemy.
As you stroll along the Golden Lane, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit small shops selling traditional crafts, such as hand-painted ceramics, jewelry, and other souvenirs. It’s a perfect place to find unique and authentic gifts to bring back home.
Visit Notes
The Golden Lane is everything you would expect in terms of aesthetics, quaint and charming, but it’s also educational. Most of the houses have exhibits that demonstrate what life was like for the residents. We got there on opening and it was pleasantly devoid of people. If you go to the end of the lane and down some steps there is a dungeon area with a display of torture devices. Unexpected but interesting.
Admission to the Golden Lane is part of a circuit ticket you can purchase from the Prague Castle website or from a vendor such as GetYourGuide.com.
Details
Hradčany, 119 00 Prague 1, Czechia
April through October
9:00 – 17:00
November through March
9:00 – 16:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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St. Vitus Cathedral
(AKA Katedrála Sv. Víta)
St. Vitus Cathedral is an architectural marvel and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting this historic city. It is one of the most prominent and significant religious landmarks in Prague and holds great cultural and historical importance.
The cathedral’s construction began in the 14th century and spanned several centuries, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance. This fusion of styles gives St. Vitus Cathedral its distinctive and breathtaking appearance.
As you approach the cathedral, you’ll be immediately captivated by its towering spires and intricate stone carvings. The exterior is adorned with countless statues, gargoyles, and reliefs, each telling a story and adding to the overall grandeur of the structure.
Upon entering the cathedral, you’ll be awestruck by its vastness and the magnificence of its interior. The soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and meticulously crafted details create an atmosphere of wonder and spirituality. The stained glass windows, in particular, are a sight to behold, casting vibrant colors and bathing the interior in a mesmerizing glow.
One of the highlights of St. Vitus Cathedral is the breathtaking St. Wenceslas Chapel, dedicated to the patron saint of Bohemia. It is adorned with precious materials, including gold and jewels, and features stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Wenceslas. This chapel is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic art in Europe.
Another notable feature of the cathedral is the ornate and intricate St. Vitus Cathedral Treasury, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and precious relics, including the Czech Crown Jewels. The treasury is open to the public only once every eight years.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a place of awe-inspiring beauty, St. Vitus Cathedral is an absolute must-visit destination in Prague. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual ambiance combine to create an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in the Czech Republic.
Visit Notes
We happened to be visiting on a Sunday, so we had to wait until noon to get into the cathedral and by then all the other tourists were out of bed and standing in line. The line moved quickly though and soon we were in. I felt a bit like cattle on a conveyor belt once inside. The cathedral itself is stunning, but my enjoyment was tempered by the sheer number of bodies around me. The stained glass in the cathedral is extraordinary, so at least while you’re looking at that you can kind of forget about the crowds.
We booked a skip-the-line ticket (similar to this one) with GetYourGuide.com which included entry into several areas of the Prague Castle complex, including the cathedral. It was very easy and convenient. There is a “free” part of the cathedral that you can visit with no ticket. This means you can walk into the cathedral but can’t progress past the turnstiles. You’d be able to get a feel for the place but wouldn’t be able to see most of the cathedral up close. There is more information about this on their website.
Details
III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia
Monday to Saturday
9:00 – 17:00
Sunday
12:00 – 17:00
Attraction opening days and times can change with no warning.
Always double-check information with the official website before making any plans
Photos
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The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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