The Czech Republic is quite a small country, but it can boast more than 2,000 castles and chateaus. Some of the best castles can be found around Prague and they are worth visiting. Read which castles outside of Prague you should visit to make unforgettable memories.
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes surrounding Prague, a realm of history and charm awaits. Uncover the magic of beautiful castles around Prague, learn about their captivating histories, and find out how you can experience their grandeur through seamless day trips.
Karlštejn castle: a timeless marvel
Karlštejn Castle, a jewel in the Bohemian crown, stands as a testament to medieval opulence. Constructed by Charles IV, this fortress served as a royal treasury for the Czech crown jewels.
The journey begins with a swift 40-minute train ride from Prague Main Station to Karlštejn, transporting you to a bygone era. As you traverse through the castle’s corridors, you’ll encounter the ethereal Chapel of the Holy Cross and ascend the Great Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A day trip is perfect, allowing you to absorb the castle’s history and relish its architectural splendors.
Křivoklát castle: a tranquil retreat in nature
Delve into the enchanting ambiance of Křivoklát Castle, a tranquil retreat nestled in the west of Prague. Take a direct train from Prague Main Station to Rakovník, followed by a short bus ride to the castle.
As you explore the castle grounds, don’t miss the medieval Chapel of St. George and the Knight’s Hall, echoing with tales of knights and nobility. Get to know the Gothic palaces, the oldest parts of the castle, and follow in the footsteps of the Czech kings. You can choose a tour with or without a guide.
Konopiště castle: a royal residence
Southeast of Prague, Konopiště Castle stands as a royal residence surrounded by lush landscapes. A train journey from Prague Main Station to Benešov u Prahy, followed by a local bus ride, takes you to this regal abode.
The castle acquired its current form at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries when it was owned by the monarch František Ferdinand d’Este. During the tour, you will have a look into the representative and inn rooms, you will see hunting trophies and the private rooms of František and his wife Žofia. But the castle park in an area of 340 ha will also offer a breathtaking spectacle.
Český Šternberk castle: perched above the Sázava river
Embrace the medieval charm of Český Šternberk Castle, perched majestically above the Sázava River to the southeast of Prague. Travel by train from Prague Main Station to Sázava and then take a short bus or taxi ride to the castle.
The panoramic views from the castle are as captivating as its historical significance. A day trip to Český Šternberk Castle lets you explore its well-preserved interiors and savor the scenic beauty surrounding this historical gem.
Okoř castle: a phenomenon from a Czech folk song
Unlike the ones mentioned above, only the remains of Okoř Castle have been preserved. Even so, the ruins of the castle near Prague deserve your visit. Just get on the bus in Prague and arrive at the village of Okoř, which lies below the castle.
If you go to Okoř Castle during the summer, you will see fencing performances or historical battles. Festivals and concerts are also held in the castle’s surroundings.
Kokořín castle: the castle that everyone was afraid of
Kokořín Castle is less than an hour’s drive north of Prague. The castle is located next to a sandstone rock and, according to legend, it was home to robbers who were feared by the whole area.
Kokořín Castle probably dates from the 14th century and is located in dense forests. You can get to the castle from Prague by bus with a transfer to Mělník.
Brandýs nad Labem chateau: a favourite place of the Habsburgs
Just half an hour’s drive from Prague, in the town of Brandýs nad Labem, there is a Renaissance monument – Brandýs nad Labem chateau. The chateau is known for the fact that monarchs from the Habsburg dynasty stayed here, for example, Rudolph II, Emperor Charles IV, but also Maria Theresa.
Take a bus from Prague to see the imperial chambers, the chateau library, and the imperial uniforms and weapons. Concerts and weddings are also held in the chateau and garden during the summer.
Poděbrady chateau: monument to king Jiří of Poděbrady
You can also find a beautiful chateau in the spa town of Poděbrady, which is located about 60 km from Prague. This landmark of the city was created by rebuilding the original castle, which was built by the ruler Přemysl Otakar II.
Currently, you can see the Museum of the Memorial of King Jiří of Poděbrady at Poděbrady chateau. You can get to Poděbrady from Prague by train or bus. Get to know the story of the Czech king and his life in the Middle Ages.
Veltrusy chateau: a romantic building by the Vltava river
The Veltrusy chateau, originally built as a hunting lodge, is located in the town of the same name, about 30 minutes drive from Prague. Today, the chateau is part of the largest heritage-protected area in the Czech Republic and offers 5 castle tours.
You can get to Veltrusy from Prague by bus and the romantic landscape by the Vltava River awaits you together with the beautiful castle park. Take a look into the life of Maria Theresa and the Chotek’s family.
Nižbor chateau: seat of the ancient celts
Any fans of Celtic culture here? Then you should go see Nižbor chateau. It is located near the town of Beroun, about an hour’s drive from Prague.
The chateau is a reminder of the Celtic past of the Czech Republic and its exhibitions will take you into the world of the ancient Celts tribes. You can reach the chateau from Prague by bus with a transfer to Beroun.
Chvaly chateau: galleries and exhibitions a short distance from the center of Prague
The first mentions of Chvaly Chateau date back to the 15th century. However, the chateau was opened to the public only in 2008, so now you have a unique chance to see it from the inside and outside.
Chvaly Chateau is located in Horní Počernice, just 15 km from the center of Prague. It is thus a perfect half-day trip for culture.
Průhonice chateau: estate of the Portuguese Silva-Tarouca family
Similarly close to the center of Prague is Průhonice chateau, which you can reach from the outskirts of Prague in just 15 minutes. At the chateau, you can see the local exhibition and the vast park.
A Gothic castle from the 14th century originally stood on the site of today’s chateau. In the 15th century, it was rebuilt into a Renaissance palace and today it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dobříš chateau: a piece of Vienna in the Czech republic
At Dobříš chateau you will feel like you’re in Vienna’s Schonbrunn. Surrounding the castle building is a breathtaking French garden with floral ornaments and monumental fountains. The area also includes an English park with an artificial cave.
Head to the Rococo chateau Dobříš south of Prague. From the capital city, you can get there by bus from Smíchovské nádraží.
Kladenský chateau: a journey through the history of Krteček
Finally, we recommend a chateau in the town of Kladno, which is located approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Prague. It is one of the oldest buildings in the city, which includes the gallery and exhibition of Zdeněk Miller, author of the well-known Czech figure Krteček.
In the castle garden, you can also meet two bears – Marta and Míša. Alternatively, you can also visit a model of the mine workplace.
Dive into history with castle escapades
Journey through these Czech castles near Prague unveils not just architectural marvels but windows into the past. As we conclude our exploration, we invite you to consider turning these day trips into adventures, immersing yourself in the tales, beauty, and history that these castles hold.
The rich history and architectural splendors are waiting to be discovered by you. So, let the past come alive as you traverse the paths of Czech history, and make history a part of your unforgettable adventure.
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