10 Best Things to See in the Free Castle Courtyards

Exploring the castle grounds is a highlight of any visit. You can walk from the town center all the way to the gardens. Most areas are accessible to everyone during daylight hours. Here are the best quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: The Cloak Bridge views.
• Best for families: The Bear Moat.
• Best for art: The Third Courtyard murals.
• Best free nature: The Castle Garden.

1. Name: The First Courtyard Type: sight Why go: This is the grand entrance to the complex. You will see the old salt house and brewery buildings. Best for: History lovers. Where: Near the Red Gate entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Latran district. Tip: Visit the tourist office located here for a map.
2. Name: The Bear Moat Type: experience Why go: Bears have lived here since the 16th century. It is a unique local tradition. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: Between the First and Second Courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the bridge over the moat. Tip: Look for the bear moat at the castle entrance early in the morning.
3. Name: The Second Courtyard Type: sight Why go: This area features the "Little Castle" and the base of the tower. The architecture is very impressive. Best for: Photography. Where: Just past the bear moat. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the dark vaulted passage from the first courtyard. Tip: This is where you find the ticket office for interior tours.
4. Name: The Third Courtyard Type: sight Why go: The walls are covered in amazing Renaissance murals. They use a technique called chiaroscuro to look 3D. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: The start of the Upper Castle. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the uphill path from the second courtyard. Tip: Look up high to see the detailed painted figures.
5. Name: The Fourth Courtyard Type: sight Why go: This courtyard continues the mural theme with different colors. It feels like an open-air art gallery. Best for: Quiet observation. Where: Adjacent to the third courtyard. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the connecting archway. Tip: Visit late in the afternoon for the best light on the paintings.
6. Name: The Cloak Bridge Type: viewpoint Why go: This is a massive three-story stone bridge. It offers the most famous views of the town. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: Between the fourth and fifth courtyards. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main path through the castle. Tip: Stop at the windows in the bridge walls for framed views.
7. Name: The Fifth Courtyard Type: sight Why go: This area contains the exterior of the Castle Theatre. It opens up into a wide viewing plaza. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Past the Cloak Bridge. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the bridge and walk through the gate. Tip: Look for the small iron gates that lead to hidden overlooks.
8. Name: The Castle Garden Type: nature Why go: This is a huge Baroque park with a fountain and a lake. It is very peaceful. Best for: Relaxing. Where: At the very top of the castle hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the slope from the fifth courtyard. Tip: The garden usually closes during the winter months.
9. Name: The Red Gate Type: sight Why go: This is the historic wooden gate that separates the town from the castle. It is a great photo spot. Best for: Starting your tour. Where: Latran District. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Latran district walking guide to the entrance. Tip: Watch out for cars as this is a busy pedestrian area.
10. Name: The Castle Tower Type: sight Why go: While the base is free, climbing it requires a small fee. It is the symbol of the city. Best for: High-altitude views. Where: Second Courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee (not free). Getting there: Enter the doorway in the second courtyard. Tip: Check the official castle website for current climbing prices.

Are the castle courtyards free to enter: A 2026 Guide

When visiting in 2026, keep a few things in mind. The courtyards are generally open from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM. These hours can change based on the season. During summer, they often stay open later. In winter, they might close when it gets dark.

You should wear comfortable shoes for your walk. The courtyards have old, uneven cobblestones. These can be slippery when wet. High heels are not a good choice for this terrain. Many people find that sneakers or hiking shoes work best.

Crowds are biggest between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This is when day-trip buses arrive from Prague. If you want a quiet experience, go early or late. You will have the murals and views all to yourself. For more help, check the Visit Czechia portal for regional travel news.

Remember that the courtyards are public thoroughfares. However, you must still respect the historical property. Do not climb on the walls or touch the murals. Smoking is often restricted to certain areas. Follow these simple rules to help preserve the site for everyone.