Vyšehrad Castle
Vyšehrad Castle is a historic fort in Prague, dating back to the 10th century. Explore its fascinating attractions, such as Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Rotunda of St. Martin, Libuše's bath and more. Book Vyšehrad Castle tickets to get skip-the-line entry, guided tours, and combo experiences.
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Visitor's guide
Must-see highlights & key info
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Enjoy priority access to explore the beautiful medieval fortress.
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Take in the stunning vista of Prague from Vyšehrad’s fortified walls.
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Dive into the history and legends surrounding the castle with your expert guide.
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Admire the exquisite Art Nouveau decor of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
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Take a walk through the famous Vyšehrad Cemetery.
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Explore the mysterious underground area of Vyšehrad Fortress.
More details
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Enjoy priority access to explore the beautiful medieval fortress.
-
Take in the stunning vista of Prague from Vyšehrad’s fortified walls.
-
Dive into the history and legends surrounding the castle with your expert guide.
-
Admire the exquisite Art Nouveau decor of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
-
Take a walk through the famous Vyšehrad Cemetery.
-
Explore the mysterious underground area of Vyšehrad Fortress.
-
This multi-day pass grants you access to 70+ of Prague's attractions with city tours and discounted tickets to experiences and more.
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Save up to 50% on tickets to Prague Castle, National Museum, and Schwarzenberg Palace rather than burning your pockets with individual tickets.
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Enjoy special discounts on tours, entertainment, food, and boat tours, and access the Illusion Art Museum, City of Prague Museum, and Old Royal Palace.
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Choose between a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6–day card and opt for a multilingual audio guide to enhance your experience.
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Download the free mobile app “Prague CoolPass” to avail your pass seamlessly, complete with an interactive guide, expert tips and more.
More details
-
This multi-day pass grants you access to 70+ of Prague's attractions with city tours and discounted tickets to experiences and more.
-
Save up to 50% on tickets to Prague Castle, National Museum, and Schwarzenberg Palace rather than burning your pockets with individual tickets.
-
Enjoy special discounts on tours, entertainment, food, and boat tours, and access the Illusion Art Museum, City of Prague Museum, and Old Royal Palace.
-
Choose between a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6–day card and opt for a multilingual audio guide to enhance your experience.
-
Download the free mobile app “Prague CoolPass” to avail your pass seamlessly, complete with an interactive guide, expert tips and more.
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About Vyšehrad Castle
The Vysehrad Castle was built around the turn of the 10th century and has functioned as a seat of power for Czech rulers. Within its ancient walls lie several historic treasures like the Grand Basilica of St. Peter and the Rotunda of St. Martin, known for its neo-Gothic features and Romanesque build. Overlooking the Vltava River, the Vysehrad Castle’s gardens, walkways, and viewpoints offer stunning views of the city’s skyline. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in the country’s cultural heritage or soak in the tranquility of the castle’s gardens, Vysehrad Castle offers a memorable experience.
Mythical origins: According to a popular local legend, the Vysehrad Castle was constructed by the mythical Czech princess Libuse, who once stood on the castle’s hill and foretold the future of the city. This legend mentions Prague as a great city whose glory would touch the stars.
Vysehrad’s ghosts: The Vysehrad is rumored to be haunted by various ghosts and spirits. One of the scariest ghostly inhabitants of the Vysehrad Castle is the spirit of a white lady, who is said to wander the castle grounds, mourning the loss of her beloved.
The Tale of the Vysehrad Maidens: One of the most enduring legends of the Vysehrad Castle involves a group of seven maidens who are said to dwell in the castle's underground passages. These maidens, known as the Vysehrad Maidens, are believed to protect the castle and its treasures, appearing to those who are pure of heart.
Featured in literature: Being one of the oldest historic landmarks in the city, the Vysehrad Castle has been the source of inspiration for several Czech writers and artists throughout history. Bedrich Smetana features this castle in her symphonic poem, ‘Vysehrad’, a part of her larger work, ‘Ma Vlast’.
Functioned as a coronation site: Throughout centuries, the Vysehrad Castle has witnessed the rise and fall of several kingdoms. It has also served as a royal residence in the past and influenced the Czech National Revival movement of the 19th century, which sought to revive Czech culture and identity.
Why visit Vyšehrad Castle?
Highlights
Vysehrad Cemetery
The Vysehrad Cemetery is the final abode of notable Czech figures such as composers Antonin Dvorak and Bedrich Smetana, alongside the famed artist Alfons Mucha. Its tranquil ambiance and historic tombstones offer visitors an escape to contemplate their thoughts.
Basilica of St. Peter and Paul
The Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul dominates the majority of the skyline of the Vysehrad Castle. Its soaring spires and intricate facade, adorned with stunning frescoes and stained glass windows are impeccable examples of neo-Gothic architecture.
Casemate
The Vysehrad Castle houses a complex network of corridors to ensure that troops were able to navigate the palace effectively in the 17th and 18th centuries. These passages also served as storage and were equipped with ventilation shafts to connect walkways.
Gorlice
The Gorlice is an exemplary example of the castle’s strategic influence in shaping the city’s military power. This tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas and the Vltava River, was once used to monitor the outside of the castle.
Rotunda of St. Martin
The Chapel of St. Martin is the only well-preserved remains of the Romanesque architecture popular back in the day. It is one of the oldest Rotundas in the city and is surrounded by a cemetery. This chapel survived the Hussite Wars and was later used as a warehouse to store gunpowder.
Plan your visit
Leopold gate
The Leopold gate is the main entrance to the Vysehrad Castle and is named after Prince Leopold of Bavaria. Built in the 17th century, this gate features a grand arch adorned with intricate sculptures and decorative elements. You will be greeted by a spacious courtyard as you enter the castle complex.
Tabor gate
Located on the southern side of Vysehrad Castle, the Tabor Gate is characterized by its sturdy fortifications and medieval design. This gate dates back to the 13th century and served as a crucial point of access to the fortress during its defensive years.
Casemate gate
Situated near the southeast corner of Vysehrad Castle, the Casemate Gate leads to the underground casemates, a network of tunnels and chambers used for defense and storage purposes. While not as visually striking as the other entrances, the Casemate Gate offers insights into the military years of the castle.
Libuse’s gate
Named after the legendary Czech princess and prophetess Libuse, this gate serves as an entrance to the gardens and park surrounding Vysehrad Castle. Located on the western side of the fortress, this gate has a simple and elegant design.
Pisecka gate
Positioned on the eastern side of Vysehrad Castle, the Písek Gate offers access to the gardens of the castle complex. While not as commonly used as the other entrances, this gate provides a quieter entry point for those seeking to explore the tranquil green spaces and architectural landmarks surrounding Vysehrad.
The information office and public toilets within the castle premises are open from 10am to 6pm throughout the year.
There are accessible restrooms near the Leopold gate inside the information center. You have to pay a small fee to use them.
The Vysehrad Castle has an information desk near Leopold's gate.
Certain exhibition rooms and areas in the castle are accessible to visitors in wheelchairs. The castle is situated on top of a hill, so you may have to ask for assistance to reach the entrance.
You can bring your pets inside the Vysehrad Castle, but you have to ensure that they are on leash at all times.
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