Just 45 minutes from Prague, the Bohemian village of Karlštejn can be found at the foot of its Gothic castle, which sits atop a limestone rock amidst wooded hills overlooking the Berounka River.
Karlštejn Castle & village
A visit to the village and especially Karlštejn Castle is a great day out from Prague. The castle, which you can explore by taking a guided tour, was built in 1348 by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a testament to the power and wealth of the Bohemian monarchy.
When you arrive, if you don’t want to take the thirty-minute walk up the steep hill that leads to the castle, you can take a horse-drawn carriage up from the village, or a taxi. The walk is pleasant, though; you’ll pass charming shops and restaurants while you take in the heady scent of a vendor’s roasted chestnuts, and perhaps, allow a falconer to let you hold one of his beautiful birds.
Upon arriving at the top of the hill, you’ll be immediately struck by the castle’s massive walls and towers, which rise high above the surrounding forest. The castle is surrounded by a moat, and you must cross a drawbridge to enter the main courtyard.
Castle Tour Options
There are currently two guided tours offered. The basic tour explores the first and second floors of the Imperial Palace, and the first floor of the Marian Tower, which has beautiful 14th to 19th century furnishings.
Since each day’s tours may differ, you could book a guided tour in advance, such as this one, which also features a visit to the limestone Koneprusy Caves and flooded gorge.
Each room is filled with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and other works of art that offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the castle’s former residents.
You may also like: Karlštejn Castle: A Day Trip from Prague into Bohemia’s Regal History
Chapel of the Holy Cross
The “exclusive” tour, which must be reserved in advance, takes you to the Eastern Wing of the Imperial Palace and the Great Tower’s Chapel of the Holy Cross.
A visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the highlights of a trip to Karlstejn Castle. Considered one of the most important Gothic chapels in the Czech Republic, the chapel is adorned with stunning frescoes and sculptures and is home to several valuable holy relics.
Founded to store these priceless royal treasures, Karlštejn Castle is part of the Burgenstrasse, a Castle Trail connecting more than 60 castles between Prague and Mannheim, Germany.
I love legends, and Karlštejn Castle has a good one: it is said that in times of danger, flocks of ravens circle the castle, and the enemy attack will come from the direction in which they fly away. Ravens seem to be popular in legends!
Another highlight of the castle is the Great Tower, which can be visited by purchasing a separate ticket. You can climb the tower’s steep stairs to reach the top and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Weddings and scenery at Karlštejn Castle
The castle is also a beautiful backdrop for weddings. During my visit, I saw an elegant wedding group posing for photos in the castle courtyard.
Also in Karlštejn…
Karlštejn is not only a great place to admire the architecture and art of the past, but also a beautiful place to spend time in nature. Surrounded by lush forests, the area is perfect for a hike or stroll.
It’s an easy train trip to reach Karlštejn Castle from Prague. You can also drive, or take a day tour.
On your next trip to Europe, if you visit Prague, I highly recommend a day trip to Karlstejn Castle. The castle is open year-round, but check the opening hours before your visit as they may vary depending on the season.
If you love castles, don’t miss our other posts about castles.
Some movies filmed in the area that you might enjoy
Amadeus (1984) directed by Milos Forman: The story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, told by his peer and secret rival Antonio Salieri – now confined to an insane asylum.
The Illusionist (2006) directed by Neil Burger: A supernatural thriller set in late 19th century Vienna, in which a magician uses his abilities to secure the love of a woman far above his social standing.
The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988) directed by Philip Kaufman: A story about a womanizing Czech doctor and his wife, set in the Prague Spring of 1968.
The Brothers Grimm (2005) directed by Terry Gilliam: Two traveling con artists, Will and Jake Grimm, make a living by tricking people into believing they are experts in the occult.
