Karlštejn Castle is a high Gothic castle founded in 1348 by Czech King and Roman Emperor Charles IV. as a place for safekeeping of the royal treasures, especially Charles’s collection of holy relics and the coronation jewels of the Roman Empire. Located about 30 km southwest of Prague in Karlštejn Village it is among the most famous and visited castles in Czech Republic. The present appearance of the castle comes from the last reconstruction provided at the end of the 19th century.
After picking up from your Prague accommodation for our half day trip to Karlštejn, we take a short trip through the Czech countryside to reach Karlštejn Castle. The Castle is built high on rocky hillside, in the heart of a thick forest, thought to be impregnable. About 20 minutes walk trough the picturesque Karlštejn Village leads to the Castle.
You are rewarded by an impressive view of the towering buildings – from the Well tower and Burgrave’s palace to the Imperial palace and the Marian tower. At the top of the headland stands the monumental 60m tall and separately fortified Great tower.
Joining a Karlštejn Interior Tour (admission is at additional charge) you get the opportunity to walk through the historical interiors of the Imperial palace and the lower floors of the Marian tower. Decoration is dated from 14th to 19th centuries. the largest portrait gallery of Czech rulers in the country is on view as well as a replica of St. Wenceslas Crown – the Crown of the Czech Kings.
The Chapel of Holy Cross decorated with wall paintings and original 14th century 129 panel paintings can be visited on a special request.
You can choose the Castle Café for refreshment or some of the pleasant restaurants in the village while strolling downhill.The last September weekend each year Karlštejn is brought back to 14th century by the vintage celebrations. You can taste the stum in the company of Charles IV., his Queen, many courtiers and knights. Medieval dances, knight tournaments, Czech traditional band and many delicious old Bohemian specialties certainly will make your Karlštejn visit unforgettable experience.
After picking up from your Prague accommodation for our half day trip to Karlštejn, we take a short trip through the Czech countryside to reach Karlštejn Castle. The Castle is built high on rocky hillside, in the heart of a thick forest, thought to be impregnable. About 20 minutes walk trough the picturesque Karlštejn Village leads to the Castle.
You are rewarded by an impressive view of the towering buildings – from the Well tower and Burgrave’s palace to the Imperial palace and the Marian tower. At the top of the headland stands the monumental 60m tall and separately fortified Great tower.
Joining a Karlštejn Interior Tour (admission is at additional charge) you get the opportunity to walk through the historical interiors of the Imperial palace and the lower floors of the Marian tower. Decoration is dated from 14th to 19th centuries. the largest portrait gallery of Czech rulers in the country is on view as well as a replica of St. Wenceslas Crown – the Crown of the Czech Kings.
The Chapel of Holy Cross decorated with wall paintings and original 14th century 129 panel paintings can be visited on a special request.
You can choose the Castle Café for refreshment or some of the pleasant restaurants in the village while strolling downhill.The last September weekend each year Karlštejn is brought back to 14th century by the vintage celebrations. You can taste the stum in the company of Charles IV., his Queen, many courtiers and knights. Medieval dances, knight tournaments, Czech traditional band and many delicious old Bohemian specialties certainly will make your Karlštejn visit unforgettable experience.
Tour information
Karlštejn Castle Tour duration: 5 to 6 hours
Suggested starting time: not later than 10 am
Price includes a qualified guide speaking your chosen language. It does not include admission fees and transport costs; transport costs may vary depending on exact number of persons.
Please refer for opening hours and admission to the Karlštejn Castle website
Note that Karlštejn Castle is closed Mondays all year round, December from 1st to 12th and Christmas, January from 5th to 31st and February.
Tour Sights
Karlštejn Castle, Karlštejn Village
Prices and Booking
Prices depend on the chosen language and number of persons attending.
Please send us an email request at gotravelprague@email.cz