There was an excellent crispness to the air that morning, something due to both the winter season and something that was unique to Prague. The Airbnb apartment we were staying in was up high enough that when I woke up that morning I had a chance to pop open the bedroom window to peek out over the red-orange rooftops around us and just take a moment to let it sink in that we were really in Prague. Just a moment, and then I was closing the window so I wouldn’t catch a chill leaning out in just my sleep shirt and then it was a rush to get ready, prepare a quick breakfast  and call for an ride to take us to the Prague Castle complex.

Known as one of the largest ancient castles in the world, it makes sense that its also one of the most popular places in Prague to visit and as such we probably should have shown up earlier to  beat the crowds but honestly, though it was certainly the most crowded place we visited on the whole trip, it wasn’t too bad and we really enjoyed our time here. Though by this point in the trip I’d been to more than a few castles, palaces and grand estates, visiting this castle was definitely a highlight of the trip, both for its unique structure and the many many interesting buildings open to visit inside.

You could probably spend the whole day visiting inside the complex, especially with the Christmas market they set up inside the courtyard by the Golden Lane where you can grab a cup of hot cider to warm up your chilly hands (it was so so so very cold being high up on the hill, even dressed in warm layers).  We didn’t visit every single building and area but we did get the Circuit A ticket which allowed us access to most all areas so if you have the time, I would definetly recommend getting that one.

St. Vitus Cathedral

St George’s Basilica

Old Royal Palace

Golden Lane

Rosenberg Palace