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St. Vitus Cathedral
intro
St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the Prague Castle complex and is one of the most inspiring buildings. It's is a prominent example of Gothic architecture and the largest and most important church in the Czech Republic. In addition, it houses the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors. The cathedral is covered with intricate detail from floor to ceiling, so you'll probably be spending most of your time here. The cathedral dimensions are 124 by 60 meters (407 by 197 feet), the main tower is 102.8 meters high (337 feet), the front towers 82 meters (269 feet), arch height 33.2 meters (109 feet).
Additional Information
Don't miss St. John of Nepomuk tomb, famous for its intricate silverwork and the art nouveau stained-glass window work completed by the famous Czech painter Alphonse Mucha.
You can observe the cathedral's inside entrance for free, but you'll have to pay to tour the entire facility. See Prague Castle for details.
St. Vitus Cathedral offers a profound experience of Gothic architecture, Bohemian history, and spiritual ambiance, drawing visitors for both its artistic beauty and historical importance.
Reasons to Visit:
- The St. Wenceslas Chapel with vibrant medieval frescoes and precious stones
- Panoramic views of Prague from the Great South Tower
- Tombs of Bohemian kings and historical figures, including Charles IV
- Stunning stained glass windows, including a piece by Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha
Things to Avoid:
- Visiting during peak hours without pre-purchasing tickets, as the lines can be long
- Climbing the tower if mobility is an issue, as there are narrow, steep stairs
- Touching or leaning on fragile artifacts and artworks to help preserve them
Accessibility Level: Medium
Many parts of St. Vitus Cathedral, particularly its upper areas and towers, have steep stairways that may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. However, there are accessible options for exploring its main hall and certain surrounding areas.
Address:
St. Vitus Cathedral, III. nádvoří, Prague 1-Hradčany, Czechia
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Basic Info
COUNTRY & Region
Czech Republic,
Europe
ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL
Medium
LOCAL CURRENCY
Czech Koruna (CZK)
Price Level
Medium
SAFETY LEVEL
Recommended Duration
• Less than an hour
• 1-2 hours
• 1-2 hours
Electricity
Electricity
220-240V,
50Hz
Plug Type
• Type E (Two round pins with earth pin)
Activities To Do In St. Vitus Cathedral
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit St. Vitus Cathedral is from April to October.
- Spring (April to May): Ideal for viewing the cathedral's surroundings in bloom and enjoying milder weather.
- Summer (June to August): Long daylight hours enhance exploration, though this period can be busier.
- Autumn (September to October): Offers a peaceful experience with fewer crowds, crisp air, and scenic fall colors around Prague Castle.
- Winter (November to March): Visiting during winter is quieter, but be prepared for shorter hours and cold temperatures.
Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.
SAFETY Level
Safe. St. Vitus Cathedral is situated within Prague Castle and is a well-secured site. It is safe for visitors.
The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.
Spoken Languages
The official language is Czech, but English and German are commonly understood in tourist areas.
Learn The Language
- Hello: Dobrý den
- Thank you: Děkuji
- Excuse me: Promiňte
- Yes: Ano
- No: Ne
- How much is this?: Kolik to stojí?
Deals, Money-Saving & Best Value Tips
- Ticket options vary, with additional fees for tower access
- Purchase a combo ticket for Prague Castle, which includes access to multiple sites, including St. Vitus Cathedral. This ticket often offers better value than buying separate entries.
- Visit early to avoid crowds and maximize photography opportunities with morning light.
Price Level
Medium
Price levels are estimates based on multi‑year averages. Actual prices can change with season, exchange rates, and special events. Always confirm current rates and deals before booking.
Check out our traveling coupons and make your trip more affordable
What To Pack
Pack comfortable walking shoes as there is considerable walking and stair climbing, particularly within the Prague Castle complex. A light jacket or shawl is recommended for cooler areas of the cathedral, especially during off-peak seasons. Consider a travel-friendly camera to capture the intricate details of the cathedral’s stained glass, frescoes, and views from the tower.
Related Travel Tips
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FAQs
What is the best way to get to St. Vitus Cathedral?
The cathedral is part of the Prague Castle complex, accessible by tram (lines 22 and 23) or a walk up from the Old Town.
Can I take photos inside St. Vitus Cathedral?
Yes, photography is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography may be restricted.
What are the opening hours of St. Vitus Cathedral?
The cathedral typically opens from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with shorter hours in winter.
Is St. Vitus Cathedral wheelchair accessible?
Parts of the cathedral are accessible, though certain areas, such as the tower, are not.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Tickets are available on-site, but it’s advisable to buy them in advance to avoid lines, especially in peak season.
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