Discover Winter Wonders: Year-Round Access to Czech Castles and Chateaus!
Prague Castle
One of the largest castle complexes globally, Prague Castle remains open year-round, even during winter. You can explore remarkable sites such as the Old Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, the Prague Castle Picture Gallery, the Imperial Stables featuring various exhibitions, or the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral. Throughout the Winter Tourist Season, which spans from November 1 to March 31, typical closing hours are around 4 p.m., while exhibitions generally remain open until 6 p.m. Interestingly, Prague Castle is also a significant location in Dan Brown’s novel The Secret of Secrets, as featured by its main character.
Karlštejn Castle
Near Prague lies the impressive Karlštejn Castle, a grand structure commissioned by Emperor Charles IV to serve as an esteemed home for the Czech crown jewels and sacred relics, as well as a venue for hosting distinguished guests. During the winter months (Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), visitors can explore the private chambers and representative rooms that once belonged to Emperor Charles IV.
Mníšek pod Brdy Chateau
The classicist chateau located in the Central Bohemian region of Mníšek pod Brdy was inhabited until the mid-20th century. Here, you can immerse yourself in the ambiance of that historical era. Tours will lead you through the splendid halls and private living spaces of the last owners. When planning a visit, keep in mind that it is open on weekends, from 11 a.m. to 1 or 2 p.m. For specific details, be sure to check here.
Dětenice Chateau
Northeast of Prague, in the enchanting area known as Bohemian Paradise, you will find the baroque Dětenice Chateau. This charming site is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends, and it offers delightful fairy-tale tours specifically designed for children. In addition to the chateau itself, visitors can enjoy a rustic medieval tavern that transports you back to the Middle Ages, and there’s even the option of spending a night in a charming medieval-style hotel. Don’t miss the reconstructed historical brewery nearby, where you can witness the beer-making process.
Loučeň Chateau
The stunning baroque Loučeň Chateau in Central Bohemia is accessible to visitors all year round. Surrounded by an expansive landscaped park, a maze, and numerous attractions, this chateau is closely associated with the noble family of Thurn-Taxis, renowned for their pioneering of postal and transporting services. Throughout its history, the chateau has welcomed many illustrious guests, including Austrian Emperor Francis I, American author Mark Twain, and Czech composer Bedřich Smetana. Discover why the term ‘taxi’ originated from this family and learn how the most daunting obstacle in the Velká pardubická horse race got its name. Feel free to check the tour schedule and opening hours ⬈.
Zbiroh Chateau
Located between Prague and Plzeň, the Zbiroh chateau hotel offers the captivating Chateau Tour during winter, excluding January. This tour unravels the rich history of the chateau, showcases the Masonic lounge, and reveals the hall where Alfons Mucha created the famous Slav Epic. Visitors will also explore the intriguing history of the Knights Templar and view some remarkable exhibits. The tours are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Loket Castle
Located in West Bohemia near Karlovy Vary, the gothic Loket Castle is among the most exquisite castles in the Czech Republic. It is perched on a rocky promontory, surrounded on three sides by the Ohře River. Notably, Emperor Charles IV frequently stayed here, with his first visit taking place when he was just 3 years old, during his imprisonment. The castle features an extensive porcelain collection and an assortment of antique firearms, as well as a fascinating meteorite that landed in Loket in 1422. The castle is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in winter.
Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau
The romantic chateau at Hluboká nad Vltavou in South Bohemia is widely regarded as one of the most stunning chateaus in Czechia. Winter tours allow you to explore the personal rooms of the last four generations of the Schwarzenberg family, such as the dining room for hunters, the servery, and the quarters of the last owner, Dr. Adolf Schwarzenberg. An intriguing feature of this chateau is a personal and service lift. Hluboká is open daily during winter, except on Mondays (from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Sychrov Chateau
The neo-gothic Sychrov Chateau, located near Liberec in North Bohemia, once served as the residence of the French Rohan family. The chateau’s rooms are adorned with original furnishings, paintings, and various decorative items; most rooms stand out due to their intricate wood-carving details. A prominent figure who visited Sychrov was the famous Czech composer Antonín Dvořák. Additionally, it has been the filming location for several movies. The chateau welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during winter, with the exception of January 5–12, 2026.
Slatiňany Château
Known for its UNESCO Heritage Site status, Slatiňany Château features a stud farm where horses are bred. The surrounding picturesque English park, forests brimming with opportunities for outdoor activities, deer and mouflon nature reserves, and cherry-lined and chestnut trees create a stunning array of attractions right within a compact area! The château and stud farm remain open through winter. During the winter tours of the château, visitors will explore the inn’s quarters and the château kitchen located in the cellars. Tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Meanwhile, the Slatiňany stud farm offers winter tours from Wednesday to Friday, allowing guests to visit the stables of purebred Kladruber stallions, the historic carriage house, and the historical room displaying saddles, open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Žďár nad Sázavou Château
The tale of Žďár nad Sázavou Château is woven not only by its current proprietors, the Kinský family, but also by Cistercian monks and the brilliant architect Santini, who designed the neighboring pilgrimage church located at Zelená hora, recognized as a UNESCO Heritage Site. To truly appreciate the entire château complex’s history, which originated as a monastery, you should definitely explore the interactive New Generation Museum packed with cutting-edge technology. Here you will discover why it has earned the title of the most innovative museum in Central Europe. Alternatively, classic tours, such as Following in Santini’s Footsteps and Behind the Monastery Walls, provide insights into the 13th-century monastery’s life. The château welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
