Beneath Prague Castle, on a hill above the Vltava river, beautiful, terraced gardens offer refuge and tranquility. Definitely one of the most significant and interesting sights of the Czech Republic’s capital city, these gardens were created for the owners of the adjoining palaces, and today you too can enjoy them in all their beauty.

Palace Gardens under Prague Castle, a breathtaking complex of connected historical gardens (Ledeburg, Kolovrat, Small Fürstenberg Garden and Small and Large Palffy), will thrill you with their rich architectural elements such as scenic terraces, garden-houses, balustrades and other amazing decorations. Numerous beautiful pavilions, sensitively integrated into the scenery and vegetation, are a picturesque cherry on top of the cake.

When coming to Prague, visit the gardens beneath Prague Castle not only to renew your energy but most of all for their uniqueness and timeless charms…

Overview of the Prague Castle Gardens

Royal Garden

There are many unique and beautiful places in the area, with the Royal Garden being probably the most famous. The garden (originally created in the Renaissance style) was founded in 1534 and it is one of the few quiet places in central Prague. In the northern part of this garden one can see the so called “Empire Greenhouse”, which was built in the 19^th century. The beautiful greenhouse was a favourite place of Ferdinand I, the Austrian emperor who lived in Prague Castle in the 19th century.

The new Orangery, the youngest building in the Royal Garden, strikes visitors with its wonderful modern design. The tubular structure, made of glass and held by stainless steel, is almost ninety meters long and was designed in 1999 by the famous Czech architect Eva Jiřičná. It was initiated by Mrs. Olga Havlová, the first wife of President (and world-wide acknowledged personality) Václav Havel.

Deer Moat

Originally a natural ravine used for hunting deer, the Deer Moat is now a wild, wooded parkland that runs along the northern side of the castle. After recent renovations, the upper part of the moat is open to visitors, offering a unique, natural contrast to the formal gardens.

The South Gardens

The South Gardens, comprised of three smaller gardens, are nearly 500 metres long and during the summer tourist season it is possible to walk through them thus making a circular tour around Prague Castle. St. Wenceslas vineyard with its landmark – a classicist summerhouse Villa Richter – was originally cultivated by the patron saint of the Czech nation, Prince Wenceslas himself.

Hartig Garden

The Hartig Garden, featuring a charming Music Pavilion, was joined to the Garden on the Ramparts in the 1960s. Its current appearance dates to 1965, based on a design by architects Adolf Bens and Richard Podzemny. While the Hartig Garden adds to the historical and architectural richness of the South Gardens, it is currently closed to the public.

The Terrace of the Riding School

The Terrace of the Riding School, built on the roofs of the garages and car workshops above the Office of the President, was only created in the 20^th century – on the spot of the original open Summer Riding School. It offers a beautiful view of Prague Castle.

The Garden on the Bastion

On the western edge of Prague Castle, you will find the Garden on the Bastion. The present-day modern design of the garden was created by Slovenian architect Josip Plečnik, who found his inspiration in the style of Japanese and Italian gardens.

Palace Gardens below the Prague Castle

While often associated with the castle due to their location, the Gardens below the Prague Castle—also known as the Palace Gardens—are not officially part of the Prague Castle Gardens complex.

These breathtaking, terraced gardens (Ledeburg, Kolovrat, Small Fürstenberg, and Small and Large Palffy Gardens) were historically created for the noble families whose palaces line the hillside beneath the castle. Today, they offer visitors a peaceful retreat and a unique perspective of Prague Castle above, with architectural gems such as balustrades, garden houses, pavilions, and scenic stairways set against lush greenery and panoramic city views. Please note that the Palace Gardens do not have free entrance; a ticket is required (160 CZK for adults, with discounts for children, students, and seniors), and tickets can be purchased on-site or online.

The gardens are open daily: 10 AM to 6 PM in April and October, and 10 AM to 7 PM from May till September. They are closed from November to March and during bad weather conditions, so it’s best to check the official website before your visit.

Virtual Tour of Palace Gardens

On the official Prague castle website you can also take a nice virtual tour of the whole complex, including all the palace gardens. Click on the map icon in the top-right corner and select one of the gardens.

Conclusion: A Blend of Architecture and Natural Beauty

Prague Castle Gardens are a true highlight for any visitor seeking a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Each official castle garden offers its own unique atmosphere, from the Renaissance elegance of the Royal Garden to the breathtaking city views from the South Gardens. While some areas, like the Hartig Garden, remain closed to the public, the accessible castle gardens provide plenty of space for relaxation, photography, and quiet reflection away from the city’s bustle. For those looking to explore even more, the Palace Gardens below the castle—though not officially part of the Prague Castle Gardens and requiring a separate ticket—offer tranquil terraces and stunning perspectives of the castle and city, making them a worthwhile addition for garden enthusiasts.

Recommended Route

Begin at the Royal Garden, pass through the castle courtyards, enjoy the South Gardens’ views, and optionally finish with a stroll through the Deer Moat. This route ensures you see the most beautiful and historic parts of the official Prague Castle Gardens in a logical, scenic order.