Understanding the Guard Ceremony Schedule

The Castle Guard is a special unit of the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic. They serve as the formal protectors of the President and the castle grounds. You can see them at the gates every day of the week. Their presence adds a sense of regal history to the UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the most photographed events in the city.

There are two types of changes you should know about. The simple hourly change happens at every main gate. These are quick but disciplined movements. The festive changing of the guard at Prague Castle times includes a parade and music. This major event only happens once a day at noon in the First Courtyard. It is the most crowded time to visit the main entrance.

During the summer season, the hourly changes occur from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. In the winter season, they typically end earlier at 6:00 PM. Always check the official Prague Castle website for sudden changes due to state visits. If a high-level foreign official is visiting, some areas may close. Planning around these times ensures you don't miss the action.

9 Best Spots to See the Changing of the Guard

To make the most of your visit, you need to know where to stand. Different gates offer different views and crowd levels. Here are the best spots to experience the changing of the guard at Prague Castle times.

• Best overall: First Courtyard (Noon ceremony)
• Best for families: Hradčanské Square
• Best for photos: Matthias Gate
• Best free option: Black Tower Gate

1. Name: First Courtyard Noon Ceremony Type: experience Why go: This is the main event with a full brass band and flag exchange. Best for: Travelers who want the full ceremonial experience. Where: First Courtyard near the Matthias Gate. Time: Exactly 12:00 PM daily. Cost: Free to watch. Getting there: Take Tram 22 to Pražský hrad. Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a spot by the railings.
2. Name: Matthias Gate Hourly Shift Type: sight Why go: See the sharp precision of the guards as they rotate positions every hour. Best for: A quick look without the massive noon crowds. Where: Between the First and Second Courtyards. Time: On the hour, every hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Hradčanské Square entrance. Tip: Stand near the gate arches for a close-up view of the march.
3. Name: Hradčanské Square Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: Offers a wide perspective of the guards marching toward the main gate. Best for: Seeing the approach of the relief unit. Where: The large open square outside the main castle entrance. Time: 5 minutes before the hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the hill from Malostranská. Tip: This is a great spot if you feel claustrophobic in the courtyards.
4. Name: Black Tower Gate Type: sight Why go: This is the eastern entrance and usually much quieter than the front. Best for: A peaceful viewing of the hourly change. Where: Near the Old Castle Stairs. Time: On the hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Malostranská metro station. Tip: Great for those ending their 3 days in Prague itinerary at the castle.
5. Name: Castle Guard Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn the history of the uniforms and weapons used by the guards. Best for: History buffs who want context for the ceremony. Where: Powder Tower (Mihulka). Time: During castle opening hours. Cost: Included in some circuit tickets. Getting there: Located on the north side of the complex. Tip: Check the visiting Prague Castle complex guide for ticket details.
6. Name: Royal Garden Gate Type: sight Why go: Watch the guards at the northern entrance near the beautiful gardens. Best for: Combining the ceremony with a nature walk. Where: Northern entrance across the Powder Bridge. Time: On the hour (seasonal). Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 22 to Královský letohrádek. Tip: The gardens are usually closed in winter, so check seasonal dates.
7. Name: Powder Bridge Approach Type: viewpoint Why go: See the guards march across the bridge that spans the Deer Moat. Best for: Unique photography angles of the marching unit. Where: The bridge connecting the Second Courtyard to the Royal Garden. Time: A few minutes before the hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the Second Courtyard. Tip: This area provides a great backdrop of the castle walls.
8. Name: Archbishop’s Palace Perspective Type: sight Why go: View the ceremony from the side for a different architectural frame. Best for: Avoiding the central crowd in the First Courtyard. Where: Opposite the main gate in Hradčanské Square. Time: 12:00 PM. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the square's northern edge. Tip: Use a zoom lens here to capture the guards' facial expressions.
9. Name: Golden Lane Guard Post Type: experience Why go: While not a full ceremony, you can see sentries near this famous historic street. Best for: Seeing the guards in a more intimate, narrow setting. Where: Near the exit of Golden Lane. Time: Throughout the day. Cost: Requires a castle ticket for the lane. Getting there: Follow the main tour route toward the east. Tip: Be respectful and do not touch the guards or their gear.

Planning Your Visit to the Castle Complex

When you plan your trip, remember that the castle is a massive site. Seeing the changing of the guard at Prague Castle times is just one part of the day. Most people spend at least three to four hours exploring the various buildings. You should check the St. Vitus Cathedral opening hours before you arrive. This helps you avoid missing the interior of the most famous church in Prague.

Security checks are mandatory at all entrances to the castle. These lines can be long, especially before the noon ceremony. If you want to see the 12:00 PM show, pass through security by 11:15 AM. This gives you time to find a good viewing spot. Use a Prague city guide to find the best transport routes to the hill. Trams are usually the easiest way to reach the top without a long climb.

Finally, consider the weather when you visit. The courtyards are very open and offer little shade or cover. In summer, bring water and a hat while you wait for the noon fanfare. In winter, the wind on the castle hill can be quite cold. Dressing in layers will make your wait much more comfortable. Always keep your belongings secure in crowded areas during the ceremony.