The Ultimate Guide to Vysehrad in Prague
One of the must-visit places in Prague, Czechia is Vysehrad (Czech: Vyšehrad), an ancient fortification looming over Vltava river. Read our travel guide, including everything you need to know before visiting Vysehrad. Best things to see and do at Vysehrad, how to get to Vysehrad, where to eat, and how to get around.
It does not happen to us often that we write about a place we know so well, about a place we know more like locals than regular tourists and travelers.
Also, it is not a rule that we share stories and travel guides on a destination we are so deeply attached to, a destination we know by heart. Well, we guess this must change now.
We finally moved back to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, and once again, this city is our hometown.
We've been living here on and off for more than a decade now and feel that this might the place we want to live in the future.
This post is dedicated to Vysehrad (Czech: Vyšehrad), a top attraction and must-see place when you are in Prague, and it does not matter if you have only a day, two or more, you have to go there. Period.
As we've created our ultimate 3-day Prague itinerary, check it out, and see how you can implement visit of Vysehrad, one of the top sights, to your busy schedule.
Vysehrad was one of the first settlements in Prague, and although it has a deep connection to our national history (we will touch the past of Vysehrad in this post briefly as well), we believe that travelers like you for sure rather appreciate information on what you can see and do here, if there is anything to eat, if there is a worthwhile view over the city and most importantly how to get to Vysehrad from the city center (or from other corners of Prague as well).
We do not know how it happened, but in the past few years, we moved several times within Prague, but we always lived near Vysehrad.
Even now, we can easily walk there within twenty minutes, so it is our regular stop when we do not plan on doing anything in particular when we simply want to go out, and we often go there jogging after work.
We are not saying Vysehrad is a hidden gem, it is definitely not.
You will meet here many tourists, but thanks to the fact you can admire here the old fortifications, sculptures, Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, amazing views over Prague, visit the most famous cemetery in the Czech Republic or simply walk around surrounded by greenery like in the park, or taste wine paired with a meal, the place rarely feels that crowded.
We prefer to come to Vysehrad either early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during autumn when the air is fresh, views clear, and when colorful leaves fall from trees, but any time of the year at Vysehrad is magical.
Also, for the past few years (when in the Czechia, of course) me and Martin have a holiday tradition to walk to Vysehrad on the Christmas Day, to soak up the atmosphere and avoid unpleasantly busy Old Town Square.
BRIEF HISTORY OF VYSEHRAD
The historic fort of Vysehrad (which means Upper Castle in translation) was built on a hill above Vltava river in the 10th century as one of the first settlement in the area which was soon about to be famous as Prague.
An old legend says that when a mythical ruler Krok arrived in Czech lands, his daughter Libuse from this place prophesied the glory of the future city of Prague. This is not the only myth tied to this place.
Another popular Czech legend says, that after Horymir being sentenced to demise, brave horse Semik jumped off the rock and over the fortified walls with his master on his back, and saved him from a certain death.
Unfortunately Semik got hurt during the jump and tragically died. That must have been really cool (the jump, not the death), though some sour pessimists say, that Horymir might didn’t even exist.
For about two centuries Vysehrad was a seat for rulers from Premyslids dynasty, and a castle and church were built there.
But later in the 12th century the seat of power was moved to a place we know as Prague Castle, and Vysehrad was abandoned, but not completely.
Our most famous ruler Charles IV decided to renew fortifications, build gates and restore the church in the 14th century, but this attempt was ruined by several raids, and the place was even burnt down which left Vysehrad destroyed.
It again took several centuries for Vysehrad to gain back its glory, but it finally happened in the 16th century, when the fort walls were remodeled by Habsburg Monarchy who used Vysehrad as an Austrian training center. Most of the architecture was built in Baroque, Romanesque and later neo-Gothic style.
Today's form and shape got Vysehrad in the late 19th and at the beginning of the 20th century.
BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO AT VYSEHRAD
Even if you are in a hurry, reserve for visiting Vysehrad at least one hour, to really have time to see all top things this place has to offer, we recommend you to spend there at least two hours, so you won't miss anything at all.
Here's the list of the best things you can see and do at Vysehrad.
Taborska and Cihelna Gate
It does not matter from which direction you are heading to Vysehrad, you will most likely enter the grounds from either Taborska or Cihelna Gate. Because the last use of Vysehrad was military, these gates are not somehow decorated, but it is a nice introduction to the complex, and you can admire how thick the walls of the fortification are.
The fortification encircles the whole complex, and when standing on the old walls, you will be amazed by the beautiful views of the city.
Cihelna Gate carried many other names in the past such as Prazska (Prague), Nova (New) or Vojenska (Military), but you will find it on the map under the last name.
To reach both gates from either Albertov or Vltava waterfront, you must walk uphill, which will give you a rough idea of how difficult for intruders was to get inside.
Vysehrad Cemetery
When facing the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, you will see the famous Czech cemetery on your left.
Enter, and walk quietly through narrow pathways hiding last resting place of some of the most famous persons our nation had. You will find here several large tombs, interesting statues, beautifully-decorated stone coffins, but also inconspicuous graves waiting to be discovered.
Even though it sounds weird to say about a cemetery that it is beautiful, Vysehrad Cemetery really is exceptional, and always when we visit it, we lose track of time, looking for new details we had missed last time.
There was a cemetery on the same place from the 13th century, but it was remodeled in 1869 to be the national burial ground for elite.
Therefore, you can find here grave of famous composer Antonin Dvorak or Bedrich Smetana, but also Czech writers such as Josef Capek, Bozena Nemcova, Jan Neruda, Karel Hynek Macha, painters like Mikolas Ales, and many other famous people such as singers, doctors, politicians.
On the east side of the cemetery, you will notice the biggest tomb with a large statue on the top - this is Slavin, the common tomb of selected personalities. Let us know in the comments, how many famous Czech people you know!
The cemetery closes between 5 PM and 7 PM depending on the season, so make sure you won't be locked in.
Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul
The dominant of Vysehrad complex are the twin towers of Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul.
Although the basilica was built already in the 11th century in the Romanesque style, it was later rebuilt to neo-Gothic style, because it suffered damages from the fire. The basilica cannot be compared with St. Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle, yet we still think it is one of the most beautiful religious structures in Prague.
Once you will take enough of photos from the outside (for sure do not miss that beautifully-decorated pinkish door on your left when facing the church), go inside to admire the interior.
Rotunda of St. Martin
The fortress of Vysehrad is rich on small hidden gems such as sculptures or stone foundations of old structures, but our favorite one is Rotunda of St. Martin, which stands not far away from Taborska Gate on the right side of the cobblestone street.
The rotunda is the oldest in Prague, and even though it is not somehow large, we find it very photogenic.
Normally it is not possible to go inside as the rotunda is open only during services, but looking at the architecture from outside is good enough.
Park
We and everyone from Prague, who come to Vysehrad often, considered the complex as a park.
Generally, Prague has quite many green areas in the city center, but Vysehrad is one of the most popular ones, so you will meet here many people jogging, walking their dogs, and simply enjoying their time outside. It’s also one of our favorite places to jog.
Vysehrad is a great place to take a rest in the shade of trees after all day walking the cobblestone streets of Prague and wait for the sunset.
Vineyard
Believe it or not, the steep and sunny slopes of Vysehrad are perfect for growing wine, and that's why small vineyard is in the complex since the 11th century.
A legend says that the Czech nation will thrive until the wine will be cultivated on the Vysehrad's vineyards, and although there were some darker times when the wine almost disappeared from Vysehrad (and there were some darker times in our history as well), you still can find here small fields especially in the southwest part of Vysehrad.
Unfortunately, you will most likely won't be able to drink this wine, because the number of bottles is very limited, the wine is not sold commercially, and is used for representative purposes only.
Amazing Views
Perched atop a hill above Vltava river close to some of the Prague's best sights, one thing is sure.
You must have your camera ready because the views from Vysehrad are simply stunning. No wonder, that the viewpoints are usually the places which are the most crowded, the rest of the complex is pretty much laidback. From one place you will have a chance to admire Vltava river and Podoli district below, and on the far left, you will also see a new modern skyscraper simply called V because of its futuristic shape.
When looking right, you will spot Prague Castle and many other towers. From this place, you will understand why is Prague called the city of hundred spires.
Sculptures
Spread over the grounds, there are several notable sculptures.
The most famous ones stand in the middle of the park and are made by famous Czech sculptor Myslbek. All statues represent important and mostly mythical characters from our history.
However our personal favorite statue is a one of the no name sculptures standing on Vysehrad cemetery.
Galleries and Exhibitions
If you want to know more about Vysehrad, you can pay a small fee (around 50 CZK) and visit small galleries and exhibitions inside the complex. Usually, the exhibitions focus on the history of Vysehrad and show how the complex looked like in the past.
From time to time there are also open exhibitions outside. Last time we visited Vysehrad, we saw there a board with Charles IV lineage for the first time, so the exhibitions change from time to time.
Summer Theatre
A small amphitheater in the northernmost part of Vysehrad serves as a theatre during summer months, that's why we call it Letni Scena alias Summer Scene.
If you happen to be in the city when the play takes place, you can check online if there are tickets available and enjoy a cultural experience in a very unique location. The only downside is that the plays are usually only in the Czech language, but it can be the part of the unusual experience though.
Do you want to visit Vysehrad, but you prefer to be guided by a local guide who will tell you more about the history and architecture?
You can reserve this Vysehrad Castle Tour.
HOW TO GET TO VYSEHRAD
Good news. Getting to Vysehrad is incredibly easy, and it is only up to you whether you want to use public transport or get there on foot - yes, it is also an option in case you have plenty of time, and want to enjoy Prague more leisurely.
Vysehrad is well-connected with the center and other parts of the city as well because the attraction is close to the metro station. To get there, simply take the metro line C (the red one), and get off at Vysehrad station.
In case you are staying closer to line A (green) or B (yellow), jump on, and change the line to C line either at Muzeum station or Florenc station. Once you get off Vysehrad station, walk out, and you will emerge next to Prague's Congress Center.
You will have the building on your left, Corinthia hotel will be behind you, and you will see a small brownish sign Vysehrad in front of you. Follow the arrow, and walk straight for about 500 meters until you reach Taborska Brana (Taborska Gate), one of the official entrances to Vysehrad.
When traveling by tram from either Wenceslas Square or Charles Square, there is also a possibility to take a tram number 3 or 14 which will take you to the station Albertov.
From here, walk approximately 500 meters uphill via street Premyslova to Cihelna Brana (Cihelna Gate), another entrance to Vysehrad.
Are you near the Vltava river waterfront? You can either walk to Vysehrad on foot, it is actually our favorite way to get to the top of the hill, but you can also take a tram to Vyton station, and walk again, approximately 500 meters via streets Vnislavova and Vratislavova to Cihelna Gate.
The easiest way to get around Prague by public transport is to download Jizdni Rady app, where you will see all connections and timetables. Remember to buy a ticket before you enter either bus, tram or metro.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
ENTRANCE FEE TO VYSEHRAD
Unlike Prague Castle interiors, there is no entrance fee to Vysehrad.
You can freely walk around the grounds, and enjoy the exceptionality of the place, which makes it a perfect thing to do for all travelers on a budget.
In all honesty, it is always great to find an entrance-free sight in otherwise quite expensive European cities.
Inside the grounds, there are one or two galleries and exhibitions where it is required to pay a fee, but the amount is rather symbolical, and it is only up to you whether you want to go inside or not.
For more information on this topic, check out this blog post Free Things to Do in Prague.
FACILITIES AT VYSEHRAD
For locals, Vysehrad is a place to hang out with own drinks and picnic while soaking up the views and peaceful atmosphere before the sun goes down. But also tourists who do not want to bring own bottles and food can eat and drink here pretty comfortably.
There are several restaurants and bistros at Vysehrad, so you for sure won't be hungry here.
Honestly, we never tried any of the restaurants at Vysehrad, simply because there was no reason for us. First, we live nearby, and second, you will find here regular restaurants.
I mean, they will be just fine, but nothing spectacular, so we never wanted to spend our money there. But in case your schedule is tight, and you will arrive at Vysehrad around lunch or dinner time, there are for sure several places to choose from.
Near the church you will also find public bathrooms, they work on a donation basis, so you can pay as much as you want (or nothing, in case you do not have change as it happened to me last time).
If you like tennis, you can rent a tennis court under the walls.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR VYSEHRAD
Staying near Vysehrad is not a bad idea at all. Not only it is close to the city center and the connection by public transport is great, but the district is very pretty itself, and you will get here more authentic experience, not mentioning hotel rooms are here a bit cheaper as well.
We've handpicked three best hotels within walking distance from Vysehrad for every budget.
Budget | Union Hotel Prague - Simple but clean hotel is within walking distance from Vysehrad, you will get from here easily to the center by tram in less than ten minutes, and in the evening you can walk around park Folimanka (our another pick for jogging), or have a beer in one of many pubs nearby.
Mid-range | Corinthia Hotel Prague - An iconic multi-story hotel every traveler see when arriving in Prague from the south is located near metro station Vysehrad and offers beautiful city views.
Luxury | Rezidence Vyšehrad - Right under Vysehrad you can enjoy staying in apartments with a kitchen and balcony. Thanks to the location and modern design, it is one of the top picks in Prague as well.
WHAT TO PACK FOR VISITING VYSEHRAD
Vysehrad and Prague overall is an all year round destination. It can rain, especially during spring and autumn, it can snow in winter, you can experience windy conditions, but it is often sunny as well.
Here are five things you should pack for Vysehrad:
Umbrella | Jeans | Sneakers | Compact Mirrorless Camera | Ultralight Packable Daypack
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Get Around: Buses and trains are an affordable way to get around the Czech Republic. Regiojet offers clean and modern buses and trains with all the amenities.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
