Is Climbing the Great South Tower of St Vitus Hard?

The climb consists of exactly 287 stone steps. These steps form a tight, winding spiral staircase that goes up nearly 100 meters. There is no elevator available for visitors. You must be in decent physical shape to reach the top comfortably.

The staircase is quite narrow in several sections. If two people need to pass each other, one must often lean against the wall. This can feel tight for those who suffer from claustrophobia. However, there are small windows along the way for fresh air.

Best for: Active travelers and photography enthusiasts who want a bird's-eye view.

Skip if: You have heart conditions, knee problems, or a severe fear of enclosed spaces.

The air can get warm inside the stone shaft during the summer. We recommend bringing a small bottle of water. Take your time and use the small landings to rest if you feel winded.

The Reward: What You See From the Top

Once you reach the gallery, the view is breathtaking. You can see the entire Prague Castle complex from above. The red-tiled roofs of Malá Strana look like a toy village from this height. On clear days, you can see for miles across the Bohemian landscape.

You will also get a close-up look at the Sigismund Bell. This is the largest bell in the Czech Republic. It dates back to the 16th century and is a masterpiece of Renaissance craft. Seeing the intricate details of the tower's exterior masonry is also a highlight.

Photographers should aim for the late afternoon. The sun hits the Old Town towers across the river beautifully at this time. You can clearly spot the Charles Bridge history and statues from the viewing platform. It is truly the most iconic vantage point in the city.

Tickets and Practical Planning for 2026

In 2026, the tower requires a separate ticket from the main Cathedral circuit. You cannot use a standard Castle ticket to enter the tower. You can buy these at the entrance to the tower itself. This helps keep the crowds smaller than in the main church.

The price is typically around 150 to 200 CZK. Prices may fluctuate, so check the latest St Vitus Cathedral entrance info before your visit. The tower often has slightly different hours than the nave. It usually opens at 10:00 AM and closes shortly before sunset.

Visit the official Prague Castle website for the most accurate daily schedules. If the weather is very poor, such as during high winds or heavy ice, the tower may close. Always check the weather forecast before you pay for your ticket.

Pros and Cons of the Tower Experience

Deciding whether to include this in your itinerary depends on your priorities. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Prague for a reason. Here is a quick breakdown of the experience to help you choose.

• Pros: Unbeatable 360-degree views, fewer crowds than the ground level, and a great physical workout.
• Cons: No elevator access, very narrow stairs, and an additional ticket cost.

The tower is rarely as packed as the Cathedral interior. This makes it a great escape from the midday tourist rush. You can spend as much time as you like at the top once you finish the climb. Most people spend about 20 minutes admiring the view before heading back down.

Alternative: If the climb sounds too difficult, check if the entrance to St Vitus Cathedral is free for the front section. You can see the architecture without the hike.