Golden Lane (Zlata Ulicka) runs along the northern wall of Prague Castle and is one of the most famous and picturesque streets in the city. The lane and its miniature houses were built in the 15th century for castle guards but later housed artists and writers, including Franz Kafka.
The Basics
Walk Golden Lane to visit its colorful, restored houses. Many—including Kafka’s—now house souvenir shops and galleries, but some represent their former uses. No. 15 is a goldsmith's workshop, No. 16 is a tavern, and No. 14 was home to Prague fortuneteller Matylda Průšová, killed in World War I for predicting the downfall of Nazism. Peek inside No. 12, the cozy former home of an amateur film historian to see archive footage of Prague Castle projected inside.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Golden Lane is a must-visit for history lovers.
- The lane is not wheelchair accessible.
- Admission to Golden Lane is included with most Prague Castle tour tickets.
How to Get There
Golden Lane is situated in the northeast corner of the Prague Castle complex. You can get there by trams Nos. 22 and 23 from the center—the closest stop is Prazsky hrad. From the Old Town it's about a 20-minute walk via Charles Bridge, at a distance of just under a mile (1.5 kilometers).
When to Get There
Golden Lane is open daily from early morning until night. Daytime, you need a ticket to Prague Castle to access the lane. When the castle closes in early evening, admission to Golden Lane is free. To avoid crowds, visit in the early morning or later in the day.
Where to Eat
You can easily make a day of it around the Golden Lane, with plenty of dining options to keep you fueled. There are several restaurants in the Golden Lane area, such as Svatováclavská vinice, a 5-minute walk east, which offers views of the Prague skyline from its outdoor terrace. Note that prices are typically higher around Prague Castle and Golden Lane.
