Schwarzenberg Palace

Schwarzenberg Palace is a Renaissance palace in Prague, standing at Hradčanské náměstí 2 in the Hradčany district – right on the square that opens onto Prague Castle. It's the kind of building most visitors walk straight past on their way to the castle, but it deserves a proper stop of its own, since it's a destination in its own right rather than just scenery along the route.

Where is Schwarzenberg Palace?

The palace sits on Hradčanské náměstí, the grand square leading up to the main gate of Prague Castle. This is the heart of Hradčany, the historic hilltop district that has bordered the seat of Czech rulers for centuries and today ranks among the most visited parts of the city. The address – Hradčanské náměstí 2 – places the building just a short walk from the castle courtyard entrance, making it a natural landmark when planning a route through the area.

What's worth seeing?

The palace is a rare example of Renaissance architecture in a city where Baroque and Gothic dominate much of the surrounding Hradčany district and the castle complex itself. Standing on such a prominent square, its distinct architectural style provides a striking contrast to the buildings around it. Today the palace functions as a museum housing an art collection, meaning visitors can step inside rather than only admiring the façade from the square outside.

How to get there?

Hradčanské náměstí sits at the core of Prague's castle district, most comfortably reached on foot from the Malá Strana side – a walk uphill from Malostranská metro station toward the castle, or by tram to the Pohořelec stop or directly up to the castle area, from where the square is just a few minutes' walk. Since the palace stands right on the square itself, virtually any route toward Prague Castle passes it along the way, so there's no separate detour required.

When to visit?

Hradčanské náměstí and the castle surroundings are among the busiest spots in Prague, so an early-morning visit is the best way to beat the main tourist crowds heading up to the castle. The palace and square are accessible year-round, and the visit pairs naturally with touring the castle complex itself and strolling through Hradčany, one of the city's most striking historic districts.

Frequently asked questions

Can Schwarzenberg Palace be visited inside? Yes – the building now functions as a museum with an art collection on display, so it's open to visitors rather than only viewable from the outside.

How close is it to Prague Castle? Very close – the palace stands directly on Hradčanské náměstí, the square right in front of the castle's main entrance, so it effectively neighbours the gate itself.

What architectural style is the palace? Renaissance – which sets it apart from the many Baroque and Gothic buildings surrounding it in Hradčany and the castle complex.

Is it worth combining with a visit to Prague Castle? Absolutely – given how close it stands, the palace fits naturally into any route toward the castle and can be seen along the way without any extra walking.