Step back in time at one of the most visited Czech attractions. Konopiste Castle was the final residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria before his assassination and serves as a time capsule to a much more illustrious time.

Plan a Konopiste day trip from Prague to visit its 13th-century Gothic structure remodelled in a baroque style and is choc full of fabulous décor, historic artefacts and fascinating aristocratic spaces.

Here's all you need to know about Konopiste, one of the most exciting day trips from Prague.

How to get to Konopiste from Prague?

Konopiste castle is under an hour southeast of Prague and sits outside the town of Benešov.

From Prague to Konopiste by car

Konopiste is about 50 minutes and 48 kilometres away from Prague by car. Drive southeast on the D1 highway which becomes the E50. After about 25 minutes you will take the Route 3 Exit and drive south to the castle.

From Prague to Konopiste by train

There are regular trains from Prague to the town of Benešov. From the town, you have to walk 2.5 kilometres to reach the castle.

Guided tour to Konopiste from Prague

The easiest way to visit Konopiste Castle is with a guided tour. Leave the centre of Prague with a private driver or a comfortable coach for a tour group and enjoy a stress-free day trip to Konopiste Castle.

How much does the entrance ticket to Konopiste cost?

There are four tour options at Konopiste Castle:

Apartments of the south wing of the castle

Adult: $10
Children 0-6 years: free
Youth 6-17 years: $4
Seniors 65+/Youth 18-24 years: $8

Apartments of the north wing of the castle

Adults: $10
Children 0-6 years: free
Youth 6-17 years: $4
Seniors 65+/Youth 18 - 24 years: $8

Private apartments of Franz Ferdinand d'Este family

Adult: $14
Youth 6-17 years: $5.50
Youth 18-24 years: $11
Seniors 65+: $11

Hunting Route

Adult: $12
Youth 6-17 years: $4.50
Youth 18-24 years: $9
Seniors 65+: $9

What is the typical itinerary?

A basic day trip to Konopiste Castle leaves Prague’s Old Town at 1 PM. You will take a guided tour of the castle and return to the pickup location in the late afternoon.

Private tours leave from your hotel and the departure time is your choice.

At the castle, you can admire the grounds, feed the deer, search for the bears in the castle's moat and take a guided tour of the castle’s interior.

What kinds of tours are available?

There are several day trips to Konopiste Castle to choose from, each one offering a unique way to experience this emblematic landmark.

Guided tours to Konopiste Castle from Prague

Enjoy a relaxing 5-hour trip to Konopiste with comfortable transportation and a guided tour of the castle.

The tour starts in the early afternoon, departing from the Rudolfinum and includes visits to the chapel, library, smoking salon and impressive trophy room.

Private tour to Konopiste Castle from Prague

Take a private transfer to Konopiste Castle for a more intimate experience. Your driver will pick you up at your hotel at a time of your choosing and set off for a 4-hour castle adventure.

Day trip to Konopiste Castle plus a Kozel Brewery from Prague

Combine a relaxing day trip to Konopiste Castle with a visit to a highly regarded local brewery for a delectable lunch and beer tasting.

This small group tour leaves in the morning and lasts for 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to admire the historic castle and enjoy a traditional lunch.

How much does a day trip to Konopiste from Prague cost?

A basic guided tour to Konopiste Castle cost €70 per person, while a tour that includes lunch and a beer tasting costs €90 per person.

A private day trip to Konopiste Castle costs €190 per person and also includes your entry fees and comfortable transportation.

What will you see and do?

Konopiste Castle is celebrated for its impeccable collection of baroque artefacts. Stroll through the opulent rooms of the castle and visit the Archduke’s private chambers.

One of the most prized items on display is the bullet that killed the Archduke and subsequently changed the course of history. The castle houses the country’s largest armoury and there is an astonishing collection of hunting trophies from across the world.

The castle grounds are equally beloved. Stroll through the rose garden or feed the inquisitive deer that live in the forest. Some bears inhabit the castle’s moat and make an appearance now and then.

What are the opening times?

Konopiste Castle is only open from Tuesday to Sunday from April to October. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm and only until 3 pm in October. In November you can still visit at the weekend.

When is the best time to visit Konopiste?

The castle is not open all year and a Spring or Summer visit is the best option.

Travel tips

There is a fair amount of walking involved so wear comfortable shoes.
Inform your guide ahead of time if you have dietary restrictions for tours that include lunch.
The castle is closed on Mondays so plan your visit accordingly.

Konopiste: Day Trips and Tours from Prague