Essential Highlights of Vysehrad

Vysehrad is more than just an old fort. It is a symbol of the Czech nation. You can explore many places to visit in Prague, but few match this atmosphere. The complex includes churches, parks, and underground tunnels. It is a great spot for families and solo travelers. Here are some quick picks for your visit:

• Best for history: Vysehrad National Cemetery
• Best for families: Gorlice Casemates
• Best for views: The Southern Ramparts
• Best for peace: Vysehrad Gardens

Most visitors spend half a day here. You can walk the entire perimeter in about an hour. However, the museums and church take more time. Pack some water and comfortable walking shoes. The paths are mostly flat but can be stony.

10 Must-See Spots at Vysehrad Fortress

There are many unique sights within the fortress walls. Each spot tells a different story of Prague’s past. From medieval gates to modern sculptures, there is much to see. Here are the top ten things to do at Vysehrad Fortress and national cemetery.

1. Name: Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul Type: sight Why go: Marvel at the stunning Neo-Gothic towers and Art Nouveau interior. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Central Vysehrad. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee for the interior. Getting there: Walk from the Brick Gate. Tip: Look for the detailed mosaics above the entrance.
2. Name: Vyšehrad National Cemetery (Slavín) Type: sight Why go: Pay respects to famous people buried in Vysehrad cemetery. Best for: History buffs and culture seekers. Where: Next to the Basilica. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Follow the signs from the main path. Tip: Find the graves of Dvořák and Mucha using the map at the entrance.
3. Name: Rotunda of St. Martin Type: sight Why go: See the oldest surviving building in Prague from the 11th century. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Near the Leopold Gate. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (view from outside). Getting there: Located on the main road through the fort. Tip: Look for the cannonball embedded in the wall from the 18th century.
4. Name: Gorlice Casemates Type: experience Why go: Explore underground tunnels and see original Charles Bridge statues. Best for: Families and those seeking unique history. Where: Entrance near the Brick Gate. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee for guided tours. Getting there: Enter through the information center. Tip: Wear a light jacket as the tunnels stay cool year-round.
5. Name: The Brick Gate Type: sight Why go: Enter the fortress through this impressive Empire-style gate. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Northern entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Vratislavova street. Tip: This gate houses an exhibition about the fortress history.
6. Name: Vyšehrad Ramparts Type: viewpoint Why go: Enjoy panoramic views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle. Best for: Sunset watchers and casual walkers. Where: The perimeter of the fortress. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk the loop around the fortress edge. Tip: Visit at dusk for the best lighting over the city.
7. Name: Libuše’s Bath Type: sight Why go: See the ruins of a medieval watchtower linked to local legends. Best for: Legend and myth seekers. Where: On the cliff edge overlooking the river. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path along the southern wall. Tip: The "bath" was actually part of a defensive structure.
8. Name: Vyšehrad Gardens Type: nature Why go: Relax in one of the most scenic parks and gardens in Prague. Best for: Picnics and quiet relaxation. Where: Surrounding the Basilica. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central area of the fortress. Tip: Look for the large statues depicting Czech mythological figures.
9. Name: Old Burgrave’s House Type: experience Why go: Visit a cultural center that hosts concerts and plays. Best for: Families and theater fans. Where: Near the Basilica. Time: 1–2 hours (if attending a show). Cost: Varies by event. Getting there: Walk from the central crossroads. Tip: They often have puppet shows for children in summer.
10. Name: Leopold Gate Type: sight Why go: Admire the most beautiful Baroque gate in the fortress. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Southern entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Vysehrad metro station. Tip: Look for the ornate carvings on the stone facade.

Planning Your Visit to Vysehrad

Getting to Vysehrad is quite simple. You can take the Metro Line C (Red). Get off at the Vysehrad station. From there, it is a ten-minute walk. You can also learn how to get to Vysehrad from Old Town by tram. Tram numbers 17 and 18 stop at the bottom of the hill. You will have to walk up a steep path from there.

The fortress grounds are open all day and night. However, the Basilica and museums have specific hours. Most sites open at 10:00 AM. They usually close by 6:00 PM in summer. Check the official Prague tourism portal for current times. Entry to the park and cemetery is free. You only pay for specific museums and the church interior.

History of Vysehrad Fortress and National Cemetery

Vysehrad is the mythical birthplace of Prague. Legends say Princess Libuše lived on this hill. She predicted the city's future glory from here. The fortress dates back to the 10th century. For a short time, it was the main royal residence. Later, it became a strong military bastion. This site is now a UNESCO World Heritage location. It remains a powerful symbol of Czech pride.

The National Cemetery was established in the 1800s. It was designed to honor the nation's greatest minds. You will see beautiful tombstones and sculptures there. The Slavín tomb is the most prominent feature. It is a collective burial place for the most honored citizens. Visiting the cemetery is a somber but beautiful experience. It offers a deep look into the Czech soul.