Loket Castle Opening Hours and Entrance Fees

Loket Castle is open year-round, but the hours change with the seasons. During the high season from April to October, the castle is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. In the winter months from November to March, the hours shorten to 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Always check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for holiday closures. You should allow at least two hours to explore the entire complex.

The entrance fees are quite affordable for international travelers. For 2026, an adult ticket costs approximately 200 CZK. Reduced tickets for students and seniors are available for about 170 CZK. Families can save money by purchasing a family ticket for 580 CZK. This usually covers two adults and two children. You can pay with cash or credit cards at the main gate.

• Adult Ticket: 200 CZK.
• Reduced Ticket: 170 CZK (Seniors/Students).
• Family Ticket: 580 CZK.
• Photography Fee: 20 CZK (if using professional gear).
• Audio Guide: Extra 100 CZK deposit required.

Essential Before You Go Checklist

Preparation is the key to a stress-free Loket Castle day trip. Before you leave your hotel, make sure you have everything ready. The town of Loket is small, so some services are limited. It is helpful to have some Czech Koruna (CZK) on hand. While the castle takes cards, smaller shops in town might not.

• Check the weather: The castle towers can be very windy and cold.
• Download transport apps: Use the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary site for bus schedules.
• Book your train: Check the Karlovy Vary railway station official site for times.
• Pack a portable charger: You will want plenty of battery for photos.
• Bring ID: You need this to claim student or senior discounts.

On the Day Visiting Checklist

Once you arrive in the town of Loket, the castle is easy to find. It dominates the skyline from every angle. You should know how to get to Loket Castle from Karlovy Vary before you start. The bus is often faster than the train for this specific route. Follow this checklist once you reach the castle gates.

• Validate your ticket: Keep your ticket handy as you move between sections.
• Visit the torture chamber: This is the most famous part of the castle.
• Climb the tower: Enjoy the 360-degree view of the Slavkov Forest.
• Explore the porcelain museum: See the unique collection of Bohemian ceramics.
• Walk the ramparts: Great for seeing the river below.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at Loket Castle

Many tourists make simple errors that can ruin their experience. Avoid these common pitfalls to make the most of your time. One major mistake is arriving too late in the afternoon. The castle stops admitting visitors 30 minutes before the official closing time. Also, don't forget to explore the things to do in Loket town center after your tour.

• Arriving after 3:30 PM during the winter season.
• Assuming the train station is right next to the castle (it is a 10-minute walk).
• Wearing high heels or slippery dress shoes on the cobblestones.
• Forgetting to bring a jacket for the cold underground dungeons.
• Missing the last bus back to Karlovy Vary.
• Not checking the official Visit Czechia site for special events.

What Not to Pack for Your Visit

The castle has narrow stairs and uneven floors. Carrying heavy items will make your tour very difficult. There are no large lockers for suitcases at the entrance. If you are traveling through the Czech Republic with luggage, leave it at your hotel. This will keep your hands free for the steep climb up the tower.

• Large backpacks: These are difficult to carry in the narrow torture chambers.
• Stilettos or heels: The medieval stones are very uneven.
• Drones: Flight is restricted over the historical monument.
• Bulky tripods: These can block the narrow passages for other guests.
• Excessive snacks: There are plenty of cafes in the town square nearby.

If You Are Visiting as a Family

Loket is a wonderful place for children who love knight stories. However, the castle is not very stroller-friendly due to the many stairs. If you have young children, consider using a baby carrier instead. The torture chamber has moving mannequins and sounds that might be scary for toddlers. Use this mini-checklist for a better family experience.

• Buy the family pass: It is much cheaper than individual tickets.
• Use a baby carrier: Avoid bringing strollers into the castle interior.
• Visit the dragon: Look for the "friendly" dragon in the castle tower.
• Plan a bathroom break: Restrooms are located near the ticket office.
• Check for festivals: The castle often hosts medieval markets in the summer.