In mid-October 2024, we took a family trip to the charming city of Prague. With so much to see and do, we had a packed itinerary, but it was during one of our casual walks around the city that we stumbled upon a true gem — St. Vitus Cathedral. Located within the grounds of Prague Castle, the cathedral’s Gothic towers immediately captured our attention.
And while we didn’t initially plan on visiting, the sight was so captivating that we couldn’t resist exploring it.
St. Vitus Cathedral, officially known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslaus, and Adalbert, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the most important religious sites in the Czech Republic. Towering above the Prague skyline, its striking spires are hard to miss from various vantage points around the city. The cathedral’s storied history, dating back to the 14th century, is evident in its intricate stained glass, ornate facades, and solemn, imposing aura. Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by the sheer grandeur of the structure.
Our unexpected visit felt like stepping back in time. From the impressive tomb of St. Wenceslas to the stunning stained-glass windows created by celebrated Czech artist Alphonse Mucha, every corner of St. Vitus seemed to hold a piece of history. However, it wasn’t just the cathedral’s beauty that held our attention.
The highlight of our impromptu visit for our family was undoubtedly the cathedral's south tower. Rising 97 meters into the air, the tower offers a panoramic view over Prague, but getting there is no easy feat. For our kiddo, the climb up the tower was a thrilling adventure — and even for us adults, it was a bit of a workout! The journey involved ascending a spiral staircase of over 280 steps. It was narrow, winding, and at times a bit dizzying, but the enthusiasm was contagious, especially as we got closer to the top.
The view from the top was well worth the effort. From the viewing tower, we could see the sprawling city of Prague, with its red-roofed buildings, charming bridges, and the scenic Vltava River. It was breathtaking, and being able to share the moment together made it all the more special. Our kiddo, who loves heights, was particularly excited — pointing out landmarks we had seen from ground level and marveling at the sheer distance we had climbed.
St. Vitus Cathedral is not only a stunning landmark but also a place of great historical significance. It is the final resting place of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors, and it’s where Czech kings were crowned for centuries. Its architecture is a testament to centuries of dedication and craftsmanship, with each section showcasing different styles as construction continued over hundreds of years.
The intricate details, like the rose window at the entrance, the spires reaching toward the sky, and the delicate patterns on the stonework, make St. Vitus a true marvel. And yet, the cathedral’s ambiance remains solemn and respectful, a reminder of its long-standing role in the city’s religious and cultural history.
If you find yourself in Prague, St. Vitus Cathedral is a must-visit — especially for families or those looking to take in spectacular views. Even if you stumble upon it by chance, as we did, it’s worth taking the time to explore. Whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, or simply want to get a bird’s-eye view of Prague, the cathedral and its viewing tower offer something for everyone. Just be prepared for the climb, and take your time to soak in every detail.
Our unplanned adventure at St. Vitus Cathedral ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. It reminded us that sometimes, the best travel experiences come when you least expect them.