Private Driver Day Trip to Točník Castle
Točník was built by King Wenceslas IV as a comfortable retreat high above the countryside. A royal palace, bears in the moat, and sweeping views. It’s less than an hour from Prague.
Why Go Here
Točník Castle: King Wenceslas IV’s Royal Residence
Točník Castle was founded by King Wenceslas IV in the last quarter of the 14th century. The impetus for construction was likely a fire that destroyed the older Žebrák Castle in 1395, though some historians believe building began as early as the 1380s. By 1398 the king was already staying at Točník, and a year later he issued his first charter granting privileges to České Budějovice.
The castle’s highlight is its two partially preserved palaces. The larger once housed the second-largest hall in all of Bohemia. The smaller royal palace sits unusually on the most exposed side and features numerous exits for a quick escape. After withstanding a siege during the Hussite Wars in 1425, the castle passed through the hands of various noble families — the Kolowrats, the Lords of Gutštejn, and the Lobkowiczes, who gave it late Gothic and Renaissance touches.
During the Thirty Years' War, the castle began to fall into disrepair, and by the 17th century it was completely abandoned. Today it's protected as a cultural monument and, together with the ruins of Žebrák, as a national heritage site. From Prague, it's about 42 km away — the drive takes roughly 50 minutes. With your private driver and car, you'll get there comfortably and enjoy a stress-free day out.
What to See
Highlights of Točník Castle
The castle tour takes in several fascinating stops — from the royal palaces to the bear pit in the moat.
Royal Palace
The vast royal palace was built around 1400 by King Wenceslas IV. The sgraffito plasterwork and rows of windows date from later renovations.
It was the largest and most comfortable palace on the castle grounds. Even as a ruin, it still feels grand.
Castle Courtyard
The inner courtyard is lined with the remains of palaces and utility buildings. Parts of the walls are overgrown with greenery.
From here, you can really appreciate how sprawling the castle once was. During the season, there are often historical craft demonstrations.
Entrance Gate
The stone gate leads from the first courtyard deeper into the castle. Above the arch, you can still see original stonemason details.
Beyond the gate, the tour route begins. Guides in period costumes add to the atmosphere.
Neighboring Žebrák Castle
Just below Točník lies the older Žebrák Castle with its round tower. Both castles can easily be combined into a single trip.
From the road, the tower of Žebrák Castle stands out against the landscape. Točník was built just above it as a more secure stronghold.
Royal Palace
A smaller palace on the castle's front side with multiple exits for a quick escape.
Great Hall
The second-largest castle hall in Bohemia, a showcase of late Gothic architecture.
Bear Moat
The castle moat is home to brown bears Martin and Agáta.
Under the Chalice Sign Event
An annual Hussite festival with period reenactments.
Archaeological Finds
Settlement from the Hallstatt period, confirmed by excavations in 1999.
History of Wenceslaus IV
The castle was founded by King Wenceslaus IV at the end of the 14th century.
Day Trip Idea
What your day could look like
A sample itinerary — your driver will always tailor it to you.
Real cost of the day
What a day like this actually costs — no hidden fees
Why go with a private driver
Comfort and peace of mind
No transfers, no waiting at the station, no surprises at the end. Just tell us your time and group size.
- Fixed price upfront — you see it when you book, and it won’t change because of traffic or delays.
- Your own private car — no sharing with strangers, no detours, no waiting around.
- Pickup anywhere — your hotel, apartment, or right outside arrivals at Václav Havel Airport (PRG).
- Free flight monitoring — if your flight is delayed, your driver will wait. We track arrivals.
- Child seats — available on request at no extra charge. Just let us know the children’s ages.
- Your day, your way — return trip, waiting time, and stops along the route are all arranged with you.
One-way price
Fixed price for a one-way trip. Return journey, waiting time, and full-day tours are added according to the price list below.
Book this trip →How the price is calculated
Clear trip pricing
The base is the price for the ride to your destination. Return trips and longer waiting times are added using simple rules — you always know exactly what you’re paying for.
| Option (sedan, 1–4 pax) | Price |
|---|---|
One-way transfer — trip there Prague → Točník Castle. Driver takes you and returns empty. |
1,512 CZK |
Return trip with up to 2 hours waiting Trip there + 2 h waiting included + return trip (+50%). 1,512 + 756. |
2,268 CZK |
Round trip with 6-hour wait Round trip (2,268) + 4 hours over the limit × 400 CZK (1,600). |
3,868 CZK |
Full-day trip — driver at your service ~9 hours Round-trip base 2,268 + ~3 hours of program over the limit × 400 (1,200). Custom quote tailored to you. |
~ 3,468 CZK |
Minivan (5–8 people): same calculation, higher base — one-way 2,100 CZK. · Prices shown are examples; we’ll confirm the exact fixed price when you book, based on the date, number of people and your itinerary.
Practical info
Before you go
When to go
Best from spring through fall; in peak season, aim for the morning.
Tours
Check opening hours and guided tours in advance.
Pedestrian-only centre
With a private driver, parking is taken care of — you’ll be dropped off as close as possible.
What to try
Local cuisine and specialties in the restaurants and cafés in the centre.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, layers and a camera.
How much time
Half a day covers the main sights; with lunch and the surroundings, a full day.
Frequently asked questions
Your most common questions
How far is Točník Castle from Prague and how long does the drive take?
Točník Castle is about 42 km from Prague. The drive takes roughly 50 minutes.
Is Točník Castle open to the public?
Yes, the castle is open to the public during visiting hours. We recommend checking the current opening times before your visit.
What can you see in the bear enclosure?
The castle moat houses a bear enclosure where the brown bears Martin and Agáta live. They were born in 2013 and appeared in the TV series Méďové na cestách.
Who founded Točník Castle?
The castle was founded by King Wenceslaus IV at the end of the 14th century, likely after the older castle of Žebrák burned down in 1395.
What architectural styles can be seen at the castle?
The castle features late Gothic modifications by the Lords of Gutštejn and Vartenberk, and Renaissance additions by the Lobkowicz family.
Are there any events held at the castle?
Yes, the annual Ve znamení kalicha event commemorates the Hussite history of the castle.
Can I tour the castle with a guide?
Yes, guided tours of the castle are available during opening hours. We recommend checking directly at the castle for the latest information.
Let us tailor your trip to Točník Castle
Točník Castle is the perfect day trip from Prague. With your private driver and car, you’ll travel in comfort and enjoy a day full of history, architecture, and nature. Book your transfer and set off to explore the royal seat of Wenceslaus IV.
Book your trip → +420 776 508 777