Děčín

On a high rocky promontory above the confluence of the Elbe and Ploučnice rivers, the Děčín Castle stands majestically – a historical landmark that witnessed more than a thousand years of turbulent history. It is one of the most visited monuments of the Ústí nad Labem Region and an ideal starting point for exploring the beauty of the Elbe Valley and Bohemian Switzerland.

What not to skip?

The castle in Děčín has undergone extensive reconstruction in recent years, which has returned it to its original beauty. Visitors can admire the castle interiors, the castle chapel, the baroque stables or the romantic Rose Garden with a view of the town and the river. Those with a love of history will enjoy a guided tour of the castle, where they can learn about its role in the Napoleonic Wars or the stay of a tsar family.

Děčín Castle in fall

Don’t forget to walk along Dlouhá jízda (the Long Ride) – a unique access road to the castle, one of the longest preserved castle approaches of its kind in Europe.

Dlouhá jízda

Dlouhá jízda is a monumental access road to the castle, carved into a rock promontory and lined with high walls with arcades. Its length is approximately 292 meters and it is the longest castle access road of this type in Central Europe.

It was originally intended for carriages and riders, who could comfortably climb up to the main courtyard of the castle thanks to the slight incline. The path is gently ascending, paved, and has an almost theatrical effect – the silhouette of the castle and the panorama of the city gradually reveal themselves to visitors as they ascend.

Tips for trips in the surroundings

If you feel like exploring further, Děčín and its surroundings definitely have something to offer:

  • Shepherd’s Wall – The rock directly opposite the castle offers a beautiful view of the town and the castle itself. At the top you will find the Děčín Zoo and a restaurant.

  • Via ferrata Děčín – One of the largest urban protected routes in Central Europe, suitable for both beginners and advanced climbers. You don’t have to worry about equipment, they will lend it to you right under the rock wall at Active Point.

  • Aquapark Děčín – a place to hide from the rain and heat.

  • Castle Benešov nad Ploučnicí – a picturesque Renaissance castle about 20 minutes drive from Děčín, which will delight romantic souls.

  • Elbe cycle path – a popular route along the Elbe River, suitable for cyclists of all levels. You can go both towards Hřensko and Ústí nad Labem.

  • Děčínský Sněžník (Snowy Peak) – one of the oldest and most beautiful lookout towers in Bohemia.


The Via ferrata Shepherd’s Wall in Děčín offers a total of 16 protected routes of varying difficulty – from easy routes suitable for beginners to demanding challenges for experienced climbers.

And a few more tips:

  • Děčín Castle: is open all year round. We recommend checking the current opening hours and availability of tours on the official website of the castle in advance. There are also several cafés, restaurants and accommodation options near the castle.
  • With children: yes, there is a guided tour for children at the castle. There are many playgrounds in the city of Děčín.
  • Dogs: yes, on a leash around town.
  • How to get here: Děčín is easily accessible by a number of train and bus connections, including direct connections from Prague or Dresden, Germany. You can find everything clearly on the National Park Railway. There are several car parks in and around the city center.