Planning Your Prague Jewish Quarter Sightseeing Trip

Before you start your journey, you need to understand how the sites work. Most attractions are part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. You usually buy one ticket that covers multiple locations. This makes planning your day much easier. You can find Jewish Museum in Prague tickets and tours online or at local kiosks. We recommend buying tickets in advance during peak season.

The Jewish Quarter is very walkable and compact. You can see the main highlights in about three to four hours. Most sites are closed on Saturdays for the Sabbath. They also close during major Jewish holidays. Always check the official calendar before you head out. The area is located between the Vltava River and the Old Town. It is a peaceful escape from the busier tourist zones nearby.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestone streets. Many of the synagogues have small steps or narrow passages. If you want to take photos, you may need a special permit. This is usually a small extra fee added to your ticket. Respectful dress is required for all religious buildings. Men may be asked to wear a head covering in certain areas.

12 Top Spots for Prague Jewish Quarter Sightseeing

The following list includes the most important historical and cultural sites. These locations provide a comprehensive look at the district's legacy. Use this guide to prioritize your itinerary.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Old Jewish Cemetery
• Quick Pick: Best Architecture - Spanish Synagogue
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Old-New Synagogue
• Quick Pick: Best Free Site - Franz Kafka Monument

1. Name: Old Jewish Cemetery Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the oldest and most famous Jewish graveyards in the world. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Široká Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in museum circuit ticket. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Check the Old Jewish Cemetery Prague opening hours to arrive early and avoid the largest crowds.
2. Name: Spanish Synagogue Type: Museum/Sight Why go: This building features stunning Moorish Revival architecture and golden interiors. Best for: Art lovers and fans of intricate design. Where: Vězeňská Street. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Included in museum circuit ticket. Getting there: A short walk from the Old Town Square. Tip: Read about the Spanish Synagogue vs Old-New Synagogue visit to understand their different styles.
3. Name: Old-New Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: This is the oldest active synagogue in Europe, dating back to the 13th century. Best for: Religious history and medieval architecture. Where: Maiselova Street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Separate ticket or combined pass. Getting there: Central Josefov location. Tip: Look for the legendary Golem's resting place in the attic.
4. Name: Pinkas Synagogue Type: Experience Why go: It serves as a moving memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Best for: Reflection and learning about modern history. Where: Near the cemetery entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum circuit ticket. Getting there: Walk from the cemetery exit. Tip: View the collection of drawings by children from the Terezín Ghetto.
5. Name: Maisel Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: It hosts an extensive exhibition on the history of Jews in Bohemia. Best for: Educational context. Where: Maiselova Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum circuit ticket. Getting there: Two minutes from the Old-New Synagogue. Tip: Use the interactive touch screens to see old maps of the quarter.
6. Name: Klausen Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: This is the largest synagogue in the district and focuses on Jewish customs and traditions. Best for: Learning about daily Jewish life. Where: U Starého hřbitova. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum circuit ticket. Getting there: Right next to the cemetery entrance. Tip: Pay attention to the beautiful Baroque interior.
7. Name: Jewish Ceremonial Hall Type: Experience Why go: This Neo-Romanesque building explains the rituals of the Burial Society. Best for: Cultural understanding. Where: Next to the Old Jewish Cemetery. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum circuit ticket. Getting there: Walkable from any central Josefov point. Tip: The building looks like a small castle, making it great for photos.
8. Name: Franz Kafka Monument Type: Sight Why go: This unique bronze statue honors the famous writer born in this neighborhood. Best for: Literature fans and quick photos. Where: Near the Spanish Synagogue. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the street corner. Tip: It is one of the most famous modern art sculptures in Prague.
9. Name: Pařížská Street Type: Neighborhood Why go: This is the most luxurious street in Prague, lined with high-end boutiques. Best for: Window shopping and luxury atmosphere. Where: Connects Old Town Square to the river. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Main thoroughfare of the Jewish Quarter. Tip: Look up at the beautiful Art Nouveau facades of the buildings.
10. Name: Robert Guttmann Gallery Type: Museum Why go: This gallery features changing exhibitions of Jewish artists and history. Best for: Art enthusiasts seeking something modern. Where: Behind the Spanish Synagogue. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in some museum tickets. Getting there: Walk from the Spanish Synagogue. Tip: It is usually quieter than the main synagogues.
11. Name: Old Town Square Type: Day trip/Nearby Why go: It is the historic heart of the city and only steps away from Josefov. Best for: Everyone. Where: Staroměstské náměstí. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the Jewish Quarter. Tip: Visit the Old Town Square attractions like the Astronomical Clock after your tour.
12. Name: Clementinum Type: Nearby Sight Why go: A massive historic complex with one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Best for: Book lovers and architecture fans. Where: Mariánské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Guided tour fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk from Josefov. Tip: Use a Clementinum library attraction guide to book your tour time.

Essential Practical Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your Prague Jewish Quarter sightseeing, keep a few things in mind. First, remember that these are active religious and memorial sites. Maintain a quiet and respectful tone while inside. Many visitors find the Pinkas Synagogue especially emotional. It lists the names of thousands of victims on its walls. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere without rushing.

The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Prague. This means the buildings are carefully preserved. You should stick to marked paths, especially in the cemetery. The ground there is uneven due to the layers of graves. Watch your step to avoid trips or falls. Most sites are accessible, but some older buildings have limitations.

For the best experience, visit on a weekday morning. Tuesday and Wednesday are often less crowded than Sunday or Friday. If you are hungry, the area has many kosher restaurants. You can also find great cafes on the side streets. The official city tourism portal provides updates on any temporary closures. Always double-check these before your visit to avoid disappointment.