At a Glance: Jewish Heritage Route

This walking route is designed to be completed in about six to seven hours. It focuses on the western part of the city center. Most sites are within a short walking distance of each other. You should wear comfortable shoes as the route involves some cobblestone streets.

• Morning: The Great Synagogue and the Old Synagogue complex.
• Lunch: Historical city center near the main square.
• Afternoon: Adolf Loos interiors and the Garden of Memories.
• Evening: Reflection at the Jewish Cemetery or a city walk.

Before you begin, you may want to download a Plzeň printable walking tour map. This will help you navigate the side streets where the Old Synagogue is located. Most sites are open from 10:00 AM, but check seasonal changes for 2026. Many locations are closed on Saturdays for Shabbat.

The Great Synagogue: A Monumental Start

Your Jewish heritage walking tour Plzeň begins at the Great Synagogue. This building is the third largest synagogue in the world. It stands as a symbol of the wealth and influence of the local community. The architecture is a striking mix of Neo-Renaissance and Moorish styles. Its two red towers dominate the skyline near the city theater.

The interior was fully renovated and reopened in 2022. The walls are decorated with intricate paintings and gold leaf. The acoustics are incredible, making it a popular venue for concerts. You can visit the permanent exhibition in the galleries. This display tells the story of the Jewish people in the Plzeň region through photographs and artifacts.

Day 1: Morning (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM)

Spend your morning exploring the main hall and the upper galleries. The synagogue is located on Sady Pětatřicátníků, which is a major transit hub. It is easy to reach from any part of the city. Allow at least 90 minutes to appreciate the scale and the detailed exhibits. There is a small entrance fee that supports the maintenance of the building.

Logistics tip: The synagogue is often used for cultural events. Check the Visit Plzeň official site for any temporary closures. If the main hall is closed for a rehearsal, the galleries may still be open. Always respect the dress code by dressing modestly when entering the sanctuary.

The Old Synagogue and the Garden of Memories

After the Great Synagogue, walk a few blocks to the Old Synagogue. This building is hidden in a courtyard behind a row of houses. It was built in 1859 and served the community before the larger one was finished. It feels much more intimate and quiet than its massive neighbor. The wooden ceiling and central bimah are beautifully preserved.

Outside the Old Synagogue, you will find the Garden of Memories. This is a moving memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It consists of stones inscribed with the names of those who did not return. It is a place for quiet reflection in the heart of the city. The garden is a powerful reminder of the human cost of history.

Day 1: Late Morning (11:45 AM - 1:00 PM)

The Old Synagogue is located at Smetanovy sady 5. The entrance can be easy to miss, so look for the small sign. Inside, there is an exhibition called "Jewish Customs and Traditions." This is helpful for those who want to learn about daily life and religious practices. The atmosphere here is peaceful and contemplative.

Logistics tip: This site is part of a best walking tour route in Plzeň for history enthusiasts. You can often buy a combined ticket for both synagogues. This saves money and makes entry faster. The courtyard is accessible and offers a rare glimpse of 19th-century Plzeň architecture.

Jewish Heritage Walking Tour Plzeň and Adolf Loos

A Jewish heritage walking tour Plzeň must include the Adolf Loos interiors. Loos was a world-famous modernist architect. In the 1920s and 30s, he designed several apartment interiors for wealthy Jewish families in Plzeň. These families were leaders in the local industry. The interiors are famous for their use of precious materials like marble and exotic woods.

The story of these apartments is also a story of the Holocaust. Many owners were forced to flee or were deported. The apartments were then used by the state for various purposes. Today, several have been restored to their original glory. Visiting them provides a look at the secular, modern life of the Jewish elite before World War II.

Day 1: Afternoon (2:30 PM - 4:30 PM)

You must book a guided tour to see these interiors. The "Brummel House" and the "Vogel Apartment" are two of the most popular stops. These tours start at different times, so plan your afternoon carefully. You can find more details on the Adolf Loos walking circuit page. The walks between apartments take about 10 to 15 minutes.

Logistics tip: Tours are often available in English, but they sell out quickly. Book your tickets online at least two weeks in advance. The tours involve climbing some stairs, so keep that in mind. Each apartment visit lasts about 45 to 60 minutes and offers a unique perspective on European modernism.

Practical Tips for Your Jewish Heritage Route

Planning your Jewish heritage walking tour Plzeň requires some attention to timing. Most Jewish sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Friday afternoons may also have shorter hours. Sunday is usually the best day for a full visit. Always check the official Visit Czechia portal for national holiday schedules.

The city center is very walkable. You can easily connect this route with other landmarks. For example, the Namesti Republiky landmarks are just a five-minute walk from the synagogues. This allows you to see the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew during your lunch break. The area around the square has many cafes and restaurants.

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Jewish Cemetery. It is located a bit further from the center but is reachable by tram. It contains graves from the 19th century and a memorial to the victims of the Shoah. It is a very atmospheric place that completes the story of the community. Make sure to check the opening hours before heading out.

Logistics tip: Wear layers, as the synagogues can be cool even in summer. Carry a small bottle of water, though there are many shops nearby. If you prefer a night view, the Plzeň city center night walk offers beautiful lighting on the Great Synagogue's exterior. The red towers look particularly striking after sunset.