The Dark History of Prague’s Old Town

Prague has a long and bloody past. The Old Town was the center of many executions and tragedies. This history created many local urban legends. Today, these stories draw visitors from all over the world. You can learn more about the country at Visit Czechia.

The cobblestone streets feel different after the sun sets. Shadows seem to move in the flickering lamplight. Many locals still avoid certain alleys at night. They believe the spirits of the past never truly left. This makes the city perfect for a late-night stroll.

Prague is often called the most haunted city in Europe. Its architecture provides a perfect backdrop for ghost stories. From Gothic towers to dark cellars, mystery is everywhere. Exploring these sites helps you understand the local culture better.

10 Haunted Streets in Prague Old Town to Visit

These locations are famous for their paranormal activity. Each spot has a unique story to tell. Here are the top haunted streets in Prague Old Town for your list.

• Best overall: Old Town Square
• Best for legends: Karlova Street
• Best hidden gem: Liliová Street
• Best for macabre fans: St. James Church

1. Name: Celetná Street Type: Haunted Street Why go: To see the headless Templar knight. Best for: History lovers. Where: Between Old Town Square and Powder Tower. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Můstek metro station. Tip: Look for the knight on Friday nights near the fruit market.
2. Name: Karlova Street Type: Narrow Alley Why go: Legend of the Mad Barber who haunts passersby. Best for: Atmosphere. Where: Near Charles Bridge. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Watch for hidden courtyards off the main path.
3. Name: Liliová Street Type: Side Street Why go: A headless knight on a horse roams here. Best for: Photographers. Where: Near Bethlehem Chapel. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the river bank. Tip: This street is very quiet after dark.
4. Name: Old Town Square Type: Historic Square Why go: Ghosts of 27 executed lords haunt the area. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Heart of Old Town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the Metro Line A to Staroměstská. Tip: Read about the executioner history before you visit.
5. Name: Ungelt Courtyard Type: Hidden Courtyard Why go: The ghost of a jealous Turk carrying a head. Best for: Couples. Where: Behind Týn Church. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter through the small passage from Týnská street. Tip: It is a great spot for evening drinks.
6. Name: Platnéřská Street Type: Urban Street Why go: The Iron Man ghost who was turned to stone. Best for: Unique statues. Where: Near New City Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Mariánské Square. Tip: See the actual Iron Man statue on the building corner.
7. Name: Josefov (Jewish Quarter) Type: Historic District Why go: Home to the legendary Golem of Prague. Best for: Mysticism. Where: North of Old Town Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Variable for museums. Getting there: Walk north from the Astronomical Clock. Tip: Try a Jewish Quarter walk to see the old cemetery.
8. Name: Dlouhá Street Type: Busy Street Why go: The ghost of a flaming turkey appears here. Best for: Nightlife. Where: Near Old Town Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Náměstí Republiky. Tip: This street is famous for its many bars.
9. Name: Ovocný trh Type: Market Square Why go: Headless ghost of a dishonest merchant. Best for: Theater lovers. Where: Near Estates Theater. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the bottom of Wenceslas Square. Tip: The Estates Theater is where Mozart premiered Don Giovanni.
10. Name: St. James the Greater Church Type: Church Why go: A mummified thief's arm hangs near the door. Best for: Macabre fans. Where: Malá Štupartská street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free/Donation. Getting there: Near the Ungelt courtyard. Tip: Look up immediately to the right of the entrance.

Planning Your Prague Ghost Legends Walking Route

Walking through these streets requires some planning. Most ghosts are said to appear after midnight. However, the streets are beautiful at any hour. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This means the architecture is very well preserved.

You can find maps at the Prague tourism portal. Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven cobblestones. The city is very safe for night walks. Just be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. Most haunted spots are within easy walking distance of each other.

Consider joining a guided tour for more details. Local guides know the best stories and hidden corners. They can explain the history behind each ghost. This makes the experience much more immersive and fun. You will see the city in a new light.