Planning Your Jewish Quarter Josefov Walking Guide

Before you start, you must understand the ticket system. Most sites belong to the Jewish Museum in Prague. You can buy one circuit ticket for most locations. Note that the Old-New Synagogue often requires a separate or combined ticket. Check the official city tourism portal for the latest prices. Start your day early to avoid the largest crowds.

At a glance:

• Morning: Pinkas Synagogue and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
• Late Morning: Klausen Synagogue and Ceremonial Hall.
• Lunch: Traditional Czech or Kosher meals near Maiselova street.
• Afternoon: Spanish Synagogue and Maisel Synagogue.
• Late Afternoon: Old-New Synagogue and Kafka Monument.

The entire area is very compact. You will not need public transport once you arrive. If you are following a best walking tour route in Prague, this fits perfectly after visiting the Old Town Square. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestone.

Morning: Historic Synagogues and Memorials

09:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start at the Pinkas Synagogue. This building serves as a memorial to Holocaust victims. The walls are covered with thousands of hand-painted names. It is a somber and powerful experience. Take your time to read the inscriptions and view the children's drawings from the Terezin concentration camp.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Enter the Old Jewish Cemetery directly from the Pinkas Synagogue. This is one of the oldest Jewish burial grounds in the world. Because space was limited, graves were layered on top of each other. You will see thousands of headstones crowded together in a small space. This creates a haunting and unique landscape.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Visit the Klausen Synagogue and the nearby Ceremonial Hall. The Klausen Synagogue features exhibits on Jewish traditions and customs. You can learn about birth, marriage, and daily life rituals. The Ceremonial Hall focuses on the history of the Prague Burial Society. These sites provide essential context for the rest of your tour.

Logistics Tip: The cemetery path is one-way. Ensure you have seen everything you want before exiting near the Klausen Synagogue. You cannot re-enter the cemetery on the same ticket once you leave.

Afternoon: Architecture and the Golem Legend

02:00 PM - 03:30 PM: Head to the Spanish Synagogue. Many consider this the most beautiful synagogue in Europe. It features a stunning Moorish Revival style with gold decorations. The interior is breathtaking and very different from the other sites. It also hosts a permanent exhibition on the history of Jews in the Czech lands.

03:30 PM - 04:30 PM: Walk a short distance to the Maisel Synagogue. This building has a complex history of fires and reconstructions. Today, it houses a high-tech exhibition using 3D models. You can see how the Jewish Quarter looked before the urban renewal of the late 19th century. This helps you visualize the narrow streets of the past.

04:30 PM - 05:30 PM: Visit the Old-New Synagogue. This is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It was built in the late 13th century in a Gothic style. Legend says the Golem of Prague is hidden in its attic. This site requires a specific ticket, so check your pass before entering. It is a must-see for fans of medieval architecture.

Optional Swap: If you are tired of synagogues, visit the Prague Art Nouveau architecture walk nearby. The streets surrounding Josefov feature some of the city's finest facades. Parizska street is especially famous for its luxury shops and beautiful buildings.

Evening: Kafka and Local Dining

05:30 PM - 06:30 PM: Find the Franz Kafka monument located between the Spanish Synagogue and the Church of the Holy Spirit. This unusual statue shows Kafka sitting on the shoulders of a headless figure. It is a great spot for photos. If you want more, consider a Franz Kafka walking tour to see his birth house and former residences.

07:00 PM onwards: Enjoy dinner in the Jewish Quarter. There are several excellent Kosher restaurants in the area, such as King Solomon. If you prefer traditional Czech food, many local pubs are nearby. The atmosphere in Josefov changes as the sun sets. The narrow streets become quiet and very romantic.

Evening Tip: After dinner, you can join a Prague by night walking route. The lighting on the synagogues and the Old Town Hall is spectacular. It is a peaceful way to end your day of exploration.

Practical Tips for Your Josefov Walking Tour

Timing is everything in Josefov. All Jewish Museum sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Plan your trip for a weekday or Sunday. Most sites open at 9:00 AM and close at 4:30 PM or 6:00 PM depending on the season. Always check the official website for current hours before you arrive.

Respect the dress code when entering active religious sites. Men may be asked to cover their heads in the Old-New Synagogue. Paper kippahs are usually provided at the entrance. Photography is often restricted inside the synagogues to protect the artifacts. Always look for signs before taking pictures.

For the best experience, use a Prague walking tour map PDF to stay on track. The streets can be confusing for first-time visitors. Also, remember that walking tips and footwear are vital here. The uneven stones can cause foot pain if you wear thin shoes.

Where to Stay and Optional Swaps

The best place to stay is in the Old Town (Stare Mesto). This puts you within a five-minute walk of the Jewish Quarter. You can easily return to your hotel for a midday break. If you prefer a quieter area, look for hotels near the Vltava River. This allows for scenic walks along the water in the mornings.

Optional Swaps:

• Rainy Day: Spend extra time inside the Spanish Synagogue museum. It is entirely indoors and very warm.
• Budget Tip: You can view the Old Jewish Cemetery through the gate for free. However, the ticketed entry is much more rewarding.
• Kid-Friendly: Visit the Speculum Alchemiae museum nearby. It features legends of magic and hidden tunnels that children love.

If you have more time, combine this with an Old Town Prague walking tour. The two areas are right next to each other. You can see the Astronomical Clock and the Jewish Quarter in one busy day.