Jewish Quarter Highlights at a Glance

The Jewish Quarter is one of the most visited areas in the city. It is a compact district located between the Vltava River and Old Town Square. Most sites belong to the Jewish Museum in Prague. You can see almost everything with a single circuit ticket. This itinerary helps you manage your time and avoid the biggest crowds.

• Morning: Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, and the Old Jewish Cemetery.
• Afternoon: Klausen Synagogue, Old-New Synagogue, and the Golem legend.
• Evening: Spanish Synagogue and luxury shopping on Parizska Street.
• Logistics: Start early at 9:00 AM to beat the tour groups.

The district is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It survived the destruction of World War II in a unique way. Today, it stands as a memorial to the Jewish community. You will find that most sites are within a five-minute walk of each other. This makes it perfect for a self-guided experience. If you have more time, consider an Old Town Prague self-guided walk afterward.

Using Your Jewish Quarter Prague Walking Tour Map

Day 1: Morning (09:00 - 12:30)

Start your morning at the Maisel Synagogue. This building houses a large collection of silver and historical artifacts. It provides a great overview of Jewish history in Bohemia. The walk from the metro station is very short. Use your Jewish Quarter Prague walking tour map to find the entrance on Maiselova Street. This is the best place to buy your entry tickets.

Next, walk two minutes to the Pinkas Synagogue. This is a very emotional site. The walls are covered with the names of Holocaust victims. It serves as a powerful memorial for the Jewish community. Upstairs, you can see drawings made by children in the Terezin concentration camp. Take your time here to reflect on the history.

From the Pinkas Synagogue, you enter the Old Jewish Cemetery. This is one of the oldest Jewish burial grounds in the world. You will see thousands of gravestones layered on top of each other. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful. Follow the designated path to see the grave of Rabbi Loew. He is a central figure in local legends. This part of the tour takes about one hour.

Logistics Tip: The cemetery path is one-way. You cannot go back once you exit. Make sure you take all your photos before leaving the gate. Wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven. You can find more route ideas on best free Prague walking tour apps for your phone.

Afternoon History and the Golem Legend

Day 1: Afternoon (13:30 - 16:30)

After lunch, head to the Klausen Synagogue. It is located right next to the cemetery exit. This building focuses on Jewish customs and traditions. You will learn about holidays, births, and weddings. The exhibits are very educational for families. It helps you understand the daily life of the community.

Just a few steps away is the Old-New Synagogue. This is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It was built in the 13th century in a Gothic style. Legend says the Golem of Prague rests in its attic. The Golem was a clay creature built to protect the ghetto. Please note that this synagogue requires a separate ticket or a combined pass. It is not part of the standard Jewish Museum ticket.

While walking between sites, look for the statue of Franz Kafka. He was a famous writer who lived in this district. His work often reflects the mysterious atmosphere of the city. You can learn more about his life on a Franz Kafka Prague walking tour. The statue is located near the Spanish Synagogue. It is a popular spot for photos.

Optional Swap: If you are tired of history, visit the Robert Guttmann Gallery. it features modern art by Jewish artists. It is a smaller site and usually very quiet. This is a great choice if the weather is rainy. You can also find a nearby cafe for a quick break. Prague has many excellent bakeries in this neighborhood.

The Spanish Synagogue and Evening Atmosphere

Day 1: Evening (16:30 - 19:00)

End your main tour at the Spanish Synagogue. Many people consider this the most beautiful synagogue in Prague. It has a stunning Moorish interior with gold leaf. The stained glass windows create a warm glow in the late afternoon. It often hosts classical music concerts in the evenings. Check the schedule at the door if you enjoy music.

After visiting the synagogue, walk toward Parizska Street. This is the most expensive street in the Czech Republic. It is lined with luxury boutiques and beautiful trees. The architecture here is a mix of Art Nouveau and historic styles. You can see more of this on a Prague Art Nouveau architecture walk. It offers a sharp contrast to the old ghetto streets.

As the sun sets, the Jewish Quarter becomes very atmospheric. The narrow alleys are perfect for a quiet stroll. You might hear stories about the ghosts of the old ghetto. For those who like spooky history, try a self-guided Prague ghost walk. The lighting in the district is beautiful for night photography. You are also very close to the river for a view of the castle.

Dining Tip: There are several kosher restaurants in Josefov. They offer traditional meals that follow Jewish dietary laws. You can also find modern Czech bistros nearby. Reservations are recommended for dinner on weekends. The area is much quieter at night than the busy Old Town Square.

Practical Tips for Your Prague Walking Tour

Planning your visit requires some basic knowledge. The Jewish Quarter sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Always check the calendar before you arrive in the city. You can find official updates on the Prague.eu tourism portal. Sunday is usually the busiest day of the week. Try to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a calmer experience.

The "Prague Jewish Town" ticket is the best value. It includes all the synagogues and the cemetery. You can buy it at any of the museum box offices. There is no need to book weeks in advance for individuals. However, groups should register online. Keep your ticket safe, as you must scan it at every entrance.

Photography is allowed in most places, but not inside the Old-New Synagogue. Always look for signs before taking pictures. Men are required to cover their heads in the cemetery and synagogues. You can usually borrow a paper kippah at the entrance. Being respectful of these traditions is very important. The district is a living place of worship and memory.

Finally, consider the walking distance. The entire route is less than two kilometers. Most people spend about three to four hours in total. If you have mobility issues, the cemetery path might be difficult. The cobblestones in Prague are famous but can be slippery. Take frequent breaks and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Josefov.