Navigating the Jewish Quarter in Prague

The Jewish Quarter is very compact and easy to navigate. Most sites are within a five-minute walk of each other. You can start your journey near the official city tourism portal for local maps. This district is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Prague. It is best to follow a structured route to see everything efficiently.

Before you start, consider these quick picks for your walk:

• Best overall: Old-New Synagogue
• Best for families: Spanish Synagogue
• Best for history: Pinkas Synagogue
• Best free view: Jewish Town Hall Clock

A good Jewish Quarter Prague self-guided walk begins at the Maisel Synagogue. From there, you can loop through the cemetery and end at the Spanish Synagogue. This route covers most major landmarks without backtracking. Most visitors spend about three to four hours in this small area.

10 Essential Synagogues in Jewish Quarter Walking Map

This list includes the most famous synagogues and related historic sites in Josefov. Each stop offers a unique perspective on Jewish life in Bohemia. Make sure to check opening times as most sites close on Saturdays. Here are the top locations for your walking map.

1. Name: Old-New Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. Best for: History lovers. Where: Maiselova Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Separate or combined ticket. Tip: Look for the Golem's legendary resting place in the attic.
2. Name: Spanish Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It features a stunning Moorish interior with gold decorations. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Vězeňská Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in circuit ticket. Tip: Visit during an evening classical music concert.
3. Name: Pinkas Synagogue Type: Experience Why go: It serves as a moving memorial to Holocaust victims. Best for: Reflection. Where: Široká Street. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Part of Jewish Museum ticket. Tip: Don't miss the exhibition of children's drawings from Terezín.
4. Name: Maisel Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: It houses a large collection of silver and historical artifacts. Best for: Educational context. Where: Maiselova Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in circuit. Tip: Use the interactive touchscreens to see the 3D map of the old ghetto.
5. Name: Klausen Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: This is the largest synagogue in the former ghetto. Best for: Learning about Jewish traditions. Where: U Starého hřbitova. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in circuit. Tip: The exhibits focus on holidays and daily life.
6. Name: Jerusalem Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: A colorful Art Nouveau building with vibrant patterns. Best for: Photographers. Where: Jeruzalémská Street (outside Josefov). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Separate entry fee. Tip: This is a 15-minute walk from the main Jewish Quarter.
7. Name: Old Jewish Cemetery Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the most famous historic cemeteries in the world. Best for: Atmosphere. Where: Entrance via Pinkas Synagogue. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Check the Old Jewish Cemetery Prague entrance fees before going. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest tour groups.
8. Name: Jewish Town Hall Type: Sight Why go: It features a famous clock with Hebrew numbers that runs backward. Best for: Quick photo stop. Where: Maiselova Street. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Tip: Compare the Hebrew clock with the standard clock on the same building.
9. Name: Ceremonial Hall Type: Museum Why go: It explores the history of the Prague Burial Society. Best for: Unique cultural insights. Where: Next to the cemetery exit. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in circuit. Tip: The building itself looks like a Neo-Romanesque castle.
10. Name: Robert Guttmann Gallery Type: Museum Why go: It hosts temporary exhibitions of Jewish artists. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Behind the Spanish Synagogue. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum pass. Tip: This is a quiet spot to escape the main crowds.

How to Plan Your Jewish Quarter Walking Route

Planning your visit requires some basic knowledge of ticket options. You can buy a single ticket that covers most sites in the Jewish Museum. The Old-New Synagogue often requires a separate or add-on ticket. You should check the history of the Golem to appreciate the local legends. Most sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. Many of these buildings are old and have narrow stairs. Respectful dress is required inside the synagogues. Men may be asked to wear a head covering, which is often provided at the entrance. Photography is allowed in some areas but forbidden in others. Always look for signs before taking pictures.

To avoid crowds, try to visit on a weekday morning. The Jewish Quarter is very popular with tour groups. If you have extra time, consider a wider historic walk in Prague. This will help you see how Josefov fits into the city's overall story. The area is safe and well-lit, making it pleasant for a late afternoon stroll.