Prague Synagogues and Jewish Quarter Private Walking Tour

Prague , Czech Republic

Prague Synagogues and Jewish Quarter Private Walking Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Franz Kafka attended services at the Old-New Synagogue in Prague. Built in Gothic style in the 13th century, the Old-New Synagogue is the oldest building in the Jewish Town and one of Europe’s oldest synagogues still in use. Come along our Prague Jewish Tours and learn all about the former Prague Jewish Ghetto called Josefov.

Most of the area is made up of the Jewish Museum that includes synagogues and a cemetery. You are certain to have a unique cultural experience while learning about the life and traditions of Jews who were confined to the former Prague Jewish ghetto for more than 600 years. Did you know that Prague is the only European city that kept its Jewish heritage intact during WWII? Take this tour and find out why.

Our tour guides hold the Jewish Museum licence and will guide you though the Jewish Quarter and Museum. All our tours are private so it will be you setting the pace of this private walking tour.

Available options

Meeting Point in Old Town

Meeting Point in the Old Town<br/>Pickup included

Hotel / Apartment Pick Up

Hotel / Apartment Pick Up<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Pick up at your hotel reception or other location in the city center on foot (not by car).

Local, licensed, experienced and fun tour guide

Charity: We regularly support local children’s homes

Jewish Museum Tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Astronomical Clock is one of the main landmarks of Prague. After meeting with our tour guide right under the Clock, you will enter the Jewish Quarter - Josefov.

Josefov, the Jewish Quarter in Prague, is one of the most important Jewish sights in the world because it was not destroyed during the second world war. The Jewish Museum comprises an old Jewish cemetery and several synagogues featuring different aspects of the Jewish heritage: traditions, art, history, etc.

Stop 3

The Maisel synagogue was built in 1592 and it is named after its founder, a philanthropist Mordecai Maisel, who served as the mayor of the Jewish town, sponsored many Jewish organizations, funded the building of a public bathhouse, ritual baths and an almshouse, and donated money to build the Jewish town hall and numerous synagogues.

Stop 4

The Pinkas Synagogue from 1535 is part of the Jewish Museum and serves as a memorial to the nearly 80,000 Jewish victims of holocaust from the Czech lands.

Stop 5

The Old Jewish Cemetery is one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe and one of the world's surviving ancient Jewish burial grounds operating from the 15th century to the late 18th century. Approximately 80.000 residents of the ghetto in Prague were buried in its confines. Since the cemetery could not hold that amount, the tombs are layered on top of each other, at one section reaching 12 layers.

Among the prominent local personalities buried here is 16th-century rabbi Judah Loew ben Bezalel. He’s best known for creating a golem or mud figure, which he reportedly summoned to life to seek protection for the local Jewish community against anti-Semitic attacks.

The Klausen synagogue is the biggest synagogue in the Prague Jewish Town. "Klausen" was originally the name given to three smaller buildings from the 16th century that used to be on this site. These buildings included a yeshivah (Talmudic school) that was founded by the famous Rabbi Loew. After the ghetto fire of 1689, the Klausen Synagogue was erected on the site in 1694, in the early Baroque style.

Stop 7

Franz Kafka attended services here. Legend says that Golem, that artificial being made of clay during the 16th century, is hidden in the attic. Built in Gothic Cistercian style during the latter part of the 13th century, the Old-New Synagogue is the oldest building in the Jewish Town and one of Europe’s oldest synagogues still in use. It has been the main synagogue of the Prague Jewish community for more than 700 years.

Stop 8

The Spanish Synagogue is the most recent synagogue in the Prague Jewish Town. Built in 1868 for the local Reform congregation on the site of the 12th-century Altschul, which was the oldest synagogue in the Prague ghetto. It was called the Spanish Synagogue for its impressive Moorish interior design, influenced by the famous Alhambra.

What's not included

Tip

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

12 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our tour guide can meet you outside the Prague City Tourism office next to the famous Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square.

Important notes

Our tour guide will pick you up at your hotel reception or outside your apartment building in Prague so please provide your pick up address when booking the tour.

About Prague

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city of stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its well-preserved Old Town, Prague Castle, and the iconic Charles Bridge, it offers a blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination in Europe.

Top Attractions

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers stunning views of the city and houses several historical buildings, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Moderate (15 EUR for adults, discounts available)

Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Prague. Built in the 14th century, it is lined with statues of saints and offers beautiful views of the Vltava River and Prague's skyline.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Old Town Square

Old Town Square is the heart of Prague's historic center and home to the famous Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn. It's a vibrant hub of activity with markets, events, and street performances.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Petřín Hill and Lookout Tower

Petřín Hill is a beautiful park offering panoramic views of Prague. The Petřín Lookout Tower, often referred to as 'Prague's Eiffel Tower,' is a miniature version of the famous Parisian landmark and provides stunning views from its observation deck.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate (10 EUR for tower entry, discounts available)

Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

The Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov, is a historic area with a rich cultural heritage. It includes several synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum, which provide insight into the history of Prague's Jewish community.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Moderate (15 EUR for combined museum entry, discounts available)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Svíčková

A traditional Czech dish consisting of marinated beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with bread dumplings and whipped cream.

Main Course Contains beef, dairy, and gluten.

Guláš

A rich and flavorful Czech goulash made with beef, onions, and paprika, typically served with bread dumplings or potatoes.

Main Course Contains beef, onions, and gluten (if served with dumplings).

Trdelník

A sweet pastry made from rolled dough wrapped around a stick, grilled, and coated with sugar and cinnamon. Often filled with ice cream or whipped cream.

Dessert Contains wheat, sugar, and may contain dairy.

Pilsner Urquell

A world-famous Czech pilsner beer, known for its crisp and refreshing taste. It's brewed using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients.

Drink Contains barley and hops.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Bohemian Switzerland National Park Rafting on the Vltava River Cycling tours Spa treatments in Karlovy Vary Boat tours on the Vltava River Picnics in Letná Park Visiting museums and galleries Attending classical music performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The weather is pleasant, and all tourist attractions are open. It's the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Czech
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Czech Koruna (CZK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Prague is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services or apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Václav Havel Airport Prague • 10 km from city center

By train

Prague Main Station, Holešovice Station

By bus

Florenc Central Bus Station, Černý Most Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are the most iconic and efficient way to get around Prague. The network covers most of the city and is well-connected to metro and bus lines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Staré Město) Malá Strana Vinohrady Žižkov New Town (Nové Město)

Day trips

Kutná Hora

70 km from Prague • Half day to full day

Kutná Hora is a historic town known for its stunning architecture, including the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) and St. Barbara's Cathedral. It offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Karlštejn Castle

25 km from Prague • Half day

Karlštejn Castle is a stunning Gothic castle built in the 14th century by King Charles IV. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and a fascinating insight into the region's medieval history.

Český Krumlov

180 km from Prague • Full day to overnight

Český Krumlov is a charming and well-preserved medieval town, known for its stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and the impressive Český Krumlov Castle. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip from Prague.