Planning Your Jewish Quarter Josefov Sightseeing

Before you start your walk, you need to understand the ticket system. Most sights in Josefov are part of the Jewish Museum. You can buy a combined ticket for several locations. This usually includes the synagogues and the cemetery. Note that the Old-New Synagogue often requires a separate or additional ticket. It is an active place of worship. You should check the Jewish Museum ticket options before you arrive.

Josefov is very easy to reach. It is just a few minutes from the Old Town Square. You can walk there easily from most central hotels. If you use public transport, take the metro to the Staroměstská station. The district is quite small. You can see the main highlights in about three to four hours. However, history lovers may want to spend a full day here. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Prague.

Keep in mind that all sites are closed on Saturdays. This is the Jewish Sabbath. They also close during major Jewish holidays. Try to visit on a weekday morning. The crowds are usually thinner then. Most sites open at 9:00 AM. In the winter, they close earlier than in the summer. Always check the official Prague tourism portal for the latest hours. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestones.

10 Must-See Sights in the Jewish Quarter

Here are the top spots for your visit. These items cover the most important historical and cultural landmarks. Use this list to plan your route through the district.

• Best overall: Old Jewish Cemetery
• Best for history: Old-New Synagogue
• Best for families: Pinkas Synagogue (Children's drawings)
• Best free sight: Franz Kafka Statue

1. Name: Old Jewish Cemetery Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the oldest and most famous Jewish burial grounds in the world. Thousands of gravestones are layered on top of each other. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Central Josefov. Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: Visit early to experience the quiet atmosphere before the tour groups arrive. You can read more about visiting the Old Jewish Cemetery in our dedicated guide.
2. Name: Spanish Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: It is widely considered the most beautiful synagogue in Europe. The interior features stunning Moorish designs and gold leaf. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Vězeňská street. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: Look for the history of the Spanish Synagogue to understand its unique 19th-century style.
3. Name: Old-New Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: This is Europe's oldest active synagogue. It dates back to the 13th century. It is also the legendary home of the Golem of Prague. Best for: Religious history. Where: Červená street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Separate or add-on ticket needed. Tip: Men must wear a head covering inside. Paper kippahs are usually provided at the door.
4. Name: Pinkas Synagogue Type: Experience Why go: It serves as a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. The walls are covered with the names of 80,000 Czech Jewish victims. Best for: Reflection and education. Where: Near the cemetery entrance. Time: 30–40 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: Don't miss the upstairs exhibition of drawings by children from the Terezín concentration camp.
5. Name: Maisel Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: It houses an extensive collection of Jewish silver and historical artifacts. The building has a beautiful Neo-Gothic facade. Best for: Seeing rare artifacts. Where: Maiselova street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: Use the interactive touchscreens to learn about the history of Jews in the Bohemian lands.
6. Name: Klausen Synagogue Type: Museum Why go: This is the largest synagogue in the district. It hosts a permanent exhibition about Jewish customs and traditions. Best for: Learning about Jewish daily life. Where: Next to the cemetery exit. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: This is a great place to learn about the meaning behind Jewish festivals and rites of passage.
7. Name: Ceremonial Hall Type: Museum Why go: This Romanesque-style building was used by the Prague Burial Society. It explains the rituals of death and burial in Jewish culture. Best for: Cultural understanding. Where: Next to the Klausen Synagogue. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: The building itself looks like a small stone castle and is very photogenic.
8. Name: Franz Kafka Statue Type: Experience Why go: This unique bronze sculpture honors the famous writer who lived in the area. It shows a small figure sitting on the shoulders of a headless suit. Best for: Literature fans. Where: Near the Spanish Synagogue. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is located in a small square that is perfect for a quick rest.
9. Name: Robert Guttmann Gallery Type: Museum Why go: This gallery features temporary exhibitions of Jewish art and history. It focuses on 20th-century works. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Behind the Spanish Synagogue. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum ticket. Tip: Check the current exhibition online before you go. It is one of the best museums in Prague for niche art.
10. Name: Pařížská Street Type: Neighborhood Why go: This is the most expensive and luxurious street in Prague. It is lined with beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and high-end boutiques. Best for: Window shopping and architecture. Where: Cutting through the center of Josefov. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look up at the rooftops to see incredible sculptures and decorative details.

Hidden Gems Near the Jewish Quarter

While Jewish Quarter Josefov sightseeing is the main draw, the surrounding area has more to offer. Just a short walk away is the Vltava River. You can take a break from history and enjoy a scenic walk along the water. Many visitors enjoy river cruises and boat tours that depart from nearby docks. This gives you a different perspective of the city's skyline.

If you want a quiet moment, head toward the St. Agnes Convent. It is located on the edge of the district. This medieval complex is part of the National Gallery. It houses a wonderful collection of Gothic art. The gardens are often very peaceful and free to enter. It is a great escape from the busier parts of the Jewish Town. You can find more unique hidden gems in Prague nearby if you know where to look.

For a great view, walk toward the Mánes Bridge. From here, you can see the Prague Castle and the river. It is less crowded than the famous Charles Bridge. Many people miss this spot during their busy sightseeing schedule. It is especially beautiful at sunset. You can learn more about Prague and its layout by exploring these fringe areas of the Old Town.

Practical Tips for Your Josefov Visit

Respect is very important when visiting religious and memorial sites. Keep your voice low inside the synagogues. Do not take photos in the Pinkas Synagogue out of respect for the victims. In most other synagogues, photography is allowed for a small fee. Always look for signs before you pull out your camera. Most sites are accessible, but the cemetery has uneven ground.

If you are traveling with children, the Pinkas Synagogue is a must. The children's drawings are very moving and relatable for young visitors. There are also several small parks nearby where kids can run around. The district is generally very safe. However, watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas like Pařížská Street. This is a common tip for any busy European city center.

To save money, consider buying your tickets online. This can help you skip the long lines at the ticket counters. If you are on a budget, remember that the exterior architecture is free to view. Walking the streets of Josefov is an experience in itself. You can find many free things to do in Prague if you plan carefully. End your day with a local meal at one of the kosher restaurants in the area.