Prague: Guided Walking Tour of Prague’s Jewish Quarter

Discover Prague’s Jewish Quarter with a Guided Walking Tour

This 2.5-hour guided tour offers an in-depth look into the historic Jewish Quarter of Prague, a central part of the city’s cultural fabric. Priced at $100 per person, it features visits to some of Prague’s most iconic synagogues and monuments, with a professional local guide leading the way. The tour provides a balanced mix of history, culture, and architecture, making it an ideal choice for those curious about the Jewish community’s influence on Prague’s development.

The tour covers key sites including the Old-New Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Ceremonial Hall. Visitors appreciate the expert guidance and the chance to see emblematic and sacred monuments, all while gaining insight into the devastation caused by Nazism and the resilience of the Jewish community. While the tour takes place rain or shine, comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on cobblestone streets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration of 2.5 hours provides a rundown of the Jewish Quarter
• Price of $100 per person includes entry to multiple synagogues and the Jewish Cemetery
• Guided by a professional, knowledgeable guide with an excellent command of local history and culture
• Visits to Old-New Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, and more
• Learn about Jewish traditions and the history of the Jewish community in Prague
• Tour is wheelchair accessible and includes skip-the-line entry

Exploring the Historic Jewish Quarter of Prague

The Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, originated as a walled ghetto established in the 10th century. It experienced significant hardship during pogroms, but still developed into a thriving religious and cultural center. The Old-New Synagogue, built in the 13th century, is the oldest preserved synagogue in Central Europe and a key highlight of the tour.

This tour highlights the Jewish Cemetery, used from the 15th to the 18th century, where over 60,000 tombs are conserved. The cemetery’s history reflects times of both prosperity and tragedy, with the Nazi occupation in the 20th century threatening its preservation. Today, the site remains a powerful reminder of the Jewish community’s resilience and is part of the entry tickets included in the tour.

The Synagogues and Monuments You’ll Visit

The tour includes access to several significant synagogues: the Old-New Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue, and the Ceremonial Hall. Visitors will see temporary exhibitions in the Robert Guttmann gallery, which add context to the cultural experience.

Each site reveals a different aspect of Jewish religious life, history, and art. The Pinkas Synagogue, for example, is notable for its memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, while the Maisel Synagogue showcases medieval architecture. The Klausen Synagogue is one of the best-preserved historic synagogues, and the Ceremonial Hall offers additional insight into Jewish traditions.

The Significance of the Old Jewish Cemetery

The Old Jewish Cemetery is a highlight of the tour, recognized for its over 60,000 tombs and historical importance. It was in use from the 15th century until the 18th century, making it one of Europe’s oldest surviving Jewish cemeteries. Visitors see the densely packed gravestones and learn about the Jewish burial customs and the notable figures buried there.

The cemetery’s preservation is a testament to the community’s efforts to maintain its history despite the hardships faced during Nazi occupation, when the area was almost turned into a museum of “the race disappeared.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour starts at a convenient meeting point where guides are identifiable by a navy blue umbrella or sign with the Turistico logo. The activity concludes back at the starting location, making logistics simple. No transportation is included, and hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this experience.

Participants should plan for rain or shine, and comfortable shoes are recommended due to the cobblestone streets. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

The Guide and Tour Experience

Feedback highlights the expertise and friendliness of the guide, who manages to balance historical detail with engaging storytelling. The guides are praised for their incredible command of history and culture and for being attentive and friendly throughout the experience.

The small group size and skip-the-line tickets help keep the pace relaxed and allow for more interaction and questions. The tour is conducted in Spanish, making it accessible for Spanish-speaking visitors.

Price and Value for Money

At $100, the tour offers a comprehensive visit with entry to multiple synagogues, the cemetery, and temporary exhibitions. The inclusion of professional guides and skip-the-line tickets adds to the value, especially considering the depth of access to otherwise restricted sites.

Since the tour lasts 2.5 hours, it provides a concentrated and engaging experience without feeling rushed. For those interested in Jewish history, architecture, and Prague’s cultural landscape, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs. Since it takes place rain or shine, attendees should bring comfortable, waterproof shoes. The activity does not include food or drinks, so plan accordingly if you wish to extend your visit with local cafes afterward.

The meeting point is clearly identified, and the tour ends at the same location, simplifying logistics for participants. Cancellation is flexible, with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This guided walk is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone interested in learning about the Jewish community’s impact on Prague. The well-informed guides and carefully curated sites make it suitable for those seeking a meaningful, educational experience in a short amount of time.

It’s especially ideal for visitors with limited time but who want to see key landmarks and gain insight into the Jewish history of Prague.

The Sum Up: An Insightful and Respectful Tour of Prague’s Jewish Heritage

The Prague Jewish Quarter guided walking tour offers a rich, accessible exploration of one of the city’s most important neighborhoods. With expert guides, entry to key synagogues and the historic cemetery, and an engaging narrative, it provides a balanced view of history, culture, and faith.

While it’s a compact experience, it covers the most significant sites and offers a meaningful understanding of Jewish life in Prague. The $100 price tag reflects the quality of access and storytelling, making it a worthwhile choice for history buffs and culturally curious travelers.

This tour is a great way to appreciate Prague’s Jewish community’s resilience and cultural legacy — an experience that combines education, reflection, and admiration in just a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours.

What is included in the ticket price?
Entry tickets to Old-New Synagogue, Old Jewish Cemetery, Spanish Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue, and the Ceremonial Hall, plus temporary exhibitions in the Robert Guttmann gallery.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour takes place on cobblestone streets and in various weather conditions.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is essential to secure a spot, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The guide speaks Spanish.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is marked by a navy blue umbrella or Turistico sign.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What sets this tour apart from others?
It offers skip-the-line access and visits to multiple significant sites with an expert guide, providing a comprehensive yet manageable experience of Prague’s Jewish heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby