Josefov Jewish Quarter Prague
Explore Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, Josefov, with its ancient synagogues and poignant cemetery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Josefov Jewish Quarter Prague
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, Josefov, with its ancient synagogues and poignant cemetery.
"Step into history in Prague’s Jewish Quarter, a place of resilience and profound stories."
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Get a combined ticket for all sites; it's the most efficient way to see everything.
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the Jewish Quarter thoroughly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Old Jewish Cemetery
Josefov
A hauntingly beautiful and densely packed cemetery with layers of history.

Spanish Synagogue
Josefov
Stunning Moorish Revival architecture and intricate interiors.
Old-New Synagogue
Josefov
Europe's oldest active synagogue, a Gothic masterpiece with a rich past.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Get a combined ticket for all sites; it's the most efficient way to see everything.
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the Jewish Quarter thoroughly.
🚶♀️ Consider a Guided Tour
A guided tour can offer deeper historical context and insights.
🗓️ Check Holiday Closures
Always check the Jewish Museum website for holiday closures before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
Get a combined ticket for all sites; it's the most efficient way to see everything.
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the Jewish Quarter thoroughly.
🚶♀️ Consider a Guided Tour
A guided tour can offer deeper historical context and insights.
🗓️ Check Holiday Closures
Always check the Jewish Museum website for holiday closures before you go.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of photography rules inside synagogues and the cemetery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the profound historical significance and unique atmosphere of Josefov, particularly the Old Jewish Cemetery and the stunning architecture of the Spanish Synagogue. Some find the combined ticket offers good value, though a few mention that the sheer density of history can be overwhelming for a short visit.
"So much history here, but you have to pay to enter most if not all the places and buildings.
You must take a guided tour to hear about the history, the suffering, the wise kings updating the area to become what it is today. As well as how they used to stack graves one on top of another until it’s 7 deep?"
Jesse Lee
"Very good price for the ticket, it includes multiple locations. Very interesting, clean, you don't wait too long for tickets ♡"
Marina Sidonia Ramașcanu
"Incredible history here. The Jewish quarter with hardly anything left , all destroyed and rebuilt. Such a painful history for the Jewish people world wide but again specially here. Over 3000 killed in a day and of 150 settlements of Jews all but 9 devastated and destroyed by the Nazis. How sad the way Jews have been persecuted for over 2000 years.
Absolutely worth a visit and a little history lesson."
zane cohen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Josefov is centrally located between the Old Town Square and the Vltava River. You can easily walk there from most major tourist areas in Prague. Public transport options include trams and metro lines that stop nearby, such as Staroměstská metro station.
Yes, Josefov is very accessible. Several tram lines stop within a short walking distance, and the Staroměstská metro station (Line A) is also close by. It's a convenient area to reach from anywhere in Prague.
Absolutely! The Jewish Quarter is just a short and pleasant walk from the Old Town Square, making it easy to combine visits. It's a great way to experience the city's atmosphere.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Josefov can be challenging and expensive due to its central location. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk. If driving, look for paid parking garages in the Old Town area.
Yes, Josefov is a compact and very walkable area. The main synagogues and the cemetery are all within close proximity, allowing you to explore on foot easily.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased at the Jewish Museum's information center in Josefov. Many visitors opt for a combined ticket that covers multiple synagogues and the Old Jewish Cemetery. Purchasing online in advance is also an option.
The combined ticket typically grants access to the Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue, Spanish Synagogue, and the Old Jewish Cemetery. It's a comprehensive pass for the main historical sites.
While some sites can be seen quickly, to truly appreciate the history and exhibits, plan for at least 2-3 hours. Some visitors suggest 1 hour per site might be sufficient for a quick overview, but more time allows for deeper engagement.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and children. It's best to check the official Jewish Museum in Prague website for the most current pricing and discount information.
While a combined ticket is recommended for value, some individual sites might offer separate entry. However, the combined ticket provides the most comprehensive experience and is generally the preferred option for visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Old Jewish Cemetery is a standout, along with the Spanish Synagogue for its beauty, and the Old-New Synagogue for its historical significance. The Pinkas Synagogue, with its memorial walls, is also very moving.
Absolutely. The Old Jewish Cemetery is a unique and poignant site, with thousands of gravestones layered upon each other due to limited space over centuries. It's a powerful testament to the area's history.
Yes, the Jewish Museum offers guided tours that can provide valuable historical context and stories. Many visitors find these tours enhance their understanding and appreciation of the sites.
While there isn't a strict dress code, it's advisable to dress respectfully. This means avoiding overly revealing clothing. Some synagogues may require head coverings for men, which are usually available to borrow.
The Old Jewish Cemetery has uneven terrain and narrow paths, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some synagogues have stairs. It's advisable to check accessibility information for specific sites on the Jewish Museum website.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary between the different sites within the Jewish Quarter. Generally, photography is permitted in most areas, but flash photography is often prohibited. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
Photography is usually allowed at the Old Jewish Cemetery, but it's important to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography and focus on capturing the atmosphere and historical significance.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can create a beautiful, atmospheric glow over the historic buildings and cemetery.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in densely populated historic city centers like Prague's Jewish Quarter due to regulations and privacy concerns. It's best to leave drones at home for this visit.
Popular shots include the densely packed gravestones of the Old Jewish Cemetery, the intricate details of the Spanish Synagogue's interior, and the Gothic architecture of the Old-New Synagogue. Capturing the narrow, historic streets is also a favorite.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging, look for family-friendly guided tours if available, or prepare some age-appropriate stories about the Golem legend (a popular tale associated with the Old-New Synagogue) beforehand. Ensure children are aware of the respectful nature required within the synagogues and cemetery.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save on food, consider packing snacks or finding more affordable eateries outside the immediate tourist hotspots. Walking to Josefov from other central Prague attractions is free and a great way to see the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Josefov
The Jewish Museum in Prague, which manages most of the historical sites in Josefov, plays a crucial role in preserving and interpreting this rich history. The museum's collections are housed in several synagogues, each offering a unique perspective on Jewish life, traditions, and the community's resilience. The Old Jewish Cemetery, with its layers of tombstones dating back to the 15th century, is a particularly poignant reminder of the area's long and complex past.
Exploring Josefov offers a profound glimpse into the enduring spirit of the Jewish community in Prague. It's a place where history is palpable, inviting visitors to reflect on the stories of those who lived, worshipped, and found refuge within its ancient walls. The area serves as a vital memorial and a testament to the cultural heritage that has shaped Prague.
Navigating the Jewish Museum Sites
When visiting, it's helpful to have a plan. Many visitors start at the Jewish Museum's information center to purchase tickets and get a map. The Old Jewish Cemetery is a must-see, but be prepared for its unique, crowded layout. The Pinkas Synagogue serves as a memorial to Bohemian and Moravian Jews who perished in the Holocaust, with walls inscribed with their names, making it a deeply moving experience.
Consider dedicating at least 2-3 hours to fully absorb the history and atmosphere of these sites. While some Redditors suggest a quicker visit might be possible, taking your time allows for a more meaningful connection with the stories and heritage preserved within Josefov.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit