Planning Your Visit to Josefov

Josefov is a compact neighborhood that is very easy to walk. It is one of the most popular top attractions in Prague for history lovers. Most visitors stay in the Old Town or near Wenceslas Square. Both areas offer quick access to the Jewish Quarter on foot. If you prefer public transport, take the Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From there, the entrance to the quarter is just a few minutes away. Most sites are open daily except for Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

You should buy a combined ticket for the Jewish Museum. This ticket covers the main synagogues and the cemetery. Note that the Old-New Synagogue often requires a separate or add-on ticket. You can find these at the central ticket office on Maiselova street. It is best to arrive early in the morning. This helps you beat the large tour groups that arrive by 10:30 AM. For a great base, look for hotels in the Old Town area. This keeps you near the Old Town Square sights and local cafes.

Logistics Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets are cobblestoned. Bring a small bottle of water, but remember that eating is not allowed inside the monuments. Most sites are within a five-minute walk of each other. This makes the area perfect for a self-guided walking tour. Always check the official Prague.eu website for holiday closures before your visit.

Morning: History and Remembrance at Pinkas Synagogue

Start your day at 9:00 AM at the Pinkas Synagogue. This building serves as a powerful memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. The walls are covered with the hand-written names of nearly 80,000 Jewish victims. It is a somber and moving experience for every visitor. Take your time to walk through the main hall. The sheer number of names highlights the scale of the tragedy. You can read more Pinkas Synagogue memorial facts to prepare for your visit.

On the upper floor, you will find a unique exhibition. It features drawings made by children in the Terezín Ghetto during World War II. These drawings show the daily life and dreams of children in the camp. They are a haunting reminder of the past. The synagogue itself dates back to the 16th century. It represents a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. This stop sets a reflective tone for the rest of your day in Josefov.

Day 1 Schedule:
09:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Pinkas Synagogue visit.
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM: Short walk to the cemetery entrance.
Pro tip: Use the quiet morning hours to reflect before the crowds grow.

Afternoon: The Old Jewish Cemetery and Spanish Synagogue

After the Pinkas Synagogue, the exit leads directly into the Old Jewish Cemetery. This is one of the most iconic jewish quarter prague attractions. It was used from the 15th century until 1787. Because space was limited, graves were layered on top of each other. This created a crowded and uneven landscape of headstones. You will see thousands of stones tightly packed together. Look for the grave of Rabbi Loew, a famous figure in local folklore. Check the current Old Jewish Cemetery ticket prices before you arrive.

Next, head to the Klausen Synagogue located right next to the cemetery exit. It houses an exhibit on Jewish customs and traditions. You can learn about holidays, birth, and marriage rituals. Afterward, walk toward the Maisel Synagogue. This building houses a collection of silver, textiles, and historical documents. It tells the story of the Jewish community in Bohemia. The architecture is a beautiful example of Neo-Gothic style from the late 19th century.

Finish your afternoon at the Spanish Synagogue. Many consider this the most beautiful synagogue in Europe. It features a stunning Moorish-style interior with gold leaf and intricate tiles. The building is part of the UNESCO World Heritage area of Prague. You should definitely see the Spanish Synagogue interior to admire the craftsmanship. It is a highlight of any Prague itinerary.

Day 1 Schedule:
12:30 PM – 01:30 PM: Lunch at a local kosher restaurant.
01:30 PM – 03:30 PM: Old Jewish Cemetery and Klausen Synagogue.
03:30 PM – 05:00 PM: Spanish Synagogue and Maisel Synagogue.

Evening: Legends of the Golem and Local Dining

As the sun begins to set, visit the Old-New Synagogue. This is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It was built in the late 13th century in the early Gothic style. According to legend, the remains of the Golem are hidden in the attic. The Golem was a clay creature brought to life to protect the community. The atmosphere inside is dark, ancient, and very quiet. It offers a stark contrast to the bright decor of the Spanish Synagogue.

After your tour, enjoy a walk through the streets of Josefov. The neighborhood is filled with high-end boutiques and charming cafes. For dinner, try traditional Czech food or a kosher meal. There are several highly-rated restaurants near Pařížská Street. This street is known for its luxury shops and beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. It is a great place for an evening stroll. You can see how the historic quarter blends with modern city life.

End your night by walking toward the river. The view of the castle across the water is spectacular at night. You are also very close to other landmarks. Many people combine this tour with a visit to the Charles Bridge statues and towers nearby. The city is very safe for walking after dark. Enjoy the cool evening air and the illuminated historic buildings.

Practical Tips for Your Prague Itinerary

When visiting jewish quarter prague attractions, respect is very important. Men are often required to wear a head covering in the synagogues and cemetery. Usually, paper kippahs are provided at the entrance. Keep your voice low while inside the memorial areas. Photography is allowed in some places but forbidden in others. Always look for signs before taking out your camera. This ensures you follow local rules and respect the sites.

The Jewish Quarter can get very busy during the summer months. If you visit in 2026, consider booking your tickets online in advance. This can save you time in the ticket office queue. For a quieter experience, visit during the shoulder seasons like spring or fall. The weather is mild, and the crowds are much smaller. Most of the sites are indoors, so it is a good activity for a rainy day. However, the cemetery is best seen in natural light.

Optional Swaps:
If you have kids, they might enjoy the Golem stories more than the museum exhibits. If you are on a budget, you can view the cemetery through the fence on 17. listopadu street. For a rainy day, spend more time inside the Spanish Synagogue. It has a small cafe where you can rest. Always check for evening concerts in the synagogues for a unique musical experience.