At a Glance: 2-Day Kafka Itinerary

This plan covers the most important locations in the city center. It is designed for travelers who love history and literature. Most sites are within walking distance of each other. You will see the places where Kafka lived, worked, and wrote.

• Day 1: Old Town Square, Jewish Quarter, and the Kafka Museum.
• Day 2: Prague Castle, Mala Strana, and the Rotating Head sculpture.

Prague is a very walkable city. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. You can also use the excellent tram system. Check the Prague official tourism portal for current event schedules. This guide ensures you do not miss any major cultural attractions in Prague related to the author.

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town and Jewish Quarter

Day 1: Start your morning at Náměstí Franze Kafky. This small square is right next to Old Town Square. You will find a plaque marking Kafka's birthplace here. The original house burned down long ago. However, the portal still remains from that time. It is a great place to begin your journey. Spend about 30 minutes here taking photos.

Next, walk to the Old Town Square landmarks nearby. Kafka spent much of his life in this area. He attended school at the Kinsky Palace. His father ran a shop on the ground floor. You can see the beautiful facade of this building today. It now houses a branch of the National Gallery. Take an hour to enjoy the atmosphere of the square.

In the afternoon, head into the Jewish Quarter heritage sites. This area is known as Josefov. Kafka was part of the German-speaking Jewish community. Visit the Spanish Synagogue to see the famous Kafka monument. It shows a small figure sitting on the shoulders of a headless suit. It is a very popular spot for fans. Allow two hours to explore the synagogues and the cemetery.

Finish your day at the Franz Kafka Museum in Mala Strana. This museum is very atmospheric and dark. It uses lights and sounds to mirror Kafka's mind. You will see first editions and personal letters. Outside, you can see the famous 'Piss' sculpture by David Černý. This museum is a must-see for any fan. Logistics Tip: Buy your museum tickets online to avoid long queues in the late afternoon.

Day 2: Castle Heights and Modern Kafka Tributes

Day 2: Start your morning at the Prague Castle complex guide area. Head straight to Golden Lane. Look for house number 22. Kafka lived here with his sister Ottla in 1916. He liked the quiet atmosphere for writing. The house is tiny and painted bright blue. It is now a small bookshop selling his works. Arrive early at 9:00 AM to beat the crowds.

After the castle, walk down through the Mala Strana walking tour route. This neighborhood is full of baroque charm. Cross the river and head toward the New Town. Stop at Café Louvre for lunch. Kafka was a frequent guest at this historic cafe. It still looks much like it did in the early 1900s. The food is traditional and the service is classic.

In the afternoon, visit the Quadrio shopping center. Behind it stands the massive 'Head of Franz Kafka.' This sculpture is made of 42 rotating stainless steel layers. It is a modern tribute to his complex personality. The layers move at different speeds throughout the hour. It is one of the most unique Franz Kafka sites in Prague. Spend 20 minutes watching the mechanical movements.

If you have extra time, take a tram to the New Jewish Cemetery. This is located in the Strašnice district. Kafka is buried here along with his parents. The grave is simple but very moving. Many visitors leave small stones or messages on the tomb. Logistics Tip: The cemetery is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal closing times.

Practical Tips for Visiting Franz Kafka Sites in Prague

Planning is key for a smooth trip. Most sites are open year-round. However, summer can be very crowded. Try visiting in the spring or fall for better weather. Early morning is the best time for Golden Lane. Late afternoon is perfect for the Jewish Quarter. Always check official websites for updated hours in 2026.

Prague has an amazing public transport system. You do not need a car in the city. Trams and the metro are very reliable. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on the tram. A 24-hour pass is a great value. It covers all your travel within the city center. This makes reaching the New Jewish Cemetery very easy.

Many sites offer discounts for students and seniors. Carry a valid ID to save money. Some museums offer a combined ticket for multiple locations. This is often cheaper than buying individual entries. Keep a map on your phone for navigation. The narrow streets of the Old Town can be confusing. Most cafes offer free Wi-Fi if you need to check your route.

Where to Stay for a Kafka-Themed Trip

The Old Town is the best place to stay. You will be steps away from Kafka's birthplace. Many hotels are located in historic buildings. This area is very central for sightseeing. You can walk to most of the Franz Kafka sites in Prague from here. However, it can be noisy at night.

Mala Strana is another excellent choice. It is quieter than the Old Town. The streets are very romantic and old. It is close to the Kafka Museum and the Castle. You will find many charming boutique hotels here. It feels like stepping back into the 19th century. This area is perfect for a literary atmosphere.

For a modern stay, look at the New Town. This area has larger hotels and more shopping. It is well-connected by the metro. You can find better prices here than in the historic center. It is close to the Rotating Head sculpture. Most parts of the New Town are still very walkable. Choose this area if you want a mix of old and new.