Top Jewish Quarter Josefov Heritage Sites to Explore

The Jewish Quarter is home to some of the most important monuments in Europe. Most sites are part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. You can see them all with one combined ticket. This makes planning your afternoon very easy.

• Best overall: Old-New Synagogue
• Best for families: Spanish Synagogue
• Best rainy-day: Jewish Museum complex
• Best free activity: Pařížská Street walk

1. Name: Old-New Synagogue Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It has stood since the 13th century. The building has survived fires and floods over hundreds of years. You can see unique Gothic architecture inside. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Červená street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Separate ticket required. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Men must wear a head covering which is provided at the door.
2. Name: Old Jewish Cemetery Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is one of the most famous burial grounds in the world. Thousands of gravestones are crowded into a small space. The layers of earth hold many generations of history. It is a very peaceful and moving place to visit. Best for: Photography and reflection. Where: Široká street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: Located in the heart of the quarter. Tip: Learn about the history of the Old Jewish Cemetery before you go.
3. Name: Spanish Synagogue Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This building is famous for its stunning Moorish design. The gold and tile work inside is breathtaking. It houses an exhibit on modern Jewish history. It is often called the most beautiful synagogue in Prague. Best for: Art and architecture lovers. Where: Vězeňská street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: A short walk from the Old Town Square. Tip: Check for evening classical music concerts held here.
4. Name: Pinkas Synagogue Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This site serves as a memorial to Holocaust victims. The walls are covered with thousands of handwritten names. It is a very emotional experience for every visitor. There is also an exhibit of drawings by children from the Terezín Ghetto. Best for: Those wanting to pay their respects. Where: Next to the Old Jewish Cemetery entrance. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: Easily reached on foot. Tip: Bring tissues as the children's art is very touching.
5. Name: Maisel Synagogue Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This synagogue was built by Mordechai Maisel in the 16th century. It now holds a large collection of silver and historical items. The exhibits explain the history of Jews in Bohemia. The interior was rebuilt in a beautiful Neo-Gothic style. Best for: Learning about local heritage. Where: Maiselova street. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: Walkable from any point in Josefov. Tip: Use the interactive touch screens to see more details.
6. Name: Klausen Synagogue Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This is the largest synagogue in the former Jewish Ghetto. It stands right next to the cemetery exit. The exhibits focus on Jewish customs and traditions. You can learn about holidays and daily life. Best for: Families and students. Where: U Starého hřbitova street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: Located near the cemetery exit. Tip: Look out the windows for a great view of the cemetery.
7. Name: Ceremonial Hall Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This building looks like a small stone castle. It was once the home of the Prague Burial Society. The exhibits inside explain Jewish funeral rites and traditions. It is a small but very informative site. Best for: Cultural education. Where: Next to the Klausen Synagogue. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: Part of the main museum loop. Tip: Notice the Romanesque style of the building architecture.
8. Name: Robert Guttmann Gallery Type: Unique local experience Why go: This gallery features changing art exhibitions. It focuses on Jewish artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. It is named after a famous Prague Jewish painter. The space is modern and very quiet. Best for: Art fans. Where: U Staré školy street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the museum pass. Getting there: Tucked behind the Spanish Synagogue. Tip: This is a great place to escape the main crowds.
9. Name: Pařížská Street Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This is the most expensive street in Prague. It was built during the renewal of the Jewish Quarter. You can see amazing Art Nouveau buildings here. It connects the river to the Old Town Square. Best for: Luxury window shopping and walking. Where: Runs through the center of Josefov. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Starts at the InterContinental hotel. Tip: Look up at the rooflines for beautiful statues.
10. Name: Franz Kafka Statue Type: Unique local experience Why go: This famous bronze statue is very unusual. It shows a small man sitting on the shoulders of a large suit. It honors the famous writer who lived in this area. It is a great spot for a unique photo. Best for: Fans of literature and art. Where: Near the Spanish Synagogue. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in a small plaza on Vězeňská street. Tip: Read about other Franz Kafka sites in Prague nearby.

Planning Your Visit to Josefov in 2026

Visiting the Jewish Quarter requires some planning. Most sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. You should check the calendar before you arrive. You can find official updates on the Visit Czechia website. This will help you avoid closed doors.

Buying tickets in advance is a smart move. You can get them at the Jewish Museum information center. There are different ticket tiers available. Check the entrance fees and tickets guide for details. This will save you time in line.

The area is quite small and easy to walk. You do not need a car or bus. Most people spend about three to four hours here. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestone. You can find more maps on the Prague.eu tourism portal.

Please remember that these are sacred sites. Speak quietly while inside the synagogues. Do not take photos where signs forbid it. This shows respect for the local community and history. Many sites have security checks at the entrance.

More Cultural Attractions Near the Jewish Quarter

Josefov is right next to the Old Town. You can walk to the Old Town Square landmarks in five minutes. This makes it easy to see many things in one day. The area is full of great cafes and shops. You will never be far from a good meal.

If you have more time, explore the riverfront. You can see the Rudolfinum concert hall nearby. It is a beautiful building with a great view. Many walking tours start in this part of the city. It is the perfect base for your Prague adventure.