Planning Your Olsany Cemetery Prague Walking Tour

To start your Olsany Cemetery Prague walking tour, head to the Flora metro station. This station is on the Green Line A. You can also take tram numbers 11 or 13. The cemetery has several main entrances along Vinohradska Street. Entry is free for all visitors throughout the year. The gates usually open at 8:00 AM and close at dusk.

At a Glance:

• Morning: Historical plague sections and the Orthodox chapel.
• Afternoon: Jan Palach’s grave and the New Jewish Cemetery.
• Evening: Relaxation in the Vinohrady or Zizkov districts.

Wear sturdy walking shoes for your visit. The paths are mostly paved but can be uneven. Bring a bottle of water, as shops are rare inside. You should also carry a digital map of the grounds. The area covers over 50 hectares of land. This makes it larger than many city parks.

Respect the solemn nature of the site at all times. Keep your voice low while walking near mourners. Photography is allowed for personal use in most areas. Avoid taking photos of modern funeral services. For more local insights, check the Prague.eu official tourism portal. This site provides updated event schedules for 2026.

Morning: Exploring the Ancient Graveyards

Begin your morning in the oldest parts of the cemetery. These sections date back to the late 18th century. They were created during a major plague outbreak. You will see weathered stone crosses and ivy-covered walls. This area feels like a secret garden frozen in time. It is a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

Day 1: Morning (09:00 - 12:00)

Start at the 1st Cemetery section near the main gate. Spend about an hour looking at the early 19th-century tombs. Then, walk toward the Orthodox section. Here, you will find the beautiful St. Nicholas Chapel. It serves the local Russian and Orthodox communities. The architecture is distinct and very photogenic.

Next, visit the military burial grounds. These sections honor soldiers from various conflicts. You will find the Red Army memorial here. It features large monuments and rows of identical headstones. This part of the cemetery highlights the city's 20th-century struggles. It is a powerful reminder of European history.

If you enjoy historic sites, consider visiting the Vysehrad fortress without crowds later. Both locations offer a deep sense of Czech heritage. Olsany is much larger and less visited by tourists. This makes your morning walk very peaceful. Logistics tip: Use the restroom near the main entrance before you start.

Afternoon: Famous Graves and Art Nouveau Statues

After a light lunch, focus on the cultural icons buried here. The cemetery is the final resting place for many famous Czechs. Look for the grave of Jan Palach. He is a symbol of resistance against the 1968 occupation. His memorial is often covered in fresh flowers and candles. It is a site of great national importance.

Day 1: Afternoon (13:30 - 16:30)

Spend 90 minutes hunting for Art Nouveau sculptures. Many 19th-century families hired famous artists to design their tombs. You will see bronze angels and weeping stone figures. These works of art are world-class. They rival the collections found in the National Museum downtown.

Later, head to the New Jewish Cemetery. It is located right next to the main Olsany grounds. You must pass through a separate gate to enter. This is where the writer Franz Kafka is buried. His grave is simple but attracts visitors from around the world. Men should cover their heads when entering this section.

Optional Swap: If it starts to rain, head indoors. You can find quiet cafes in Prague for reading nearby. Many are located just a short tram ride away in Vinohrady. This allows you to stay dry while still enjoying the local atmosphere. Logistics tip: The Jewish section closes earlier on Fridays and is closed on Saturdays.

Where to Stay Near Olsany Cemetery

Choosing the right neighborhood makes your trip easier. Vinohrady is a top choice for many travelers. It offers beautiful streets and many green spaces. You can find many quiet neighborhoods to stay in Prague nearby. This area is very safe and well-connected to the center.

Zizkov is another great option for your base. It has a more rugged and artistic vibe. You will find cheaper hotels and local pubs here. Both neighborhoods are within walking distance of the cemetery. This saves you time on public transport each day. You can enjoy a local breakfast before starting your tour.

Staying outside the Old Town has many benefits. You will experience a more authentic side of Prague life. The prices for food and drinks are also much lower. Most hotels in this area offer modern amenities for 2026. Always check reviews for noise levels before booking your room. A quiet room ensures you rest well after a long walk.

Evening: Quiet Cafes and Local Views

End your day by exploring the surrounding streets. Zizkov and Vinohrady are famous for their cafe culture. You can find a cozy spot to process your photos. Many cafes offer views of the historic cemetery walls. It is a great way to wind down after your tour.

Day 1: Evening (17:00 - 20:00)

Walk toward the Zizkov Television Tower for sunset. It is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. You can see the entire cemetery from the observation deck. The view shows just how much green space the cemetery provides. It is a striking contrast to the surrounding urban buildings.

For dinner, try a traditional Czech tavern in the area. Order a hearty meal like goulash or roast pork. If you prefer nature, visit the Havlickovy Sady park guide for a nearby evening stroll. This park features a beautiful vineyard and a historic grotto. It is a lovely place to end your day in Prague.

Logistics tip: Trams run frequently until midnight. You can easily get back to any part of the city. Use a transport app to check the latest schedules. Most tickets can be bought with a contactless card on the tram. This makes evening travel very convenient for tourists.