The Exact Schedule: When Does the Clock Chime?

The Prague Astronomical Clock chimes every hour on the hour. This happens daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The show is known as the "Walk of the Apostles." It lasts for about 45 seconds. You should arrive at least 15 minutes early to find a good spot. The crowd grows very large just before the hour begins.

During the chime, two small windows open at the top of the clock. Twelve wooden figures of the Apostles pass by. Other figures on the clock face also move. A skeleton representing Death pulls a bell cord. A golden rooster crows at the very end to finish the show. It is a brief but magical experience for all ages.

The clock is a masterpiece of Gothic engineering. It was first installed in 1410. This makes it the oldest clock still in operation today. You can learn more about its status on the UNESCO World Heritage Centre website. Watching the chime is completely free for everyone. It is the highlight of any walk through the historic center.

10 Best Sights Near the Prague Astronomical Clock

To make the most of your visit, explore these top attractions nearby. These items include viewpoints, museums, and iconic landmarks. Most are within a five-minute walk of the clock. Use this list to plan your afternoon in Old Town.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): The Old Town Hall Tower for bird's-eye views.
• Quick Pick (Best Free): Watching the chime from the square.
• Quick Pick (Best Rainy-Day): Exploring the Old Town Hall interiors.

1. Name: The Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj) Type: sight Why go: To see the world's oldest working astronomical clock in action. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Old Town Hall southern wall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Look for the zodiac signs on the lower calendar dial.
2. Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of Prague's red rooftops. Best for: Seeing the city from above. Where: Directly above the clock. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Entrance is next to the clock face. Tip: There is an elevator if you want to skip the stairs.
3. Name: Old Town Hall Historical Interiors Type: museum Why go: You can see the mechanisms behind the clock and ancient halls. Best for: Learning if you can go inside the Prague Astronomical Clock area. Where: Old Town Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Enter through the main tourist office door. Tip: Visit the underground Romanesque and Gothic cellars.
4. Name: Old Town Square Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the most beautiful square in Central Europe. Best for: Soaking up the local atmosphere and street performers. Where: Surroundings of the clock. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs for "Staroměstské náměstí." Tip: Visit early in the morning for photos without crowds.
5. Name: Church of Our Lady before Týn Type: sight Why go: Its twin Gothic spires dominate the Prague skyline. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Across the square from the clock. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations encouraged). Getting there: Walk 100 meters from the clock. Tip: The entrance is hidden behind the cafes in front.
6. Name: St. Nicholas Church (Old Town) Type: sight Why go: A stunning example of Baroque architecture with a massive chandelier. Best for: Classical music fans. Where: Corner of Old Town Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Two-minute walk from the clock. Tip: Check the evening schedule for organ concerts.
7. Name: The Walk of the Apostles Type: experience Why go: To see the specific mechanical movements during the hourly chime. Best for: Families and children. Where: Directly in front of the clock windows. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Stand in the center of the square facing south. Tip: Film in slow motion to catch the figures' details.
8. Name: Charles Bridge Type: day trip Why go: This iconic bridge is a short walk from the clock. Best for: Romantic walks and seeing Prague sightseeing guide highlights. Where: 500 meters west of the clock. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow Karlova street from the square. Tip: Rub the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck.
9. Name: The Clementinum Type: museum Why go: It houses one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Best for: Book lovers and Baroque art fans. Where: Near the entrance to Charles Bridge. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid guided tour. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the clock. Tip: Book your tour online in advance to secure a slot.
10. Name: Prague Castle Type: day trip Why go: It is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Best for: A full day of exploration. Where: Across the river on the hill. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Various ticket tiers. Getting there: Follow our Prague Castle complex visiting guide for directions. Tip: Watch the changing of the guard at the main gate.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

When you watch the clock chime, keep your belongings safe. Large crowds often attract pickpockets in Old Town Square. Keep your bags in front of you at all times. Do not get too distracted by the mechanical show. For more official visitor info, check Prague.eu for updates.

The best angle for photos is slightly to the left of the clock. This allows you to see the windows and the dials clearly. If you want a less crowded experience, go at 9:00 AM. The 11:00 PM chime is also usually quieter than mid-day. Most tourists visit between noon and 6:00 PM.

The area around the clock is flat and paved with cobblestones. It is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, the cobblestones can be bumpy and uneven. Wear comfortable walking shoes for your day in Prague. The square has many cafes, but prices are higher here. Walk a few blocks away for cheaper local meals.