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Self Guided Walking Tours Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter (Židovské Město), also known as Josefov, is one of the oldest and most important centers of Jewish culture in Central Europe.
Self Guided
5-Steps
- Choose a tour
- Pay
- Receive an email with a link
- Open the link — instant access (no login or password required)
- Start your tour on your phone (works offline)
Listen to an excerpt from the tour:
Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Since the Middle Ages, Prague’s Jewish community has lived here. Despite violent pogroms, persecution, and repeated attempts to expel or destroy the Jewish population, many priceless monuments of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and modern architecture have survived in the Jewish Quarter.
Josefov is one of the oldest and most famous districts of Prague. Unique synagogues, elegant palaces, beautiful streets, historic bridges, and remarkable monuments are only part of what awaits you here. The legends and real stories of this extraordinary place will immerse you in the atmosphere of medieval Prague.
So much to discover awaits you
Your journey begins at Jan Palach Square, named after one of the great heroes of modern Czech history, whose story you will discover during the tour.
Of course, you will not miss the magnificent Rudolfinum, one of Prague’s most beautiful Neo-Renaissance buildings.
Each of the five historic synagogues will reveal the secrets, legends, and stories behind its name and creation.
Walking along Pařížská Avenue, you may feel as if you have stepped onto the Champs-Élysées in Paris — this elegant boulevard was inspired by the famous Parisian avenue.
You will also see the unusual sculpture of a man sitting on the shoulders of an empty suit emerging from the pavement. Try to guess whom this sculpture represents.
The remarkable clock on the Jewish Town Hall will certainly catch your attention, and you will discover what makes it so unique.
Visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and do not forget to place a small stone near the grave of Rabbi Löw — according to tradition, it may help your wish come true.
Our journey ends at Čech Bridge. And if you continue across the river, you can enjoy a walk through Letná Park, famous for its breathtaking views of Prague, the Vltava River, and the city’s beautiful bridges and embankments.
Interesting facts and mysteries of the tour
Does the mysterious Golem really exist?
The greatest legend of Prague’s Jewish Quarter is the Golem — a creature made of clay and brought to life by human hands. But is it only a myth, or could there be some truth behind the story?
Together we will try to uncover the mystery.
You will even meet Mordechai Maisel, the legendary mayor of the Jewish Quarter. True, he lived in the 16th century — but why let time stand in the way? He knows countless legends, stories, and real historical tales of old Prague. Meeting him is a wonderful chance to step into the fascinating world of medieval Prague.
Main attractions
- Rudolfinum
- Church of Saint Nicholas
- Pařížská Avenue
- Historic synagogues: Old-New Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, Spanish Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue
- Church of Saint Salvator
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Franz Kafka Monument
- Old Jewish Cemetery
- Jewish Town Hall
- Čech Bridge
Entry to the main sites of the Jewish Quarter is paid. Visiting these sites is optional. If you would like to enter them, tickets can be purchased here.
The starting point of the route
Jan Palach Square (Náměstí Jana Palacha)
Nearest metro station: Staroměstská (Line A)
After leaving the metro station, turn left and continue along Kaprova Street to the tram crossing. The starting point of the tour — Jan Palach Square — is located diagonally across the intersection.
