Haunted Places to Visit in Prague: A Guide to the City of Ghosts
Prague is a city of magic and mystery. Many travelers seek out the most haunted places to visit in Prague to experience its dark side. The cobblestone streets of the Old Town hide centuries of secrets. You will find legends of headless knights and restless spirits around every corner. This guide helps you plan a spooky itinerary for 2026. Whether you believe in ghosts or love history, these spots will give you chills. Get ready to explore the shadows of the Czech capital.
Quick Picks for Spooky Prague
Before we dive into the full list, here are some fast recommendations. These picks help you choose based on your travel style. Prague is very walkable, making it easy to see several spots in one night. Always check the weather before heading out for a late walk.
- Best Overall: Charles Bridge at night.
- Best for Families: Museum of Alchemists and Magicians.
- Best Free Spot: Old Town Square execution markers.
- Best Rainy Day: Prague Underground dungeons.
The city atmosphere changes completely after sunset. You can feel the weight of history in the narrow alleys. Many of these unique places in Prague are free to view from the outside. Keep your camera ready for any strange shadows.
Top 10 Haunted Places to Visit in Prague
Prague is famous for its legends and folklore. These ten locations are the most notorious haunted places to visit in Prague today. Each site offers a unique story from the city's long and often violent past. Be sure to respect the local residents while you explore at night.
- Name: Charles Bridge Type: sight Why go: Legend says 27 executed lords haunt the bridge. You might also see the headless knight, Bruncvík. Best for: Everyone Where: Connects Old Town to Lesser Town Time: 30–45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from Old Town Square Tip: Visit Charles Bridge at night to avoid the massive daytime crowds.
- Name: Old Jewish Cemetery Type: sight Why go: It is home to the Golem of Prague and thousands of stacked graves. The energy here is incredibly heavy and somber. Best for: History buffs Where: Josefov (Jewish Quarter) Time: 1 hour Cost: Paid entry (part of Jewish Museum) Getting there: Metro Line A to Staroměstská Tip: Read about the legends of the Golem before you go to understand the mysticism.
- Name: Daliborka Tower Type: sight Why go: This former prison at Prague Castle held famous prisoners. Visitors often hear ghostly violin music coming from the walls. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Prague Castle complex Time: 20 minutes Cost: Included in Castle tour ticket Getting there: Tram 22 to Pražský hrad Tip: The tower is named after its first prisoner, Dalibor of Kozojedy.
- Name: Old Town Hall Underground Type: experience Why go: These 12th-century chambers served as dungeons and torture rooms. It is a prime spot for underground tours. Best for: Thrill seekers Where: Old Town Square Time: 1 hour Cost: Moderate Getting there: Walk to the center of Old Town Tip: Book a night tour for the spookiest experience in the dark vaults.
- Name: Church of St. James the Greater Type: sight Why go: A mummified human arm hangs near the entrance. It belonged to a thief who was caught by a statue. Best for: Curiosity seekers Where: Malá Štupartská, Old Town Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free (donations welcome) Getting there: Short walk from Republic Square Tip: Look up immediately to the right after entering to see the arm.
- Name: Faust House Type: sight Why go: Legend says the Devil took Dr. Faust through a hole in the ceiling. It has a long history of alchemy and dark arts. Best for: Literature fans Where: Karlovo náměstí Time: 10 minutes (view from outside) Cost: Free Getting there: Metro Line B to Karlovo náměstí Tip: This is one of the many Old Town hidden gems with a dark past.
- Name: The Museum of Alchemists and Magicians Type: museum Why go: Located in the house of Edward Kelley, a famous occultist. It features recreations of spooky laboratories. Best for: Families and teens Where: Jánský vršek, Lesser Town Time: 1 hour Cost: Moderate Getting there: Tram 12, 15, or 22 to Malostranské náměstí Tip: Check out other weird museums in Prague if you enjoy this one.
- Name: Vyšehrad Fortress Type: sight Why go: A black dog with fiery eyes is said to guard the gates. The cemetery here holds many of the nation's famous figures. Best for: Nature and views Where: Prague 2 Time: 2 hours Cost: Free (some buildings require tickets) Getting there: Metro Line C to Vyšehrad Tip: Explore the Vyšehrad Fortress hidden gems like the underground casemates.
- Name: House at the Two Golden Bears Type: sight Why go: This Renaissance house has a portal that many believe is haunted. It is linked to stories of secret tunnels. Best for: Photographers Where: Kožná street, Old Town Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Near the Astronomical Clock Tip: It is part of the city's unique places with stunning architecture.
- Name: The Iron Man Statue Type: sight Why go: This statue depicts a knight who murdered his lover. He is said to appear every 100 years seeking forgiveness. Best for: Quick stop Where: Platnéřská street Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Near the New City Hall Tip: It is located near the famous paternoster elevator.
Ghostly Day Trips Near Prague
If you have more time, look beyond the city center. Some of the most haunted places to visit in Prague are actually a short trip away. These locations offer a more intense experience for brave travelers. Public transport makes these sites easy to reach in 2026.
Bohnice Cemetery is known as the "Cemetery of Fools." It served a nearby psychiatric hospital for decades. Many people feel a cold presence among the overgrown ivy and ruined chapel. It is one of the most chilling spots in the entire country. Take a bus from Kobylisy station to reach this quiet, eerie forest.
Houska Castle is another legendary site about an hour north. It was built over a hole that locals called the "Gate to Hell." The castle was not built for defense against humans. Instead, it was meant to keep demons trapped inside the pit. You can take a regional train and then a local bus to visit this strange fortress.
Practical Tips for Your Ghost Tour
Walking through haunted places to visit in Prague requires some planning. Most ghost stories come alive after the sun goes down. Wear comfortable shoes as the old cobblestones are very uneven. Bring a light jacket even in summer, as the stone vaults stay cold. Respect the quiet of the neighborhoods late at night.
Consider booking a professional guide for the best experience. Many ghost walking tours offer historical context you won't find on signs. They often have access to private courtyards and basements. Always check the official Prague tourism portal for updated opening hours. Some sites may have restricted access during religious holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the haunted places in Prague safe to visit at night?
Yes, Prague is generally very safe for night walks. The city center is well-lit and usually busy with people. However, always stay aware of your surroundings in quiet alleys. Stick to marked paths and avoid entering abandoned buildings without a guide or permission.
Can I see the Golem in the Jewish Quarter?
The Golem is a legend, so you won't see a living creature. However, you can visit the Old-New Synagogue where he is said to be hidden. The attic is strictly off-limits to the public. You will find many statues and souvenirs of the Golem throughout the Josefov district.
What is the best month for a ghost tour in Prague?
October is the most atmospheric month due to the autumn mist and early sunsets. November also offers a moody vibe with fewer tourists. If you prefer warmer weather, May and September provide pleasant evening temperatures for walking. Winter tours are cold but very quiet and spooky.
Prague remains one of the most mysterious cities in Europe. Exploring the haunted places to visit in Prague offers a deep look into its soul. From the headless knight on the bridge to the alchemists' labs, the legends are endless. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect balance of history and horror. For more ideas, check out these unique places in Prague to complete your trip. Enjoy your spooky adventure in the City of a Hundred Spires!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
- National Museum — Major national museum; unverified.
