Planning Your Jewish Quarter Josefov Tour

Success starts with the right ticket. Most sites in Josefov are part of the Jewish Museum in Prague. You should check the combined ticket prices before you arrive. This ticket usually covers the cemetery and multiple synagogues. Note that the Old-New Synagogue often requires a separate or additional entry fee. Most sites are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Plan your visit for a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds.

Security is a priority at several locations in the district. Expect brief bag checks at synagogue entrances. Men are often required to wear head coverings in sacred spaces. Paper kippahs are usually provided at the door for visitors. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets are mostly cobblestone. Most sites are within a five-minute walk of each other. This makes the area very easy to navigate on foot.

At a Glance:

• Morning: Pinkas Synagogue, Old Jewish Cemetery, Klausen Synagogue.
• Afternoon: Maisel Synagogue, Spanish Synagogue, Robert Guttmann Gallery.
• Evening: Old-New Synagogue and a traditional dinner.

Full 1-Day Jewish Quarter Josefov Tour Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning (09:00 - 12:00): Start your day at the Pinkas Synagogue. This site serves as a memorial to Holocaust victims. The walls are covered with thousands of hand-painted names. From here, enter the Old Jewish Cemetery. It is one of the oldest of its kind in Europe. You should check the Old Jewish Cemetery opening hours before heading out. Spend at least an hour wandering the crowded, leaning tombstones. Finish the morning at the Klausen Synagogue to see the Jewish customs exhibit.

Afternoon (13:00 - 16:30): After lunch, head to the Maisel Synagogue. This building houses a rich collection of silver and historical artifacts. Next, walk five minutes to the Spanish Synagogue. This is widely considered the most beautiful synagogue in Prague. Its Moorish interior is covered in gold and intricate patterns. You can read a comparison of the Spanish and Old-New synagogues to understand their differences. End your afternoon at the Robert Guttmann Gallery for local Jewish art.

Evening (17:00 - 19:00): Visit the Old-New Synagogue last. It is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. Legend says the Golem of Prague rests in its attic. The atmosphere here is very different from the museum sites. It feels heavy with centuries of prayer and history. Afterward, enjoy a quiet walk toward the Old Town Square attractions nearby. The district is beautifully lit at night. This is the perfect time for photography without the crowds.

Logistics Tip: The Jewish Quarter is very compact. You do not need public transport between sites. Everything is within a 500-meter radius. If it rains, the Spanish Synagogue is a great place to wait out the weather.

Top Historic Sites in the Jewish Quarter

The Old Jewish Cemetery is the emotional heart of Josefov. Because space was limited, bodies were buried in layers. This created the uneven, hilly ground you see today. There are roughly 12,000 visible tombstones here. However, historians believe over 100,000 people are buried below. It is a powerful place for quiet reflection. Be sure to look for the grave of Rabbi Loew. Visitors often leave small stones and notes on his tomb.

The Spanish Synagogue is a masterpiece of 19th-century design. Its name comes from the Moorish style, which resembles the Alhambra. The gold leaf and stained glass are breathtaking. It often hosts evening classical concerts. This is a great way to experience the acoustics of the space. It also houses an exhibit on the modern history of Czech Jews. This provides vital context for the 20th century.

The Old-New Synagogue is a Gothic marvel from the 13th century. It has survived fires, floods, and the demolition of the old ghetto. The interior is simple and solemn. It remains the center of the local Jewish community today. You can feel the weight of time in its thick stone walls. It is a stark contrast to the ornate Spanish Synagogue. Both are essential stops on any Jewish Quarter Josefov tour.

Where to Eat and Stay Near Josefov

Josefov is an upscale neighborhood with many great hotels. Staying here keeps you close to the river and the Old Town. Many boutique hotels are housed in restored Art Nouveau buildings. This area is generally quieter than the main square at night. If you want a luxury experience, this is the place to be. You can find more hidden gems in Prague nearby for a unique stay.

For dining, there are several kosher options in the district. King Solomon is a well-known restaurant for traditional kosher meals. There are also many trendy cafes along Pařížská Street. This street is famous for its luxury shopping and beautiful architecture. For a quick bite, look for small bakeries serving Czech pastries. If you prefer a local vibe, walk five minutes north toward the river. You will find more affordable pubs and bistros there.

Optional Swaps:

• Rainy Day: Spend extra time inside the Jewish Museum's indoor galleries.
• Low Budget: View the cemetery from the gate and admire synagogue exteriors for free.
• Kid-Friendly: Visit the Golem statue and find the nearby toy museum.

Practical Tips for Your Prague Exploration

Prague is a very walkable city for most travelers. You can easily reach Josefov from any central hotel. If you are coming from further away, use the Metro Line A. Get off at the Staroměstská station for the quickest access. The Visit Czechia portal offers great transport maps. Always validate your ticket before boarding trams or trains. This will save you from heavy fines during your trip.

Consider booking a guided tour for deeper historical context. A professional guide can explain the complex history of the ghetto. They often share stories you won't find on plaques. If you prefer going solo, use an audio guide. Many sites offer them at the entrance for a small fee. After your tour, you might want to visit the Prague Castle complex across the river. You can also get more info from the official Prague tourism portal online.