Terezin Ghetto Museum Opening Hours and Admission Prices

The museum operates on a seasonal schedule. In the summer (April to October), the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. During the winter (November to March), it closes earlier at 5:30 PM. Note that the site is closed on December 24th every year. Always verify the schedule on the Visit Czechia portal before your departure.

Admission prices vary based on the type of access you choose. A combined ticket is the most popular choice for visitors. It covers the Ghetto Museum, the Small Fortress, and the Magdeburg Barracks. Prices for adults are approximately 260 CZK for a combined ticket. Reduced rates are available for students, seniors, and children under 18.

• Summer Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
• Winter Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily.
• Adult Combined Ticket: 260 CZK (approx. 11 EUR).
• Adult Single Site Ticket: 210 CZK (approx. 9 EUR).
• Reduced Ticket (Combined): 200 CZK (approx. 8.50 EUR).
• Family Ticket: 520 CZK (covers 2 adults and 3 children).

Before You Go: Pre-Trip Planning Checklist

Preparation is key for a successful day trip. You should decide between a guided tour vs self-guided experience early. Guided tours provide deep historical context that is hard to find alone. If you go solo, download an offline map of the town. This helps you find the various memorial sites scattered across Terezin.

Check the weather forecast for the Usti nad Labem region. Much of the memorial involves walking outdoors between buildings. Ensure you have local currency (Czech Koruna) for small purchases. While many places take cards, some small kiosks may not. Review this pre-trip checklist to stay organized.

• Documents: Bring a valid ID or passport for student discounts.
• Tickets: Book online to skip the morning queues at the Small Fortress.
• Transport: Confirm the bus from Prague to Terezin departure times.
• Cash: Carry at least 500 CZK for snacks or small souvenirs.
• Research: Read a brief history of the Theresienstadt Ghetto.

On the Day: Maximizing Your Visit

When you arrive, start at the Small Fortress first. This area often gets crowded with large tour groups by midday. The Ghetto Museum is located in the center of the town. It is about a 10-to-15-minute walk from the fortress. Use the official Prague tourism portal for additional navigation tips if needed.

Allow at least four to five hours to see everything. The site is divided into several locations across the town. This includes the Magdeburg Barracks, the Crematorium, and the Prayer Room. Follow this checklist once you arrive on-site.

• Arrival: Get off the bus at the "Terezin, u pamatniku" stop.
• Sequence: Visit the Small Fortress before the Ghetto Museum.
• Audio Guide: Rent an audio guide at the main entrance for extra detail.
• Hydration: Refill your water bottle at the designated stations.
• Orientation: Pick up a physical map at the ticket office.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at Terezin

Many visitors make the mistake of rushing through the exhibits. The Ghetto Museum contains dense information that requires time to process. Another error is missing the Crematorium, which is a short walk away. This area is vital for understanding the full scale of the tragedy. Avoid these common pitfalls during your journey.

• Late Arrival: Arriving after 2:00 PM does not leave enough time.
• Ignoring the Bus Schedule: The last bus to Prague leaves early in the evening.
• Only Seeing the Fortress: Missing the Ghetto Museum in the town center.
• Inappropriate Attire: Wearing bright, flashy, or revealing clothing.
• Forgetting Food: There are very few dining options inside the memorial area.
• Disrespectful Photos: Taking selfies in solemn areas like the Crematorium.

What Not to Pack and Visitor Etiquette

Respect is the most important rule at Terezin. This is a site of mass suffering and mourning. Keep your voice low when inside the museum buildings. Follow all signage regarding photography and restricted areas. Some rooms strictly forbid flash or any camera use.

Travel light to avoid issues with security. Large bags may not be allowed in certain exhibit rooms. There are limited lockers available at the Small Fortress entrance. Use this packing and conduct guide to prepare.

• Don't Pack: Selfie sticks, tripods, or professional video gear.
• Don't Pack: Large hiking backpacks or bulky suitcases.
• Don't Pack: Alcohol or large quantities of messy food.
• Etiquette: Switch your mobile phone to silent mode.
• Etiquette: Do not touch any of the historical artifacts.

If you are a solo traveler:

• Check the return bus platform number immediately upon arrival.
• Keep a backup power bank for your phone's GPS.
• Inform someone of your expected return time to Prague.