Prague: Old Town & Jewish Quarter Walking Tour with Guide

Summary

Stories behind Prague’s Astronomical Clock and Jewish Quarter

You’ll walk Prague’s Old Town & Jewish Quarter with a local guide who brings centuries-old streets to life through stories and small details you’d miss alone. Expect moments at the Astronomical Clock, quiet reflection in the old cemetery, and insider tips for your stay—all in just 2.5 hours.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the guide at the Rudolfinum because I got distracted by a street musician playing—what was it? Smetana, maybe. Anyway, I spotted the white and green umbrellas just in time. Our group was small, which I liked. Jana (our guide) had this way of pointing out things you’d never notice alone—like how people rub the Jan Hus statue for luck, but only on exam days. She laughed when someone asked if that actually works. “Sometimes,” she shrugged.

The Old Town Square was crowded but somehow still felt open—maybe it’s the way the light hits those pastel buildings in late afternoon. When we reached the Astronomical Clock, everyone waited for the hour to strike. I’ll admit, I expected something grander than little wooden figures popping out, but there’s something about standing there with people from everywhere, all craning their necks at a clock built before America existed. It smelled faintly of roasted nuts from a nearby cart; I can still picture that moment.

We wandered narrow lanes past Týn Church (the spires look even sharper up close), then over to Charles University where Jana told us Kafka studied—she called him “our most complicated son.” The Jewish Quarter felt quieter somehow; even the air changed near the old cemetery, damp and earthy under the trees. The Spanish Synagogue glowed gold inside, which I didn’t expect. Someone in our group tried pronouncing “Španělská synagoga” and totally butchered it—Jana grinned and said she’d heard worse.

I left with a list of places to eat (Jana swears by Café Louvre for cake), but honestly what stuck with me was how much history is just… layered here. Like you’re walking on top of stories you can’t quite see unless someone shows you where to look.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Old Town and Jewish Quarter

• Meet at Rudolfinum steps
• Visit Old Town Square
• See Týn Church exterior
• Watch Prague Astronomical Clock
• Explore University of Carlos
• View historic theater of Mozart premiere
• Learn about medieval city gate tower
• Discover Franz Kafka sculpture
• Tour Spanish Synagogue
• Visit ancient synagogue
• Walk through Old Jewish Cemetery

Top questions

How long does this Prague Old Town & Jewish Quarter tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the walking tour start?

The meeting point is on the steps of the Rudolfinum in central Prague.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible and strollers are welcome.

What main sights are included on this tour?

You’ll see Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Týn Church, Charles University, Spanish Synagogue, and more.

Is there a local guide during the tour?

Yes, a certified official guide leads your group throughout.

Are entrance fees included?

No entrance fees are needed as all stops are viewed from outside during this walking tour.

Can infants join this walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers during the tour.

Is public transport nearby after finishing?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to both start and end points.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes a 2 hour 30 minute guided walk through Prague’s Old Town and Jewish Quarter led by a certified official guide—with plenty of stories along every stop—and starts right at Rudolfinum so it’s easy to find your group before setting off together.