Prague: New Jewish Cemetery Guided Tour

Exploring Prague’s Jewish heritage can be a profound experience, especially with a guided tour of the New Jewish Cemetery. While many travelers flock to the famous synagogues and Old Town, this cemetery offers a quieter, more contemplative glimpse into the city’s Jewish past and its notable personalities.

This tour, led by knowledgeable guides from Fabián Tours, provides a fascinating look at the cemetery’s history, architecture, and cultural significance. It’s a 1.5-hour walk through one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in the Czech Republic, and it offers a chance to see the tombstones of figures like Franz Kafka and Jiří Orten, as well as influential business families.

What makes this experience worth considering? We love the insights into Prague’s Jewish community, the chance to see artistic tombstone craftsmanship, and the accessible, well-organized tour that takes you from the meeting point to the final stop comfortably. However, it’s important to note that transportation to the cemetery isn’t included, so plan accordingly. This tour is perfect for those interested in history, architecture, or Jewish culture, and for travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling in a compact timeframe.

Good To Know

• Historical insights into Prague’s Jewish community and the cemetery’s development
• Focus on notable burials, including literary figures and business families
• Artistic value of the tombstones and architecture by prominent designers
• Accessible and flexible tour options, with private group availability
• Well-organized with knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience
• Suitable for all weather, with photography permitted

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This guided walk offers a compact yet meaningful exploration of the New Jewish Cemetery. We appreciated how the guide explained the cemetery’s history, emphasizing its role as a cultural monument and a resting place for some of Prague’s most influential residents. Unlike more crowded sites, the cemetery’s serenity invites reflection, and the guide’s storytelling makes every stone and sculpture come alive.

You’ll love the opportunity to see tombstones designed by notable architects, such as Antonín Balánek, Josef Fanta, and Jan Kotra. Their work adds an artistic layer to the experience that stands out amid the stones. The highlight for many is learning about the literary figures buried there, including Franz Kafka, whose tombstone is a must-see.

From reviews, it’s clear that many find the value for money impressive, especially given the personalized attention in private groups. The tour’s duration (1.5 hours) is just enough to cover a good amount of ground without feeling rushed, making it ideal for travelers with tight schedules.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

Starting Point: Izraelská 712

The tour begins at this designated meeting spot, where your guide, identifiable by a red scarf, will introduce themselves. This makes it easier to find your group in the busy city.

Walking to the Cemetery

The walk from Izraelská 712 to the New Jewish Cemetery in Olany is part of the experience, giving you a chance to get familiar with the local area. The walk itself is straightforward, and the guide provides context about the neighborhood and its significance in Prague’s Jewish history.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Guided Tour Highlights

Once inside, your guide will take you through the cemetery’s key sections, pointing out notable tombstones and discussing their artistic and historical value. Expect to stop at the graves of important business families like Waldes, Petsch, and Bondy, whose stories are intertwined with Prague’s economic history.

Special Focus on Literary Figures

One of the emotional and cultural highlights is the story of Franz Kafka, buried in an unassuming grave but with a monument that speaks volumes about his literary legacy. The guide will also mention Jiří Orten, Ota Pavel, and Arnošt Lustig, helping you appreciate their contributions and why they’re memorialized here.

Artistic Value of Tombstones

Many tombstones were crafted by renowned architects and sculptors such as Jan Tursa, Josef Fanta, and Antonín Balánek. The intricate carvings, sculptures, and designs are more than just markers—they are works of art that reflect the craftsmanship and cultural values of the periods they were created in.

Ending the Tour

The walk concludes back at the original meeting point, offering a perfect time for reflection or to continue exploring nearby sites. Photography is encouraged, so don’t forget your camera or phone, but remember that pets and smoking are not allowed inside.

What We Found Most Valuable

The historical context provided by the guide really enhanced the experience. Knowing the stories behind each prominent tombstone made the visit more meaningful. The artistic aspects—from the sculptural details to the architectural features—are striking and worth paying close attention to, especially if you’re interested in design.

The private group format ensures a more intimate and flexible experience, allowing the guide to answer questions and adapt the tour to your interests. Many visitors also appreciated the easy-to-follow pacing and the well-organized structure.

While the cost isn’t explicitly mentioned, the inclusion of a 1.5-hour guided experience with a knowledgeable guide and focus on key figures offers good value—especially for those interested in a deep, focused cultural exploration rather than a rushed overview.

One consideration is that transportation to the cemetery isn’t included, so plan to arrive at Izraelská 712 on your own or via public transport. The tour’s weather-dependent, so dress comfortably and prepare for rain or shine.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, literature lovers, and architecture enthusiasts alike. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, contemplative experience that offers insight into Prague’s Jewish community beyond the main tourist sites.

It’s also great for those who want a more authentic, less commercialized perspective on the city’s cultural fabric. Since it’s private, it’s adaptable for small groups or families wanting personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

The Prague: New Jewish Cemetery Guided Tour provides a thoughtful, well-paced look at a significant part of the city’s heritage. With an emphasis on notable burials, artistic craftsmanship, and historical storytelling, it offers a meaningful way to connect with Prague’s Jewish past without feeling overwhelmed.

The tour’s value for money is notable, especially considering the depth of information and the quality of the guide’s commentary. If you’re curious about Prague’s Jewish community, or simply want a quiet, reflective experience, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy cultural history, art, and literature, or for travelers looking for a more intimate, educational outing. Whether you’re visiting alone or with a small group, this tour offers a respectful, insightful window into a vital chapter of Prague’s story.

FAQ

Is transportation to the cemetery included?
No, transportation to and from the cemetery is not included, so you will need to get there yourself via public transport or other means.

How long is the guided tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing enough time to explore the key highlights without feeling rushed.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Izraelská 712, where the guide, identifiable by a red scarf, will meet you.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility needs to participate.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted inside the cemetery.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, so feel free to capture the artistic tombstones and your experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, and it’s advisable to carry a head covering or kippah if you have one.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

This guided tour of Prague’s New Jewish Cemetery combines history, art, and personal stories, making it a worthwhile addition for any traveler keen on exploring the city’s cultural layers with depth and respect.

You can check if your dates are available here: