The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Prague
Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, is one of the best-preserved Jewish neighborhoods in Europe — home to the Old-New Synagogue, dating to the 13th century and considered the oldest active synagogue on the continent, alongside a living Jewish community with a solid range of kosher dining. Here's a short guide to planning your visit.
Synagogues in Josefov
The Old-New Synagogue (Staronová synagoga), dating to the 13th century, is the oldest active synagogue in Europe — local tradition holds that the mythical Golem of Prague still rests in its attic. The Jerusalem (Jubilee) Synagogue, consecrated in 1906 in a striking Moorish Revival style, is Prague's largest. Ahavat Yosef Synagogue, next to the Chabad House, serves the community's daily minyan.
See all optionsChabad House and where to eat
Chabad of Prague, on U Milosrdných street, is a hub for the community, with The Chabad Grill restaurant operating right next door. The two other well-known options for a meat meal are 5th District Restaurant & Café by King Solomon and Dinitz Kosher Restaurant. U-Milo and Shalom Restaurant round out the choices, and Shalom Kosher Shop, inside the Jewish Town Hall building, covers grocery shopping.
See all options
Charles Bridge — best early in the morning
The 14th-century Charles Bridge (Karlův most) links the Old Town to Prague Castle, and is packed with tourists most of the day. Practical tip: arrive before 8am (or after midnight) to enjoy the bridge nearly empty, with its Baroque statues and views over the Vltava River without the crowds.
See all options
The Astronomical Clock — every hour on the hour
The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square, running since 1410, puts on a short show every hour on the hour (9am-9pm): the Apostles parade past two windows while the skeleton figure of Death tolls the bell. Tip: arrive a few minutes early and stand a few steps back rather than directly underneath, so you can actually see the figures in the upper windows.
See all optionsBetween the Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge and the Astronomical Clock, Prague offers a rare combination of living Jewish history alongside one of Europe's most beautiful old cities — all within a short walk.
Stay in the kosher area of Prague
Josefov is a visiting quarter, not a restaurant street like Paris. The kosher King David hotel and Chabad carry the meals - book ahead in high season.
To count as a booking, finish it in the same window after you click - it isn't saved for tomorrow.
Affiliate link. If you book through it we earn a commission - at no extra cost to you.
Guided Tours & Experiences
Guided tours, entry tickets and experiences in every destination - most with free cancellation, so you can plan ahead and still stay flexible around Shabbat and the chagim.
Affiliate link. If you book through it we earn a commission - at no extra cost to you.
Book it now
The next step of the trip - a car, an airport transfer and a stay, ready to book from here.
Rent a car in Prague
Compare prices across local and international car rental companies at every destination - often significantly cheaper than booking direct, with free cancellation.
Both sites compare rental companies - prices sometimes differ, so it's worth checking both.
Affiliate link. If you book through it we earn a commission - at no extra cost to you.
Airport Transfer to Your Hotel
Book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel and back - a fixed price agreed in advance (no meter surprises), a driver waiting for you with a sign bearing your name, and no need to haggle or speak the local language.
External link - you'll get a final price quote before confirming.
Affiliate link. If you book through it we earn a commission - at no extra cost to you.