Old Town Hall: A Chronicle in Stone

4.7 (1965)

Explore Prague's iconic Old Town Hall: history, stunning views, and the mesmerizing Astronomical Clock await in the heart of Old Town Square.

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Staroměstská radnice

The Old Town Hall in Prague's Old Town Square is a complex of medieval houses, unified in the 14th century to serve as the city's administrative center. Its iconic astronomical clock, the Orloj, is a major draw, while the tower provides panoramic views.

A brief summary to Staroměstská radnice

Staroměstské nám. 1/3, Old Town, 110 00, CZ
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Monday 11 am-8 pm
Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-8 pm
Friday 9 am-8 pm
Saturday 9 am-8 pm
Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

Arrive early to witness the Astronomical Clock's hourly show, as the square fills with onlookers.
Take the elevator to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Prague's Old Town.
Book a guided tour in advance to explore the historical interiors, including the chapel and underground.
Visit the Old Town Hall outside peak season (April-May or September-October) to avoid large crowds.
Check the Prague City Tourism website for current opening hours and tour schedules.

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Getting There

Walking

From Charles Bridge, walk east towards Old Town Square via Karlova Street. The Old Town Hall will be on your right, marked by its tower and the Astronomical Clock. From Wenceslas Square, walk directly to Old Town Square. The Old Town Hall will be on your left.
Public Transport

Take Metro Line A (Green Line) to the Staroměstská station. Follow the signs to Old Town Square; the Old Town Hall is a short walk away. Alternatively, take tram 9 or 22 to the Staroměstská stop. From there, walk to Old Town Square. A single 30-minute ticket costs 30 CZK, and a 90-minute ticket is 40 CZK.
Taxi

Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at Old Town Square, a short walk from the Old Town Hall. Be aware of higher fares from less reputable taxi services. A short taxi ride in the city center typically costs 150-200 CZK. Always check that the taximeter is reset before you start your journey.

Discover more about Staroměstská radnice

Prague's Old Town Hall (Staroměstská radnice) stands as a powerful symbol of Czech history and self-governance. Established in 1338, it was the first town hall in Bohemia. Over centuries, a collection of adjacent buildings formed the complex, each contributing to its unique architectural blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The highlight is undoubtedly the astronomical clock, or Orloj, a medieval masterpiece installed in 1410. Every hour, crowds gather to witness the procession of the twelve Apostles, a spectacle that has charmed onlookers for generations. The clock also displays European Central Time, Babylonian Time, and the positions of the planets. Statues representing Vanity, Greed, Death, and Ottoman Invaders reflect the medieval worldview, while figures symbolizing philosophy, religion, astronomy, and history represent the good of society. The Town Hall's tower, nearly 70 meters high, offers stunning panoramic views of Prague's historical center. A modern elevator makes the observation deck accessible to all. Inside, visitors can explore historical halls, the Gothic chapel, and underground areas, each telling a piece of Prague's story. The eastern wing of the hall was destroyed during the Prague Uprising in 1945 and was never rebuilt. Today, the Old Town Hall hosts city ceremonies, exhibitions, and a wedding hall, remaining a vital part of Prague's cultural life.