Municipal House, Prague - a tall white building with a clock on it's side
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Municipal House Prague

4.7
·10k reviews·, Czechia

A masterpiece of Czech Art Nouveau, this grand building hosts concerts, exhibitions, and boasts stunning interiors and a famous cafe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed & Fri evenings

Concert nights offer ambiance

CrowdMedium
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Municipal House, Prague - a tall white building with a clock on it's side

Municipal House Prague

Best Time

Wed & Fri evenings

Concert nights offer ambiance

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A masterpiece of Czech Art Nouveau, this grand building hosts concerts, exhibitions, and boasts stunning interiors and a famous cafe.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"The Municipal House is an absolute gem, a breathtaking Art Nouveau masterpiece that captivates with its intricate details."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Cloakroom Available

Large cloakroom for bags and coats, perfect if coming from elsewhere.

☕ Cafe Ambiance

Experience stunning Art Nouveau at the cafe, a must-visit for its beauty.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Smetana Hall

Smetana Hall

Main Concert Hall

The grandest hall, named after composer Bedřich Smetana, boasts magnificent Art Nouveau interiors and hosts major concerts.

Municipal House Cafe (Kavárna Obecní dům)

Municipal House Cafe (Kavárna Obecní dům)

Ground Floor

One of Prague's most beautiful cafes, offering a stunning Art Nouveau setting for coffee and light meals.

Art Nouveau Architecture

Art Nouveau Architecture

Entire Building

Marvel at the intricate details, stained glass, mosaics, and sculptures that define this masterpiece of Czech Art Nouveau.

Infinity Book Tower

Infinity Book Tower

Municipal Library (adjacent)

A mesmerizing art installation of 8,000 books and mirrors creating an endless column of knowledge.

Planning Your Visit

Book Concert Tickets in Advance

For popular classical concerts at the Municipal House, especially in Smetana Hall, booking tickets ahead is highly recommended. This ensures you get good seats and avoid disappointment, as events can sell out quickly. Reddit

Explore Interiors Beyond Concerts

While attending a concert offers a glimpse, consider a guided tour for a full appreciation of the Municipal House's stunning Art Nouveau interiors. This allows access to all ornate halls and rooms, showcasing the detailed artwork and architecture. Instagram

Best Times

When
Wed & Fri evenings
Why
Concert nights offer ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for tours
Crowd
Low
When
Lunchtime
Why
Enjoy the cafe buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Before going to Prague you need to… … check out those 10 unusual things to do! ✨ 🏠 The smallest house in Prague, on Anežská Street, has a facade just 2.25 meters wide. Fun fact: it operated as a broth...
@thetravellingfrenchy
44.3K likes • 970.4K views

🧥 Cloakroom Available

Large cloakroom for bags and coats, perfect if coming from elsewhere. Reddit

☕ Cafe Ambiance

Experience stunning Art Nouveau at the cafe, a must-visit for its beauty. InstagramReddit

People pay way too much money for viewpoints in Prague so here’s a local tip! The Letna park area offers some amazing views of Charles bridge and Prague. You can either get a drink at the beer garden ...
@emilyauvi
28.5K likes • 289.4K views
The « Art Nouveau Municipal House Café » (Kavárna Obecní dům) is rightly ranked among the most beautiful cafés in Prague. It is located in the ground floor of the Municipal House and its interior is a...
grielsalvatore
6 likes • 549 views

🎶 Concert Ticket Perks

Concert tickets might grant access to some interiors, but tours offer more. Reddit

📚 Infinity Book Tower

Don't miss the unique book tower art installation nearby at the Municipal Library. TikTokInstagram

The Municipal House (Obecní dům) is the most impressive Art Nouveau building in Prague. A tour of this jewel is simply magnificent. The incredibly elaborate interiors down to every detail are absolut...
amazingpragueguide
9 likes • 180 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Cloakroom Available

Large cloakroom for bags and coats, perfect if coming from elsewhere. Reddit

☕ Cafe Ambiance

Experience stunning Art Nouveau at the cafe, a must-visit for its beauty. InstagramReddit

🎶 Concert Ticket Perks

Concert tickets might grant access to some interiors, but tours offer more. Reddit

📚 Infinity Book Tower

Don't miss the unique book tower art installation nearby at the Municipal Library. TikTokInstagram

💃 Harinams Dance

Witness vibrant street performances by Municipal House on Wednesdays & Fridays. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Municipal House for its breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture and the stunning beauty of its interiors, particularly Smetana Hall and the cafe. Many highlight attending concerts as a magical experience, though some note that tours offer a more comprehensive view of the building's artistry. While generally well-regarded, some find the cafe prices a bit high.

"This is a "must-do". My husband and I just loved it. I think it is one of the most beautiful interiors in all of the Czech Republic. Our tour guide was excellent. Her love for her country and being proud of her Czech culture enhanced the tour. The English tours especially book up quickly so make this an early stop so you can see what days and times are available. The times vary depending on the day of the week."

Sara B

"We have seen the building before but joined the tour for the first time this time. It was really worth it. All the rooms have amazing decorations and I especially liked the concert hall and mayor’s hall with Mucha’s paintings. The tour was also very helpful to learn about the history of the building."

Don Pokocha

"The building and the atmosphere was great. The musicians and the opera singers were amazing. But the ballet dancers it says that the soloists will be from the National Opera but they were very very bad. They are probably a good distraction and good for advertising the concert to say that there are also ballet dancers included but honestly the musicians and the opera singers were more than enough. Despite the dancers everything was great. Tip: even if they offer you place to the side it is never a good idea. Choose middle seats (even if they are further away from the stage, they always are the better option)"

Hristina Georgieva

What People Like

Stunning Art Nouveau architecture
Magnificent Smetana Hall
Beautiful cafe ambiance

What People Dislike

Cafe prices can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Municipal House is centrally located at Náměstí Republiky 5, Prague 1. It's easily accessible by public transport. Take metro line B to the Náměstí Republiky station, or various trams (e.g., 5, 8, 24, 26) stop right outside. TikTok

While there's no dedicated parking for the Municipal House, there are several paid parking garages nearby, such as the Palladium shopping center garage. Driving and parking in central Prague can be challenging and expensive. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant and short walk from Old Town Square to the Municipal House, taking about 5-10 minutes. You'll pass through charming streets. TikTok

From Malá Strana, you can take a tram across the river (e.g., tram 12 or 20) to Náměstí Republiky, or walk across the Charles Bridge and then head towards the Powder Tower and Municipal House. TikTok

While not directly at the Municipal House, the nearby Old Town Square is a hub for various tours, including Segway tours and walking tours, which can lead you to the building. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the building's public areas and the cafe is generally free. However, to access specific tours, exhibitions, or concerts held within the Municipal House, you will need to purchase tickets. Instagram

Ticket prices for guided tours vary depending on the duration and type of tour. It's best to check the official Municipal House website for the most current pricing and tour schedules. Instagram

While some tickets might be available on the day, it's highly recommended to book concert tickets in advance, especially for popular performances in Smetana Hall, as they can sell out quickly. Reddit

The Municipal House building itself is generally accessible during its operational hours, which typically align with the opening of its various venues, cafes, and exhibition spaces. Specific hours for tours and events should be checked on their official website. TikTok

For concerts and formal events, a smart casual or more formal dress code is often appreciated, especially for performances in Smetana Hall. For casual visits to the cafe or general exploration, there is no strict dress code. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Municipal House is renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, including Smetana Hall (concert hall), the Mayor's Hall, the Lord Mayor's Hall, and the beautiful Municipal House Cafe. Instagram+1

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in public areas and the cafe. However, flash photography might be restricted, and professional photography or filming usually requires special permission. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the building's history and intricate Art Nouveau design. These tours often cover various halls and rooms. Instagram

The Infinity Book Tower, also known as the Column of Knowledge, is an art installation featuring 8,000 books and mirrors. It's located in the adjacent Municipal Library of Prague, just a short walk from the Municipal House. TikTokInstagram

Beyond classical concerts, the Municipal House hosts various events, including opera, ballet, exhibitions, and sometimes fashion shows. You might also see spontaneous street performances like the Harinams dance on certain days. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Municipal House features the beautiful Municipal House Cafe (Kavárna Obecní dům) on the ground floor, known for its stunning Art Nouveau interior. There's also Restaurace Obecní dům, offering a more formal dining experience. Instagram+2

The cafe offers coffee, pastries, and light meals. The main restaurant, Restaurace Obecní dům, serves traditional Czech cuisine and international dishes in an elegant setting. Instagram+1

Prices at the Municipal House Cafe are generally mid-range, reflecting its prime location and beautiful ambiance. It's considered a worthwhile experience for the atmosphere. Instagram

Yes, both the cafe and the restaurant are open to the public and do not require event tickets for entry. It's advisable to make reservations for the restaurant, especially during peak hours. Reddit

While traditional Czech cuisine can be meat-heavy, most restaurants in Prague, including those at the Municipal House, are increasingly offering vegetarian and sometimes vegan options. It's best to check the menu or ask your server. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Smetana Hall, the grand staircase, the Mayor's Hall, and the Municipal House Cafe are all incredibly photogenic. Look for intricate details in the mosaics, stained glass, and ceiling frescoes. Instagram+1

Tripods might be restricted, especially during busy periods or events, to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check with staff on-site or inquire beforehand if you plan to use one. Instagram

Daytime visits allow for natural light to illuminate the ornate interiors, especially in the cafe and public halls. Evening visits can offer a more dramatic ambiance, particularly if there's an event. Instagram

Absolutely! The grand chandeliers, the detailed plasterwork, the vibrant stained-glass windows, and the unique Art Nouveau furniture are all fantastic subjects for photography. Instagram

The facade of the Municipal House is also a stunning example of Art Nouveau. The area around the Powder Tower and the main entrance offers great vantage points for exterior shots, especially at dusk when it's illuminated. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Municipal House is primarily an architectural and cultural gem, families can find enjoyment. The Municipal House Cafe offers a beautiful setting for a treat, and the sheer scale and detail of the Art Nouveau interiors can captivate children's imaginations. The Infinity Book Tower nearby is a definite hit with kids, offering a fun optical illusion to explore. TikTokInstagram

Consider a guided tour if your children have a good attention span for history and art. For younger children, focusing on the cafe and the book tower might be more manageable. The central location makes it easy to combine a visit with other family-friendly activities in Prague's Old Town. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting the Municipal House doesn't have to break the bank. While tours and concerts have fees, you can experience its beauty for free by simply entering the public areas and the Municipal House Cafe. Enjoying a coffee or a pastry here allows you to soak in the stunning Art Nouveau ambiance without a hefty price tag. InstagramReddit

Look for free exhibitions if available, or simply admire the exterior architecture. The Infinity Book Tower in the adjacent library is also a free attraction. For budget-conscious concert-goers, check for less popular performance times or seating sections, which might be more affordable. Reddit

💖 Couples

The Municipal House offers a wonderfully romantic setting. Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea or coffee in the opulent Municipal House Cafe, or plan a special evening attending a classical concert in the magnificent Smetana Hall. Instagram+1

Consider a guided tour together to discover the building's history and artistic secrets. The elegant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a memorable date or a special occasion. The nearby restaurants also provide options for a romantic dinner before or after your visit. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art Nouveau Masterpiece

The Municipal House (Obecní dům) is a paramount example of Czech Art Nouveau architecture, built between 1905 and 1912. It was designed by renowned architects Osvald Polívka and Antonín Balšánek, with significant artistic contributions from prominent Czech artists like Alfons Mucha, Jan Preisler, and Ladislav Šaloun. The building was conceived as a cultural center, housing concert halls, exhibition spaces, cafes, and restaurants, embodying the spirit of national revival and artistic innovation of the era. Its exterior is adorned with rich sculptural details and mosaics, while the interiors are a symphony of color, form, and intricate craftsmanship, featuring stained glass, elaborate frescoes, and unique decorative elements throughout. Instagram

Visitors are often struck by the sheer detail and artistry present in every corner. From the grand Smetana Hall, designed for symphonic concerts, to the more intimate Lord Mayor's Hall and the elegant Mayor's Hall, each space tells a story through its design. The Municipal House Cafe is particularly celebrated for its preserved Art Nouveau ambiance, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The building's construction was a significant undertaking, reflecting a desire to create a landmark that celebrated Czech culture and artistic talent on an international stage. InstagramReddit

Beyond its architectural splendor, the Municipal House has played a role in significant historical events. It was here that the proclamation of the independent Czechoslovak Republic was signed on October 28, 1918. This historical weight, combined with its unparalleled artistic merit, makes the Municipal House a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, history, and the cultural heritage of Prague. TikTok

Experiencing Music and Culture

The Municipal House is a premier venue for classical music in Prague, with Smetana Hall being its crown jewel. This magnificent concert hall, named after the famous Czech composer Bedřich Smetana, is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and breathtaking Art Nouveau decor. It hosts a wide array of performances, from orchestral concerts featuring renowned Czech and international musicians to opera and ballet productions. Attending a concert here is often described as a magical experience, where the stunning visual environment enhances the auditory pleasure. InstagramReddit

Beyond the grand concerts, the Municipal House offers a rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can explore various exhibition spaces that showcase contemporary and historical art. The building's cafes and restaurants provide a perfect setting to soak in the atmosphere before or after an event, or simply to enjoy a moment of respite amidst the city's buzz. The Municipal House Cafe is a destination in itself, offering a taste of historical elegance with its exquisite Art Nouveau interior. Instagram+1

For those seeking a unique cultural experience, keep an eye out for special events. Sometimes, spontaneous performances like the vibrant Harinams dance can be seen near the Municipal House on Wednesdays and Fridays, adding a lively street-art dimension to the area. Instagram This blend of high culture and accessible artistic expression makes the Municipal House a dynamic hub for experiencing Prague's vibrant arts scene.

The Infinity Book Tower: A Literary Marvel

Adjacent to the Municipal House, within the Municipal Library of Prague, lies a truly unique art installation: the Infinity Book Tower. Created by artist Matej Kren, this mesmerizing structure is composed of approximately 8,000 books stacked in a cylindrical form, strategically placed mirrors at the top and bottom create the illusion of an endless column of books, drawing viewers into a captivating visual vortex. TikTokInstagram

This installation, also known as the 'Column of Knowledge,' is a testament to the power and endlessness of literature and information. It serves as a striking contrast to the historical grandeur of the Municipal House, offering a modern, thought-provoking artistic experience. Visitors often spend time marveling at the optical illusion and contemplating the vastness of knowledge represented by the tower. TikTok

The Infinity Book Tower is a popular spot for photos and a quiet moment of reflection. It's a delightful discovery for those exploring the area around the Municipal House and a must-see for book lovers and art enthusiasts alike. Its presence adds another layer of cultural richness to this vibrant part of Prague. Instagram

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