Excursion
Networking Excursion Day.
All meeting attendees and accompanying persons are invited to participate in one of three walking tour excursions through various historic sites in Prague. The intent is to create a relaxed environment where scientists can build or strengthen relationships and forge scientific collaborations.
The meeting organizers have hired guides to lead walking tours of Prague following three unique routes. Each tour will last about 3 hours and will be kept at group sizes of 25 people or less. We have sufficient guides for all participants. Read the tour descriptions below and select your tour option on the meeting registration site.
There are no additional costs for the tours.
All tours will end in the city center so participants can enjoy a relaxed lunch in small groups in one of the many local restaurants.
Participants are free to continue exploring the city on their own for the remainder of the day.
Option 1. A Walking Tour Through Iconic Landmarks of
Old town + New town
This walking tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture, making it an unforgettable way to experience Prague. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these historical sites will leave a lasting impression of this beautiful city.
ROUTE in Gmaps, walking distance: app. 3.5 kms, time duration: up to 3 hours
Starting times from the reception: 9:00, 9:10, 9:20, 9:30, 9:40
We would go by public transport to Namesti Republiky (Republic square) and continue by walking to Powder tower, Estates theater, Wenceslas square, Charles bridge, finishing at Old town square.
1. Namesti Republiky (Republic Square)
We will start our adventure at Namesti Republiky, a bustling hub in the center of Prague. Here, you’ll find the impressive Municipal House, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design, and the stunning Powder Tower that marks the entrance to the Old Town. This square sets the tone for the historic treasures that await.
2. Powder Tower
A short walk from the square brings you to the Powder Tower, one of Prague’s most famous Gothic structures. Built in the 15th century, it once served as a gate to the city and was used to store gunpowder.
3. Estates Theatre
Next, we’ll head to the Estates Theatre, a true gem in Prague’s cultural scene. Opened in 1783, this neoclassical theatre is where Mozart’s Don Giovanni premiered in 1787.
4. Wenceslas Square
We will continue our walk to Wenceslas Square, a vibrant boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and hotels. This historical site has witnessed key moments in Czech history, including major protests and celebrations. The statue of St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, stands proudly at the square’s top
5. Charles Bridge
Across the Vltava River is the iconic Charles Bridge, one of Prague’s most beloved landmarks. Spanning the river, this 14th-century bridge is adorned with stunning statues of saints and offers breathtaking views of Prague Castle and the city’s picturesque skyline.
6. Old Town Square
Finally, our journey ends at the vibrant Old Town Square, a hub of Prague’s history. Surrounded by medieval buildings and cobblestone streets, this square is home to the Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and other architectural gems.
This is where you’ll be released to enjoy Prague on your own. Below, you can find some recommended places for lunch.
RESTAURANTS TO GO:
Option 2. A Journey Through History and Beauty
Prague Castle + Lesser Town
Join us for a captivating tour through Prague’s most iconic locations, where centuries of history unfold before your eyes. This route takes you through the grand exteriors of Prague Castle, the charming Nerudova Street, the picturesque Malostranské Square, and culminates with the breathtaking Charles Bridge. Get ready to explore the heart of Prague, with each stop revealing its architectural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
ROUTE in Gmaps, walking distance app. 3 kms, time duration: up to 3 hours
Starting times from the reception: 9:00, 9:10, 9:20, 9:30, 9:40
We would go by public transport to Prague castle, where we will walk the castle complex exteriors, continue to Nerudova street, Malostranske square, finishing at Charles bridge
1. Prague Castle
Our journey begins at the magnificent Prague Castle, a historic symbol of the Czech state and a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the largest ancient castle in the world, this historic complex dates back to the 9th century. The castle is home to the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane, and more. Immerse yourself in centuries of royal history and admire the castle’s impressive architecture and vast grounds.
2. Nerudova Street
Our tour continues down Nerudova Street, one of Prague’s most famous streets, historically a bustling route for merchants. This cobbled lane is lined with beautiful, historic buildings adorned with charming house signs, leading us towards Prague’s downtown.
3. Malostranské Square
Our tour continues at Malostranské Square, located in the heart of Prague’s Lesser Town. This quaint square, surrounded by historical buildings and cozy cafés, exudes charm and elegance. Admire the stunning Church of St. Nicholas, a Baroque masterpiece that dominates the square. This vibrant area offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and local life
4. Charles Bridge
Finally, we conclude our journey at one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks – Charles Bridge. Spanning the Vltava River, this 14th-century stone bridge is adorned with statues of saints and offers stunning views of the Prague Castle and Old Town. As you cross this historic bridge, you’ll feel the weight of its rich history, having served as a vital link between the Old Town and Prague Castle for centuries.
This is where you’ll be released to enjoy Prague on your own. Below, you can find some recommended places for lunch.
This is where you’ll be released to enjoy Prague on your own. Below, you can find some recommended places for lunch.
Option 3. Step into Prague’s Rich Jewish Heritage: Jewish Quarter + Old Town
Join us on a fascinating journey through one of the most historic areas in Prague—the Jewish Quarter—and beyond. This route offers an enriching experience of the city’s Jewish history and culminates in the vibrant Old Town Square. Prepare for a blend of culture, history, and stunning architecture on this unforgettable tour.
ROUTE in Gmaps, app. walking distance 2 kms, time duration: up to 3 hours
We would go by public transportation to Jewish quarter to discover three different synagogues and The Old jewish cemetery, finishing our route at Old town square.
1. Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Our journey begins in Prague’s Jewish Quarter, an area filled with profound historical significance. As we explore this vibrant part of the city, we’ll visit several important sites, each offering a glimpse into the centuries-old Jewish community that once thrived here.
- The Synagogues
First, we’ll stop at the stunning synagogues that have been meticulously preserved throughout the years. The Old-New Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in Europe, stands as a testament to Prague’s Jewish heritage. The Spanish Synagogue, with its Moorish Revival style, will also captivate you with its ornate details. The Pinkas Synagogue, built in the 16th century, is one of Prague’s oldest and most significant Jewish monuments. Today, it serves as a memorial to the nearly 80,000 Czech Jews who perished during the Holocaust, with their names inscribed on the synagogue’s walls.These places of worship are not just architectural wonders—they hold centuries of stories that have shaped the Jewish community in Prague.
- Old Jewish Cemetery
Next, we’ll visit the Old Jewish Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful and historical site. With over 12,000 tombstones stacked together, this cemetery is one of the oldest and most significant in Europe. It provides a powerful glimpse into the deep cultural roots of Prague’s Jewish population, with many graves dating back to the 15th century.
2. Old Town Square
After Jewish quarter we will continue to the bustling Old Town Square, the heart of Prague’s historic center. Surrounded by colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and architectural masterpieces, this square offers an enchanting atmosphere. Be sure to see the famous Astronomical Clock, which puts on a charming performance every hour. With its blend of medieval and Baroque architecture, the Old Town Square offers the perfect place to reflect on the incredible history you’ve just experienced.
This is where you’ll be released to enjoy Prague on your own. Below, you can find some recommended places for lunch.
RESTAURANTS TO GO:
Photo Credits:
Astronomical clock: Steve Collis / Melbourne, Australia.
St Nicolas Church: Radler 59 / Wikipedia
Church of St Ludmila: ViVit / Own work.
Library of Strahov Monastery: ViVit / Own work.
Panoramic view from Charles bridge: Moyan Brenn / Italy.
Frank Kafka monument: Myrabella / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
View from Old Town Hall Tower: Free Art License.