Franz Kafka’s Prague: A Guide to Historic Landmarks

If you’re a die-hard fan of Franz Kafka like I am, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Prague is Kafka. Sure, the city’s got its fair share of Gothic churches and medieval castles, but let’s face it—Kafka’s face is plastered all over the place. From coffee mugs and T-shirts in souvenir shops to his name emblazoned on cafe awnings in Old Town, Kafka’s presence is everywhere.

A Kafkaesque Guide to Prague

But if you’re here for more than just the touristy trinkets, and you want to dive deep into Kafka’s world, then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will take you through the must-see sights associated with Kafka in Prague. Get ready to explore the Kafka legacy, an integral part of the city’s cultural history.

Must-See Sights of Kafka’s Prague

Key Locations:

• Svatopluk Čech Bridge: Admire the Art Nouveau bridge with views Kafka mused about.
• Café Louvre: Sip coffee where Kafka discussed literature and life’s absurdities.
• New Jewish Cemetery: Visit Kafka’s final resting place and cultural monument.
• Franz Kafka Museum: Explore Kafka’s life with original manuscripts and personal letters.
• Franz Kafka Monument: Snap a photo at the striking monument commemorating Kafka.
• Franz Kafka Square: Soak in the subtle yet significant tribute to the literary genius.
• Hotel Century Old Town Prague: See Kafka’s former workplace, now a luxurious hotel.
• Jewish Quarter (Josefov): Walk through Kafka’s birthplace and feel the history.
• Old New Synagogue: Discover the oldest active synagogue in Europe.
• Dlouhá 16: Visit Kafka’s rented room from 1915 to 1917.
• Golden Lane: Wander the picturesque alley where Kafka once lived.
• Grand Hotel Evropa: Stop by the location of Kafka’s first public reading in 1912.

Must-See Sights of Kafka’s Prague

1. Svatopluk Čech Bridge

Imagine walking across an Art Nouveau bridge that Kafka himself admired. Built a few years before Kafka lived in the area, this bridge offers a fantastic view of the Vltava River. Kafka wrote to a friend about this bridge, noting that it was a popular spot for suicide attempts. He mused, “It will always be more pleasant to walk across the bridge up to the Belvedere than through the river to Heaven.” Dark humor, anyone?

How to Get There: Located near the Letná Park, accessible via tram lines 5, 12, and 17.

2. Café Louvre

Step into Café Louvre and you’re stepping into Kafka’s world. This café was one of his favorite haunts, a place where he and his friends would gather to discuss everything from literature to life’s absurdities. Order a coffee, sit back, and imagine Kafka brainstorming his next surreal masterpiece at the very table you’re occupying.

How to Get There: Situated on Národní Street, within walking distance from Národní třída metro station.

3. New Jewish Cemetery

This isn’t just any cemetery; it’s a cultural monument. The New Jewish Cemetery is home to Kafka’s final resting place. Wander through its elaborate tombs and monuments, and pay your respects to the man who gave us “The Metamorphosis” and “The Trial.”

How to Get There: Located in the Žižkov district, reachable by tram lines 10 and 16.

4. Franz Kafka Museum

If you’re a true Kafka fanatic, this museum is a must-visit. Opened in 2005, the Franz Kafka Museum offers an interactive and immersive experience into the life and works of Kafka. From original manuscripts to personal letters, this museum gives you a thorough look at Kafka’s world.

How to Get There: Found in the Lesser Town, accessible via tram lines 12, 20, and 22.

5. Franz Kafka Monument

Erected in the heart of Prague, the Franz Kafka Monument stands where Kafka’s family lived. This striking piece of art commemorates Kafka’s lasting impact on both literature and Prague itself. Don’t forget to snap a photo; it’s Instagram gold.

6. Franz Kafka Square

At first glance, Franz Kafka Square might not seem all that special. But take a moment to soak it in. This square, also known as Náměstí Franze Kafky, is steeped in history and significance. It’s a subtle yet powerful tribute to the literary genius.

How to Get There: Located near the Spanish Synagogue, accessible from Staroměstská metro station.

7. Hotel Century Old Town Prague

What’s now a luxurious neo-Baroque hotel was once an insurance office where Kafka worked from 1908 to 1922. Kafka even blamed a business trip for the unsatisfying ending of “The Metamorphosis.” The hotel keeps his memory alive with a bust of Kafka, a restaurant named after one of his fiancées, Felice, and a plaque outside Room 214 marking it as Kafka’s former office.

How to Get There: Situated in the Old Town, a short walk from the Old Town Square.

8. Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Welcome to Kafka’s birthplace, the Jewish Quarter. This area is a pilgrimage site for Kafka devotees. Walk the same streets he once did, and let the echoes of his stories guide your steps. The rich history and culture of this quarter make it a must-visit.

How to Get There: Located on Na Poříčí Street, accessible from Náměstí Republiky metro station.

9. Old New Synagogue

Located in the Jewish Quarter, the Old New Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue in Europe. It’s a historical gem that enhances the Kafka experience. Imagine the stories this place could tell if its walls could talk.

How to Get There: Located adjacent to the Old Town, easily reachable on foot or via Staroměstská metro station.

10. Dlouhá 16

Kafka rented a room at Dlouhá 16 from 1915 to early 1917. This Art Nouveau building is another slice of Kafka’s life preserved in Prague’s architectural fabric. It’s worth a quick visit to feel the atmosphere of his temporary abode.

How to Get There: Located on Dlouhá Street, a short walk from the Old Town Square.

11. Golden Lane

Tucked within the Prague Castle complex, Golden Lane is a picturesque alley lined with tiny cottages. Kafka lived here briefly, adding yet another layer of charm to this already enchanting place. It’s like stepping into one of his surreal worlds.

How to Get There: Part of the Prague Castle complex, accessible from Malostranská metro station or tram lines 22 and 23.

12. Grand Hotel Evropa

Back in 1912, this was known as Hotel Erzherzog Stephan, and it’s where Kafka held his first public reading. Today, the Grand Hotel Evropa stands as a testament to that pivotal moment in literary history. Whether you’re staying there or just passing by, it’s a significant stop on your Kafka tour.

How to Get There: Located on Wenceslas Square, accessible from Můstek metro station.

Ready to Start Your Kafka Adventure?

Prague is a city that breathes Kafka. From bridges and cafés to museums and monuments, each stop on this self-guided tour offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of literature’s greatest minds.

Exploring Kafka’s Prague is like stepping into the pages of his books—a blend of the surreal and the real. Each stop on this self-guided tour offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of this literary giant.