Ghosts and Legends Tours in Prague

From the outside, Prague looks like a charming and wondrous city in Europe. However, very few know its dark past of murders, torrid love affairs and executions.

On a ghosts and legends tour in Prague, you’ll take part in a chilling stroll through the city’s most haunted monuments, learning about the supernatural incidents that have occurred over the centuries.

Hear local legends as you seek out ghostly activity, from random bell ringings with no explanation to sobbing young women in the city’s grandest palaces.

Here's all you need to know about ghosts and legends tours, one of the most thrilling options for sightseeing tours in Prague.

What are the best ghosts and legends tours in Prague?

Ghost stories and legends of Prague’s Old Town walking night tour

Discover the spooky occurrences of Prague’s oldest quarter on this ghosts and legends tour.

Itinerary

Taking to the city streets after dark, you’ll set the tone for your unnerving tour. You’ll pay a visit to Kinský Palace, where three councilors were sentenced to death over bribery from the count that owned the grand building.

The daughter of one of these ill-fated men died attempting to save her father’s life and visitors still claim to see her ghost wandering around the halls of Kinský Palace, where she met her demise.

You’ll also visit the Gothic masterpiece — the Convent of St Agnes of Bohemia — thought to house the spirit of a murdered nun, who desperately and tragically followed her lover to her death at her own father’s hands.

Pause at the old Jewish Cemetery — Starý Zidovský Hrbitov — an eerie medieval landmark that is the resting place of over 100,000 souls.

Ungelt Courtyard is the next stop on this ghosts and legends tour in Prague, haunted by the Turk of Ungelt. This murderous wretch killed his lover after she married another man and carried her severed head back to Istanbul.

Finish your tour at Staroměstské náměstí to admire its twinkling lights and striking buildings.

Alchemy and mysteries of Prague Castle tour

This ghosts and legends tour in Prague takes place around the city’s fairy-tale castle.

Itinerary

Begin your excursion through Prague at the Old Town Square, home to many haunted buildings including the Church of Our Lady before Týn.

Here, you may hear church bells ringing at odd times, thought to be the work of a murderer turned nun, who greatly regretted the death of her servant.

Cross the Vltava River to see the Strahov Monastery and its exquisite library, where you’ll learn about the Devil’s Bible.

Wander down the Golden Lane, once home to the famous novelist Frank Kafka, and witness the splendor of the St. Vitus Cathedral. This religious monument is the resting ground of St. Wenceslas who was assassinated by his brother in the 10th century.

Enjoy the views of St. George’s Basilica and discover the history of Daliborka Tower’s prisoners, including the site’s first inmate Dalibor of Kozojedy, who was decapitated for his crimes.

End your tour at the Wallenstein Palace, where the headless ghost of a 17th-century bellman is said to be lurking.

Haunted Houska and Kokorin castle tour

Step outside of the city to explore the legends behind two of Bohemia’s most spectacular castles.

Itinerary

Heading to the Kokorinsko region of Bohemia, you’ll step inside the Gothic Houska Castle, constructed in the 13th century upon a limestone cliff.

Past its impressive facade lies a world of paranormal activity, which locals have avoided for centuries.

The legend surrounding the castle is that it was built atop the “Gateway to Hell” as a defense against the demonic creatures who attempt to crawl out of the pit each night.

A chapel was built upon this gateway, dedicated to the archangel Michael to prevent the forces of evil. Despite the curiosity of the pit, many locals have been scared off of attempting to discover whether it is in fact bottomless after all.

As you walk through the chateau, you’ll discover its fake windows and may feel the spirit of one of Houska’s resident ghosts surrounding you.

Next, you’ll travel to Kokorin Castle. What this chateau is lacking in supernatural activity, it more than makes up for in old-world charm. You’ll wander through its medieval halls and discover the history of this spectacular monument.

Medieval Christmas in Prague fairytales and legends tour

Prague is well known throughout Europe as one of the best destinations for Christmas lovers.

This legends tour enables you to take a deep dive into local customs and traditions around the holiday, and journey back in time to discover the history of Christmas in this corner of the world.

Itinerary

Begin your Christmas tour of Prague at Wenceslas Square. Here, you can enjoy local refreshments as you learn about what makes the city so special during the festive season.

Taste a trdelnik — a cylindrical pastry dusted with cinnamon and caramelized sugar as you learn how the Czech community celebrate the holidays.

You’ll travel along Lucerna Passage to explore several of the city’s most magical Christmas markets, and pick up a gift or two along the way.

Amble through the snow-filled streets to the Old Town Hall where you’ll admire its Astronomical Clock as you discover the original inspiration for Santa Claus — Saint Nicholas.

Learn about the day dedicated to the saint and the traditional customs that arise every December 5th.

Medieval night in a haunted hotel tour

If you’re feeling brave, step up the spook factor of your ghosts and legends tour in Prague by spending the night in a haunted hotel.

Itinerary

Travel back to the Middle Ages once you begin your tour with a trip to see a jousting tournament between knights. Watch these mounted competitors attempt to knock each other off of horseback in order to be crowned the winner.

Moving on, you’ll enjoy a frosty beer at an authentic brewery before sitting down to enjoy the fine cuisine of a medieval banquet. Let loose as you soak in the merriment of this jovial affair before checking in to your haunted hotel.

Listen out for doors creaking or odd whisperings as you lie in bed, and check the room for ghosts before you settle down to sleep. Only those of strong spirit will endure a night spent in this spine-chilling destination.

Before you return to Prague in the morning, grab a bite at the medieval themed breakfast and discuss the abnormal occurrence of the previous night.

Which places are visited?

Convent of St Agnes of Bohemia

This Convent was constructed during the 13th century at the request of Agnes of Bohemia after her upbringing in a convent in another region of the Czech Republic.

Originally a fine construct, the building is now known for its resident ghost — a nun who was murdered by her own father.

Legend tell of a young woman — the daughter of a nobleman — who fell in love with a lowly knight of poor upbringing.

After refusing the knight’s request to marry his daughter, the father sent the woman away to the convent in the hopes she would forget about this inappropriate love affair.

Consumed by the knight, the woman met up with her lover on the night of her move to the convent and was subsequently killed by her father for bringing shame upon him with her disobedience. It is thought that the girl still haunts the area surrounding the convent.

Not to be feared, the ghost is often happy and it has been rumored that she stopped a young girl from committing suicide.

The murdered nun supposedly grabbed the poison bottle from the unhappy soul just in time and filled her hand with gold coins instead.

Kinský Palace

The Kinský Palace was originally built by the noble Golz family in the 18th century. It is said that the wealthy aristocrat, Goz, wanted to construct a much larger palace than was allowed, and therefore bribed several councillors into approving his design.

Once authorized, he began to erect his grand palace, however, the corruption of the councilors was brought to light by the authorities and the three men were sentenced to death.

By the time the daughter of one of these councilors found out about the execution, she was too late to save her father. This did not stop her from running around the city to find him and plead with the courts to spare his life.

Upon reaching the construction ground of Kinský Palace, she slipped into a demolition pit and was killed by the fall.

Many visitors have reported seeing a young virgin in a white dress in the modern Kinský Palace, pleading for the pardon of her long-dead father.

Church of Our Lady before Týn

The Church of Our Lady Before Týn is an unmissable, dramatic building, complete with two inky black towers, which stand out from the rest of Prague's skyline. These towers measure over 80 meters high and each features eight lofty spires.

The church is home to a ghost, fondly known as the bell-ringing nun. This is the spirit of a noblewoman who sought penitence after a trail of unpleasant acts.

The final of these was the strangulation of her maid when she refused to pass a comb during prayer.

Once the realization of her crime dawned upon her, the woman devoted herself to a life of poverty, caring for the needy. Upon entering the convent, she rid herself of all her riches and donated a new bell to the church's tower.

She can still be heard ringing this bell from time to time, which you may experience on a ghosts and legends tour in Prague.

How much do ghosts and legends tours in Prague cost?

Most ghosts and legends tours in Prague cost between €20, and €30 per person. However, it is possible to join a free walking tour.

The concept of these tours is that they are free to book and once you’ve participated in the walk, you tip your guide accordingly.

You should take into account the length of the tour, knowledge of your guide and general enjoyment factor when determining how much to pay.

You can tip anything you like, however, most participants pay between €10 and €15 per person.

Those traveling to Houska and Kokorin Castle for a haunted tour will pay €130 per person.

If you choose to participate in a tour that explores the traditions of Christmas, you can expect to pay approximately €210 per person.

Those who want to stay overnight in a haunted hotel can do so for around €520 each.

What is included?

Ghost tours in Prague include a knowledgeable guide to ignite your curiosity as they lead you through the city’s illuminated streets.

Is you participate in an overnight tour in one of Prague’s most haunted hotels, you can expect meals and accommodation to be included in the price.

Where does it start?

Ghosts and legends tours in Prague meet at a variety of destinations across the city. These are usually easily-reached monuments, such as the statue of King Charles IV.

Alternatively, you may meet at the tour operator’s office in the center of the city. Either way, you’ll be able to view each individual tour’s starting point before booking so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation.

Prague has a wide array of public transportation options, including metro and bus systems to ensure you can navigate the city with ease.

How long does it last?

The majority of ghosts and legends tours in Prague last between 1.5, and 3 hours. Those who have an extremely limited itinerary can opt for an excursion that lasts just an hour and explores the Old Town region.

While a shorter tour is usually not as comprehensive as longer ones, you’ll be able to get a feel for the city’s mysterious past all the same.

Alternatively, if you have time to spare, you should consider a longer 3-hour haunted walk in Prague that focuses on the areas surrounding the city’s castle.

You’ll benefit from more in-depth explanations of each landmark and visit more attractions.

When is the best time for a ghosts and legends tour in Prague?

The best time to embark on a ghosts and legends tour in Prague is during the nighttime when an eerie atmosphere descends upon the city.

While you can enjoy these excursions at any point during your city break, it’s advisable to book a tour for a few days into your trip when you’ve explored Prague’s attractions in the daylight.

Learn about the unhaunted history of these monuments before you dive into the paranormal.

Travel tips

• Approach any ghosts and legends tour in Prague with an open mind.
• You are not guaranteed to see any signs of the supernatural on one of these excursions. However, keep an eye out for orbs, shadows and of course, ghosts.
• Most ghost tours in Prague take place on foot. For this reason, you should wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
• Take your camera with you on your tour of Prague in order to capture the city in its most sensational state, lit by thousands of sparkling lights.