The Ultimate David Cerny Sculptures Walking Tour in Prague
Prague is famous for its Gothic towers and Baroque bridges. However, modern art also defines the city streets. David Černý is the most famous Czech sculptor today. His work is bold, funny, and often very controversial. This David Cerny sculptures walking tour helps you find his best pieces. We have designed a two-day plan for you. It covers the historic center and cool industrial districts. Prepare to see a different side of the Czech capital. You will find giant babies and upside-down horses along the way.
At a Glance: Your David Cerny Sculptures Walking Tour
This itinerary is split into two manageable days. Day 1 focuses on the city center. You can walk between most of these sites easily. Day 2 takes you to the cooler, local neighborhoods. You will need to use the efficient tram system for the second day. Here are the highlights of what you will see:
- Day 1: Lucerna Horse, Kafka Head, Hanging Man, and Kampa Babies.
- Day 2: Žižkov Tower Babies, Brown-Nosers, and the MeetFactory.
- Logistics: Best transport tips and where to find the best local food.
Wear comfortable shoes for this tour. Prague has many cobblestone streets that can be hard on your feet. Most of these sculptures are outdoors and free to view. This makes it a great low-budget way to explore the city. Let us dive into the details of your first day.
Day 1: Central David Cerny Sculptures Walking Tour
Start your morning at Wenceslas Square in the New Town. Walk into the Lucerna Palace to see "Kun." This is an upside-down dead horse with Saint Wenceslas sitting on its belly. It is a parody of the famous statue outside. The palace itself is a beautiful example of early 20th-century design. You can find more hidden Art Nouveau architecture in Prague if you explore the surrounding passages.
Next, walk five minutes to the Quadrio shopping center. Here you will find the Franz Kafka rotating head statute moving schedule to see it in action. This massive bust is made of forty-two stainless steel layers. Each layer rotates independently to create a mesmerizing effect. It represents Kafka’s tortured and ever-changing state of mind. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city.
Day 1: Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Visit Lucerna Palace and the Kafka Head. Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Head toward the Old Town. Look up in Husova Street to see the "Hanging Man." This sculpture depicts Sigmund Freud hanging by one hand from a roof. You can learn more about where to find the hanging man statue Prague to ensure you do not miss it. Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Cross the Charles Bridge to Malá Strana. Visit the Kafka Museum courtyard to see "Piss." This features two bronze men peeing into a pool shaped like the Czech Republic.
For lunch, take a break from the art. There are many spots nearby to try authentic traditional Czech food to try like goulash or dumplings. If you prefer a quiet atmosphere, visit one of the historic literary cafes in Prague. These places offer a glimpse into the city's intellectual past. They are perfect for resting before your afternoon walk. Finish your day at Kampa Park to see the three giant bronze "Babies."
Day 2: Industrial Art and Giant Babies
On the second day, you will explore authentic Prague neighborhoods beyond Old Town. Start your morning in the Žižkov district. You cannot miss the Žižkov Television Tower. Ten giant fiberglass babies are crawling up the sides of the structure. These are similar to the ones you saw at Kampa Park. The tower itself offers a great view of the city for a small fee. Check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal opening hours of the observation deck.
Next, take a tram to the Smíchov district. This area has a gritty, industrial feel that suits Černý’s style. Visit the Futura Gallery to see the "Brown-Nosers." You must climb a ladder and look into the backsides of two giant statues. Inside, you will see a video of Czech politicians. It is one of his most political and provocative works. Please note that the gallery may have specific opening days, so check ahead.
Day 2: Morning (10:00 AM - 12:30 PM): Explore Žižkov and the TV Tower babies. Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Visit Smíchov and the Futura Gallery. Evening (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Head to MeetFactory. This is an international center for contemporary art founded by Černý. It is located in an old warehouse between railway tracks. You will often see two red cars hanging from the building like laundry. It is a great place for live music or art exhibitions in the evening.
Optional Swaps: If it is raining, skip the long walk in Smíchov. Instead, visit the National Gallery to see indoor contemporary exhibits. If you have extra time, visit the Vysehrad fortress guide for authentic views of the Vltava river. It is a peaceful spot away from the main tourist crowds. You can see the city skyline from the ancient ramparts. It is the perfect place to end your David Cerny sculptures walking tour.
Logistics for Your David Cerny Sculptures Walking Tour
Planning your David Cerny sculptures walking tour requires some basic logistics. Prague has one of the best public transport systems in Europe. Buy a 24-hour or 72-hour pass to save money. You can use the Lítačka mobile app to buy tickets easily. Most of the sculptures are accessible 24/7 since they are in public spaces. However, the Kafka Head only rotates at specific times, usually every hour on the hour. Check the Prague.eu portal for the most recent schedules.
For your base, consider staying in Vinohrady or Malá Strana. Vinohrady is trendy and close to the Žižkov tower. Malá Strana is historic and puts you near the Kampa Babies and the Piss sculpture. Both areas have great local pubs and cafes. The city is very safe, but always watch your belongings in crowded spots like Charles Bridge. If you visit in 2026, look out for new temporary installations by Černý, as he often adds new pieces.
Walking is the best way to see the details of the city. However, the hills in Prague can be steep. Use the tram for the longer stretches between Smíchov and Žižkov. Trams 9, 15, and 22 are particularly useful for this itinerary. Most art sites are near tram stops. This makes the tour easy even for those with limited mobility. Always carry a small bottle of water and a portable charger for your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are David Černý's sculptures free to see?
Yes, most of his famous works are in public spaces. You can see the Hanging Man, the Kafka Head, and the Kampa Babies for free. Only a few pieces, like the Brown-Nosers, are inside galleries that may charge a small entry fee.
How long does the David Cerny sculptures walking tour take?
If you want to see every major piece, it takes about two days. You can see the central sculptures in one busy afternoon. However, the outer sites like the Žižkov Tower and MeetFactory require more travel time on trams.
When does the Franz Kafka head rotate?
The head usually rotates every hour on the hour. The movement typically lasts for about 15 minutes. It is best to arrive five minutes early to get a good viewing spot near the Quadrio building.
A David Cerny sculptures walking tour is the best way to see Prague's modern side. You will experience art that is both shocking and thoughtful. This itinerary takes you from the busy center to hidden industrial gems. It is a journey through the mind of a brilliant artist. After finishing your tour, why not relax at the Vysehrad fortress? It offers a quiet end to a busy trip. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Prague and its provocative street art.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
- National Museum — Major national museum; unverified.
