Preparing for Your Olšany Cemetery Walking Guide

Olšany Cemetery was founded in 1680 during a plague epidemic. It grew over centuries to cover more than 50 hectares. Today, it holds over two million burials. The site is divided into several numbered sections. This can make navigation a bit tricky for first-time visitors. Most people start their walk near the Flora metro station. This entrance leads you directly into the historic heart of the grounds. According to historical records of Prague, the cemetery reflects the city's diverse past. You will find sections for different faiths and nationalities. The cemetery is open daily from morning until dusk. It is best to visit in the morning for soft light. Autumn is especially beautiful when the leaves turn gold. Always bring a digital map on your phone. The physical maps at the gates can be hard to read. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the uneven stone paths.

10 Must-See Stops on Your Olšany Cemetery Walk

This list highlights the most significant locations within the necropolis. Each stop offers a unique look at Czech history and art.

1. Name: Jan Palach's Grave Type: Historical sight Why go: Honor a student who became a national symbol. Best for: History buffs and patriots. Where: Section IX, near the main entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the Vinohradská gate. Tip: Look for the bronze relief sculpture on the headstone.
2. Name: Franz Kafka’s Tomb Type: Iconic sight Why go: Visit the final resting place of the world-famous author. Best for: Literature lovers. Where: New Jewish Cemetery (adjacent to Olšany). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the entrance near Zelivskeho metro station. Tip: Men should cover their heads when entering this section.
3. Name: St. Roch’s Chapel Type: Architecture Why go: See the oldest building on the cemetery grounds. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Near the Olšanská street entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Enter via the northern gate near the tram stop. Tip: The chapel was built to protect against the plague.
4. Name: The Orthodox Church of the Dormition Type: Experience Why go: Admire the beautiful blue domes and traditional icons. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Section 2, the Russian section. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested for entry. Getting there: Follow the signs for the "Pravoslavný kostel." Tip: Be quiet as services are often held here.
5. Name: Commonwealth War Graves Section Type: Historical sight Why go: See the perfectly maintained graves of Allied soldiers. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Section 2, north of the main path. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the center from the Flora entrance. Tip: The white headstones stand out against the grey tombs.
6. Name: The Lanna Family Tomb Type: Art Nouveau sight Why go: View one of the most grand and artistic monuments. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Section VI. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located along the main central walkway. Tip: Notice the intricate ironwork and stone carvings.
7. Name: The Memorial to the Victims of Totalitarianism Type: Experience Why go: Reflect on the dark periods of the 20th century. Best for: Modern history students. Where: Near the central ceremonial hall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central area of the cemetery. Tip: It is a quiet place for contemplation.
8. Name: Sculptures of the Hrdlička Family Type: Art Why go: See dramatic and emotional sculptures by famous artists. Best for: Photography. Where: Section IV. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path south from St. Roch's. Tip: These are considered some of the most artistic outdoor works in Prague.
9. Name: The 1848 Revolutionary Monument Type: Historical sight Why go: Learn about the early fight for Czech independence. Best for: History researchers. Where: The oldest part of the cemetery. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the western wall. Tip: The inscriptions are in Old Czech.
10. Name: The Red Army Memorial Type: Historical sight Why go: See the massive monument dedicated to Soviet soldiers. Best for: Large-scale monument fans. Where: Section 2, near the Orthodox church. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easily visible from the eastern paths. Tip: It is one of the largest memorials in the complex.

Practical Advice for a Respectful Visit

Olšany Cemetery is a functioning burial ground. You must remain quiet and respectful at all times. Do not step on graves or climb on monuments. Most locals come here to tend to family plots. They appreciate visitors who act with decorum. If you want to see more historic sites, consider a Vysehrad Fortress guide for another famous cemetery. Photography is allowed for personal use. However, you should avoid taking photos of mourners. The cemetery is very large and easy to get lost in. Keep track of which gate you entered through. Some gates close earlier than others in winter. There are public toilets near the main entrances. Drinking water is available at several taps throughout the grounds. Always check the weather before you start your walk. The tall trees offer shade but can be dangerous in high winds.

Exploring Beyond the Cemetery Walls

After your walk, explore the surrounding Zizkov and Vinohrady districts. These areas are known for their local charm. You can find many non-touristy neighborhoods in Prague just steps away. Zizkov is famous for its steep streets and many pubs. The nearby Zizkov Television Tower offers a great view of the cemetery from above. You can see the green canopy covering the graves. There are many cozy cafes on Vinohradská street. They are perfect for a warm drink after a long walk. This part of the city feels very authentic. It is a great place to see how locals live. You can easily catch a tram back to the city center. Most trams from the cemetery reach Wenceslas Square in ten minutes. It is a convenient location for any Prague itinerary.