Why Seek Out Unusual Museums in Prague?

Prague has always been a hub for the mysterious. During the Renaissance, Emperor Rudolf II invited alchemists and astronomers to his court. This legacy lives on in the city's many strange collections. Visiting these sites helps you understand the darker, more eccentric parts of Czech history. It is a great way to escape the rain or the summer heat. You will see things that most tourists never even hear about.

Many of these museums are located in historic buildings. You might find yourself in a 16th-century basement or a hidden attic. These locations add to the atmosphere of the exhibits. They are often smaller and more intimate than the National Museum. This makes for a more personal and memorable experience. You can easily fit several into a single afternoon walk.

Before you dive into the full list, here are some quick picks for your itinerary:

• Best for families: Kingdom of Railroads
• Best for history buffs: KGB Museum
• Best for art lovers: Magical Cavern
• Best for a rainy day: National Technical Museum

11 Best Unusual Museums in Prague to Explore

Prague offers a wide variety of strange sights. Here are eleven of the most interesting and unusual museums in Prague for your 2026 visit. Each one offers a unique look at a specific niche or historical era.

1. Name: Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague Type: History/Experience Why go: Explore the world of 16th-century magic in a building where alchemists once lived. Best for: Fans of the supernatural and history. Where: Mala Strana, near the Novy Svet area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually 200-250 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Malostranske namesti and a short walk up the hill. Tip: Visit the Kellyxir alchemical pub downstairs for a themed drink after your tour.
2. Name: Speculum Alchemiae Type: Experience/History Why go: Visit an actual 16th-century alchemy lab discovered after the 2002 floods. Best for: People interested in Prague underground tours. Where: Old Town (Josefov). Time: 45 minutes (guided tour only). Cost: Expect to pay around 200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from Old Town Square. Tip: Book your tour in advance as groups are kept very small.
3. Name: Museum of Historical Chamber Pots and Toilets Type: Quirky Why go: See the world's largest collection of historical toilets and chamber pots. Best for: Travelers with a sense of humor. Where: Near the Vysehrad fortress. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually around 150 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Vyton or Albertov. Tip: Look for the pot once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte.
4. Name: Kingdom of Railroads Type: Activity/Model Why go: Explore massive model train layouts that recreate the Czech Republic in miniature. Best for: Families and model enthusiasts. Where: Smichov district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Approximately 300-400 CZK. Getting there: Metro Line B to Andel. Tip: The lights in the museum dim every few minutes to simulate night time.
5. Name: Museum of Senses Type: Interactive Why go: Experience optical illusions and sensory challenges that trick your brain. Best for: Fun photos and interactive play. Where: Near Wenceslas Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Around 300 CZK. Getting there: Metro to Mustek or Muzeum. Tip: Make sure your phone is fully charged for all the photo opportunities.
6. Name: KGB Museum Type: History Why go: View a private collection of Soviet-era spy gear and weapons. Best for: Cold War history buffs. Where: Mala Strana. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually around 300 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Malostranske namesti. Tip: The owner often gives the tours himself and is very passionate.
7. Name: Sex Machines Museum Type: Quirky/Adult Why go: This is the only museum in the world dedicated to mechanical erotic devices. Best for: Adults only; open-minded travelers. Where: Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Around 250 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Staromestska metro station. Tip: Check out the old erotic cinema on the top floor.
8. Name: Invisible Exhibition Type: Experience Why go: Experience daily life in total darkness, guided by blind or visually impaired people. Best for: Empathy and unique sensory experiences. Where: New Town (Karlov). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Usually 250-300 CZK. Getting there: Metro to Karlovo namesti. Tip: You must book your tour time in English or your preferred language ahead of time.
9. Name: Franz Kafka Museum Type: Literary Why go: Dive into the dark and surreal world of Prague's most famous writer. Best for: Literature fans and lovers of atmospheric art. Where: Mala Strana, near the river. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Around 260 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Malostranska metro. Tip: Don't miss the famous peeing statues by David Cerny in the courtyard.
10. Name: National Technical Museum Type: Science/History Why go: See a massive hall filled with vintage planes, cars, and steam engines. Best for: Engineering fans and rainy days. Where: Letna district. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Around 280 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Letenske namesti. Tip: Visit the mining exhibit in the basement for a realistic underground experience.
11. Name: Magical Cavern Type: Art Why go: Step into a fantasy world created by artist Reon Argondian inside a former mill. Best for: Art lovers looking for something truly different. Where: Petrin Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually 150 CZK (includes a drink). Getting there: Take the funicular to Nebozizek stop. Tip: The entire interior is sculpted and painted like a dream landscape.

How to Plan Your Quirky Museum Tour

Planning a trip to these unusual museums in Prague is easy with the right info. Most of these sites are open year-round. However, summer can be very busy in the city center. Try to visit popular spots like the Kafka Museum early in the morning. This helps you avoid large tour groups. Many smaller museums may have limited hours on Mondays.

Prague has an excellent public transport system. You can use the official city tourism portal to check tram and metro times. Most museums are within walking distance of a tram stop. Consider buying a 24-hour or 72-hour transport pass. This makes hopping between different districts very affordable. You can buy these at most metro stations or via a mobile app.

Booking tickets online is a smart move for 2026. Some experiences, like the Invisible Exhibition, require a reservation. Others might offer a small discount for online purchases. Always check the official website of the museum before you go. This ensures you have the latest info on prices and opening times. Many places now prefer card payments over cash.

Beyond Museums: Prague's Other Oddities

If you enjoy unusual museums, you will love Prague's public art. The city is full of strange statues and installations. You can find many David Cerny sculptures scattered throughout the streets. These include giant crawling babies and a hanging man. They add a surreal touch to the historic landscape. Many are free to view and make for great photos.

Don't forget to explore the city's unique walkways. Many historic buildings have hidden Prague passages and arcades. These often contain small shops, cafes, or even hidden cinemas. They are perfect for a quiet stroll away from the main streets. You might find a secret garden or a weird art gallery tucked away inside. These passages are a key part of Prague's architectural charm.

Finally, consider visiting some of the city's green spaces. For a break from the weirdness, visit the National Tourism Board site for park ideas. Or, stay on theme and explore secret gardens in Prague. These quiet spots offer a peaceful end to a day of exploring oddities. Prague is a city that rewards those who look closely at its corners.