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Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj

Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj

Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj Overview & Key Highlights

The medieval tower clock is located on the southern side of Old Town Square. The clock was installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock globally and the oldest clock still operating. Each round hour, between 8 am to 11 pm, the clock procession of the Twelve Apostles sets in motion. Inside is a staircase and an elevator, which visitors can climb or ride to the top to take in beautiful 360 views over the Old Town.

Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj Travel Guide: Logistics & In-Depth Tips

Reasons to Visit:

  • Historical Significance: Witness one of the oldest functioning astronomical clocks in the world.
  • Unique Show: Enjoy the hourly procession of the Twelve Apostles and other figurines.
  • Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in Prague's medieval history and architecture.

 

Things to Avoid:

  • Crowded Viewing Times: The area around the clock can get very crowded, especially on the hour. Arrive early for a good spot.
  • Pickpockets: As a popular tourist spot, be mindful of your belongings.

 

Accessibility Level: Low

The Astronomical Clock Tower is explicitly not wheelchair accessible.

Address:

Prague Astronomical Clock, Old Town Square, Old Town, Czechia

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Basic Info

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COUNTRY & Region

Czech Republic,
Europe

ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL​

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LOCAL CURRENCY​

Czech Koruna (CZK)
Price level icon
Medium
Safety Level icon

SAFETY LEVEL

Duration icon

Recommended Duration

• Less than an hour
• 1-2 hours

Electricity

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Electricity

220-240V, 
50Hz
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Plug Type

• Type E (Two round pins with earth pin)
Plug types
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Activities To Do In Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj

Best Time To Visit Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj

The best time to visit the Astronomical Clock is early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid large crowds. Visiting during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring, can also provide a more relaxed experience.

The best months to visit Prague are typically from April to October. Here's a brief overview of what each season offers:

  • Spring (April to June): This is a wonderful time to visit as the weather is mild, flowers are in bloom, and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months. Spring also features events like the Prague Spring International Music Festival.
  • Summer (July to August): While the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities, these months are also the peak tourist season. Expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices, but also vibrant street life and extended daylight hours.
  • Autumn (September to October): This is another excellent time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The city's parks and gardens are especially beautiful with fall foliage. Events such as the Signal Festival, a light art festival, take place during this period.

Each season has its unique charm, but for a balance of good weather and manageable crowds, spring and autumn are particularly recommended.

Average Temperatures Per Month

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

Safety Level icon

Safety Level

Prague is a very safe destination where visitors are advised to exercise normal safety precautions. The primary risk at Old Town Square and around the Astronomical Clock is pickpocketing, particularly in dense crowds during the hourly mechanical show. Keep your belongings secure, remain alert in heavily trafficked tourist zones, and avoid unauthorized currency exchanges or unregistered taxis.

The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.

Emergency Numbers

Police: 112 (Universal) / 158
Ambulance: 112 (Universal) / 155

No internet needed • Includes local translations • Free for TravelingWiz readers

Spoken Languages

Czech is the official language. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Learn The Language

  • Hello: Ahoj
  • Thank you: Děkuji
  • Please: Prosím
  • Yes: Ano
  • No: Ne
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Trip Cost & Budgeting for Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj, 2026

Everything you need to know about money while traveling

Is Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj expensive for tourists in 2026? No, Prague remains a moderately priced destination. Based on our Human Verified prices, you can expect to pay around 80 CZK for a cappuccino, 65 CZK for a pint of domestic beer, and about 300 CZK for a standard main meal at a mid-range restaurant. Use the data table below to calculate your specific daily budget based on your travel style.

With TravelingWiz's Human Verified data, a typical traveler should expect to spend around $146 USD per day for a mid-range trip in Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj. Click the Trip Cost Calculator button below the table to work out your personal budget for this trip.
Currency icon

LOCAL CURRENCY​:

Czech Koruna (CZK)
Price level icon
Medium
Credit cards are widely accepted across Prague, but carry some CZK cash for small pubs and street vendors.

Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.

Local: 620
Czech Koruna (CZK)
≈ 29 USD

Full daily spend estimation (accommodation, food, transportation, attractions).

Travel Style
Czech Koruna (CZK)
≈ USD ($)
Budget
1710
81
Mid-range
3100
147
Comfort
6800
323

The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.

  • Avoid the restaurants directly on Old Town Square, as they charge heavily inflated tourist prices for food and beer.
  • Look for polední menu (daily lunch specials) on weekdays between 11:00 and 14:00 for authentic, cheap Czech meals.
  • Use Prague's highly efficient public transit system (trams and metro) instead of expensive taxis or ride-shares.
  • Climb the Old Town Hall Tower for panoramic views of the Astronomical Clock and square rather than paying for overpriced rooftop bars.

Pre-Order Tickets

Avoid disappointment when tickets sell out — and skip the long lines by booking online in advance. You’ll often save up to 20% too.
Save up to 20%

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What To Pack

When visiting the Astronomical Clock in Prague, pack comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. A light jacket or umbrella is useful for unpredictable weather. Bring a guidebook or map to explore the surrounding area.

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Maya’s Final Checklist for Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj

Logistics shouldn’t be the focus of your trip—the experience should. I’ve hand-vetted these essential partners to ensure your arrival, stay, and exploration are as smooth as an Athenian breeze.

Where to Stay

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Visa Services

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FAQs

Viewing the clock from the outside is free, but there is a fee to enter the Old Town Hall and climb the tower.
The clock show occurs every hour from 9 AM to 11 PM.
The viewing area in the square is accessible, but the Astronomical Clock Tower itself is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for all with mobility impairments.
The Astronomical Clock Tower is generally open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, except on Mondays when it opens from 11 AM to 9 PM.
The hourly procession of the Twelve Apostles and other figurines typically lasts for about 45 to 60 seconds.

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