CityBuddy
Prague Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
Best time to visit
Early morning or late evening to avoid peak tour groups, golden hour gives warm light on the facades and quieter streets.
Budget tips
Walking around the square and watching the clock are free, the Old Town Hall tower and museum charge a small fee; buy tickets online or use the Prague Card to save, avoid cafés on the square to cut food costs.
Recommended for
History buffs, Architecture lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Families
Plan your visit
30-45 min
About
Datos rápidos: A la hora señalada, una procesión de figuras mecánicas y el repicar de campanas transforman el momento en un miniteatro de engranajes y sonido. Un dial complejo muestra horas solares, signos zodiacales y fases lunares, un mapa astral mecánico que sorprende incluso a quienes no son aficionados a la relojería.
Destacados: Cada hora la plaza se reúne para ver un desfile mecánico de 12 apóstoles de madera que asoman por pequeñas ventanas mientras un esqueleto metálico, que representa a la Muerte, hace sonar una campana: el breve espectáculo dura unos 45 segundos y se oyen chirridos de hierro y madera vieja. El mecanismo principal data de 1410 y además funciona como un astrolabio que indica fases de la Luna, la posición del Sol en los 12 signos del zodíaco y la hora antigua checa, y existe la leyenda de que el relojero Jan Růže, también llamado Hanuš, fue cegado por los concejales para que no lo replicara.
Insider tips
- Arrive 10-15 minutes before the hour to secure a street-level view of the clock procession or find a side street for a clearer photo.
- Climb the Old Town Hall tower for panoramic shots, choose the north-east side for fewer people and better light.
- Wear comfortable shoes, cobblestones are uneven and can be slippery after rain.
- Skip restaurants that face the square at peak times, walk one block inland for better prices and quality.
Haz clic para reservar un tour a pie GRATIS en Prague, Czechia
La mejor manera de experimentar una ciudad con un guía local.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
Reviews
Reviews (4)
4.3Came at 5pm, crowds were manageable. Paid for the underground tour and it was absolutely worth the extra fee for the history and quiet viewing spots.
Stayed until 10pm, much calmer and the street performers were a highlight. Clock show is free but souvenir stalls charge stiff prices.
Arrived at 8am and the square was almost empty, great for photos. The clock show is free and lovely, the tower lift felt overpriced.
Visited at noon, it was packed with tourists and long lines. The clock tableau is free but crowds make it stressful, seating at a nearby cafe is worth the extra cost.
