Best art museums in Prague: discovering the city's artistic wonders

Prague has a long-standing reputation as one of the artistic capitals of Europe. For centuries, artists have been drawn to its Bohemian charms, and it has inspired countless works of art. There is also no shortage of art galleries in Prague, so you can indulge your inner art critic.

When you're planning your Prague vacation and soaking up the local culture, be sure to include time for wandering around some of the finest art galleries the city has to offer. Attractions include the Old Masters of art in Prague, post-industrial design spaces, and optical illusions. Plan your trip with this list of the 10 best art museums in Prague.

Best art museums in Prague

1. Marvel at the wide variety of famous paintings at the National Gallery

The National Gallery has several distinct locations in the city, each housing a different collection. If Old Masters are your thing, head to the Convent of St Agnes, Šternberk Palace, and Schwarzenberg Palace; you can see 19th-century art in Salm Palace, and the Veletržní Palace is the place for modern art. Entry to the permanent exhibitions is free.

Highlights:

Check out the masterpieces by Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, and Klimt at the Veletržní Palace.

Address and opening hours:

The addresses and opening hours vary. Check this page for information.

2. Discover the breath-taking art collection at Lobkowicz Palace

Lobkowicz Palace is a work of art in itself, forming part of the Prague Castle complex. Inside, you'll find the largest and oldest private art collection in Central Europe. There are some impressive masterpieces on display, including those by Brueghel, Canaletto, and Velasquez. The collection also includes original handwritten scores by Mozart and Beethoven.

Highlights:

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Palace's spectacular vantage point.

Address and opening hours:

Lobkowicz Palace, Jiřská 3, 119 00 Prague. Open Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

3. See the masters of Surrealism, Pop Art, and Art Nouveau under one roof

The Central Gallery is another of Prague's best art museums, with its three exhibitions on pioneers of three distinct art movements: Dalí, Warhol, and Mucha.

Highlights:

Learn how each of the three artists is all connected to Prague in different ways.

Address and opening hours:

Staroměstské nám. 15, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia. Open daily 6:00 AM-10:00 PM. The last tickets are sold at 7:00 PM.

4. Discover the ornate Mucha exhibition at the Municipal House

Step into the richly ornamental world of Alphonse Mucha at this extensive exhibition. The Bohemian artist is best known as one of the leading proponents of Art Nouveau. This elegant and romantic collection is sure to delight: this is not "Mucha-do about nothing".

Highlights:

Fans of Mucha will be delighted to discover some of his lesser-known work alongside many of the world-famous prints.

Address and opening hours:

Kaunický palác, Panská 7 110 00 Prague 1. Open Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

Best design museums in Prague

5. Admire the range of exhibits at the Museum of Decorative Arts

A brilliantly curated view of the history of design and a showcase of contemporary design ingenuity. The Museum of Decorative Arts is one of the best art galleries in Prague and a must-see for anyone with an interest in objects and their design.

Highlights:

Don't miss the permanent exhibition "Pleiad of Glass", which showcases over 70 years of breath-taking Czech glass design.

Address and opening hours:

17 listopadu 2, 110 00 Josefov. Open Tuesdays 10:00 AM-8:00 PM and Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

6. Get down to brass tacks at the National Technical Museum

Fans of industrial design, architecture, and civil engineering will enjoy the National Technical Museum tour. With sections dedicated to the design of transportation, household objects, and industrial systems, this is a fascinating peek into the world of practical, applied design.

Highlights:

With sections dedicated to the design of transportation, household objects, and industrial systems, this is a fascinating peek into the world of practical, applied design.

Address and opening hours:

Kostelní 42 170 78 Prague 7. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Tour times vary.

7. Get to know the new generation of Czech designers at Galerie Um

Affiliated with Prague's Academy of Arts, Architecture, and Design, Galerie Um frequently curates exhibitions of up-and-coming young students and graduate designers. Check it out to see the newest ideas in contemporary Czech design.

Highlights:

The Academy teaches a range of graphic design, free art, applied art, and more: check out the range of talent in different disciplines.

Address and opening hours:

Náměstí Jana Palacha 80 116 93 Staré Město. Open September-June, Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

Alternative museums in Prague

8. Let your eyes play tricks on you at the Illusion Art Museum

One of Prague's quirkiest art galleries, the Illusion Art Museum, will leave you unable to believe your eyes. With a wide range of works by contemporary Czech and international artists, many of these works are interactive.

Highlights:

Photography and videos are encouraged. Be sure to bring your camera or smartphone.

Address and opening hours:

Melantrichova 536/2, 110 00 Staré Město. Open daily, 9:00 AM-8:00 PM.

9. Explore the Pragovka Art District in a repurposed car factory

Located in the old Praga car factory in the post-industrial Vysočany neighborhood, Pragovka is a multi-purpose art space. The White Room is an ultra-hip gallery space showcasing contemporary Czech art and design.

Highlights:

The gallery is part of a wider art complex called Pragovka Art District.

Address and opening hours:

Kolbenova 923, 190 00 Vysočany. Open Tuesday-Friday 2:00 PM-8:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday 12:00 PM-6:00 PM.

10. Experience Czech art through an international lens at Kunsthalle Praha

Kunsthalla Praha is a multi-disciplinary art space bridging the gap between Czech contemporary art and the international art scene. They run temporary exhibitions showcasing the best of young Czech artists.

Highlights:

In addition to three large gallery spaces, there is a design shop and a café with beautiful views of Prague Castle.

Address and opening hours:

Klárov 5, 118 00, Prague 1. Open Wednesday 11:00 AM-9:00 PM, and Thursday-Monday 11:00 AM-7:00 PM.

FAQs

Are there any free-entry days for art museums in Prague?

There is no universal day or time when all museums offer free entry; however, many museums in Prague do offer specific times when admission is free. It's worth checking on individual museum websites.

What are some unique and lesser-known art museums worth visiting in Prague?

The Czech Cubist Museum at the House of the Black Madonna is worth a visit: this is a subset of the Museum of Decorative Art. Fans of early cinema should check out the Karel Zeman Museum. The entire museum is created in the style of the famous director's films.

Which art museums in Prague have works by famous artists?

The National Gallery wins hands-down in terms of well-known works of art: go here to see works by Van Gogh, Dürer, Klimt, Van Gogh, Cézanne, and many others.

Are the art museums in Prague wheelchair accessible?

The Central Gallery and the Kunsthalle Prague are partially wheelchair accessible; most of the other museums on this list are fully accessible. Prague is a moderately accessible city. It's always worth checking in advance.

Are there any art museums in Prague that are suitable for children and families?

The Gallery of Steel is a fantastic art gallery for both children and adults alike. Children are also sure to enjoy the Illusion Art Museum, with its mind-boggling optical illusions.