The Old Town Hall Tower is the Gothic tower of Prague's Old Town Hall, a seat of municipal administration founded in 1338; the tower was completed in 1364 and, at roughly 69.5 m, was the tallest structure in the medieval city. Set into its south wall is the astronomical clock (Orloj), first assembled in 1410 by Mikuláš of Kadaň and astronomer Jan Šindel — the oldest astronomical clock still in operation — whose hourly parade of the Twelve Apostles draws crowds into the square below. In 2026 it remains one of Prague's most popular viewpoints: a modern lift or gentle interior ramp takes visitors to the gallery at 42 m for panoramas over Old Town Square, Týn Church and, in the distance, Prague Castle. A natural plan is to watch the clock show from the square, then climb the tower.
The hourly 'Walk of the Apostles' (roughly 9 am–11 pm), with the Twelve Apostles gliding past the windows plus four moving figures, including a bell-ringing skeleton representing Death
The astrolabe-style astronomical dial showing the sun and moon, and the calendar dial painted by Josef Mánes in 1865
The 42 m Gothic viewing gallery, with sweeping views of Old Town Square, Týn Church, St Nicholas Church and Prague Castle beyond
Historic interiors: the Chapel of the Virgin Mary (consecrated 1381), the council chamber and Brožík's Hall
The Romanesque-Gothic underground vaults and permanent exhibitions such as the clock's 'digital twin' tracing the building's evolution
Good to know
CautionThe square is packed at the top of the hour for the clock show — prime time for pickpockets. Wear your bag in front and never hold your phone or wallet loosely while looking up.
CautionAvoid the 'no commission' private exchange booths around the square, which give poor rates; use bank ATMs or pay by card. Skip unmetered taxis that solicit tourists on the street.
RulesIn peak season, book online skip-the-line or timed-entry tickets. The lift carries an extra charge, and prices and opening times change often, so confirm the latest details on the official site before you go.
SeasonFrom January–March the hall opens later (10:00, or 11:00 on Mondays) and the gallery is windy and cold in winter. Expect long lines during the December Christmas market and in high summer — arrive right at opening.
SafetyThe upper gallery is narrow and can get crowded. Even with the lift, the final stretch involves steps, and the square's cobblestones are uneven, so wear comfortable shoes.
MannersThe apostle show is modest in scale, so keep expectations realistic. Move quietly through the narrow interiors, and be respectful with photography in the chapel and any spaces in use for services or events.
Practical info
Take Metro Line A (green) to Staroměstská, about a 5-minute walk, or trams 1, 2, 17 or 18. Opening hours are broadly 10:00–19:00 in January–March and 9:00–20:00 in April–December, with a later start on Mondays. The lift and guided circuits cost extra; confirm exact prices, hours and closure dates on the official site for the latest information.
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