What to do · Prague
Klementinum: Baroque Library and Astronomical Tower
Information
- From
- Kč380 per adult
- Duration
- 45 min
- Season
- All year, daily 8:00 to 21:00
- Who it's for
- Adults and teenagers; there are 172 steps
What it is
The Klementinum is the second-largest complex of buildings in Prague after the castle: the former Jesuit college, founded in 1556, which now houses the National Library. The tour, guided only, climbs the astronomical tower and looks into the Baroque Library, which Prague City Tourism describes as the most beautiful in the world. It holds about 27,000 old works, among them writings by Kepler with his handwritten dedication.
You see the library but don't step into it: the guide opens the door of the hall and you look from the threshold. Then comes the Meridian Hall, with period astronomical instruments, and the climb to the tower gallery, 52 metres up, where weather data has been recorded continuously since 1775.
How to buy
You have to buy your ticket online, on the official Prague City Tourism website, which is the only authorised seller: tickets from other channels may not be valid, and there is no guarantee any will be left at the Klementinum's own ticket office. There are slots in English and in Czech, with a maximum of 25 people each. New tickets go on sale every Monday for the week that starts two weeks later, so don't leave it until the last day.
Opening hours and price
It is open every day from 8:00 to 21:00. Christmas changes: on 24 December 2026, 8:00 to 15:00; on the 25th, 11:00 to 21:00; on the 31st, 8:00 to 16:00; on 1 January 2027, 11:00 to 21:00.
Adult, 380 CZK; reduced, 230 CZK (ages 6 to 15, over-65s and ZTP card holders); young people aged 16 to 26, 300 CZK; family (2 adults and up to 4 children), 810 CZK. Up to age 5, free. The first two morning slots, the 8:00 in English and the 8:30 in Czech, have a 50% discount. Prices change on 1 March 2027.
Accessibility and stairs
There is no step-free access or lift, and the gallery at 52 metres requires climbing 172 steps. Under-15s may only enter with an adult. Anyone with a ZTP or ZTP/P card should book in writing, at [email protected].
Photos
The official listing says nothing about photos. Ask the guide at the start, and don't take photos inside the library until they confirm.
Getting there
It is in the Old Town, next to Charles Bridge, in the area of Křižovnické náměstí and Karlova street. Combine it with a walk to Strahov Monastery, half an hour on foot on the other side of the river, which has another Baroque library.
Tips
- Buy the 8:00 slot It has the fewest people and costs half as much.
- Don't expect to enter the hall The library is viewed from the door; the tower is what gives the visit its longer stretch.
- Allow for the stairs There are 172 steps up to the gallery and no lift.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Klementinum cost?
380 CZK for adults, 230 CZK reduced, 300 CZK for ages 16 to 26 and 810 CZK for the family ticket.
Can I go into the Baroque Library?
No. You see it from the door, as part of the guided tour.
Do I need to book?
It is advisable: tickets are bought online, with 25 places per slot, and there is no guarantee any will be left at the ticket office.
With teenagers
