Czech Museum of Music

Czech Museum of Music in Prague (Praha 1) occupies a former Baroque church of St. Mary Magdalene in the Lesser Town — a building where the architecture itself is already part of the experience. Run as a branch of the National Museum, it is devoted entirely to the history of music, from centuries-old instruments to modern recordings and multimedia displays.

What's inside?

The core of the permanent exhibition is a collection of several hundred historical musical instruments — violins, harpsichords, pianos, wind and string instruments — crafted by Czech and other European instrument-makers between the 16th and 20th centuries. Among the standout pieces is a piano reportedly played by Mozart himself, alongside curiosities such as "giraffe" pianos, upright instruments named for their tall, elongated resonating cases. The museum's full holdings run into the hundreds of thousands of objects, but the exhibition itself presents a carefully chosen selection of the most valuable pieces. Temporary exhibitions and regular chamber concerts also take place inside the former church nave, where the acoustics add an extra dimension to the visit.

How do you get there?

The museum sits in the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), a quiet part of Prague 1 close to Malostranské náměstí. The easiest way in is by tram — lines 12, 20, 22, or 23 to the Hellichova stop, followed by a short, roughly 150-metre walk toward the main square. It's also a convenient stop if you're exploring the area on foot, being within easy reach of Malostranské náměstí, the Wallenstein Garden, and Charles Bridge.

When should you visit, and how long does it take?

A visit to the permanent exhibition typically takes an hour to ninety minutes, depending on how closely you look at each display case. Tickets are sold on-site, and advance booking is really only necessary for organized school or tour groups. It's worth checking the National Museum's website for the occasional free-admission days held throughout the year. The building is partially wheelchair accessible, though given its historic character, not every part of it is fully step-free.

Who is this museum for?

This is a place aimed primarily at anyone with an interest in classical music, the history of musical instruments, or the craft of instrument-making — but it also appeals to visitors simply looking for a quieter, more offbeat museum away from Prague's busiest tourist routes. The building's shape and interior are striking even for people with no particular connection to music. There's a small café on site, a good spot to unwind after the visit over a coffee at typical Czech prices.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Czech Museum of Music located? In the Lesser Town of Prague 1, inside the former Church of St. Mary Magdalene, close to Malostranské náměstí.

What's the fastest way to reach the museum? Take tram line 12, 20, 22, or 23 to the Hellichova stop, then walk about 150 metres.

Do you need to book tickets in advance? No — individual visitors buy tickets on-site. Advance booking is recommended only for organized or school groups.

What's the highlight of the exhibition? A collection of several hundred historical instruments from the 16th to 20th centuries, including a piano linked to Mozart and unusual "giraffe" pianos.