Franz Kafka in Prague: Explore the City Through His Life and Work
Exploring Prague through the lens of Kafka's life offers a unique and fascinating perspective on the city.
"I am free and that is why I am lost."
― Franz Kafka
Franz Kafka, one of the most iconic writers of the 20th century, was born and lived in Prague. He remains a popular figure among visitors to the city. Are you one of them? Prague has a lot to offer when it comes to Kafka. He is best known for his books The Trial, The Castle, and—perhaps most famously—Metamorphosis. His work even gave rise to the term "Kafkaesque."
So, if you want to follow in Kafka's footsteps, dive into our list of must-visit places—and don't forget to grab a free phone-friendly map at the end of this blog post.
Where Did Franz Kafka Live in Prague?
Kafka and his family moved frequently—some sources list up to fourteen different places where he lived in Prague. Most of these were located near the Old Town Square, in the Jewish Quarter. While some of the original buildings no longer exist, several can still be seen today:
- House 'U Věže', Address: Franz
Kafka Square 24/3
This is where Kafka was born on July 3, 1883. The house is easy to find—look for the memorial plaque on the corner of the building. - House At the Minute (Dům U Minuty),
Address: Old Town Square 3/2
Kafka spent most of his childhood and youth in this beautifully decorated Renaissance house. - Golden Lane, Address: Prague Castle
Kafka lived for a brief time in house number 22 on this charming and colorful street inside Prague Castle. Although the houses were renovated in the 1950s, the artistic atmosphere remains.
(Our tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.)
Are There Any Franz Kafka Statues in Prague?
Yes—three notable Kafka statues in Prague are worth a visit:
- "Description of a Struggle", Corner
of Dušní and Vězeňská Streets (Jewish Quarter)
Our favorite Kafka statue, created by Czech sculptor Jaroslav Róna, is named after one of Kafka's early stories. - Kafka's Morphing Head, Near Národní
Street, behind the shopping malls Quadrio and Maj.
A popular Instagram spot, this kinetic sculpture by David Černý consists of rotating layers that form Kafka's head. It's fascinating to watch—but be prepared for crowds. - Kafka Bust at His Birthplace, Near
Old Town Square
Already mentioned above, this statue is the oldest of the three and marks the building where Kafka was born.
Which Café Did Kafka Visit?
Kafka, like Albert Einstein, enjoyed spending time at Café Louvre on Národní Street. This iconic café still operates today, offering breakfast, coffee, and an early 20th-century ambiance. If you're lucky, you might get a window seat with a view of busy Národní Street.
Make a reservation at Louvre Café
Fun question: Could Kafka and Einstein have met in Café Louvre? What do you think?
(You can find the answer at the end of this post.)
Where Is the Franz Kafka Museum?
Yes, of course, Prague has a Franz Kafka Museum! Located in Lesser Town, the museum offers a deep dive into Kafka's life and work. While you're in the area, don't miss Kampa Island, just nearby.
(Bonus: Right outside the museum, you'll find one of Prague's quirkiest statues — "Piss" (or "Pissing Men") by David Černý. The sculpture features two men urinating into a pool shaped like the Czech Republic.)
Buy tickets online before your visit
Where Is Franz Kafka's Grave?
Kafka is buried in the New Jewish Cemetery alongside his parents, Hermann and Julie Kafka. The cemetery is located slightly outside the city centre, but it's easily accessible—just a 10-minute metro ride to Želivského station.
(Bonus: When you exit the station, you can "admire" what many consider Prague's ugliest building—Hotel Don Giovanni.)
So… Could Kafka and Einstein Have Met in Prague?
Yes! Not only could they have met—they actually did. Both lived in Prague at the same time and reportedly met on several occasions.
Can you imagine the conversations between these two brilliant minds?
Do you know how to get around Prague or how to buy a public transport ticket?
Follow us: instagram.com/hidden.prague