Prague WWII and Communism Walking Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Prague's WWII history
- Visit key communist-era sites
- Learn about Prague's 20th-century past
- See landmarks from the 1940s and 1950s
- Discover hidden historical gems
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Expert local guide
- Visit to key historical sites
- Insight into Prague's 20th-century history
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Meet your guide in the heart of the Old Town – on a threshold of the Old Town Bridge Tower and sett of on a fascinating journey to the past. After you enjoy a panoramic view of the Prague Castle – the proud seat of Czech rulers and presidents - you learn that not far from it once stood the largest statue of Joseph Stalin in the world! Step by step your guide will cover all the major events.
Learn about what led the Czech nation from the grip of the Austrian monarchy to an independent Czechoslovak democratic state – one of the strongest economies of its time and also the last functioning democracy in Eastern and Central Europe after 1933. Find out about the suffering during the 2nd World War under the Nazi “Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia“ and about the Operation Anthropoid which was the only successful assassination of a senior Nazi leader during World War II. Reveal the methods and strategies of the communist regime, and the enduring influence of the USSR, as it seized power and transformed the formerly democratic state into a tough dictatorship where human life meant less than nothing.
Imagine the euphoria of Prague Spring followed by Soviet tanks invading Prague in 1968, shooting at the building of National Museum on Wenceslas Square. On the very same square we honour the memory of young students who burnt themselves alive in order to unite the nation against the common enemy in 1969. As the history rushed towards the 70’s and 80’s you can see its reflection in the streets you pass. Your guide will reveal the long and thorny past that led to the Velvet Revolution of 1989 – the ultimate victory of democracy after more than 40 years of communism. Hear the stories about Václav Havel, courageous students, brutal police forces and the clashes at Narodní třída. Your tour would not be complete without some humorous and obscure stories from the times of newly gained freedom.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine
- Photography is allowed at most sites
- Group size may vary
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Dress appropriately for the weather
- Bring a bottle of water
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Traveler reviews
Highly recommend
The tour was very intetesting and a great way to see important historical landmarks in the city. I would highly recommend it to anyone who would like to know more about this period of history in Prague.
Absolutely amazing
Forgive me for forgetting the guides name, but he was amazing. He was a student at the time of the velvet revolution, and took part in the demonstrations. The stories he told of hiding from the police and joining the resistance against the communist regime were so compelling and inspiring. If you’re able to walk 2 miles or so, this tour is amazing. If there’s a way for the guide to message me or respond to this, I would love to include your name if you happen to see this.
Absolutely excellent - don’t hesitate to book
Martin was so knowledgeable and the entire tour was fascinating and insightful. He offered personal insights into life in Prague which were much appreciated and helped our understanding of life in Prague through the 20th century. Martin is much better than he thinks he is. We have done lots of walking tours and his was right up there at the top.
Fascinating modern history walk
A lot of really interesting information about politics, history and culture sure to fascinate those interested in modern times. The walk is continuous but Anna kept the conversation pace to match. We saw places of significance and commemorative installations. Highly recommended
Fantastic tour
Tomas was a fantastic and engaging guide, 2 hours flew by and I learnt lots of interesting things that I suspect most visitors to Prague can easily miss. A must do and highly recommended, thanks Tomas!