Prague State Opera (Státní Opera)

The basics

Prague State Opera opened afresh in 2020 after extensive renovations. Travelers with an interest in classical dance and music should try to get a ticket for a ballet or opera at the State Opera; Madama Butterfly, Romeo and Juliet, and Tosca often play here. Prague State Opera runs tours in English and other languages. These are a great way to learn more about the State Opera’s history and artistic and architectural value while admiring decorative features. Some Prague tours go past the building to admire the exterior.

Things to know before you go

• You can buy performance tickets from any National Theatre box office, and online.

• Tickets are sold up to six months in advance, so plan ahead if there’s something you really want to see.

• A high standard of dress is required to attend a performance: pack a smart outfit or shop for one in Prague.

• Guided tours run for just under an hour and you need to buy your tickets in advance.

How to get there

The State Opera is on Wilsonova Street in central Prague’s New Town, just east of Wenceslas Square. Many travelers staying east of the Vltava River will be able to walk there easily. The nearest metro station is Muzeum, a short walk away. Drivers can park at the nearby Parking Centrum garage.

When to get there

The box office is open every day from mid-morning until early evening. Performances are held at various times, particularly Friday through Sunday evenings, sometimes with an afternoon matinee. Guided tours in English typically run on weekend mornings.

Visit the Estates Theatre

Don’t confuse the State Opera with the similarly named Estates Theatre (Stavovské Divadlo)—but do visit them both. The classical-style Estates Theatre is a whole century older than the State Opera and is preserved in its near-original condition today. The theater is renowned as the place where Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni premiered, and you can still catch a performance today.