Prague’s turbulent past has long captivated history enthusiasts. The "Prague: Communists and World War II Tour" promises to uncover the city’s tumultuous journey, from the Communist Revolution to the Velvet Revolution. As participants traverse significant sites like Wenceslas Square, they’ll engage in thought-provoking discussions on censorship, the impact of World War II, and the resilience of the Czech people. With flexible booking options and a discount for the Museum of Communism, this tour offers an insightful exploration of a city that has weathered many storms. What secrets will it reveal about Prague’s past?

Good To Know

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Good To Know

  1. This 2-hour guided walking tour explores Prague’s history, focusing on events leading to WWII, life under Communism, and the Cold War’s impact.
  2. Participants will visit significant sites like National Street, Wenceslas Square, and the 30-meter Stalin statue, with discussions on the formation of Czechoslovakia and the influence of WWI.
  3. The tour covers the Communist Revolution, Russian Occupation, and the Velvet Revolution, providing insights into censorship, protests, and the path to a democratic transition.
  4. Included in the tour package is a 10% discount coupon for the Museum of Communism, allowing participants to further explore the era’s history.
  5. The tour is available in English, German, and Russian, and features flexible booking options with a full refund possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Tour Overview

The Prague: Communists and World War II Tour offers a 2-hour exploration of the city’s tumultuous history.

Priced at €25 per person, the tour is available in English, German, and Russian. Visitors will meet at Křižovnické square, next to the iconic Charles Bridge, and are advised to wear comfortable shoes.

The tour highlights events leading to World War II, life under Communism, and the impact of the Cold War. Key sites include National Street, Wenceslas Square, and the 30-meter Stalin statue.

Discussions cover the hotel of Czechoslovakia, the Communist Revolution, Russian Occupation, and the Velvet Revolution.

The tour includes a 10% discount coupon for the Museum of Communism.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Booking Information

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Booking Information

Visitors can reserve the Prague: Communists and World War II Tour with no upfront payment required. The booking process is flexible, allowing customers to reserve now and pay later. Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Details
Flexible Booking Reserve now, pay later
Cancellation Policy Full refund up to 24 hours in advance
Inclusions 10% discount coupon for Museum of Communism, guided walking tour

The tour package offers great value, with a range of inclusions and flexible booking options to accommodate travelers’ needs.

Tour Highlights

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Tour Highlights

Travelers can expect to explore the events leading to World War II in Prague and experience life under Communism after the war on this comprehensive tour.

The tour highlights include:

  • Visiting significant sites like National Street, St. Wenceslas Square, and the 30-meter statue of Stalin.
  • Discussing the hotel of Czechoslovakia and the impact of the Cold War.
  • Hearing stories of the Communist Revolution, Russian Occupation, and the Velvet Revolution.
  • Engaging with discussions on black-listed books and significant events like Jan Palach’s protest.
  • Learning about World War I’s influence on World War II.

The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into Prague’s tumultuous history and the lasting impact of Communism.

Itinerary Details

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Itinerary Details

The main stops on the tour include Křižovnické square, National Street, Wenceslas Square, and Republic Square.

At these locations, travelers learn about World War I’s influence on the events leading to World War II. They also hear stories of the Communist Revolution, the Russian Occupation, and the Velvet Revolution.

Discussions cover topics like black-listed books and significant events such as Jan Palach’s protest.

The tour provides a rundown of Prague’s tumultuous past, from the hotel of Czechoslovakia to the impact of the Cold War.

Participants engage in thought-provoking dialogues and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s complex history.

World War I’s Influence

World War I’s historical impact reverberated through Prague, setting the stage for the events leading up to World War II.

The tour explored how the aftermath of World War I influenced the path to conflict:

  • The dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire left Czechoslovakia as a newly formed nation, struggling to establish its identity.

  • Economic hardship and political instability created fertile ground for the rise of extremist ideologies.

  • The Treaty of Versailles imposed harsh terms on Germany, sowing the seeds of resentment that would fuel the Nazi movement.

  • Prague witnessed firsthand the growing tensions between the democratic West and the encroaching communist East.

  • These pivotal events shaped the city’s journey through the tumultuous decades that followed.

Communist Revolution

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Communist Revolution

After the conclusion of World War II, a Communist takeover unfolded in Prague, ushering in a new era of Soviet influence.

The Communist Party of Czechoslovakia, backed by the Soviet Union, seized power in 1948. This marked the start of four decades of authoritarian Communist rule.

Prague became a city under the watchful eye of the secret police, where free speech and political dissent were heavily restricted. Censorship was widespread, and citizens lived in fear of being blacklisted or persecuted.

The tour explores how this period impacted the daily lives of Czechs and the significant events that shaped the path to the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which ultimately led to the restoration of democracy.

Velvet Revolution

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Velvet Revolution

Marking the end of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia, the Velvet Revolution in 1989 ushered in a peaceful transition to democracy.

Sparked by student-led protests, the movement galvanized the nation, leading to the resignation of the Communist government.

Key events included:

  • Massive demonstrations, with hundreds of thousands demanding change
  • The release of political prisoners and lifting of censorship
  • The election of Václav Havel, a dissident playwright, as the first president of the new Czech Republic
  • The dismantling of the feared state security apparatus
  • The restoration of civil liberties and the free market economy

The Velvet Revolution’s legacy endures as a symbol of peaceful resistance and democratic triumph.

Customer Reviews

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Customer Reviews

The Prague: Communists and World War II Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants.

With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 68 reviews, the tour has been praised for the guide’s exceptional knowledge and engagement.

Reviewers highlight the guide’s ability to bring the history to life and provide insightful discussions on the pivotal events that shaped Prague’s past.

While some suggest clearer guide identification at the meeting point, the majority of customers recommend the tour, stating it offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Prague’s communist and wartime history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prague: Communists and World War II Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

The tour’s policy does not allow outside food or drinks. However, participants are welcome to bring water and snacks to enjoy before or after the tour. Consuming alcohol or drugs during the tour is prohibited.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not specified as wheelchair accessible. However, the meeting point is located in a public square, which may have accessibility considerations. Customers are advised to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking the tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no formal dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended. Casual attire is acceptable, as the tour involves walking and exploring historical sites. Attendees should avoid wearing clothing and accessories that may restrict movement or draw unwanted attention.

Can I Leave the Tour Group During the Walk?

Participants can generally leave the tour group during the walk, but it’s recommended to stay with the group for the full experience and safety. Guides typically discourage wandering off, as it can disrupt the flow of the tour.

Will There Be Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour typically includes scheduled restroom breaks. Guests are advised to inform the guide if they need to step away during the tour, and the guide will accommodate these requests when possible. Facilities are available at several stops along the route.

The Sum Up

The "Prague: Communists and World War II Tour" provides a captivating exploration of Prague’s turbulent history. Visitors can explore the city’s past, from the impact of World War I to the Communist Revolution and the Velvet Revolution. With flexible booking options and a discount for the Museum of Communism, this tour offers an insightful and immersive experience for history enthusiasts.