The Dancing House in Prague – A Visiting Guide in 2023
The Dancing House, also known as the Fred and Ginger House, is a building in Prague that stands out for its unusual and eye-catching architecture. Designed by Czech architect Vlado Milunić in collaboration with American architect Frank Gehry, the building was completed in 1996 and has since become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
If you’re planning a trip to Prague, a visit to the Dancing House is a must. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
The History of the Dancing House
The building that now stands on the lot was heavily bombed in 1945. For several decades, the lot remained empty. However, after the ‘Velvet Revolution’ of 1989, the lot was redeveloped, and the building was erected.
It was during this time that Václav Havel, a little-known philosopher and political dissident who would go on to become the last president of Czechoslovakia and the first president of the Czech Republic, envisioned the space being turned into a place for vibrant city life—a symbol of democracy and a place which could stand at the heart of the city’s cultural and social life.
The Controversy
The Dancing House in Prague was not an easy sell. The building is located in a city with a long and rich history, and many people were not happy about the new, modern building that was being built.
The traditional architecture of Prague is some of the most beautiful in the world, and many people felt that the Dancing House did not fit in with the rest of the city. There were even protests when the building was being built!
However, over time the Dancing House has become a true gem of Prague and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Why Visit the Dancing House?
The Dancing House is one of the most unique buildings in the world, and it is definitely worth a visit. The building was designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, and it is unlike any other building in Prague. The building is also home to several businesses and restaurants, so you can explore the inside of the building as well.
What is the Dancing House Made Of?
The Dancing House is made of several different materials, including glass, steel, and concrete. The building was designed to look like a dancing couple, which is why it is called the Dancing House.
What to See and Do in the Dancing House
Here are some things you can see and do while in the dancing house.
1. Take a Tour
One of the best ways to learn about the dancing house is to take a tour. Tours are available in English and last for approximately one hour. On tour, you will learn about the building’s history and architecture, as well as get to see some of the stunning views from the roof terrace.
2. Admire the Architecture
The dancing house is one of Prague’s most unique and interesting buildings. It was designed by world-renowned architects Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic and features a “dancing” silhouette. The building is made up of two “dancing” towers, which are connected by a glass atrium.
3. Head to the Roof Terrace for Panoramic Views of Prague
One of the best things about the dancing house is the stunning views from the roof terrace. On a clear day, you can see all of Prague’s major landmarks, including the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Prague Castle.
4. Check Out Any Exhibitions at the Gallery
The dancing house is home to an art gallery on the ground floor. The gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the website to see what’s on during your visit.
5. Visit the Ginger & Fred Restaurant for a Bite to Eat
The dancing house is also home to a restaurant called Ginger & Fred. The restaurant serves a mix of international and traditional Czech cuisine and has a beautiful terrace overlooking the Vltava River.
What are Other Attractions Near the Dancing House?
If you’re looking for other things to do near the Dancing House, you might want to check out some of these attractions:
Take a Vltava River Cruise
The Vltava River runs through the center of Prague, and there are several different companies that offer cruises along the river. These cruises are a great way to see the city from a different perspective, and they typically last around an hour.
Book a Sightseeing Cruise in Prague and enjoy taking in the views of this beautiful city!
Visit Old Town Square
Just a 10-minute walk from the Dancing House, Old Town Square is one of Prague’s most popular tourist destinations. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore, as well as some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, like the Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn.
Walk Across Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is another must-see destination in Prague, and it’s just a 15-minute walk from the Dancing House. This historic bridge spans the Vltava River and offers beautiful city views.
Explore Prague Castle
Prague Castle is one of the largest ancient castles in the world, and it’s just a 30-minute walk from the Dancing House. This castle has a long history dating back to the 9th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Book a Sightseeing Cruise in Prague and enjoy taking in the views of this beautiful city!
Shop in Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is one of the main tourist attractions in Prague, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Dancing House. This square is home to many restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as the National Museum and the Wenceslas Monument.
Check Out the Czech Police Museum
The Czech Police Museum is located in the former St. Agnes Convent, just a 5-minute walk from the Dancing House. This museum chronicles the history of the Czech police force, and it includes exhibits on crime scene investigation, forensics, and more.
Visit the Mysterious Faust House
The Mysterious Faust House is a tourist attraction in Prague that is located just a 5-minute walk from the Dancing House. This attraction is a replica of the house where Faust, a character from a German legend, is said to have lived. Visitors can tour the house and learn about the legend of Faust.
FAQs
Where is it Located?
The Dancing House is located in Prague, Czech Republic. The address is Jiráskovo Náměstí 1981/6, 120 00 Praha 2-Nové Město, Czech RepublicHow Do You Get There?
The Dancing House is located in the city center of Prague, so it is easy to get there by public transport.- By Tram: Trams 11 and 14 stop at Jiráskovo Náměstí, which is a short walk from the Dancing House.
- By Metro: The Dancing House is a short walk from the I. P. Pavlova metro station.
- By Bus: Buses 133 and 207 stop at Jiráskovo Náměstí, which is a short walk from the Dancing House.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Prague, and the Dancing House is a short ride from the city center.
How Much is the Entrance Fee?
There is no entrance fee to visit the Dancing House, and the building’s doors are open from 10 am to 10 pm. Specific times for other attractions within the building are:- The gallery is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm, and the entrance fee is 190 CZK.
- The restaurant is open every day from 11 am to midnight.
- Glass Bar is open every day from 10 am to midnight.
How Long Do You Need to Visit the Dancing House?
You don’t need much time to visit the Dancing House. It’s a small building, and you can see everything in less than 30 minutes.Conclusion
The Dancing House is a must-see when visiting Prague and is one of the city’s most unique and interesting buildings. It is located in a great spot overlooking the Vltava River and is close to many other attractions. The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is warm and the days are long. Remember that the Dancing House is a popular tourist destination, so it is best to visit during the week when it is less crowded.
From stunning architecture and rich history to delicious food and lively nightlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Prague now! We offer the best Prague Castle tours and Prague city tours to famous attractions like the Dancing House. We guarantee that you’ll have the most exciting and memorable time while in the city. Contact us now for more booking details.