Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague

Prague
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Destination Description

The Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague (Uměleckoprůmyslové museum) is one of the city’s most prestigious cultural institutions, dedicated to showcasing the beauty, craftsmanship, and evolution of applied arts. Located near the Jewish Quarter and within walking distance of the Old Town, the museum offers an inspiring look into European artistry across centuries.

Historical Background

Founded in 1885, the Museum of Decorative Arts was established to promote excellence in craftsmanship and to inspire Czech artists and designers.

Its purpose was to preserve high-quality examples of decorative arts and demonstrate the importance of aesthetics in everyday life. Throughout its history, the museum has expanded its collections and played a significant role in documenting the artistic development of Bohemia and Central Europe.
After major renovations completed in 2017, the museum reopened with modernized exhibition spaces while preserving its historic character.

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Must-See & Must-Do

Collections and Exhibitions

The Museum of Decorative Arts houses one of the richest collections of applied arts in Europe. Its exhibits span from the Middle Ages to contemporary design.

-Glass and Ceramics – Bohemian crystal, historic glassmaking artifacts, porcelain, and pottery.

-Textiles and Fashion – Embroidery, costumes, lacework, and modern fashion pieces.

-Furniture and Interior Design – Pieces from Gothic to Art Nouveau and mid-century styles.

-Graphic Arts and Photography – Posters, book design, prints, and one of Europe’s oldest photography collections.

Jewelry and Metalwork – Ornate ornaments, silverware, and decorative metal pieces.

Temporary exhibitions frequently explore themes like contemporary design, modern art movements, Czech craftsmanship, and global design influences.

The museum’s prime location near the Old Town and the Jewish Quarter offers plenty of dining options.
Visitors can enjoy Czech cuisine—such as svíčková, beef goulash, or roast duck—in restaurants like Lokál Dlouhááá or Mlejnice.
For a relaxing break, cafés such as Café Nostalgie, EMA Espresso Bar, and Café Louvre offer excellent coffee, pastries, and light meals.
Riverside restaurants along the Vltava provide scenic views for those looking for a special dining experience.

Luxury travelers can choose from Four Seasons Hotel Prague, The Grand Mark Prague, or Hotel Josef, known for exceptional comfort and design.

Mid-range options include Hotel Clement, Moods Charles Bridge Hotel, and Hotel Maximilian.

Budget-friendly hostels and apartments in the Old Town provide affordable and central accommodation.

The ideal time to visit the museum, especially if you plan to explore the city afterward, is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October).
Summer is popular but more crowded, while winter brings a quiet, cozy atmosphere perfect for indoor attractions like museums.

The Museum of Decorative Arts is easily accessible thanks to its central location. The nearest metro station is Staroměstská, just a short walk away.
Tram lines also run nearby, making it convenient to reach from different parts of the city.

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