State Opera

Státní opera (State Opera), just a short walk from the National Museum, is one of Prague’s most elegant performance venues and one of the four stages of the National Theatre. Originally opened in 1888, the building stuns with its richly decorated Neo-Rococo interior, complete with gold trim, velvet seating, and grand chandeliers.

It hosts a full season of operas, ballets, and classical concerts, often featuring works by Mozart, Verdi, and Czech composers like Dvořák and Smetana. Even if you're not an opera lover, attending a performance here is worth it for the atmosphere alone.

The building sits awkwardly next to a major road—an unfortunate result of urban planning decisions made during the communist era—but once inside, the beauty and acoustics transport you to another world. After an extensive renovation, the opera house reopened in 2020 with its original splendor fully restored and its facilities modernized.

It’s a perfect evening activity for travelers seeking a cultural experience in a truly grand setting. You can enjoy a performance or take a guided tour, which offers a deeper insight into the building’s history and architecture.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Dress smart-casual or elegant—locals see a night at the opera as a special occasion. Wearing T-shirts, sneakers, or sportswear is considered inappropriate and may be frowned upon. If you didn’t pack anything suitable, don’t worry—shops selling shirts and dress shoes are just steps away on Wenceslas Square. Arrive early to soak in the beautifully restored interior. Programs are usually available in English.

 

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📅 Plan your visit

👣 Guided Tours
🌐 Buy tickets online
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at the State Opera ticket office (10:00–18:00)

🎭 Performances
🌐 Buy tickets online
🕒 Performances usually start at 19:00
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at the State Opera ticket office (10:00–18:00)

 

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🍴Where to eat : 

(All suggestions are within 7 min walking from your current location)

 

[$]

- Miska Ramen (Japanese ramen & Asian street food) 4.5⭐  

- Galata Restaurant (Turkish Restaurant) 4.8⭐ 

 

[$]

- Bistro Národní muzeum (Czech & international dishes in a modern setting) 4.0⭐  

- Tiskárna Jindřišská (Traditional Czech) 4.6⭐  

- Špejle Jindřišská (Czech-fusion tapas & cocktails) 4.6⭐  

 

[$$]

- Fat Cat Downtown (Burgers & Craft Beer) 4.6⭐  

- Restaurant Talíř (Modern Czech Cuisine) 4.7⭐  

- Kantýna (Modern Czech butcher shop & grill with communal dining) 4.6⭐  

 

[$$]

- Le Petit Beefbar au Grand Café (Modern Steak Bistro) 4.7⭐  

- Alcron Restaurant (Fine Dining with Czech Flair) 4.7 ⭐