Why Take a David Cerny Sculptures Tour in Prague?

Prague is famous for its Gothic spires and Baroque bridges. However, modern art adds a sharp, contemporary edge to the skyline. David Cerny is the most famous sculptor in the country today. His work often contains political satire or social commentary. Seeing these pieces gives you a deeper look into Czech culture. It is more than just a walk; it is an intellectual challenge. You will explore neighborhoods that many tourists often skip. This tour connects the historic center with vibrant local districts. It is a perfect activity for those who love hidden gems in Prague. Many of these sculptures are free to view in public spaces. You can enjoy high-level art without spending a single koruna. This makes it an ideal choice for 2026 travelers on a budget.

At a glance:

• Day 1: Lucerna Palace, Kafka Head, and the Hanging Man.
• Day 2: Pissing Statues, Kampa Babies, and MeetFactory.
• Highlights: Moving mechanical parts, political satire, and giant babies.

Day 1: New Town and Old Town Icons

Your first day focuses on the heart of the city. Start your morning at Lucerna Palace near Wenceslas Square. Inside the passage, you will see a massive upside-down horse. This is a parody of the famous Saint Wenceslas statue outside. It is a bold statement about national identity and leadership. Take about 30 minutes to admire the Art Nouveau architecture of the palace. It is a stunning contrast to the bizarre sculpture hanging from the ceiling.

Day 1 Schedule:

• Morning (10:00 - 11:30): Visit Lucerna Palace to see the upside-down horse.
• Afternoon (13:00 - 15:00): Head to the Kafka rotating head statue near the Quadrio mall.
• Evening (16:00 - 17:30): Walk to Husova Street to find the Hanging Man.

In the afternoon, watch the 42 layers of Franz Kafka’s head rotate. This mechanical masterpiece is 11 meters tall and weighs 39 tons. The movement reflects the writer's complex and troubled mind. Check the official Prague tourism portal for the latest movement schedules. Afterward, walk toward the Old Town. Look up when you reach Husova Street. You will see the Hanging Man statue dangling from a roof. It depicts Sigmund Freud pondering whether to hold on or let go. This piece is easy to miss if you do not look at the sky. It is one of Cerny's most photographed works worldwide. Finish your day with a meal in the Old Town Square area.

Logistics Tip: These three stops are within easy walking distance. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven cobblestones all day.

Day 2: Riverside Gems and Industrial Art

Day two takes you across the river to Malá Strana and Smíchov. Start at the Franz Kafka Museum in the morning. In the courtyard, you will find the "Piss" sculpture. Two bronze men urinate into a pond shaped like the Czech Republic. They move to spell out famous Czech literary quotes in the water. It is a humorous and controversial take on national pride. Visit the museum if you want to learn more about the city's literary history. The Visit Czechia site often lists seasonal events in this area.

Day 2 Schedule:

• Morning (10:00 - 12:00): Visit the Pissing Statues and Kampa Park Babies.
• Afternoon (13:30 - 16:00): Take a tram to Smíchov for the Brown-nosers and Meat.
• Evening (17:00 - 18:30): Visit the Zizkov TV Tower babies.

Next, walk along the river to Kampa Park. Here, you will see three giant bronze babies with barcoded faces. They look like they are crawling toward the water. These babies also appear on the Zizkov TV Tower later in the day. After lunch, take a tram south to the Smíchov district. Visit the Futura Gallery to see the "Brown-nosers" sculpture. You must climb a ladder to look inside the statues' rear ends. Inside, you will see a video of Czech politicians eating mash. This is one of Cerny’s most aggressive political works. Finally, head to the Žižkov district to see the tower babies from a distance. The tower is the tallest building in the city and looks like a rocket ship. It is a striking sight against the sunset.

Optional Swap: If it rains, swap the Smíchov walk for a visit to the MeetFactory. This is an international center for contemporary art founded by Cerny. It is located in an old industrial warehouse and hosts galleries and concerts.

Practical Logistics for Your Art Walk

Navigating Prague is simple if you use the right tools. The city has an excellent public transport system of trams and metros. You can buy tickets at yellow machines or via the PID Lítačka app. Consider getting Prague city passes for attractions if you plan to enter museums. Most sculptures are in public, so you can see them at any time. However, the Kafka Head usually only moves during daylight hours. Always check the official Prague city site for any construction updates. Some statues may be under restoration during your visit in 2026. Carry a refillable water bottle as there are many public fountains. The city is very safe, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like Old Town. Most locals speak English well, especially in the art community. Do not be afraid to ask for directions if you get lost in the winding streets.

Where to Stay for Easy Art Access

Choosing the right base makes your David Cerny sculptures tour much easier. New Town is the most convenient area for Day 1. You will be close to Lucerna and the Kafka Head. There are many modern hotels and boutique apartments here. If you prefer a historic vibe, stay in Malá Strana. This puts you within walking distance of the Pissing Statues and Kampa Park. It is quieter at night but more expensive. For a more local experience, consider Smíchov. This district is becoming a hub for modern art and cool cafes. It is also where the MeetFactory is located. You can find more affordable accommodation here compared to the center. Each area has its own charm and unique architectural style. No matter where you stay, the tram network will connect you to every sculpture quickly.