Written by local experts Adriana & Matěj
Adriana and Matěj Halouskovi are travel bloggers behind the successful blog Czech the World.
Matěj was born in Prague and has lived here his entire life and Adriana moved here 6 years ago.
We have traveled to more than 60 countries, but if we could tell you what place we know the most, it is our city.
Dancing House (Tančící dům) is a significant landmark of Prague for almost 30 years. This unique building is located on the riverbank of the Vltava River at the corner of Rašínovo nábřeží and Jiráskovo náměstí. The official name of the Dancing House in Prague is Nationale Nederlanden Building and its nickname is also „ Ginger and Fred “.
There is a gallery, hotel, office space, a luxurious restaurant, and a Glass bar with a gorgeous panoramic terrace with a beautiful 360 ° view of Prague Castle, Petřín, National theater, and Vltava river. Dancing House is definitely one of the fun things to do in Prague.
History of the Dancing House in Prague
The Dancing House was designed by architects Vlado Milunić and Frank O. Gehry. The design was inspired by the famous dance couple Fred Astair and Ginger Rogers. Two corner towers resemble the dancing couple – Ginger is represented by a glass tower, while Fred is represented by a concrete one.
There used to be an apartment building. The original building was destroyed during World War II., due to the mistake of the American Air Force (they wanted to attack Dresden in Germany, but they got wrong and bombed Prague instead). It was unclear what would stand in the original place until the 1990s. Vlado Milunić and Václav Havel brought back the idea. V. Milunić expected that the building should be leaning over the street – as a symbol of movements in Czech society again after the end of the communistic regime.
Original idea
The original idea was to build a house with a library, theater, and café, which would complete the cultural line from the Rudolfinum through the National Theater. The non-commercial project did not find an investor, but later on, the Nationale Nederlanden agreed to build commercial space there and the official name of the Dancing House was Nationale Nederlanden Building for several years. The investor’s condition was also to find a world-recognized architect. So, Milunić invited Frank O. Gehry, who accepted the project with words that “he will do anything for the country that gave Jaromír Jágr to America”.
Construction and style
Construction began in 1994 and the house was completed in 1996. In the same year Dancing house won the prestigious prize of the American Times magazine in the category “Design of the Year”.
Dancing House has 9 floors. The building was built in a style called Deconstructivism.
Gallery and current exhibition
The Dancing House in Prague regularly holds exhibitions in its gallery. The current exhibition schedule can be found on the official website. The Dancing House hosts exhibitions of artists, painters, photographers as well as “retro” exhibitions. Admission to individual exhibitions varies. Usually, it is around 200 CZK. The gallery is open daily from 9 am to 8 pm.
Rooftop Glass Bar
If you would like to enjoy the view from the top floor of the Dancing House in Prague, visit the Glass bar – the rooftop bar. The Glass Bar has a glazed interior with a beautiful rooftop view of Prague Castle, Vltava River, and the National Theater. Enjoy a unique view with a cocktail or other drink. The Glass Bar is open every day from 09.00 to 23.00. The drink menu and more information about current events can be found on the Glass Bar website.
Restaurant Ginger and Fred
On the 7th floor of the Dancing House, there is a luxury restaurant Ginger and Fred. Chef’s specialties can be enjoyed in the stylish interior along with the beautiful view. The menu and restaurant contact can be found at the Ginger & Fred Restaurant website. The restaurant primarily cooperates with local suppliers.
Parking
Guests of the Dancing House’s restaurant can park their car for 3 hours in the underground garage on ul. Václavská (Wenceslas Street). It is necessary to show a restaurant bill to get free parking.
Dancing House Hotel Prague
Treat yourself to a unique experience and stay overnight right in the Dancing House. Dancing House Hotel Prague offers luxurious interiors and room facilities. The hotel regularly receives high ratings from its guests. Dancing House is one of the best places to stay in Prague for couples.
How to get there?
The Dancing House is located at Jiráskovo náměstí (Jirásek Square) in Prague, just 220 m from the nearest metro station.
By metro/subway
The closest subway is the metro line B (yellow color) – Karlovo náměstí station. From there it is only 3 minutes (220 m) to Jiráskovo náměstí. You can find the connection on the DPP (Public Transportation of Prague) website.
By tram or bus
The nearest stop is Jiráskovo náměstí. You can get there by trams: 5, 7, 17 or by bus 176. Night buses are 904, 907, 908, 910. You can find the connection at DPP or at IDOS.
Address: Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město, Prague
Check this nice video about Dancing House:
Tips for day trips from Prague:
- Karlštejn Castle: Insider Guide – Day trip from Prague
- Vyhlídka Máj Viewpoint – Day trip from Prague
More Tips for travelers in Prague
- 39 Best Places to Visit in the Czech Republic
- Czech Republic Currency: Tips for travelers in Prague
- Prague Airport: Insider Guide – All you need to know!
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