Infinity Book Tower Prague: What to Expect + Top Tips (2026)
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You’ve probably seen that swirling book tunnel on Instagram. Most people don’t realise it’s a real art installation inside Prague’s public library – and better yet, it’s free to visit.
We saw the Infinity Book Tower on our last trip to Prague and couldn’t believe how popular it’s become. At one point, the queue was winding around the building, which felt a bit wild for something that only takes a few minutes to see.
In this post, we’ll show you how to visit without wasting time. You’ll get the best time to go, why it’s worth adding to your itinerary (just don’t plan to stay longer than 15 minutes), and how to avoid the common mistake that sends people to the wrong library.
We’ll also share tips from our visit to help you skip the queues and enjoy it stress-free.
What Is the Infinity Book Tower?
The Infinity Book Tower is a strange little surprise in the entrance hall of the Municipal Library of Prague.
Also called the “Tower of Knowledge” or “Column of Knowledge,” it’s an art installation that plays with the idea of endless knowledge and gives your brain a bit of a wobble when you look into it.
The sculpture is made of more than 8,000 books, stacked into a hollow column with mirrors at the top and bottom.
When you peek through the small teardrop-shaped opening, the reflection creates a visual trick that makes it look like the books go on forever. It's oddly hypnotic and easily one of the best free Prague spots if you’re into offbeat design.
The piece is officially called Idiom and was created by Slovak artist Matej Krén. It first appeared at an exhibition in São Paulo in 1995 before moving to its permanent home in Prague in 1998.
It’s completely free to see, and you don’t need to be a library member. Just walk in, head up the front stairs, and you’ll spot it straight away.
We’d seen the Prague book tunnel online before, so we had a rough idea of what to expect. Even so, it felt a bit surreal seeing the illusion up close.
It’s smaller than it looks in photos, but more striking somehow. There were a few visitors when we went, all trying to get their perfect shot.
Is the Infinity Book Tower Worth Seeing?
Yes, Prague’s Infinity Book Tower is worth seeing, especially if you're after something a bit quirky. It’s one of those hidden gems in Prague that’s fun to see if you’re nearby.
Plus, it’s an easy stop with a clever infinity illusion and an Instagram-famous design.
But it’s not worth a long wait: if the queue’s more than 15 minutes, we'd say give it a miss.
Pros
Cons
Top Tips for Visiting
Here’s what we wish we’d known before seeing the Infinity Book Tower:
Tip #1: Go early or late – The earlier, the better. Aim for before 10am or near closing time. We went midweek in the morning and only waited about five minutes. On the flip side, we’ve seen queues snake around the building during weekends and holidays. And at peak times like Christmas, Easter, and summer, the library reportedly sees thousands of visitors a day, with waits of up to 2 hours!
Opening Hours (these can change, so it's worth checking the official site before you go):
Tip #2: Don’t bring too much – You won’t need much gear. Tripods aren’t allowed, so just bring your phone or camera and maybe a portable charger if you're low on battery.
Tip #3: Double-check the address – Some travellers end up at the wrong library. Make sure you're headed to the Prague Municipal Library at Mariánské náměstí 98/1, Prague 1 – just a short walk from Old Town Square. Here’s the Google Maps link if you want it handy.
Tip #4: Scan the QR code while you wait – There are notice boards near the queue with QR codes that give you background on the sculpture and the artist. It's a nice way to pass the time, and you'll appreciate the installation a bit more when you finally get to the front.
Tip #5: Be patient – Everyone’s there for the same reason, so things can move a bit slowly when it’s busy. We always offer to take someone else’s photo while we wait. It’s a nice way to help and usually means someone offers to return the favour. The staff are friendly, but they’re trying to keep things moving too, so a bit of patience goes a long way.
FAQ: Prague’s Book Tunnel
Got questions about the Prague book tunnel? Here’s what people usually ask.
How much does the Book Tower of Prague cost?
It's completely free. You don't need tickets or a booking. Just show up during opening hours.
How many books are in the Infinity Book Tower Prague?
There are around 8,000 books stacked to create the sculpture. You can’t read them, though (they’re not for borrowing).
Can you touch the books?
No, they’re part of the artwork. You can look through the peephole and snap a few photos, but that’s it.
Do you need to book tickets?
No. There’s no ticketing system or entrance fee. Just show up during opening hours.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Municipal Library of Prague is fully accessible, including the area where the tower is located.
What to See After the Infinity Book Tower
It’s funny how something so small can be so memorable. Even though our visit to the Infinity Book Tower only lasted a few minutes, it genuinely stood out: partly for the illusion, and partly for how unexpected it felt inside a public library.
If you’re drawn to the quieter, offbeat corners of Prague, this stop fits right in. For more under-the-radar finds, take a look at these unusual and non-touristy places to explore in Prague.
Still working out where to stay? We’ve also rounded up the best areas and hotels in Prague, tailored to different trip styles and budgets.
Prague’s full of little surprises, and the Infinity Book Tower’s a lovely one to begin with.
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