The festival primarily focuses on the music of Antonín Dvořák but also includes works by his friends, contemporaries, and followers. The programme combines orchestral and chamber music with recitals and is divided into several series, including World-Class Orchestras, featuring the Frankfurt Radio Symphony with Alain Altinoglu, the Sächsische Staatskapelle Dresden under Daniele Gatti, and the Orchestre National de France led by Cristian Măcelaru.
Renowned soloists will also be performing, such as Gautier Capuçon, Julian Rachlin, Renaud Capuçon, and Kirill Gerstein. This year’s Dvořák Collection, curated by soprano Kateřina Kněžíková, highlights Dvořák’s song cycles. The Recital series will feature pianist Paul Lewis, and our orchestra-in-residence is once again the Czech Philharmonic.
New this year is the No Tie programme series, showcasing artists such as Sarah Willis with Mozart y Mambo and the duo Igudesman & Joo with their programme Sound New World. The festival also shines a spotlight on young talent (For the Future), offering emerging artists the chance to perform alongside world-renowned stars.
Above all, the festival is a celebration of Antonín Dvořák’s enduring human and cultural legacy.
All venues are indoors and within easy walking distance of each other (just 1 km from the Rudolfinum to the St Agnes Convent through the Old Town).
The main venue is the Rudolfinum, a concert hall and art gallery built between 1876 and 1884 on the banks of the Vltava River. Antonín Dvořák conducted the premiere concert of the Czech Philharmonic here in 1896 – hence the name of the main Dvořák Hall, which seats 1,100 people. Today, the Rudolfinum houses the Czech Philharmonic, a café, and a contemporary art gallery,
Chamber music concerts usually take place at the St Agnes Convent – a Gothic building from the 13th century founded by Saint Agnes herself, now also home to a medieval art gallery. Concerts from the No Tie series will also be held at Divadlo X10, a basement venue in a seven-story functionalist building.
The Rudolfinum is centrally located in Prague and easily reached by metro, tram, or car. It’s 15 km from the airport (30 minutes by public transport) and 10 minutes from the main train station. The Staroměstská metro stop is just 100 meters away, and public underground parking in the Rudolfinum is available for CZK 70/hour.
For the opening and closing concerts, a black-tie dress code is recommended, although a dark suit is also acceptable. A dark suit is also recommended for other concerts held at the Rudolfinum. Chamber music concerts tend to be less formal, though still not casual. The No Tie series will be even more relaxed, meaning casual attire is appropriate. The weather in September can be warm, but it may also turn rainy and windy quickly.
There are a wide variety of restaurants, many of which are worth exploring. Most close between 10 and 11 pm. Avoid tourist traps in crowded areas and book ahead, especially for fine dining. Marina Ristorante, an Italian spot on a boat, sits just opposite the Rudolfinum. The Ambiente group offers are always a reliable choice, and for a post-concert beer, try U Rudolfina—you might spot Czech Philharmonic members unwinding there.
Prague offers a wide range of accommodation, including many five-star hotels, several within walking distance of the Rudolfinum. As a popular tourist destination, the city sees high demand—especially in September, which is peak season for conferences. To secure your preferred hotel and location, it’s highly recommended to book well in advance. Early planning ensures better availability and often better rates during this busy time.
Most concerts take place in Prague’s historic centre, one of Europe’s most beautiful urban areas, known for its riverfront setting, preserved medieval layout, and rich architectural heritage—from Gothic and Baroque to early modernism. A walk through the Old Town, across Charles Bridge (best early to avoid crowds), and up spires like St. Nicholas Church is a must. Don’t miss Prague Castle, with its gardens and views, or the National Gallery’s varied exhibitions. For a more local experience, explore Jiřího z Poděbrad (JZP) in the Vinohrady district, home to a lively farmers market and the iconic TV tower.
