Malá Strana

Stroll along Nerudova Street, once part of the Royal Route, and admire its ornate house signs — reminders from a time before street numbers existed. Cross the river via the iconic Charles Bridge, and you’ll see why artists, poets, and travelers have been inspired by Malá Strana for centuries.

From romantic riverside walks on Kampa Island to peaceful moments in the Vrtba Garden, Malá Strana is a place to slow down and soak up the beauty and history that make Prague unforgettable.

Nestled between the Vltava River and the slopes leading up to Prague Castle, Malá Strana — or “Lesser Town” — is one of the city’s most picturesque districts. Founded in the 13th century, it has retained much of its Old World charm, with winding cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, and grand Baroque architecture.

The heart of Malá Strana is Malostranské náměstí, framed by colorful townhouses and dominated by the majestic St. Nicholas Church, a masterpiece of Baroque design with a stunning interior and one of the most beautiful domes in Europe. Just steps away, you’ll find cozy cafés, traditional pubs, and antique shops that invite you to linger.

Top 5 Hidden Gems of Malá Strana

1. Vrtba Garden – A Baroque terraced garden tucked away behind unassuming gates. Its manicured hedges, statues, and sweeping views of the city make it a perfect quiet escape.

2. John Lennon Wall – Once a symbol of resistance during communist times, this ever-changing mural is now a colorful tribute to peace, love, and artistic freedom.

3. Wall to Wall Café Culture – Step into a tiny family-run café like Café de Paris or Cukrkávalimonáda, where the pace slows and locals linger over coffee and homemade cakes.

4. Kampa Island’s Art Installations – Wander along the riverbank to see quirky sculptures like the famous “Crawling Babies” by David Černý, with the Charles Bridge as your backdrop.

5. Lesser-Known Palaces – While tourists flock to the big attractions, gems like Lobkowicz Palace and Liechtenstein Palace offer fascinating art collections and historic interiors without the crowds.