Exploring the Best Scenic Parks and Gardens in Prague

Prague is world-famous for its stunning architecture and red rooftops. However, the city also offers incredible green spaces. Finding scenic parks and gardens in Prague is easy if you know where to look. These spots provide a perfect escape from the busy city streets. You can enjoy quiet walks, historic statues, and breathtaking views. Many of these locations are near major places to visit in Prague. Whether you want a picnic or a royal stroll, Prague has a garden for you. Let’s explore the best green spots for your 2026 itinerary.

Best Public Parks for Nature and Picnics

Prague's public parks are the lungs of the city. Locals gather here to exercise, drink beer, and enjoy the sun. These spaces are large and offer plenty of room to roam. You will find a mix of wooded areas and open lawns. They are perfect for families or solo travelers seeking fresh air.

Name: Letná Park Type: Sight/Viewpoint Why go: It offers the most famous view of Prague's bridges. Best for: Photographers and beer garden fans. Where: Prague 7, above the Vltava River. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to Letenské náměstí. Tip: Visit the Hanavský Pavilion for a great photo spot.
Name: Stromovka Type: Nature/Activity Why go: This is Prague's largest park and a former royal hunting ground. Best for: Long walks, cycling, and picnics. Where: Bubeneč district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to Výstaviště Holešovice. Tip: Check out the nearby Prague Zoo after your walk.
Name: Riegrovy Sady Type: Neighborhood/Experience Why go: It is the best place to watch the sunset over the city skyline. Best for: Socializing and evening drinks. Where: Vinohrady district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro line A to Jiřího z Poděbrad. Tip: The park’s beer garden is one of the most popular in the city.

Historic Royal Gardens Near Prague Castle

The gardens surrounding the castle are masterpieces of landscape design. They reflect different historical periods, from Renaissance to Baroque styles. These areas are well-maintained and offer a sense of royal elegance. Many visitors miss them while focusing only on the cathedral. However, they are essential for a full Prague Castle experience.

Name: The Royal Garden Type: Sight/Experience Why go: It features the beautiful Singing Fountain and the Queen Anne’s Summer Palace. Best for: History buffs and flower lovers. Where: North side of Prague Castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (seasonal). Getting there: Tram 22 to Královský letohrádek. Tip: The garden is usually closed during the winter months.
Name: Wallenstein Garden Type: Sight/Hidden Gem Why go: It has a unique dripstone wall and roaming peacocks. Best for: Quiet reflection and Baroque architecture. Where: Malá Strana, near the Malostranská metro. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro line A to Malostranská. Tip: Look for the giant owl aviary near the entrance.
Name: South Gardens Type: Viewpoint/Sight Why go: These gardens offer a unique perspective of the city from the castle walls. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: South side of Prague Castle. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main castle entrance. Tip: These gardens connect the castle directly to the Malá Strana district.

Hidden Gems and Secret Courtyards

Prague hides many small gardens behind large wooden doors. These spots are often quiet even during the peak summer season. They offer a peaceful retreat from the crowded Old Town. Exploring these offbeat gems in Prague adds magic to any trip. You will feel like you have discovered a secret part of history.

Name: Vrtba Garden Type: Sight/Experience Why go: It is one of the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Europe. Best for: Couples and garden enthusiasts. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Tram to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Climb to the top terrace for a stunning view of St. Nicholas Church.
Name: Vojanovy Sady Type: Nature/Hidden Gem Why go: It is considered the oldest partially preserved garden in Prague. Best for: Escaping the crowds near Charles Bridge. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from Charles Bridge. Tip: This is a great place to see peacocks wandering freely.
Name: Franciscan Garden Type: Experience/Local Why go: It is a peaceful oasis right in the middle of the busy New Town. Best for: A quick break during shopping. Where: Near Wenceslas Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro to Můstek. Tip: Enter through the passage from Jungmannovo Square.

Scenic Viewpoints and Hillside Parks

Prague is a city of hills, which means many parks offer great views. These locations are perfect for those who enjoy a light hike. You can see the Vltava River winding through the historic center. Many of these hills also house significant national monuments. For more high-altitude spots, check our guide to observation towers in Prague.

Name: Petřín Hill Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: It features a lookout tower that looks like a small Eiffel Tower. Best for: Families and romantic walks. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Park is free; tower has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from Újezd. Tip: Visit the Rose Garden at the top during June.
Name: Vyšehrad Type: Sight/Experience Why go: It is a historic fortress with a legendary cemetery and great views. Best for: History and local atmosphere. Where: Prague 2, on a cliff above the river. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro line C to Vyšehrad. Tip: Explore the Vysehrad fortress walls for the best river views.

Best Day Trips for Nature Lovers Near Prague

If you have extra time, head to the outskirts of the city. These locations offer a more rugged and wild nature experience. They are easily accessible by public transport. You can find deep valleys, rocky cliffs, and vast botanical collections. These spots are perfect for a half-day or full-day excursion.

Name: Průhonice Park Type: Day Trip/UNESCO Why go: It is a massive landscape park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Průhonice (just outside Prague). Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Entry fee required. Getting there: Bus from Opatov metro station. Tip: Visit in May when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.
Name: Divoká Šárka Type: Nature/Activity Why go: A wild valley with high rocks and a natural swimming pool. Best for: Hiking and outdoor adventure. Where: Prague 6. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to the Divoká Šárka stop. Tip: Bring sturdy shoes as the terrain can be rocky.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Prague gardens?

The best time is from late April to October. Most historic gardens, like the Royal Garden and Vrtba, are closed during winter. Spring offers beautiful blossoms, while autumn provides stunning colorful foliage across the city's parks.

Are parks in Prague safe at night?

Yes, Prague parks are generally very safe. However, most formal gardens close at dusk. Larger public parks like Letná or Riegrovy Sady remain open. Always stay on lit paths and be aware of your surroundings after dark.

Can I bring a dog to Prague's parks?

Dogs are welcome in most public parks like Stromovka and Letná. However, they are often banned from formal historic gardens like Vrtba or Wallenstein. Look for signs at the entrance to check local rules.

Prague is much more than just its famous monuments. The scenic parks and gardens in Prague offer a unique way to see the city. You can enjoy royal history at the castle or relax with locals in Letná. Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes for your 2026 trip. These green spaces will provide some of your best travel memories. For more planning tips, see our guide on places to visit in Prague. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.

Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
National Museum — Major national museum; unverified.