How long does it take to walk through the gardens of Prague's Lesser Town?

This specific route takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. The total walking distance is about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), allowing plenty of time for photos and exploration at each stop.

Is there an entrance fee for the gardens in Prague?

Many gardens, like Waldstein and Kampa, are free to the public. However, the Vrtba Garden is privately managed and requires a small entry fee, typically around 120-150 CZK.

Is a walking tour Prague experience worth it in the winter?

While the city is beautiful in winter, many of the historic gardens in Malá Strana close from November to March. This specific nature-themed walk is best enjoyed between April and October.

Can I see the Infant Jesus of Prague on this walk?

Yes, the route includes a stop at the Church of Our Lady Victorious, where the famous 16th-century statue is housed and can be viewed for free.

Are the gardens in Lesser Town wheelchair accessible?

Waldstein Garden is mostly flat and accessible, but the Vrtba Garden is built on a steep hillside with many stairs and is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Where can I find the best views of Prague's red roofs?

The top terrace of the Vrtba Garden offers one of the most iconic and intimate views of the Lesser Town's rooftops and St. Nicholas Church.

What is the stalactite wall in Waldstein Garden?

It is a large 'Grotto' wall made of artificial dripstone (stalactites). It was a popular Baroque garden feature designed to look like a natural cave and even contains hidden grotesque faces.

Is the Lennon Wall still there?

Yes, the Lennon Wall is a permanent fixture in Malá Strana. It is located near the French Embassy and is constantly being updated with new art and messages.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Prague is often called the City of a Hundred Spires, but beneath those towering steeples lies a verdant world of secluded courtyards and manicured terraces. This self-guided walk invites you to step away from the bustling crowds of the Royal Route and into the quiet embrace of Malá Strana, or Lesser Town. This neighborhood, nestled between the Vltava River and the Castle hill, is home to some of the most exquisite Baroque landscaping in Central Europe. On this walking route, you will discover how nature and architecture intertwine to create a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city. Your journey begins by the riverside, where the sound of the Vltava sets a tranquil tone. As you explore independently, you will encounter the vibrant colors of the Lennon Wall, a symbol of peace and resistance that stands in stark contrast to the ancient stone walls nearby. From there, the route leads you across the charming Čertovka canal, often referred to as Prague's Venice, where old watermills still stand as relics of a bygone era. The highlight of this neighborhood stroll is undoubtedly the collection of hidden gardens. You will have the opportunity to visit the Vrtba Garden, a tiered masterpiece of Baroque design that offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city's red-tiled roofs. Further along, the Waldstein Garden provides a grander experience, featuring roaming peacocks, classical statues, and a mysterious stalactite wall. This walking tour Prague experience is designed for those who want to see the softer side of the city, focusing on the historical depth and natural beauty that many visitors overlook. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect shot or a traveler seeking a moment of reflection, these secret gardens provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable afternoon in one of the world's most beautiful cities.

Highlights

The tiered Baroque elegance of the Vrtba Garden

Roaming peacocks and the mysterious 'dripstone' wall in Waldstein Garden

The vibrant, ever-changing street art of the Lennon Wall

Views of the 'Devil’s Stream' (Čertovka) and historic watermills

The historic Church of Our Lady Victorious, home to the Infant Jesus of Prague

Tour Stops (6)

Kampa Park Riverside

Start your self-guided adventure on the banks of the Vltava River. Kampa Island is often called one of the most romantic urban islands in the world. As you stand near the water, look across to the Old Town skyline. This area was once dominated by mills and gardens, and even today, it retains a village-like atmosphere. The park itself is a hub for modern art, home to the Kampa Museum and several striking sculptures. It serves as the perfect gateway to the Lesser Town, offering a transition from the busy city center to the quiet, leafy paths you are about to explore.

Lennon Wall

The Lennon Wall is a living monument to freedom of expression. Since the 1980s, this wall has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti and lyrics from Beatles' songs. During the communist era, it became a source of irritation for the authorities as young Czechs wrote grievances on the wall, leading to a game of 'cat and mouse' where the wall was painted over only to be covered in new art the next day. Today, it remains a symbol of global ideals like love and peace. Take a moment to appreciate the layers of history literally painted into the stone.

Čertovka (Devil's Stream)

Just a few steps from the wall, you will find a small bridge overlooking the Čertovka, or Devil's Stream. This man-made canal was dug in the 12th century to power watermills for the Knights of Malta. The most famous of these is the Grand Priory Mill, whose large wooden wheel still turns slowly in the water. The narrow houses lining the canal give it a distinctively Venetian feel. Legend says the stream got its name from a local woman with a devilish temper who used to wash her clothes here, but today the atmosphere is entirely serene.

Church of Our Lady Victorious

Moving deeper into Malá Strana, we find this significant Baroque church. It is world-famous as the shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague, a 16th-century wax-coated wooden statue of the Child Jesus holding a globus cruciger. The statue is dressed in precious fabrics that are changed according to the liturgical season. Pilgrims from all over the world come here to seek blessings. The interior of the church is a masterpiece of gilded altars and marble, representing the height of the Catholic Counter-Reformation architecture in Bohemia.

The Vrtba Garden

Enter one of the most important and beautiful Baroque gardens in Central Europe. The Vrtba Garden is a 'hidden' gem because its entrance is tucked away behind an unassuming gate. Designed in the early 18th century, this Italian-style terrace garden climbs the slope of Petřín Hill. As you ascend the levels, you will pass elegant statues of ancient gods and meticulously trimmed hedges. The top terrace offers an intimate, stunning view of St. Nicholas Church and the Prague Castle, making it a favorite spot for photographers and couples.

Waldstein Garden

Conclude your walk at the magnificent Waldstein Garden, part of the palace that now houses the Czech Senate. Built in the 1620s by Albrecht von Wallenstein, a powerful military commander, the garden is a display of immense wealth and power. Look for the 'Grotto'—a bizarre wall of artificial stalactites that looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel. You might also spot the resident white peacocks roaming the grounds. The geometric flower beds and the bronze statues of Greek heroes provide a grand finale to your exploration of Prague's green spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Secret Gardens of Lesser Town walk is ideal, as it focuses on hidden Baroque green spaces like the Vrtba and Waldstein gardens rather than just the main tourist thoroughfares.