Nov 21, 2023
By Goodnight Staff 
Prague, a city renowned for its breathtaking architecture and rich history, is also a treasure trove of natural beauty. Beyond its cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks lie lush parks, serene gardens, and picturesque landscapes.
From the tranquil oasis of Petrin Park to the historic vineyards of Havlicek Park, each natural attraction offers a unique glimpse into the city's charm. This article explores the top 15 natural attractions in and around Prague, showcasing the perfect blend of urban elegance and natural splendor.
These destinations provide a refreshing escape for locals and visitors, revealing the Czech capital's greener, more serene side.
Prague Zoo, a world-class wildlife sanctuary, stands as one of the top natural attractions in Prague, offering a delightful experience for nature lovers and families alike.
Located in the Troja district of Prague, the zoo occupies over 140 acres of varied terrain, providing a naturalistic habitat for over 5,000 animals and 650 species, including many endangered and rare species.
Established in 1931, Prague Zoo is a place for recreation and plays a significant role in wildlife conservation and education.
The zoo's layout is thoughtfully designed, allowing visitors to journey through different geographical regions, from the African savannah to the Indonesian jungle. Highlights include the Elephant Valley, the Indonesian Jungle, and the Valley of the Elephants, which offer immersive experiences.
Letná Park, perched atop a plateau along the Vltava River, offers one of Prague's most striking panoramic views, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists.
This expansive green space, located just a short walk from the city center, blends natural beauty with cultural significance, providing a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.
Famous for its large, open spaces and tree-lined paths, Letná Park is ideal for strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. The park's most iconic feature is the Metronome. This sizeable functional metronome stands as a symbol of the passage of time, located at the site of a former monument to Joseph Stalin.
The area around the Metronome is a popular gathering spot and offers an unparalleled view of the Prague skyline, including the Old Town and Prague Castle.
Wallenstein Palace Gardens, a hidden gem in the heart of Prague, offers a serene and beautifully landscaped retreat. Tucked away behind the Wallenstein Palace, these Baroque gardens are a testament to the artistic and architectural grandeur of the 17th century.
Located in Prague's Lesser Town (Malá Strana) area, the gardens provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets.
As you wander through the gardens, you are greeted by meticulously manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and various sculptures that add to the charm of this historical space.
One of the most striking features is the artificial grotto wall, adorned with stalactites and mythical creatures, creating a unique and surreal experience. The gardens also house free-roaming peacocks, adding a touch of natural elegance to the surroundings.
Kampa Park, nestled on the banks of the Vltava River in Prague, is a charming and picturesque urban oasis that locals and tourists love. This idyllic park on Kampa Island, adjacent to the Charles Bridge, offers a tranquil retreat with lush greenery, meandering paths, and scenic water views.
The park is renowned for its romantic and peaceful ambiance. It is accentuated by the weeping willows that gracefully line the riverbank and the serene sounds of water flowing from the Čertovka canal.
It's a perfect spot for a stroll, a picnic, or to sit and enjoy the serene surroundings. The park also features several notable sculptures and artworks, adding an artistic flair to its natural beauty.
Vysehrad Park, steeped in history and legend, is a captivating natural attraction in Prague. Perched atop a rocky promontory above the Vltava River, this historic fort offers a lush green space and a journey into the past. The park is part of the Vysehrad fortress complex, an essential site in Czech history, dating back to the 10th century.
Visitors who wander through Vysehrad Park are treated to sweeping views of Prague, including the river and the city skyline. The park's expansive grounds are ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation, all within a setting rich in historical ambiance.
Notable features within the park include the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul, a striking example of Neo-Gothic architecture, and the Vysehrad Cemetery, the final resting place of many well-known Czech personalities.
The Vrtba Garden, a Baroque masterpiece in Prague's Lesser Town (Malá Strana), is a hidden treasure offering a serene and artistically landscaped escape. This UNESCO World Heritage site, designed in the early 18th century, is one of the city's oldest and most beautifully preserved gardens. Tucked behind tall walls, it provides a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.
As visitors ascend the garden's terraces, they are greeted by an array of meticulously sculpted hedges, vibrant flower beds, and ornate statues, all harmoniously arranged to create a visually stunning experience.
The garden's design follows the principles of the Baroque style, with symmetry and perspective playing a pivotal role. From the upper terraces, one can enjoy breathtaking views of Prague, including the iconic red rooftops and spires that define the city's skyline.
The Prague Botanical Garden, a verdant haven in the Troja district, is a delightful space for nature lovers and people seeking a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle. Spanning over 200 acres, this expansive garden offers a diverse array of flora, thematic gardens, and greenhouses, making it a fascinating exploration of the natural world.
One of the garden's highlights is the Fata Morgana Greenhouse, a remarkable structure housing a collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Visitors can wander through different climatic zones, experiencing a variety of ecosystems, from rainforests to deserts.
The outdoor gardens are equally captivating, featuring a Japanese garden, a Mediterranean landscape, and a vineyard complete with a traditional wine cellar.
The Prague Botanical Garden is a place for botanical display and a center for conservation and education. Its tranquil paths, scenic viewpoints, and diverse plant collections offer a refreshing and educational experience.
Divoka Sarka, a rugged and picturesque valley on the outskirts of Prague, offers a stark contrast to the city's urban landscape. Named after a legendary female warrior from Czech folklore, this natural reserve is a testament to the wild beauty of the Czech countryside.
With its rocky cliffs, dense forests, and meandering streams, Divoka Sarka is a popular spot for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
The area is crisscrossed with trails that lead through scenic landscapes, offering stunning views of the valley and its natural formations. The central path winds along the Sarka stream, leading to a small but charming lake, a perfect spot for a summer swim or a picnic. The more adventurous can explore the higher trails, which offer panoramic views of the entire area.
Shooters Island, known locally as Střelecký Ostrov, is a serene and picturesque island nestled in the Vltava River, right in the heart of Prague. This slender, tree-lined oasis provides a peaceful respite from the city's bustling streets and is easily accessible by a charming footbridge from the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) area. The island's lush greenery and scenic river views make it a popular spot for locals and visitors.
With its tranquil paths and shaded benches, the island is ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. During the summer, Střelecký Ostrov comes alive with cultural events, open-air concerts, and food festivals, adding to its vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere.
The island also offers a unique vantage point for viewing some of Prague's famous landmarks, including the National Theatre and Charles Bridge.
Vltava Beach, a charming and lesser-known gem in Prague, offers a delightful escape along the banks of the city's iconic river. This riverside spot, located near the center of Prague, provides a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it a popular destination for relaxation and recreation.
The beach area, with its sandy shores and grassy patches, is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenic views of the Vltava River. The gentle river flow creates a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding and taking in the beauty of the surroundings.
During the warmer months, the beach becomes a lively spot where locals and tourists gather to socialize, play beach sports, or dip their toes in the water.
Vltava Beach is also a fantastic viewpoint for some of Prague's architectural marvels, including the Dancing House and Vyšehrad fortress. Its accessibility and the blend of natural riverside charm with urban vistas make Vltava Beach a unique and enjoyable natural attraction in Prague.
Střelecký Island, a tranquil haven in the heart of Prague, is a delightful escape nestled in the Vltava River. Accessible via a charming footbridge from the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), this small island is a verdant oasis, offering a peaceful respite from bustling city life. Its lush greenery and serene atmosphere make it a loved spot for locals and tourists seeking tranquility.
The island is characterized by its tree-lined paths, open grassy areas, scenic views of the river, and the city's historic architecture. It's ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply sitting and enjoying the natural surroundings.
During the summer, Střelecký Island comes alive with cultural events, open-air concerts, and festivals, adding a vibrant yet relaxed ambiance to its charm.
The Franciscan Garden, a hidden gem in the bustling heart of Prague, offers a serene and picturesque retreat. Tucked away behind Wenceslas Square, this peaceful oasis is a delightful contrast to the nearby urban hustle.
The garden, with its origins dating back to the 14th century, was once part of a Franciscan monastery, and today, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and love for green spaces.
As you step into the Franciscan Garden, you're greeted by well-manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and various trees that provide a lush green cover. The garden's layout is a harmonious blend of traditional and modern landscaping, with quaint pathways leading to quiet seating areas, perfect for relaxation or contemplation. The soothing sound of the central fountain adds to the garden's tranquil ambiance.
This garden is not just a place of beauty but also a cultural haven. It often hosts small events and exhibitions, adding to its charm. The Franciscan Garden is a beloved spot for locals seeking a peaceful break and tourists looking for a quiet corner in the city's heart.
Havlicek Park, also known as Grebovka, is a splendid example of a vineyard garden gracefully situated in the Vinohrady district of Prague. Inspired by the Italian Renaissance, this picturesque park offers a delightful blend of manicured landscapes and natural beauty. It's a favorite among locals for its serene atmosphere and stunning views, making it a perfect escape from the city's hustle.
The park's main attraction is its beautifully restored vineyard, reminiscent of Prague's viticultural heritage. Visitors can stroll along the vineyard paths, enjoying the sight of grapevines and the panoramic views of the city.
The park also features a charming pavilion, ornamental ponds, and a variety of sculptures, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The lush greenery and blooming flowers in spring and summer provide a vibrant backdrop for leisurely walks or picnics.
Petrin Park, sprawling across a hill of the same name, is one of Prague's largest and most beautiful green spaces. This extensive park, offering panoramic city views, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Its elevated location and lush surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the urban landscape of Prague, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.
The park's winding paths and shaded areas are ideal for strolls, jogging, or picnics. One of the park's most notable features is the Petrin Lookout Tower, resembling a miniature Eiffel Tower, which offers breathtaking views of Prague from its observation deck. The park also houses a mirror maze, an observatory, and beautifully landscaped gardens, adding charm and appeal.
Petrin Park is not just a place of natural beauty but also a cultural and historical hub. It hosts various cultural events and festivals round the year, making it a lively and dynamic destination.
Ledebour Garden, nestled in the heart of Prague's Lesser Town, is a baroque masterpiece that exudes tranquility and elegance. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, this garden is one of the city's lesser-known treasures, offering a serene and picturesque retreat from the bustling streets.
Its well-preserved baroque architecture and design reflect the grandeur of the 18th century, making it a delightful journey back in time.
The garden is characterized by its terraced layout, ornate fountains, and statues that add to its historical charm. The meticulously maintained flower beds, hedges, and tree-lined paths create a harmonious and peaceful environment. Visitors can enjoy strolls through the garden, enjoying the breathtaking views of Prague Castle and the surrounding city.
Ledebour Garden's blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and natural tranquility makes it a unique and enchanting destination. It's a perfect spot for those seeking a quiet corner to relax, enjoy the beauty of nature, and appreciate the artistry of baroque landscaping. This hidden gem is worth a visit for anyone exploring Prague's natural and historical attractions.
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