Explore the Most Beautiful Hidden Gardens in Malá Strana Prague
Prague hides many secrets behind its ancient stone walls. Many travelers miss the hidden gardens in Malá Strana Prague while visiting the castle. These green spaces offer a quiet break from the busy city streets. You can find Baroque terraces, blooming orchards, and peaceful courtyards here.
Malá Strana, or the Lesser Town, is one of Prague's most historic districts. It sits between the Vltava River and the grand Prague Castle. These gardens were once private spaces for noble families. Today, they are open for you to explore and enjoy. They are perfect for a romantic Lesser Town Malá Strana walking tour.
In this guide, we reveal the best secret spots for 2026. Whether you want city views or a quiet bench, these gardens have it all. Most are within walking distance of each other. Let's look at the top picks for your next visit.
Quick Picks for Your Garden Visit
Are you in a hurry? Here are our top recommendations for the best hidden gardens in Malá Strana Prague. These spots cater to different interests and schedules.
- Best Overall: Vrtba Garden for its stunning Baroque design.
- Best for Families: Wallenstein Garden with its friendly peacocks.
- Best for Views: The Palace Gardens under Prague Castle.
- Best Free Option: Vojan Gardens for a quiet local vibe.
10 Best Hidden Gardens in Malá Strana Prague
The gardens in this district range from manicured terraces to wilder hillsides. Each offers a unique perspective on Prague's rich history. Use this list to find your favorite green escape.
- Name: Vrtba Garden (Vrtbovská zahrada) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is one of the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Europe. The tiered terraces offer a perfect view of St. Nicholas Church. Best for: Photographers and couples. Where: Karmelitská Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee (~120 CZK). Getting there: Tram 12, 15, or 22 to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Climb to the very top terrace for the best panoramic photos.
- Name: Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) Type: Unique local experience Why go: This grand garden features a mysterious stalactite wall and a massive pond. You can see white peacocks roaming freely here. Best for: Families and history lovers. Where: Next to Malostranská metro station. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro line A to Malostranská. Tip: Look for the giant owls in the aviary near the entrance.
- Name: Vojan Gardens (Vojanovy sady) Type: Nature Why go: It is considered the oldest garden in Prague. It feels like a secret orchard hidden behind a high wall. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Near the Charles Bridge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from Malostranská metro. Tip: This is a great spot to read a book away from crowds.
- Name: Palace Gardens under Prague Castle Type: Viewpoint Why go: These are five connected terrace gardens with Italian-style architecture. They offer a royal atmosphere and sweeping views. Best for: History buffs. Where: Valdštejnská Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Entry fee required. Getting there: Walk down from Prague Castle. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs.
- Name: Kampa Island Park Type: Neighborhood Why go: This riverside park is perfect for a stroll. It hosts famous modern art sculptures by David Černý. Best for: Art fans and picnics. Where: Kampa Island. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the small bridge from the Lennon Wall. Tip: Visit the Kampa Museum nearby for local modern art.
- Name: Seminary Garden (Seminářská zahrada) Type: Nature Why go: This massive orchard on Petřín Hill has over 2,000 fruit trees. It is stunning when the trees bloom in spring. Best for: Nature walks. Where: Petřín Hill slopes. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the funicular or walk up from Újezd. Tip: Visit in late April to see the cherry blossoms.
- Name: Fürstenberg Garden Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the easternmost of the palace gardens. It features beautiful rose bushes and a romantic gazebo. Best for: Quiet views. Where: Near the Old Castle Stairs. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in Palace Gardens ticket. Getting there: Walk from Malostranská metro. Tip: It is usually less crowded than the main palace entrance.
- Name: Lobkowicz Garden Type: Nature Why go: Located on the side of Petřín Hill, it offers a wilder feel. It provides a great escape from the castle crowds. Best for: Hikers. Where: Petřín Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Strahov Monastery area. Tip: Follow the forest paths for a real hidden feel.
- Name: Rose Garden (Růžový sad) Type: Experience Why go: This garden sits at the top of Petřín Hill. It features thousands of roses and a classic sundial. Best for: Relaxing after a hill climb. Where: Top of Petřín Hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Funicular to the Petřín stop. Tip: Visit the nearby Petřín Lookout Tower for even higher views.
- Name: Schönborn Garden Type: Unique sight Why go: This garden belongs to the US Embassy. While the upper terraces are private, the lower area is visible and historic. Best for: Curious explorers. Where: Tržiště Street. Time: 15 minutes (viewing). Cost: N/A. Getting there: Walk from Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Look for the flag flying high on the hillside.
Tips for Your Hidden Gardens Visit
Most hidden gardens in Malá Strana Prague are seasonal. They usually open in April and close in October. Check the official Prague tourism portal for exact dates. Winter visitors can still enjoy Kampa Park and Vojan Gardens.
Prague is a city built for walking. You should wear sturdy shoes for the cobblestones and garden stairs. Many gardens are located on steep hillsides. Take your time and enjoy the many benches provided.
After your walk, you may want a drink. There are many best coffee shops in Lesser Town Prague nearby. These are perfect for resting your feet. Always carry some cash for garden entry fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the gardens in Malá Strana free to enter?
Some gardens like Wallenstein and Vojan are free. Others, such as Vrtba and the Palace Gardens, charge a small fee. Prices usually range from 100 to 150 CZK. These fees help with the upkeep of the historic Baroque structures.
When is the best time to visit Prague gardens?
The best time is from late April to June. This is when the flowers bloom and the weather is mild. Many gardens close during the winter months for maintenance. September is also beautiful as the leaves begin to change color.
Are the gardens accessible for strollers?
Kampa Park and Wallenstein Garden are flat and stroller-friendly. However, the terrace gardens like Vrtba have many steep stairs. If you have a stroller, stick to the lower parks or the Petřín Hill paths.
Finding the hidden gardens in Malá Strana Prague is a highlight of any trip. These spaces offer a glimpse into the city's royal past. They provide the perfect balance to the busy tourist sites. You can find peace, art, and history all in one walk.
Plan your route to include a mix of free and paid spots. Don't forget to bring your camera for the amazing views. For more ideas, check out other walking routes in Prague. Enjoy the quiet side of the Golden City in 2026!
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.
