Malá Strana: A Complete Guide to Prague’s Lesser Town
Malá Strana, also known as the Lesser Town, is a historic district in Prague, located on the left bank of the Vltava River, on the slopes below Prague Castle. The district was founded in 1257 by King Ottokar II of Bohemia and was originally called the New Town beneath Prague Castle.
View of Malá Strana also known as the Lesser Town along the riverside of Prague
Malá Strana is known for its romantic Baroque and Renaissance architecture, charming streets, and historic landmarks like Prague Castle. This beautiful district, often referred to as Lesser Town Prague, is a very popular tourist destination. It offers a range of attractions such as St. Nicholas Church, Wallenstein Garden, Kampa Park, and Petrin Tower, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.
In this post we're going to give you the tips and insights you need to fully enjoy Malá Strana, Prague’s incredible Lesser Town.
Must-Visit Attractions
Malá Strana is packed with great visitor attractions, from Prague Castle to Charles Bridge and the scenic Wallenstein Garden. The Lesser Town has no shortage of sights to see; let's take a look at some of them.
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the largest medieval castle complex in the world, dating back to 870. Looming over the Vltava River, this ancient castle is also one of the oldest sights in the city and houses much of the important history and culture of the Czech Republic within its walls.
View of Prague Castle during the winter
The castle complex includes Gothic churches, Baroque halls, ornate palaces, and lush gardens and is home to the Czech president. It is a complete destination with various exhibitions within the castle walls. Prague Castle captures the essence of Malá Strana, and much of the area's history was made because of this unique medieval fortress.
Visitors can explore the castle grounds free of charge, which are open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM. However, some of the historic landmarks, like St. Vitus Cathedral, require tickets. There are multiple tiers for tickets, which make it easy to visit particular buildings or exhibitions. There are so many things to see in Prague Castle, it can take a full day just to explore the castle and all its buildings.
Prague Castle during the winter
Prague Castle is a must-see destination in the charming Lesser Town. It offers an enchanting insight into the city's rich heritage and how the Lesser Town played an important role in the development of Prague.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is a particularly important landmark that transports people from the old town to the Lesser Town. It is considered by many as the most important pedestrian bridge in Prague, and over the years the historic landmark has become world-famous for its beautiful architecture.
Charles Bridge along the Vltava River in the evening
The Charles Bridge is a medieval bridge lined with 30 Baroque monuments. There are two bridge towers on each side of Charles Bridge, both of which provide stunning views of the Vltava River. Visitors can climb the two towers at the end of the bridge for a small entry fee and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Crossing Charles Bridge is a great way to experience the city’s history and architecture. This iconic bridge is one of the most visited landmarks in Prague, so it does get busy during peak seasons. I recommend you visit early in the morning for the least crowded experience, however, during the midday and evening, Charles Bridge does have a bustling atmosphere, which is also great.
Malostranske Namesti
The Lesser Town would be incomplete without an incredible town square to explore. Luckily for us, Malostranske Namesti in the heart of Malá Strana is one of the most beautiful areas in Prague. It's packed with fascinating architecture, great cafes, tasty dining establishments, and some cool souvenir shops.
Malostranske Namesti, the centre of Malá Strana
Malostranske Namesti is also a very interesting place to sit and watch the world go by. It's a busy area with trams passing and people all around. So if you're buying a souvenir, trying local Czech food, or just want to experience a bustling town square, then this area is a great place, offering a bit of everything. I highly recommend spending some time exploring this beautiful town square if you are visiting Malá Strana.
Wallenstein Garden
Wallenstein Palace is a Baroque palace that houses the Czech Senate and features beautiful architectural elements inspired by the Italian Renaissance. The palace gardens, known as Wallenstein Garden, offer a serene oasis with lush greenery, romantic ponds, and sculptures.
VitVit, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
The Wallenstein Garden is a truly idyllic spot located just under Prague Castle in the heart of Malá Strana. a serene escape from the city's bustling energy. This Baroque garden, part of the Wallenstein Palace complex, is a splendid example of Italian Renaissance-inspired architecture.
The Wallenstein Palace and garden are only open from April to October, primarily for the warmer months of the year. If you are visiting Prague during these months, then it is definitely worth taking a stroll in these beautiful gardens, especially as they provide free admission.
Museums in Malá Strana
Malá Strana is home to a variety of fascinating museums that cater to a range of interests. The Museum Kampa, located in Kampa Park, showcases an impressive collection of modern Central European art, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Vltava River.
Just a short walk away, the Kafka Museum offers a deep dive into the life and works of Franz Kafka, one of Prague's most famous writers, hosting exhibits that capture the essence of his writings.
Tilman2007, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
A more contemporary experience can be had at the Museum Karel Zeman, which honors the renowned Czech filmmaker. It offers a fascinating tour into the realm of animation and special effects in movies.
Additionally, visitors can explore the Lobkowicz Palace Museum within the nearby Prague Castle complex, which houses a remarkable collection of art, music, and historical artifacts from the Lobkowicz family. These museums collectively provide rich history, beautiful art, and modern culture. The blend of museums in the Lesser Town area makes it a must-visit for museum enthusiasts.
Kampa Park
Kampa Park is a charming park located along the Lesser Town riverside just a short walk from Charles Bridge. The park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and beautiful views of the Vltava River and Charles Bridge.
Visitors can relax in the park, enjoy a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank. The park is also home to the previously mentioned Kampa Museum, making it a great place to visit two sights at once. Overall, it's a peaceful park with a great museum and beautiful scenic surroundings, and I especially recommend it for anyone who enjoys riverside parks.
John Lennon Wall
The John Lennon Wall is a memorial for the famous Beatles singer. The wall features layers of graffiti, political messages, and song lyrics. Visitors can also leave their own mark upon it, as this is a public graffiti wall that is often used for expression.
Roman Boed from The Netherlands, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
The monument was originally dedicated to the memory of John Lennon, but in recent years more people have been writing their political messages on the wall. Even if you're not a Beatles fan, this is still a great spot to see some street art, and it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. While it's not as exceptional or as grand as the castle, the John Lennon Wall is a unique and Instagram-worthy attraction in the Lesser Town.
Food and Drink
Malá Strana has a great variety of restaurants, cafes, and traditional pubs. It should be a priority to try some traditional Czech food at one of the many restaurants in the Lesser Town. Dining at restaurants like U Glaubiců or Lokál U Bílé kuželky is a great way to enjoy traditional Czech dishes in an authentic setting. Beer lovers might want to wash it down with a cold Pilsner at a local pub or beer garden, such as U Dvou slunců.
MOs810, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Those with a sweet tooth may want to sample traditional Czech pastries at a local bakery or café for dessert. Traditional Trdelnik is a classic Czech pastry that can be found in many cafes and bakeries throughout Malá Strana. This sweet treat is made from flattened dough, coiled on a roller, and roasted above a fire. Typically topped with sugar, cinnamon, or nuts, trdelnik is a delicious snack to enjoy while exploring the Lesser Town.
Hotels in Malá Strana
Staying at a historic hotel in Malá Strana is one of the best ways to travel in Prague. The Vintage Design Hotel Sax or The Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa Prague are both great options. There are also a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels in the Lesser Town area; however, the area generally caters to the luxury side.
If you prefer to be more central, you could consider staying in a nearby neighborhood, such as the Old Town. Wherever you decide to stay, it would be wise to book your accommodations in advance to ensure availability, as Prague can get very busy at times.
Exploring Beyond Lesser Town
There are many nearby areas to visit from Malá Strana, one of the most popular is the Old Town Square, a historic square with stunning architecture and a lively atmosphere. Taking a stroll along the Vltava River and crossing the Charles Bridge will bring you to the heart of the Old Town while enjoying the city’s scenic views.
The Old Town Square of Prague
Alternatively, if you have had your fair share of river views, Petrin Hill is a beautiful scenic hill overlooking the city. This hill is famous for its great views and nature. Petrin Tower is also situated at the top of the hill, so for those who enjoy great views or want to capture some awesome photos, Petrin Hill is the place to go.
Finally visiting the nearby Kampa Island, a picturesque island with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, could be another option. It's a different type of destination from those mentioned above, as it is less touristy but provides a calmer atmosphere. These are all great ways to explore places within a short walk of the Lesser Town.
Final Thoughts
Malá Strana offers a unique adventure allowing visitors to explore so much history and culture within a small area. It appears the Lesser Town district is only lesser in name, but in reality it has an abundance of attractions and activities.
Overall, Malá Strana is a charming and historic district in Prague, offering a range of attractions, shops, and restaurants to explore. From Prague Castle to Charles Bridge, there’s something for everyone in Prague's Lesser Town.