I’m mostly a nature and wildlife traveler, blogger, and photographer, so a trip to Prague doesn’t exactly scream my wheelhouse. However, Prague sits right along the Vltava River, which means if you need a break from history (and tourists), there’s an escape.
My time along the river ended up being my favorite part of Prague.
You can walk along the Vltava on cobblestone paths that wind through Old Town, visit a couple of islands for some peace and (maybe) wildlife, take a river cruise, view the city from above, or cross Charles Bridge for both views and history.
Charles Bridge is Prague’s oldest bridge and, for centuries, was the only way to cross the river. It connects Old Town with Malá Strana (Lesser Town). The Old Town side is marked by the impressive Old Town Bridge Tower, one of the most beautiful Gothic gateways in Europe. Both the bridge and tower date back to the mid-14th century.
The bridge itself is lined with 30 statues of saints. The most famous is the Statue of St. John of Nepomuk (below). Legend has it that touching the plaque brings good luck. There are two scenes—one said to represent misfortune, the other good fortune. I went with the “good fortune” side (on the right-below). Others, probably not knowing what it represented (thanks GetYourGuide!), tempted misfortune.
You can also take in the Vltava from above.
The best-known viewpoint is Petrin Tower, often called Prague’s Eiffel Tower. Like the real Eiffel Tower, there are about 300 steps to the top. I’ve already done that climb once in Paris, thank you very much, so I opted for the elevator (which costs extra, but is worth it). I was there for the views, not the workout.
At the top, you get sweeping views of Prague and the river winding through it—though I’d say the truly great views are closer to 180 degrees than a full 360. The tower swayed slightly in the wind, which was… noticeable.
The Vltava is also home to several islands, including Kampa Island and Střelecký Island.
I reached Kampa Island by walking down from Petřín. The path was entirely cobblestoned—hard on the feet and knees. I don’t fully understand the local commitment to walking on rocks. It was a beautiful walk, though, through a park-like setting.
I headed to Kampa because I’d heard there were swans. I didn’t see any. What I did find was a lot of people.
From the shoreline, though, I spotted another island that looked quieter and more promising. That turned out to be Střelecký Island—and it was exactly what I was looking for.
This was the first time on the trip I felt fully in my element: nature, green space, and a slower pace. People were relaxing instead of rushing. Boats drifted along the river, including pedal boats shaped like little cars operated by tourists.
I did spot two swans across the river near Old Town’s shore, likely a mated pair, as one appeared to be on a nest. So yay!
More unexpectedly, I also saw four beavers climbing out of the water to accept carrots from visitors. That was not on my Prague bingo card.
There were also plenty of ducks, and the views back toward Old Town—with the buildings reflected in the river—were beautiful.
I stayed for a while, taking photos and just sitting there soaking it all in. Easily my favorite part of the trip.
Of course, one of the best ways to experience the river is by boat.
There are plenty of cruise operators. I went with Prague Boats and took their one-hour cruise. If you have the time, I’d suggest a two-hour option, which goes farther along the river, but the one-hour cruise covers the main highlights of Old Town.
There was occasional commentary, though it was hard to hear—and honestly, most people (myself included) were too busy moving around and taking photos anyway.
Tip: sit on the top deck, on the right side near the front, right by the railing. And get there early if you want to claim that spot.
One last thing—see it at night.
I took an evening cruise around sunset (for me, the 8 p.m. departure), which meant I caught both the colors of sunset (pinks, yellows, oranges) and the city lights. The bridges, buildings, and skyline reflected on the water, and everything felt calmer away from the crowds on shore.
It was a pretty perfect way to end my time in Prague.
Have you been to Prague? Or want to go? What’s the favorite place you visited? Let me know in comments below!