The Rich History of the New World Street Prague

The history of the New World street Prague is defined by resilience. This neighborhood was established around 1360. It sat just outside the city fortifications of Hradčany. Originally, it housed the poorest residents who served the royal court. Fires destroyed the area during the Hussite Wars and again in 1541. Despite these disasters, the residents rebuilt their homes every time. The current Baroque and Neoclassical facades date mostly from the 17th and 18th centuries.

This area is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Prague. Many houses here have "Golden" in their names. This was a way for poor residents to feel more prestigious. They used house signs instead of numbers to identify their homes. You will see the Golden Pear, the Golden Bush, and the Golden Star. These signs are still visible today on the historic facades.

A Nový Svět Prague romantic walk offers a glimpse into a different era. Famous residents like Tycho Brahe once walked these streets. The astronomer lived here while working for Emperor Rudolf II. In the 20th century, many artists and writers moved in. They were drawn to the quiet and the low rent. Today, it remains a sanctuary for creative souls and curious travelers.

10 Essential Stops on a Nový Svět Romantic Walk

Walking through Nový Svět is like entering a storybook. Each house has a unique tale to tell. Follow this list to ensure you see the most important historical markers. Most sites are free to view from the outside. You can easily combine this walk with a visit to the nearby Prague Castle complex.

• Best overall: House of Tycho Brahe
• Best for families: Nový Svět Playground
• Best rainy-day: Loreto Prague
• Best free: The Baroque Fortifications

1. Name: House of Tycho Brahe (U Zlatého noha) Type: sight Why go: This house marks where the famous Danish astronomer lived in the 16th century. It is a key part of the history of the New World street Prague. Best for: History buffs. Where: At the corner of Nový Svět and Černínská. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the Pohořelec tram stop. Tip: Look for the plaque dedicated to the astronomer on the wall.
2. Name: Pension and Cafe U Raka Type: experience Why go: This is the only surviving log house in the historic center of Prague. It represents the traditional architecture of the old suburbs. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Černínská 10. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Price of a coffee. Getting there: Located at the western end of the street. Tip: The cafe terrace is very romantic in the spring.
3. Name: U Zlatého hroznu (The Golden Grape) Type: sight Why go: A beautiful Baroque house known for its interior frescoes and ornate facade. It shows the wealth that eventually entered the area. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Nový Svět 5. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Central part of the street. Tip: Notice the intricate wrought iron work on the windows.
4. Name: Loreto Prague Type: sight Why go: A stunning pilgrimage site with a world-famous carillon that rings every hour. It is a landmark of the Hradčany district. Best for: Religious history. Where: Loretánské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry for the interior. Getting there: 2-minute walk from the street entrance. Tip: Visit at the top of the hour to hear the bells.
5. Name: Černín Palace Type: sight Why go: The longest Baroque facade in Prague, currently housing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Its scale contrasts with the tiny houses of Nový Svět. Best for: Photography. Where: Opposite the Loreto. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Visible from the top of the hill. Tip: Check the Prague.eu site for garden opening times.
6. Name: The Secret Playground Type: experience Why go: A hidden public park tucked behind a high stone wall. It offers a quiet place to sit away from tourists. Best for: Families. Where: Behind the wall on the north side of the street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter through the small wooden gate. Tip: It is one of the quietest spots in the city center.
7. Name: Capuchin Monastery Type: sight Why go: The oldest Capuchin monastery in Bohemia, founded in 1600. It has a very simple and humble appearance. Best for: Seekers of peace. Where: Loretánské náměstí 6. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (church). Getting there: Adjacent to the Loreto. Tip: Look for the cannonballs embedded in the facade from the Prussian siege.
8. Name: U Zlatého stromu (The Golden Tree) Type: sight Why go: Another example of the charming house signs that give the street its character. This house has been beautifully restored. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Nový Svět 13. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Middle of the street. Tip: This is a great spot for a quick photo.
9. Name: The Baroque Fortifications Type: viewpoint Why go: The massive brick walls that protected the city. You can walk along parts of them for great views. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: Northern edge of the neighborhood. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path up from U Raka. Tip: This path leads toward the Stag Moat.
10. Name: Stag Moat (Jelení příkop) Type: day trip Why go: A natural ravine that served as a defensive moat for the castle. It is a lush, green escape. Best for: Nature walks. Where: Just north of Nový Svět. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access via the path near the castle powder bridge. Tip: It is usually open only during the summer season.

Practical Tips for Visiting Nový Svět

Visiting this area requires some planning to get the best experience. You should learn how to find Nový Svět near Prague Castle before you arrive. Many people get lost in the winding streets of Hradčany. The easiest way is to take tram 22 to the Pohořelec stop. From there, it is a short downhill walk. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones are uneven.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. The light hits the colorful houses beautifully during these times. It is also much quieter than the main castle courtyards. Most of the houses are private residences, so please be respectful. Keep your voice low and do not block doorways while taking photos. There are very few shops here, which adds to the local charm.

If you want to escape the crowds, this is one of the best non-touristy neighborhoods in Prague. There are only a couple of small cafes. You won't find large souvenir shops or tour groups here. It is a place for slow travel and reflection. Bring a camera and a notebook to capture the atmosphere. You will likely want to stay longer than you planned.