Why Nový Svět is Prague's Best Kept Secret

Nový Svět translates to "New World" in English. It was originally built in the 14th century for the poor workers of the castle. Today, it is one of the most prestigious and beautiful areas in the city. You will see many hidden spots in Prague, but none are quite like this. The houses are small and charming, often named after gold objects. This was a way for the poor residents to feel more important.

The atmosphere here is very different from the Old Town Square. There are no neon signs or loud souvenir shops. Instead, you will hear the sound of your own footsteps on the stones. Many local artists and writers have lived in these houses over the years. This gives the area a creative and bohemian feel that is hard to find elsewhere. It is a true escape from the modern world.

The district is located just a few minutes from the main castle gates. However, the high walls of the city fortifications hide it from view. You can visit the official city tourism portal for more general information about the Hradčany district. Most people walk right past the entrance without noticing it. This makes it a perfect destination for travelers who want to avoid the typical tourist traps.

10 Must-See Stops in this Nový Svět Prague Hidden Gem Guide

To make the most of your visit, follow this curated list of highlights. These locations offer a mix of history, culture, and relaxation. You can easily see all of these in a single morning or afternoon. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

1. Name: U Raka (At the Crayfish) Type: Sight/Experience Why go: This is the only surviving timbered house in the historic center of Prague. It is incredibly picturesque and houses a cozy hotel and gallery. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Černínská street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Tip: Look for the traditional wooden construction which is rare in this stone-heavy city.
2. Name: Kavárna Nový Svět Type: Activity/Experience Why go: A charming local cafe with a small balcony overlooking the street. It is one of the best hidden cafes in Prague for a quiet coffee. Best for: A relaxing break. Where: Nový Svět 2. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: $5-$10 for coffee and cake. Tip: Try their homemade cakes which change daily.
3. Name: The Golden Pear (U Zlaté hrušky) Type: Sight Why go: A famous historic house with a bright yellow facade. It has been a restaurant for many years and represents the area's colorful history. Best for: Photos. Where: Intersection of Nový Svět and Černínská. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Tip: Notice the golden pear symbol above the door.
4. Name: Loreta Prague Type: Sight/Museum Why go: A stunning Baroque pilgrimage site located just steps away. It features a famous carillon that plays music every hour. Best for: History and religion fans. Where: Loretánské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Around $8-$10. Tip: Visit during the hour to hear the bells play their melody.
5. Name: Černín Palace Gardens Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: These are among the most beautiful secret gardens in Prague. They offer a peaceful retreat with great views of the palace. Best for: A quiet walk. Where: Behind Černín Palace. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (seasonal access). Tip: The gardens are usually open only during the summer months.
6. Name: The Cannonball House Type: Sight Why go: A house that still has a cannonball embedded in its wall from the Prussian siege of 1757. It is a literal piece of history you can touch. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the corner of Kanovnická. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look high up on the wall to find the dark iron ball.
7. Name: Jelení příkop (Deer Moat) Type: Nature/Activity Why go: A deep natural ravine that runs along the north side of Prague Castle. It offers a wild, forested path right in the middle of the city. Best for: Nature walks. Where: Entrance near the Powder Bridge. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check local signs as some sections close for maintenance occasionally.
8. Name: Strahov Monastery Library Type: Museum/Sight Why go: One of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The Baroque halls are filled with ancient books and globes. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Strahov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Around $12. Tip: You cannot walk inside the rooms, but the view from the doorways is spectacular.
9. Name: Petřín Hill Viewpoints Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: Just a short walk away, this hill offers some of the best secret viewpoints in Prague. Best for: Panorama photos. Where: Petřín Hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free (unless using the funicular). Tip: Walk the path toward the Hunger Wall for fewer crowds.
10. Name: The House of the Golden Griffin Type: Sight Why go: Another excellent example of the house-naming tradition. The facade is beautifully preserved and very narrow. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Nový Svět street. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is one of the most romantic hidden places in Prague for a photo.

Planning Your Visit to Prague's New World

Getting to Nový Svět is very easy if you know where to look. The best way is to take Tram 22 to the "Pohořelec" stop. From there, it is a short downhill walk toward the castle area. You will see the large Černín Palace on your left. Look for the small street called Loretánská and turn into the alleys from there. You can find more travel tips on the Visit Czechia website.

The best time to visit is early in the morning. Before 10:00 AM, you will likely have the streets entirely to yourself. This is the best time for photography because the light is soft. Late afternoon is also beautiful as the sun sets behind the hill. The golden hour makes the colorful houses glow with warmth.

Wear comfortable shoes for your visit. The cobblestones are uneven and can be slippery when wet. Most of the attractions in this area are outdoors, so check the weather before you go. Even in winter, the street looks magical when covered in a light layer of snow. It is a year-round destination for those who appreciate quiet beauty.