Why visit secret gardens in Prague?

Prague's gardens are more than just parks. They are outdoor museums of Baroque and Renaissance design. These spaces provide a unique perspective on the city's royal history. You can enjoy intricate statues, fountains, and manicured hedges.

Visiting these spots is a great way to slow down. The city center can feel overwhelming during peak hours. These gardens offer a sanctuary for reflection or a quiet picnic. They are also perfect for couples seeking a romantic setting.

Photographers will love the unique angles of the city. Many terraced gardens offer views you cannot find elsewhere. Most of these sites are easy to reach by foot or tram. They are essential stops for anyone exploring non-touristy neighborhoods in Prague.

12 best secret gardens in Prague to explore

Explore these specific locations to see the best of Prague's greenery. Each garden has its own personality and history. Here are our top picks for your next visit.

• Name: Vrtba Garden (Vrtbovská zahrada) Type: Iconic Baroque sight Why go: It is widely considered the most beautiful Baroque garden in Central Europe. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Malá Strana (Lesser Town). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 130 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Climb to the top terrace for a breathtaking view of St. Nicholas Church.
• Name: Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) Type: Iconic sight Why go: This grand garden features a massive dripstone wall and albino peacocks. Best for: Families and history fans. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro A to Malostranská. Tip: Check the official city tourism portal for summer concert schedules held in the sala terrena.
• Name: Franciscan Garden (Františkánská zahrada) Type: Unique local experience Why go: It is a hidden oasis of roses located right next to the busy Wenceslas Square. Best for: A quick break during shopping. Where: New Town (Nové Město). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro A/B to Můstek. Tip: Enter through the passage from Jungmannovo náměstí for the best reveal.
• Name: Vojan Gardens (Vojanovy sady) Type: Nature/Quiet retreat Why go: It is the oldest partially preserved garden in Prague, dating back to the 13th century. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from Charles Bridge. Tip: Look for the peacocks that roam freely among the fruit trees.
• Name: Kinsky Garden (Kinského zahrada) Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: This large English-style park features a wooden church brought from Ukraine. Best for: Hiking and nature walks. Where: Smíchov, on the southern slope of Petřín Hill. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to Švandovo divadlo. Tip: Follow the paths upward to find a hidden waterfall.
• Name: Grébovka (Havlíčkovy sady) Type: Neighborhood/Vineyard Why go: This neo-Renaissance park includes a working vineyard and an artificial grotto. Best for: Wine lovers and locals. Where: Vinohrady. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to Jana Masaryka. Tip: Visit the wooden wine pavilion for a glass of local Pinot Noir.
• Name: Cernin Palace Garden (Černínská zahrada) Type: Grand/Hidden Why go: It is a massive, formal garden attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Best for: Fans of symmetry and grand architecture. Where: Hradčany. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (open weekends only). Getting there: Tram to Pohořelec. Tip: It is only open in the summer season, so check dates before going.
• Name: Palace Gardens under Prague Castle Type: Museum/Indoor-Outdoor Why go: A complex of five terraced gardens with fountains, galleries, and pavilions. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: These gardens are part of the Prague Castle complex but have a separate entrance.
• Name: Garden on the Ramparts (Zahrada na Valech) Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It offers panoramic views of the city from the castle walls. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Prague Castle. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main castle entrance. Tip: This area is part of the UNESCO heritage site and is beautifully maintained.
• Name: Strahov Monastery Garden Type: Viewpoint/Experience Why go: It provides a stunning view of the city spires and the Petřín Lookout Tower. Best for: Sunset views. Where: Strahov. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to Pohořelec. Tip: Combine this with visiting the Strahov Monastery Library nearby.
• Name: Vratislav Palace Garden Type: Baroque/Hidden Why go: A small, steeply terraced garden that feels like a private sanctuary. Best for: Escaping the crowds. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee usually applies. Getting there: Tram to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: It is often much quieter than the neighboring Vrtba Garden.
• Name: Fürstenberg Garden Type: Terraced/Castle view Why go: This is the easternmost of the palace gardens and features beautiful rose bushes. Best for: Intimate strolls. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 80 CZK. Getting there: Metro A to Malostranská. Tip: It is a great alternative to the busier castle viewpoints.

Tips for finding hidden green spaces in Prague

Most secret gardens in Prague are seasonal. They usually open in April and close in October. During winter, some areas might be locked for safety. Always check the official opening times before your visit.

Prague is a hilly city. Many of these gardens involve steep stairs or uneven paths. Wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the experience. This is especially true if you are visiting the Vysehrad Fortress or Petřín Hill gardens.

Respect the local rules. Most gardens do not allow pets or loud music. They are meant to be places of silence and beauty. If you want a more romantic experience, try the Novy Svet romantic walk which passes near several green spots.