To begin our journey at the most fascinating island, we’ll start right in the heart of Prague near Charles Bridge and gradually head south. From there, we’ll also visit the two northern islands. Let’s embark on this adventure together.
Kampa: Island of Romance and Art
If you only visit one of Prague’s islands, it has to be Kampa. Located near Prague Castle, in the district of Malá Strana, it is separated from the mainland by a branch of the Vltava called Čertovka. You can access it directly from Charles Bridge, and it will not disappoint. The southern part of the island features a large park ideal for relaxation or a picnic with views of Charles Bridge. At the heart of the island, you’ll find Werich Villa, home to a gallery and cultural center dedicated to the famous Czech actor Jan Werich, as well as the Liechtenstein Palace and the Kampa Museum, which showcases modern Central European art.
Cross the small bridge on the island's western side, where you can see the waterwheel of the Velkopřevorský Mill and the statue of Kabourek, a water goblin. From there, you can walk to the nearby Lennon Wall, covered in colorful graffiti and messages of love and freedom—one of Prague’s most famous symbols of resistance against the communist regime.
Střelecký Island: A Peaceful Oasis with a View of Charles Bridge
Just 100 meters south of Kampa, the Legion Bridge begins, leading you to Střelecký Island (Shooter’s Island) in a matter of minutes. This spot offers a serene park surrounded by the waters of the Vltava, along with stunning views of Charles Bridge, the Old Town, and the National Theatre. The island is also a popular venue for concerts, open-air film screenings, and other cultural events.
Why is it called Střelecký (Shooter’s) Island? Because since the 14th century, it served as a training ground for Prague’s archers, honing their skills with bows and crossbows. The island's southern end also features a restaurant and café.
Slovanský Island, Also Known as Žofín: History and Culture
Slovanský Island, also known as Žofín, has been historically tied to Prague’s cultural life. The island’s centerpiece is the Neo-Renaissance Žofín Palace, which hosted notable events such as the 1848 Slavic Congress chaired by František Palacký, a prominent Czech historian, politician, and writer. To this day, it remains a venue for concerts, balls, and other social gatherings.
The island offers a beautiful promenade with breathtaking views of the National Theatre and the New Town’s riverbanks. Weather permitting, you can also rent a paddleboat or a rowboat for a romantic ride on the Vltava.
In the island's southern section, you’ll find the famous Mánes Association of Fine Artists building, constructed a century ago on the site of the former Šítkovské Mills.
Children’s Island: Fun for Families
On the opposite bank of the Vltava lies Children’s Island, which, as the name suggests, is particularly appealing to families with kids. It features a modern playground with climbing frames, swings, and sandpits, making it a recommended spot for family picnics and recreation.
Císařská Louka
Heading further south, past the well-known railway bridge beneath Vyšehrad, you’ll come across Císařská Louka (Imperial Meadow) Island—don’t confuse it with Císařský Island (Imperial Island) in the north of Prague, which we’ll visit later. Císařská Louka offers various sports facilities, a marina, a campsite, and even a restaurant. Interestingly, in 1893, it hosted what is believed to be the very first official football match in the Czech lands.
Rowing Island
Rowing Island, a stone’s throw from Císařská Louka, is dedicated to rowing. It houses clubhouses, boathouses, and other facilities for this sport and serves as the traditional starting point for Prague’s famous rowing race, the Primátorky Regatta.
Štvanice: Island of Sports and Recreation
From the southern islands, we now move northeast from Charles Bridge to Štvanice Island, nestled between the neighborhoods of Karlín and Holešovice. Štvanice is primarily known as a sports and recreation hub, featuring a skatepark, tennis courts, and the Baden Baden public swimming pool. On the island’s western end, you can also see a hydroelectric power station built in 1913.
Thanks to its location near Prague’s city center, Štvanice is an excellent spot for active leisure. It also offers beautiful views of Karlín’s modern architecture and the industrial heritage buildings of Holešovice.
Císařský Island: Gateway to Nature
Císařský Island (Imperial Island), the largest of Prague’s islands, once boasted vibrant social life with parks and excursion restaurants. However, in the 1960s, a wastewater treatment plant was built here, so today, you’re likely to visit the island only while heading from the famous Stromovka Royal Game Reserve to Troja Château or the botanical and zoological gardens.
Romance and Adventure on Prague’s Islands
As you’ve seen, Prague’s islands are a diverse world offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll with views of historic landmarks, a peaceful spot to relax, or an active afternoon filled with sports, the islands on the Vltava have much to offer. They are well worth discovering for yourself.
MyPrague.eu, December 2024
