3 Local Favorite Places to Visit in Prague: Náplavka, Troja & Riegrovy Sady
If you’re planning a trip to Prague and want to experience more than just the classic sights, you’re in for a treat. This magical city isn’t only about castles and cobblestones — it’s also full of local hangouts and green escapes that give you a real feel for how Prague lives and breathes.
At Tour Curious, we love sharing spots that locals (read Martina and friends😊) actually enjoy — the places where you can sip wine by the river, picnic with a view of the castle, or wander through peaceful gardens far from the tourist crowds. So if you’re ready to discover Prague like a local, here are three of our favorite places: Náplavka, Troja, and Riegrovy Sady.
1. Náplavka
Náplavka is a lively and picturesque riverside promenade along the Vltava River in Prague’s heart. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this spot is where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the city’s unique charm and beautiful views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River. The Náplavka area is especially popular in the warmer months as a hub for outdoor activities, farmers’ markets, cafes, and floating boat bars.
Did you know?
Náplavka has a counterpart on the opposite side of the river, known as Smíchovská Náplavka, named after the Prague 5 district of Smíchov. This area tends to attract more locals than tourists, offering a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere. You can take the ferry from one side to the other just for 20 CZK about $1.
2. Troja
Located just a short distance from the city center, Troja is a charming and quiet neighborhood in Prague, often overlooked by tourists but loved by locals for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Most people would come here to visit the Prague Zoo. Established in 1931, the zoo is located on a hilltop and offers a unique combination of animal exhibits and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was also named one of the best zoos in Europe!
You can also visit the Troja Chateau (Zámek Troja)– the crown jewel of the area. This Baroque palace, built in the 17th century, has stunning gardens, a picturesque fountain, and an art gallery inside. While in Troja, it’s also worth exploring the chateau gardens – with its meticulously manicured hedges and ornamental fountains, the garden provides a serene place to relax and enjoy nature. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, especially during spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
3. Riegrovy Sady
The green heart of Prague -Riegrovy Sady is a large and popular park located in the Vinohrady district. Known for its expansive green spaces, mature trees, and lively atmosphere, this park offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while providing some of the best panoramic views in all of Prague. Many relax on the lawn, have after-work picnics, or play sports. The park often hosts local cultural events, open-air concerts, and festivals. During summer, you might find outdoor movie screenings or live music performances, adding to the park’s vibrant community feel.
Tour Curious! tip:
Be sure to visit the beer garden PARK Riegrovy Sady, located atop the hill. With a capacity of over 1,000 guests, it’s nestled under chestnut trees and centered around a historic stage that was recently renovated for top-tier audio/visual experiences, and it regularly hosts the best Czech bands.
Final thoughts from Tour Curious!
Whether it’s soaking up the weekend vibes along the Vltava, wandering through vineyard-covered hills, or lounging in the park with a cold beer and castle views, these spots are where real Prague life happens. They may not always make the top of every tourist list, but that’s exactly why we love them.
If you’re curious to explore more of Prague (with locals like me 😊), check out our tours at Tour Curious. We’d love to show you around in a way that feels personal, relaxed, and genuinely local.
See you in Prague! M. 💛
