About
Lesser Town, known in Czech as Malá Strana, is a district of Prague lying below the castle on the western bank of the Vltava river. Its name reflects its position beneath the Prague Castle hill, and it is one of the city's most distinctive neighborhoods for a walk.
What to expect
The district is charming and baroque in character. Its narrow cobblestone streets wind between palaces, churches and houses, and the setting rewards slow exploration rather than a fixed route. Turning a corner often brings a new view of the castle above or the river below.
- Narrow cobblestone streets, best explored on foot
- Baroque architecture throughout the district
- Beautiful gardens, which add quiet spaces between the streets
- A short walk from the castle and from the river
Why visit
Lesser Town suits a visitor who wants to wander and look closely. It works well for an unhurried afternoon, with time to stop in the gardens and to take in the streetscapes. Because it sits directly beneath the castle, it also makes a natural companion to a visit to the castle grounds, and the two areas are easy to combine in one outing.
If you enjoy old European towns and the feeling of moving through a settled, historic district, Lesser Town offers that experience at a walking pace. Plan a relaxed visit, wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones, and allow time to pause in the gardens.