Prague is a city where every corner whispers stories of history, and its breathtaking architecture feels like a gateway to another time, offering endless treasures to discover. While many flock to iconic landmarks like Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, a quiet oasis awaits in the heart of the bustling New Town — the Franciscan Garden.
The Franciscan Garden combines history, natural beauty, and family-friendly features, making it a charming stop for anyone in Prague. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a fun outing with the kids, or a unique spot to unwind between sightseeing, this greeny place won’t disappoint.
Why visit: the garden to offers visitors a chance to relax among rose bushes, sit on shaded benches, and admire the remarkable Church of Our Lady of the Snows.
Admission: there is no admission fee, so it’s a budget-friendly option for anyone exploring Prague.
Opening Hours: the garden welcomes visitors every day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, making it accessible for morning strolls or evening relaxation.
Location: near Wenceslas Square in Prague’s Nové Město district, with entrances through Vodickova Street or the Svetozor Passage (map below ↓ ↓ ↓).
Transport Options: the Václavské náměstí tram stop and Národní třída metro station are both within walking distance.
Accessibility: the garden’s flat paths and central location make it accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities.
A Garden Steeped in History
The Franciscan Garden, or Františkánská zahrada, dates back to the 14th century. Initially, it served as a monastic garden for the Carmelite Order. Monks cultivated fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers here, using the space for both sustenance and reflection.
In 1604, the Franciscan monks took control of the garden and monastery. They followed the simple teachings of St. Francis, and his deeds are remembered at the site with beautiful wrought-iron gates. Over the years, the garden’s design changed to reflect Renaissance style. Today, it is a peaceful green space with neatly kept lawns, trees, and rows of roses.
Adjacent to the garden stands the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, built during the reign of Charles IV. Although the church was never fully completed, it features a stunning Gothic design. It also has strong historical connections to the Roman Empire. Together, the garden and church create a peaceful haven with a deep historical connection.
The church’s name comes from a Roman legend. The story goes that in the 4th century, the Virgin Mary appeared to a Roman trader in a dream. She asked him to build a church where snow would fall the next day. Despite it being summer, the man awoke to find a snow-covered hill and fulfilled her request. Charles IV, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, was inspired by this legend. He brought the name and legacy of Our Lady of the Snows to Prague.
A Garden Full of Surprises
The Franciscan Garden is more than just a green space; it also houses whimsical sculptures and fountains. One notable feature is the statue of the “Boy with a Seashell,” a charming addition that brings joy to children and adults alike. Visitors can also find the intriguing “Dancing Nymphs” sculpture, which locals sometimes call the “Witches.”
This nickname ties to old legends about the area, where villagers once claimed to see flying witches. While few believe in such tales today, Prague still celebrates Walpurgis Night every year from April 30 to May 1. During this lively festival, people dress as witches and sorcerers, creating a magical atmosphere similar to Halloween but with a distinct Czech flair.
So the Franciscan Garden is not just a place for quiet reflection, it’s also an inviting space for families and solo travellers alike. Here are some reasons to add it to your itinerary:
- The garden is shielded from city noise by surrounding buildings, offering a peaceful atmosphere and escape from the bustling streets of Prague.
- With rose bushes, fruit trees, and manicured hedges, the garden is a feast for the eyes in every season.
- It carries centuries of heritage, connecting visitors to Prague’s monastic past and the fascinating story of the nearby Church of Our Lady of the Snows.
- Situated between Wenceslas Square and Jungmannovo Square, the garden is easily accessible and fits seamlessly into a day of sightseeing.
- Visitors can explore the garden without spending a penny, making it a budget-friendly addition to any Prague adventure.
The pathways meander through rose bushes, flowering plants, and fruit trees, offering plenty of shaded spots to sit and unwind. In the warmer months, the fragrance of blooming flowers fills the air, making the experience even more enchanting. Benches throughout the garden invite visitors to pause, whether for a quiet moment alone or a chat with loved ones.
For tourists, the Franciscan Garden offers a unique way to experience Prague’s charm beyond its bustling streets and crowded landmarks. It’s a perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and experience a more personal connection with the city.
The garden’s small size makes it easy to explore without feeling overwhelming. Also, its proximity to other attractions allows you to easily fit it into your itinerary. After exploring the nearby Church of Our Lady of the Snows or shopping along Wenceslas Square, you can step into the garden for a moment of serenity.
What Makes It Family-Friendly?
The Franciscan Garden is an excellent choice for families. Children can play freely while parents relax, making it a stress-free outing. Here’s why families love this spot:
- Children’s Playground.
The playground is thoughtfully designed to cater to kids of all ages, with climbing structures, swings, and more. - Safe and Enclosed.
The garden’s layout ensures a secure environment where children can roam and play under the watchful eyes of their parents. - On-Site Café.
The Garden Coffee Shop (Truhlárna), located next to the playground, allows parents to enjoy refreshments while the kids have fun. - Plenty of Seating
Benches throughout the garden provide comfortable spots for families to relax and take in the scenery. - Educational Value
The proximity to the Church of Our Lady of the Snows offers an opportunity to teach children about Prague’s history and architecture in an engaging setting.
This combination of play and relaxation makes the garden a go-to spot for family outings. It’s a space where kids can climb, swing, and explore while parents relax nearby.
The playground is small, but safe and fun.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Certainly, it’s a pleasant spot for a short stop. The Franciscan Garden offers something for everyone. For history lovers, its connection to the city’s past and its proximity to the Church of Our Lady of the Snows add a fascinating layer to any visit.
For families, the playground and café provide a stress-free way to enjoy quality time together. And for anyone looking for a peaceful refuge, the lush greenery and charming design of the garden make it a perfect retreat.
Whether you are a local looking for a moment of calm or a tourist seeking a break from sightseeing, the Franciscan Garden delivers an experience that is both relaxing and memorable. Its blend of history, nature, and family-friendly features ensures that it leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Franciscan Garden in Prague on the Map
The Franciscan Garden is marked on this Prague map with a green icon and ghost symbol, a nod to its witchy folklore.
The Church of Our Lady of the Snows is accessible from the other side of the garden wall. Visitors need to exit the garden and walk around the church to find the entrance.
How to Get There
You can easily reach the Franciscan Garden from Wenceslas Square by walking through the historic Světozor Passage, which is next to the Lucerna Passage (home to the famous Upside-Down Horse statue).
On your way through Světozor Passage, don’t miss the Ovocný Světozor ice cream café — a great stop with kids!
For those traveling by tram, the Václavské náměstí (Wenceslas Square) stop serves many routes, including No.3, 5, 6, 9, 14, 24, 91, 92, 95, 96, and 98.
If you prefer the metro, take the yellow line to Národní třída. From there, walk through the Quadrio shopping center toward Kafka’s Rotating Head sculpture, then continue along Charvátova Street to the Pasáž TeTa, which leads straight into the garden.
