Letná Park, or Letná Gardens, is one of my favorite spots in Prague. Perched on a hill, it offers stunning views of the Vltava River and the city’s historic skyline. This green oasis is not only a haven for locals but also a must-visit destination for tourists. Whether you’re enjoying the open spaces or exploring its family-friendly facilities, there’s something for everyone here.
People often call Letná Park the ‘lungs of Prague’ because it sits high on a hill, offering a refreshing nature spot above the city. The park boasts lush lawns, towering trees, and excellent playgrounds and sports facilities. Visitors flock here to enjoy breathtaking views of Prague and its bridges.
Why Visit: stroll through the park, unwind amidst its tranquil atmosphere, take in the stunning views of the Vltava River and Prague’s historic districts, and get an up-close look at the iconic Prague Metronome.
Entry Fee: Free.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Location: the park is located in Prague’s Letná district, on a hill next to Prague Castle (see map and directions below).
A bit of history of Letná Gardens
Letná Gardens’s history stretches back centuries. Originally, this area was used for vineyards and pastures. During the 19th century, the space was transformed into a public park, becoming a popular spot for Prague residents. Its elevated location made it an ideal place for relaxation, and over time, Letná evolved into one of the city’s most treasured green spaces. Moreover, the park is home to many unique spots and sites, each offering something special to explore and enjoy.
Kramář’s Villa, the official residence of the Czech Prime Minister, is one of the park’s most remarkable landmarks.
Also in the park, you’ll discover the Hanavský Pavilion, an architectural treasure that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Inside this charming building, a cozy restaurant awaits, offering traditional Czech dishes and, of course, local beer. The pavilion’s intricate design might make you think it’s a temple at first glance. However, be prepared for slightly higher prices at the restaurant than the Prague average: soups begin at 200 CZK (~$8.5 | €8.2Source: currencyrate, (10:05, 23 Jan, 2025)), salads at 280 CZK (~$11.6 | €11.1Source: currencyrate, (10:05, 23 Jan, 2025)), and main courses from 500 CZK onward (~$20.7 | €19.9Source: currencyrate, (10:05, 23 Jan, 2025)).
The pavilion stands at the edge of the hill, offering one of the most breathtaking views of the Vltava River and its bridges. Visitors can unwind, take in the scenery, and enjoy a delicious meal.
From this vantage point, you can take in a sweeping panorama that captures the entire river from bank to bank. It’s no wonder this viewpoint is considered one of the best in Prague.
I’ve even included it in my Top 5 Prague Viewpoints list!
One of the most striking elements of Letná Park’s history is its connection to a massive Stalin monument. In 1955, a colossal granite statue of Joseph Stalin was erected here, standing as a symbol of Soviet influence over Czechoslovakia. However, the statue was removed in 1962 after Stalin’s death and a shift in political attitudes. Today, the site is home to the Prague Metronome, a massive modern art installation that swings above the city as a reminder of the passage of time and the changes in Czech history.
As you continue exploring, the path naturally leads you to the Prague Metronome, one of the park’s most distinctive landmarks.
Today, the area around the metronome acts as a viewing platform where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Prague’s red-tiled rooftops, the flowing Vltava River, and the city’s bridges and embankments. It’s also a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos of the surroundings.
Letenské sady offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Prague. With its tree-lined paths and wide-open spaces, it’s a fantastic place for families to take a break from sightseeing. The park’s gentle hills and scenic trails make it ideal for leisurely walks or cycling. You’ll often see locals enjoying a jog, walking their dogs, or practising yoga in the park’s serene environment.
Why Letná Gardens is Perfect for Families
Letna Park in Prague is an excellent destination for families, offering a blend of open spaces, playgrounds, and family-friendly activities. If you’re travelling with children, you’ll find plenty to keep them entertained.
One of the park’s highlights is its spacious lawns. These are perfect for picnics, games, or simply relaxing in the sun. Parents can unwind while children run freely and enjoy the fresh air. The park is also home to several well-maintained playgrounds, which cater to kids of all ages. Swings, slides, and climbing frames are scattered throughout the park, ensuring hours of fun for little ones.
Mike was so excited to ride the old-style carousels, with their charming vintage designs and nostalgic feel.
A special treat for children (and nostalgic adults) is the historic carousel, built in 1892. This charming ride, one of the oldest in Europe, features beautifully crafted wooden horses covered in real horsehide. Unfortunately, during our visit, the carousel was unavailable. It’s usually a delightful experience for kids and a great photo opportunity for parents.
For those looking for more active pursuits, Letná Park features skateboarding areas, paths for scooters and rollerblading, and even drinking fountains to keep everyone hydrated. If you’re travelling with older children or teenagers, they’ll love the freedom to explore and play in this safe and spacious setting.
And of cause one of the main reasons tourists flock to Letná Park is the spectacular views. From the hilltop, you can see the Vltava River winding through Prague, with its historic bridges connecting the city’s districts. The sight of the iconic Charles Bridge, surrounded by the red-tiled rooftops of the Old Town and the spires of Prague Castle, is unforgettable.
Letná’s viewpoints are especially magical at sunrise or sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light. These panoramic vistas are perfect for family photos or simply soaking in the beauty of Prague.
If you’re hungry after exploring the park, Letná offers several dining options. There are small cafes and stalls scattered throughout the park. They offer snacks like grilled sausages, and rohlíky (traditional bread rolls), fresh corn on the cob, and refreshing drinks — perfect for refuelling before continuing your adventure.
A sausage costs around 80 CZK (~$3.3 | €3.2Source: currencyrate, (10:05, 23 Jan, 2025)), large enough to share, while boiled corn on the cob is 40 CZK (~$1.7 | €1.6Source: currencyrate, (10:05, 23 Jan, 2025)) and grilled chicken steak is 110 CZK (~$4.5 | €4.3Source: currencyrate, (10:05, 23 Jan, 2025)).
My tips for Visiting Letna Park in Prague
- Bring some snacks or pick up local treats from the park’s cafes. Letná’s lawns are perfect for a family picnic.
- The park is large, so you’ll want to explore it all. Comfortable footwear will make your visit more enjoyable.
- The views from Letná are some of the best in Prague, so don’t forget to bring camera and capture the memories.
- Make time to see the historic carousel — it’s a must for kids and a charming experience for adults too.
Is Letná Park Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Letna Park is one of Prague’s most family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re travelling with young children, teenagers, or as a couple, the park has plenty to offer. Its combination of history, nature, and activities makes it a versatile destination that suits all ages.
The park’s location is another advantage. It’s close to Prague Castle and the Old Town, so it’s easy to include in your sightseeing itinerary. You can reach the park by tram, or if you’re up for a bit of exercise, climb the stairs from Čech Bridge for a rewarding view at the top.
Letna Park in Prague on the Map
Letná Park is marked on the map with a green tree icon. The Prague Metronome is marked with an orange triangle containing an exclamation point.
You can zoom in and out of the map or explore other Prague landmarks by clicking on the icons, which will open information about each spot.
How to Get to the Metronome and Park
There are several ways to reach Letenské sady, depending on where you’re starting your journey:
1️⃣ Getting there by tram
Take tram lines No.1, 2, 8, 12, 25, 26, 91, or 96 to Letenské náměstí station. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to the park entrance near the National Technical Museum. This route avoids uphill climbs and allows you to visit the fascinating museum as well. While metro stations are less convenient for reaching Letná Park, trams provide an efficient and comfortable alternative.
2️⃣ Walking Route from Prague Castle to Letna Park through the Royal Garden
Combine your visit to Letná with a tour of Prague Castle. From the Royal Garden (Královská zahrada), head towards Queen Anne’s Summer Palace, then cross a small footbridge connecting the two hills to reach Letná Park. This is one of the most convenient walking routes.
The bridge from the Royal Garden to Letenské sady in Prague.
3️⃣ Stairs from Čech Bridge (Čechův most) to Letná Park
If you’re coming from the Jewish Quarter, head towards the river, cross Čech Bridge, and you’ll find stairs leading up the hill to the metronome. While this route is scenic, it involves a steep climb, so keep that in mind.
