Strelecky Island is a picturesque spot located between the two banks of the Vltava River. This cozy corner offers a family escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its tranquil ambiance makes it an ideal destination for families, kids, and tourists looking for a serene spot to unwind. Let’s take a stroll through this oasis from one end to the other.
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The island covers 2.5 hectares, so it takes less than an hour to explore it fully. For a leisurely picnic, you can spend a couple of hours.
Why visit: Archer’s Island is a hidden gem in Prague that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural events.
Recommended age for visiting: from 2 years and older.
Admission: visiting the island is absolutely free, while event prices vary depending on what you decide to attend.
Working hours: from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM from April to October, and from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM from November to March.
Location: in the Malá Strana district (I’ve marked it on the map at the end of the article, along with detailed directions ↓↓↓).
About Strelecky Island: Prague’s Natural Gem
The history of Strelecky Island dates back to the 12th century when it was owned by Czech monarchs. Later, the island was given to craftsmen archers, known as “střelci” in Czech, which is how the island got its name. It was used for archery training and competitions for archers and crossbowmen. Over the centuries, the island’s shape has constantly changed due to the river’s flow and human activity.
Despite its small size, the island has endured many natural changes and frequent flooding, with the most recent flood occurring in 2013. Today, Střelecký Island is a lush park with beautiful alleys, comfortable benches, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Archer’s Island offers the best panorama of the grand National Theatre. From other vantage points, the views of this architectural masterpiece are limited. Here, the building is almost fully visible.
The island’s atmosphere is relaxing, with no sense of the big city. A significant part of the island is a children’s playground with excellent sports equipment and tracks. As usual, we didn’t leave until our kids had tried everything.
We also found a café, but it only served coffee and some snacks. Despite this, it was quite popular. After the café, a few more meters towards the island’s tip led us past meadows with resting people to the end of our walk.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, the island provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets. Its rich history, coupled with its serene environment, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Prague.
Here are some reasons to visit this island:
- Scenic Views: the island offers some of the best panoramic views of Prague. It provides unique photo opportunities and a fresh perspective on the city’s beauty.
- Cultural Events: during the summer months, Archer’s Island hosts various cultural events, including open-air cinema screenings and concert programs. These events add to the island’s charm and provide entertainment for both locals and tourists.
- Accessible Location: the island is easily accessible from the Legion Bridge (Most Legií), which is just a short walk from the city center. Visitors can reach the bridge from either the Malá Strana or Staré Město districts. There is a convenient staircase and an elevator leading down to the island, making it accessible for everyone.
- Free Entry: visiting Strelecky Island is completely free, making it an affordable option for families and budget-conscious travelers. While some events may have entry fees, the island itself is open to the public at no cost.
There are no major buildings on the island, except for the “Cafe Restaurant Střelecky Ostrov” with an upper terrace and swans swimming up to its water’s edge asking for treats. The restaurant offers a buffet with a variety of dishes. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Although one side of the island has a sandy shore reminiscent of a beach, I wouldn’t recommend swimming there. The water is far from clean. However, relaxing in the shade of trees with stunning views is guaranteed.
Why is Archer’s Island the Perfect Place for Kids and Families in Prague?
1. Natural Beauty and Open Spaces
Green lawns, shady trees, and colorful flowers cover the island. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the paths, have a picnic on the grass, or simply relax on the benches while taking in the stunning views of the Vltava River and the surrounding cityscape.
2. Playground Fun
One of the main attractions for children is the large playground on the island. Equipped with excellent sports equipment and various play structures, the playground offers endless fun for kids of all ages. While children explore the playground, parents can relax nearby and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
3. Safe and Relaxing Environment
The island’s atmosphere is calm and secure, making it a perfect spot for families with young children. The absence of cars and the presence of wide open spaces allow kids to run and play freely without worry.
4. Seasonal Beauty
Shooter’s Island is beautiful in every season. In spring, the island bursts into bloom with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. May is the time for the fun student festival Majales. Summer brings warm weather, making it an ideal time for picnics and outdoor activities. In addition, summer is time for an open-air cinema and concert programs. In autumn, the island is adorned with golden leaves, creating a picturesque setting. Even in winter, the island has a serene charm, although it is less lively than in the warmer months.
In conclusion, Strelecky Island is an enchanting oasis that captures the heart of every visitor. Its family-friendly atmosphere, scenic views, and cultural offerings make it a standout attraction in Prague. So, the next time you find yourself in the city, be sure to spend some time on this charming island – you won’t be disappointed!
Archer’s Island on the Map of Prague
The islands and other city parks in Prague are marked on this map with green markers. Archer’s Island is marked with a bow and arrow icon.
You can zoom in and out on the map as needed. By clicking on any marker, you can read a brief description of each Prague kid’s attraction.
How to Get to Strelecky Island
You can access Strelecky Island only from the Legion Bridge (Most Legií). The next bridge after Charles Bridge, it has stairs leading down to the island. There is also an elevator, installed relatively recently, as previously the only option was the stairs.
The bridge can be accessed from either Malá Strana or Staré Město. The nearest stop is Národní divadlo (National Theatre), served by trams No. 2, 18, 22, 23, 41, 93, 97, 98, and 99.
