Hidden in the heart of Prague, Vojan Gardens (Vojanovy Sady) offer a serene escape from the city’s busy streets. Whether you’re visiting with family, looking for a peaceful stroll, or exploring Prague’s history, these gardens provide a unique experience that blends tranquillity, nature, and culture. Let’s take a closer look at why Vojan Gardens should be on your itinerary.
After a day of the crowded city, we decided to relax in the calm and greenery of Prague’s oldest park. Recently, I’ve been inspired to write about the city’s green spaces where we’ve spent so much time. My last article was about beautiful Wallenstein Garden, and this one is about Vojanovy Sady.
Why visit: a peaceful park with history, flowers, and peacocks, tucked away in the city center and mostly unknown to tourists—a real treasure..
Opening hours: Vojan Gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM. From April to September, they close at 7:00 PM; in February, March, October, and November, they close at 5:00 PM; and in December and January, they close at 4:00 PM.
Location: in the Malá Strana district, with an entrance next to the Peeing Men fountain and the Franz Kafka Museum (Find the details and map at the end of this article ↓).
Tickets: free of charge.
Vojanovy Sady: A Glimpse Into History
Vojan Gardens are among Prague’s oldest parks, dating back to the 13th century. Initially part of a bishop’s residence, the land has seen centuries of change. During the Hussite wars, they nearly destroyed the park, but in the 17th century, Ferdinand III revitalised the gardens when he established a monastery for the Discalced Carmelite nuns here.
The nuns played a significant role in transforming the area, planting orchard trees and creating the peaceful green space we see today. They also built baroque structures that still stand, such as the Chapel of St. Elijah and the Chapel of St. Teresa. At the centre is the Church of St. Joseph, known for its stunning 17th-century carved altar and unique sundials.
In 1954, after the monastery was dissolved, the gardens were opened to the public. They were named after Eduard Vojan, a famous actor from Prague’s National Theatre.
Today, the gardens are a blend of history and nature, offering visitors a quiet space to relax while admiring centuries-old architecture.
Peacocks roam freely here, completely at ease around people and even happy to accept treats from visitors. If you’re fortunate, you might witness one proudly displaying its spectacular tail!
We’re lucky, aren’t we?
For even more peacock sightings, consider visiting the nearby Wallenstein Garden. Both parks are free to enter, so the choice is yours. Personally, I find Vojanovy Sady to be more understated compared to Wallenstein Garden, but the peacocks seem to favor this spot. There are more of them here, casually perched in the trees and bushes like hidden treasures—you might not notice them right away!
Vojan Gardens: A Perfect Spot for Families in Prague
One of the most charming aspects of Vojan Gardens is their family-friendly atmosphere. Unlike some of Prague’s busier attractions, the gardens are quiet and uncrowded, making them ideal for children and parents alike.
Kids will love exploring the paths and spotting the peacocks. These majestic birds aren’t shy — they’ll happily walk around. Watching a peacock spread its feathers is always a magical sight and a moment your children won’t forget.
There’s also a small playground, perfect for younger children to burn off some energy. While it’s not the biggest in Prague, it’s a great addition to the park and keeps little ones entertained.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Vojan Gardens are not only a quiet retreat but also a place where history comes to life. They’re perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers who want to experience a different side of Prague. The gardens offer something for everyone, whether it’s history, nature, or a chance to relax away from the city’s noise.
Best of all, entry is free, so you can enjoy this beautiful space without worrying about your budget. It’s also conveniently located in the Malá Strana district, just a short walk from the Kafka Museum and Charles Bridge, making it easy to include in your day’s itinerary.
Tips for Visiting
- Keep your eyes open — peacocks like to hide in the bushes and trees.
- Best time to visit the gardens are spring and summer, when the flowers are in full bloom and the park is at its most vibrant.
- Pair a visit to Vojan Gardens with a walk around Malá Strana or a stop at the nearby Wallenstein Garden, which also features peacocks.
- The peaceful surroundings and ample benches make this a lovely spot for lunch or a snack, so bring a picnic.
Vojan Gardens may not be as famous as some of Prague’s other attractions, but that’s precisely what makes them so special. Their combination of history, natural beauty, and family-friendly vibes creates an experience that’s both relaxing and enriching. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this hidden gem is well worth exploring.
Vojanovy Sady on the Map
I’ve marked the park’s entrance with a green leaf icon on the Prague attractions map. You can zoom in, zoom out, or click on the icons to explore other featured spots.
How to Get to the Gardens
The gardens are located near the Kafka Museum, which I recommend using as a reference point. From there, it’s just a five-minute walk to the entrance, which is on the parallel street, U Lužického semináře.
The closest tram stop and metro station is called Malostranská. Take the green metro line or trams No. 2, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 20, 22, 23, or 97.
Look for a distinctive arch-shaped door in the solid wall — that’s the entrance, and it’s easy to spot.
You can also walk to Vojanovy Sady from Charles Bridge, which takes less than 10 minutes, so public transport isn’t necessary.
