Kampa Island
Prague's hidden gem right under your feet, literally

Kampa Island symbolizes much of what I enjoy about Prague. It's the perfect blend of green space, scenic views, hidden character and of course history.

Kampa, as locals call it, rewards you for just showing up.

The Czech folklore character, Vodník, watches over Kampa's canal.

Kampa Island. Will you skip this gem?

Kampa is pretty easy to overlook.

That's because Charles Bridge lurches over the island where it nestles against the Little Quarter (Malá Strana).

So you'd be forgiven if you didn't notice it.

It's easy to get distracted by the beauty of the bridge when walking to and from Old Town.

At the west end, visitors probably see "just another" part of the Little Quarter as they look down from the bridge. Also the Charles Bridge dwarfs Kampa with its great stone arches.

But Kampa should be seen as a destination - not to be missed.

It's easily accessible via stairs from the bridge and only takes 15 minutes to wander and enjoy. Of course, you may find yourself lingering a bit longer.

Charles Bridge spanning Kampa Island

I've always been impressed by how Charles Bridge lumbers over the island. Take a second to get up close - walk underneath and around the support arches.

That's 14th century remarkable ingenuity, still at work today. Wow.

Moreover, check out the view back across the river to Old Town.

While everyone is above you walking back-and-forth over the bridge, Prague has quietly become yours and Kampa is there to explore.

These intimate places are all over Kampa with far fewer people up above.

Just wander around to get inspired. Find the mill wheels and the little brick bridge over the canal. The canal (known as Čertovka) was man-made for the addition of mills in the area. Two of the original mill wheels still exist today.

View to Old Town from Kampa

Here's what you get on Kampa Island...

Here's a quick rundown of Kampa's highlights. Don't blame me if you get distracted by its charm.

Čertovka canal bordering Kampa on the right

Museum Kampa - a smart contemporary museum with rotating exhibitions, outdoor art, waterfront cafe and spectacular views of Charles Bridge and Old Town

Giant Babies (?) - find these enormous statues near the museum to get a sense of thought-provoking, Czech artist David Černý's work

Canal cafes and restaurant - there are a two cafes on the canal side of Kampa - my favorite is the converted mill house, Mlýnská Kavárna. Yes, that's a mill wheel just outside. You can catch a sense of it in my walking video.

Riverbank - the part of Kampa that is most overlooked might be the riverbank just south of the museum. Excellent views toward Charles Bridge and Shooter's Island.

Massive London plane tree - yes, a tree! This beautiful shade tree has been bestowed monument status. You'll see a placard of its special designation. These are throughout the country. <3

Playgrounds - almost any green area in Prague will include a playground. Kampa Island is no different, it's got two! Bring the kids.

Green space - there's a large green open field in the middle of Kampa, perfect for picnics and cartwheels. It's up to you. Don't worry, there are lots of benches throughout the area as well.

Mapping it out for you

I've noted different areas, highlights and businesses on the island. Click on each map point for more details information.

Got a question? I'll try to help - contact me.

Stairs from Charles Bridge to Kampa

Hotels on Kampa

Don't think twice!

Imagine waking up and having Charles Bridge nearly to yourself.

That's what staying on Kampa will do for you. It will not disappoint.

Here are two hotels that offer quiet, comfortable accommodation.

Archibald at the Charles Bridge - you get the total package here... unique rooms, very good restaurant, relaxing interior courtyard and riverside location.
Hotel Kampa Garden - tucked next to the canal, this hotel is known for its low prices and quality rooms.

Looking for more options in this lovely quarter?

The Little Quarter is less crowded and its selection of hotels are independent and unique. More hotels in Malá Strana

Kampa's little surprises await you

Restaurants on Kampa

There are a surprising number of restaurants on Kampa Island. Here are a select few...

Kampa Park Restaurant - one of Prague's fine dining locations, reserve a table in advance for a lovely experience.
At the Golden Scissors (U zlatých nužek) - just steps from the bridge, they offer a decent selection of Czech traditional meals. Sitting outside might be the highlight though.
Archibald Restaurant - sit among the bricked arches inside or if the weather is nice, choose their riverside terrace, both are delicious.

See the map above for more details.