New World Street, Prague

New World Street (Nový Svět) is one of the most picturesque and romantic streets in Prague. But don't be fooled by the name.

It's not a modern boulevard, nor is it new.

On the contrary, it's a slow-paced throwback to village life - just outside the heart of Prague.

This hidden sight is a mere 250 meters long, which is a 3 minute walk end-to-end. But you may find yourself lingering a bit longer, admiring the little houses.

In the footsteps of Johannes Kepler

At one end of the street you'll find the residence that was once home to Johannes Kepler. At the other is a mammoth, brick fortification wall and a timber framed house that is now a hotel.

The street itself is cobbled, winding and adorned with low houses similar to those seen on Golden Lane at the castle.

It's like a quiet village road that didn't get the memo that Prague is now a bustling capital.

Incredibly, this scene is literally a short walk from the castle's main entrance.

Thankfully, most of the thousands of tourists at the castle never venture to New World Street. That's more opportunity for us to photograph and linger.

Looking down at Novy Svet with Prague Castle in the background

Climb the steps at one end of the street for this view

A little history...

New World Street was originally founded in 1320 and was considered to be outside the city of Hradčany with the castle at its center. The name came from the fact that it was newly inhabited - a little like a suburb 😉

The area was burned in 1420 during the Hussite War and then again during the great fire of 1541 that included much of Malá Strana and Prague Castle.

Later, the street was only inhabited by the poor. Ironically, their addresses were quite deceiving. There's the House at the Golden Ram, the House at the Golden Sun, etc.

The astronomers Johannes Kepler and Tycho Brahe are said to have spent time at the House at the Golden Leg - which is number 76-1 today. They collaborated during a vibrant science and art period under Rudolf II, around 1600.

Imagine what the night skies looked like then!

All alone, and better for it

Like many of our hidden Prague sights, you won't find a lot of tourists here.

This is a small quiet street making it a great place to stroll and admire the buildings. No cheap souvenir shops, cars or anything for that matter - thank goodness.

But there is a delightful, cozy, unassuming cafe here. It's a simple place run by friendly folks that make delicious desserts and excellent coffee. Highly recommended!

If you visiting with children, you'll be surprised to find a small playground hiding behind the ancient wall. This green oasis borders a ravine and makes for a serene spot for families.

Timber framed U Raka Hotel

So, where is this street anyway?

Visiting this street is extra cool, because you can combine it with other interesting destinations.

Connect it to your castle visit. Or, add it to other destinations like Loreta, Petřín or Strahov Monastery.

Even Černín Palace and its free garden is nearby. (This huge 18th century building was once the headquarters for the SS.)

The map below is an overhead view of New World Street (marked in blue). You can see the edge of Prague Castle on the right side.

One of the small buildings on the street

I like to take the tram up to the stop Pohořelec and then walk to New World Street.

The following walking route takes you from the tram stop and includes a few sights as a bonus.

Take any tram 1, 2, 22, 23 or 25 and get off at Pohořelec. If you're coming from the direction of the castle, you'll see the large statue of Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler next to you.

From either direction, you'll need to cross the street and find the corner building with arched hallway.

Walk through the hallway and follow the sidewalk for about 100 metres. Just after the parking lot, turn to the left. Above you on the left will be the impressive Černín Palace. Keep going down the hill and the Church of Our Lady of Loreto will be on your right.

From here, the street is very close. After the Loreta, bear to your left and follow this street down the hill.

At the bottom of the hill, you see that New World Street starts on your right side. You can't miss it.

Before you turn, have a look at the lovely Romantik U Raka Hotel (seen above). If you're looking for a romantic option with rustic charm, book early.

When to Visit New World Street?

This is a public street so it's always open. But, if you visit Prague during the months of April to October, you can combine your walk here with a visit to the castle's Stag Moat.

The Stag Moat (Jelení Příkop) offers a natural, almost hidden entrance to the castle. It's entrance is across the street on the east side of New World.

Cross the street and you'll see a sign on the wall for Jelení Příkop a few metres down on the right. I can't recommend these two components enough!

Take the steps down into the Stag Moat and follow the pathway all the way to the castle. Or, from here you can access all kinds of other paths and sights.

Or, just keep walking straight through the tunnel and all the way down to Malostranská metro station. It's a wonderful walk.

Cafe is waiting just for YOU!

Old video, but my message holds

I can't believe I posted the below video 14 years ago!

Watch, and listen, as I even reference a 'phone booth.' Remember those?

Anyway, I've definitely seen an uptick in visitors to New World Street since this video. But most visitors miss out, which keeps my message alive today 😊

It still surprises me because it literally adds 20-25 minutes to a visit to the castle.

(Just wish I kept posting videos. Live and learn.)