Once used to cultivate vines for winemaking and for orchard plantings, the terraces that comprise the Fürstenberg Garden are now a city-owned public park. Take a stroll through the pretty gardens, where an astonishing number of plants, including more than 3,500 flowers, 8,500 trees and 2,200 roses, grow.
The garden was originally attached to the adjacent Fürstenberg Palace, which belonged to a Swabian noble family. The gardens were seized during World War II and remained closed to the public until 2008. Join other tourists as well as Prague residents in enjoying a stroll around the garden terraces, which are now open for all to explore.
The gardens attract those who are seeking a little bit of nature in the middle of the city. Amble around the 10 terraces, where many attractive plants and eye-catching flowers grow. The best time to visit is in May, when many of the flowers here are in bloom.
The park is rarely crowded and a serene atmosphere pervades. Bring along a book and find a quiet spot to sit and read, far away from the hubbub of the city streets below.
Follow the central staircase up to the highest terrace to admire fabulous views out over Prague’s skyline. Note that while the higher terraces are open to the public, the lower terraces are part of an adjacent embassy complex and remain off-limits to visitors. Stick around until nightfall during summer, when the park is beautifully illuminated and many say, at its most romantic.
The Fürstenberg Garden is one of several such gardens located on the foot of Castle Hill. Consider combining a trip here with a visit to one of the other gardens, such as the Ledeburg Garden, the Kolovrat Garden or the Pálffy gardens.
The park is open daily from April through to October. Opening times vary from month to month, so check ahead before you visit. There is an admission fee. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a bit of a climb to access the higher terraces.
