Kampa Island Things to Do: A Guide to Prague's Little Venice
Kampa Island is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Prague. Often called the "Venice of Prague," this island is separated from the Lesser Town by the narrow Devil’s Stream. It offers a mix of historic charm, modern art, and lush green spaces. You will find many Kampa Island things to do whether you love history or photography. This area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Prague. It is the perfect place to escape the busy city crowds. Let’s explore the best activities and sights on this charming island.
11 Best Kampa Island Things to Do
Kampa Island is packed with unique experiences. You can walk from one end to the other in about fifteen minutes. However, the many sights will keep you busy for hours. Below are the top attractions you should not miss during your visit.
- Best overall: John Lennon Wall
- Best for families: Kampa Park
- Best rainy-day: Kampa Museum
- Best free activity: The Crawling Babies
- Name: John Lennon Wall Type: Experience Why go: It is a symbol of peace and freedom. Since the 1980s, people have filled it with lyrics and graffiti. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Velkopřevorské náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Charles Bridge stairs. Tip: Learn how to find the John Lennon Wall Prague easily to avoid the crowds.
- Name: Kampa Museum Type: Museum Why go: This gallery holds a world-class collection of modern Central European art. The building itself is a restored historic mill. Best for: Art lovers. Where: U Sovových mlýnů 2. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Check Kampa Museum modern art entrance fees for current rates. Getting there: Located on the eastern riverbank of the island. Tip: Don't miss the glass tower for a unique view.
- Name: The Crawling Babies (Miminka) Type: Art Installation Why go: These giant, faceless bronze babies are by famous artist David Černý. They are both weird and fascinating. Best for: Quirky photo opportunities. Where: Outside the Kampa Museum. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: See the crawling babies statues Kampa Island location near the museum entrance. Tip: You can touch and climb on these statues for photos.
- Name: Devil's Stream (Čertovka) Type: Sight Why go: This narrow canal separates the island from the mainland. It creates a romantic, Venice-like atmosphere. Best for: Couples and walkers. Where: Western side of the island. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from several small bridges on the island. Tip: Take a boat tour to see the houses from the water.
- Name: The Grand Priory Mill Type: Historic Sight Why go: This is a massive, well-preserved wooden water wheel. It has been part of the island for centuries. Best for: History fans. Where: Near the Lovers' Bridge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the Lennon Wall toward the canal. Tip: Look for the small statue of a water goblin nearby.
- Name: Kampa Park Type: Nature Why go: It is one of the most beautiful green spaces in Prague. It offers great views of the Vltava River. Best for: Picnics and relaxing. Where: Southern half of the island. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the museum. Tip: Bring a blanket and enjoy the view of the National Theatre.
- Name: The Yellow Penguins Type: Art Installation Why go: A row of 34 glowing yellow penguins stands on a pier. They are made from recycled plastic. Best for: Evening walks. Where: On the river near Kampa Museum. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the river edge behind the museum. Tip: They look best when they light up at night.
- Name: Werich Villa Type: Museum/Culture Why go: This was the home of famous Czech actor Jan Werich. It is now a cultural center and cafe. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: U Sovových mlýnů 7. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the museum. Getting there: Located in the center of the island. Tip: The cafe on the ground floor is excellent.
- Name: The Narrowest Street in Prague Type: Unique Sight Why go: This street is so narrow it needs a traffic light for pedestrians. It leads to a restaurant by the water. Best for: A quick laugh and photo. Where: U Lužického semináře. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just a short walk north from Kampa Island. Tip: Make sure to wait for the green light before entering.
- Name: Lovers' Bridge Type: Sight Why go: A small bridge covered in colorful padlocks. It crosses the Devil's Stream. Best for: Romantic couples. Where: Near the Grand Priory Mill. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Steps away from the Lennon Wall. Tip: Avoid adding new locks to protect the historic structure.
- Name: Charles Bridge Views Type: Viewpoint Why go: The northern tip of Kampa offers a unique angle of the bridge. You can see the statues from below. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Northern end of the island. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk under the Charles Bridge arches. Tip: Check our Charles Bridge statues guide for more details on what you are seeing.
Essential Tips for Your Kampa Island Visit
Planning your Kampa Island things to do is easy with a little preparation. Most of the island is accessible 24 hours a day. However, museums and cafes usually open around 10:00 AM. For more information, you can visit the official Prague tourism portal. This site offers maps and event schedules for the city.
The island is mostly flat and easy to walk. Wear comfortable shoes as some paths use traditional cobblestones. If you want to avoid crowds, visit before 9:00 AM. This is the best time to photograph the Lennon Wall without people. It is also a very safe area for solo travelers.
Budgeting for Kampa is simple because many sights are free. You only need money for museum tickets and food. There are several high-end restaurants and cozy cafes on the island. For the best scenery, look for one of the best viewpoints in Prague located along the riverbank. Always carry a small amount of local currency for small purchases.
Nearby Attractions in Mala Strana
Kampa Island is part of the larger Malá Strana district. Once you finish your Kampa Island things to do, explore the surrounding area. You are just steps away from some of the city's most famous landmarks. The climb to the top of the nearby hill is highly recommended.
You can easily walk to Petrin Hill and funicular from the south end of Kampa. The hill offers amazing views and a beautiful rose garden. It is a great way to see the city from above. The walk takes about ten to fifteen minutes from the park.
The Charles Bridge is also right above you. You can climb the stairs to join the crowds on the bridge. From there, it is a short walk to the Old Town or the Castle. Mala Strana is full of hidden gardens and baroque churches. Take your time to get lost in the side streets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kampa Island free to visit?
Yes, Kampa Island is free to enter and explore. Most of the famous sights like the Lennon Wall, the Crawling Babies, and Kampa Park do not cost anything. You only need to pay if you want to enter the Kampa Museum or Werich Villa.
How do I get to Kampa Island?
The easiest way to reach Kampa Island is by walking across the Charles Bridge. Take the stairs located on the Mala Strana side of the bridge. Alternatively, you can take a tram to the Hellichova stop and walk toward the river.
How much time do I need on Kampa Island?
You should plan to spend at least two to three hours on Kampa Island. This gives you enough time to see the main statues, visit the Lennon Wall, and enjoy a coffee. If you plan to visit the museum, add another hour.
Kampa Island is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Prague. It combines art, history, and nature in one small package. From the colorful Lennon Wall to the peaceful river views, there is something for everyone. Make sure to include these Kampa Island things to do in your next trip. For more inspiration, check out our guide on must-see places in Prague to complete your itinerary. Enjoy your walk through this magical part of the city!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
- National Museum — Major national museum; unverified.
