Experience Prague from a new dimension through the Vltava River

Taking a Vltava river cruise could be a great option if you’re looking for a unique way to see the city and experience Prague from a new dimension through the Vltava River.

Regardless of whether you feel like taking lunch, dinner, a lovely view, or perhaps a party, you can choose from a wide variety of Prague cruises on the Vltava river which will take you along the Vltava River. 
We have compiled a list of the best Vltava river cruise to help you get started if you are feeling overwhelmed by the options. Let’s dive in.

Why are rivers in Prague significant? Is Prague on a river?

Is Prague on a river? If you’re vacationing in Prague, you may have an interest in knowing if the city is situated on a river. The river plays a very important role in the everyday life of all citizens of Prague. It is used for business and relaxation and is one of the city’s main attractions. The river also flows past České Budějovice without emptying into any seas. The question now is: “what river is Prague located on?”.

What is the river that runs through Prague?

What is the river in Prague? Flowing through 435 kilometers, the Vltava River is the longest river in the Czech Republic. It flows through the city of Prague and plays a fundamental role in its history. For centuries, it has served as the main route for traders and travelers from Southern and Northern Europe. It was also the main source of water for drinking and irrigation for the early settlers of Prague.

Today, it’s a central element in tourism. Aside from the wonderful views of Prague through its glistening corridors, Vltava River in Prague Czech Republic offers a variety of activities that both locals and tourists enjoy.

Bohemian composer Bedřich Smetana originally named the very famous poem “Dumky” in honor of a Czech village. Later, he gave the name “Vltava” (Vltava), which means “the woman of the Vltava River” in Czech, because it was inspired by his love for his wife, Duska Essová.

Take a Prague Vltava River dinner cruise for a Different Perspective of Prague

There are so many other sites to be enjoyed from the Vltava. So, taking a cruise has become a must-do experience for any tourist in Prague. You can also schedule a lunch cruise on the Vltava River depending on your preference. Vltava River cruises are available throughout the year and some have hourly runs from morning to night. Here are some cruises worth considering:

Join any Vltava River cruise you want with the vast offerings of the oldest and largest boat company in Czech. They offer one-hour cruises, cruises to the Prague Zoo, and trips to Melnik on modern air-conditioned boats or on rustic steamboats.

Magnificent Views of Prague from the Vltava River

The path of The Vltava River through Prague begins near the Nature Park Draháň-Troja and flows south towards Zvolská homole of the Central Bohemian Region. It separates Old Town and New Town in the east from Lesser Town and the Prague Castle in the west. You can enjoy breathtaking views of nature, historic buildings, and ancient architecture as you sail along its waters or walk along its banks.

Charles Bridge over Vltava River

At the heart of Prague is Charles Bridge. This popular tourist attraction connects Old Town and New Town to Lesser Town. You’d often see tourists strolling across the Charles Bridge over the Vltava River and enjoying the panoramic view over the Vltava.

Rudolfinum

Just a few kilometers north of Charles Bridge is the Alšovo Embankment where one of the oldest concert halls in Europe was built in 1884. You’ll see the neo-renaissance Rudolfinum that houses an auditorium and art gallery today. Aside from this majestic building, the embankment also offers a beautiful view of Hradčany.

Čertovka

Somewhere between Manes Bridge and Charles Bridge is an entry to a manmade stream that flows parallel to Vltava and ends right before Legion Bridge. Known as the Devil’s Stream, this waterway was dug to power watermills in medieval times. Take a Vltava River cruise through it to enjoy the sights of Kampa Island, Liechtenstein Palace, and the huge mill wheel of the Grand Priory.

National Theater

Adjacent to Legion Bridge is the home of Czech performing arts, the National Theater. It has been a popular venue for opera, ballet, and theater performances since 1881. The imposing structure can be seen from the Vltava during the day and becomes a stunning illuminated display at night.

Náplavka

One of the liveliest embankments in the Vltava River in Prague Czech Republic, Náplavka offers something for everyone. The riverbank is lined with boat bars, cafés, and clubs for those who love the nightlife. Swans and water taxis delight kids and the young-at-heart. There’s also a farmers market on weekends for foodies and bargain hunters. For sightseers, there are the historical landmarks of a statue on the wall by Rašínovým nábřežím and the Limnigraf na Výtoni. However, the best view is at its north end, where the modern Dancing House of Milunić and Gehry create a stark contrast amidst the Baroque and Gothic cityscape.

Vyšehrad

A rocky promontory above the Vltava River, the Vyšehrad takes you back in time with its historical landmarks. Considered the oldest seat of Czech princes, it houses the Vyšehrad fortress, Gothic Cellar, Staré Purkrabství, and the Vyšehrad cemetery. On a Vltava River cruise, you might see parts of the Ruins of Libuse’s Bath and the medieval watchtower that houses the Vysehrad Gallery.

Žluté lázně

This small embankment in Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic is best enjoyed on foot than on a cruise. Grassy areas and sandy beaches make it perfect for picnics and outdoor fun. There’s a children’s playground and multifunctional sports courts for a variety of activities for the whole family. Water activities, such as rowboats and paddleboards, are also available.

Best Vltava River Cruise

If you’re wondering what to do in Prague, the Vltava river cruise is a must. Cruises can be found at any time of the day or night, and they offer a wide range of itineraries and pricing.

Prague cruise on the Vltava river is a great alternative to walking tours if you want to see the city from a different perspective. Some of Prague’s best Vltava cruises are listed here.

Experience a Vltava River Eco-cruise at Sunset

This Vltava river cruise will allow you to see the historic heart of Prague from the top of a modern boat. Relax with a bottle of superb prosecco and some tasty appetizers while taking in the breathtaking scenery. There are both printed and interactive guides accessible on board in sixteen different languages.

Your ship will pass beneath the famous Charles Bridge. Charles IV commissioned its construction in the mid-14th century, replacing the Judith Bridge in the same location. One architect, Peter Parler,  27 years old, was given sole responsibility for the bridge’s construction. Construction on it ended at the turn of the fifteenth century. Up until the year 1841, this is the only way to get from Prague Castle to the Old Town district of the city.

 It’s hard to overstate the importance of Prague Castle as the city’s most recognizable symbol and cultural landmark. From the ninth century to today, it has played a pivotal role in Czech history. 

Highlights

• Starting at € 20/person
• Enjoy the breathtaking sights of Prague Castle on the Prague Vltava river sightseeing cruise
• You can take pictures of Prague Castle from a unique vantage point, right from the boat’s deck.

• Discover Charles Bridge in a whole new light by exploring.
• Relish some prosecco and nibbles.
• Take in the sights of Prague
• Navigate the Vltava’s tranquil waterways.
• Cancel within 24 hours prior to the event to get a full refund.

What is Included

• It’s a 50 minutes cruise
• The bubbly beverage prosecco
• Light snacks, like a platter of cheeses
• Take in the scenery while you surf the web on the boat’s free wifi.
• A free guidebook translated into sixteen tongues
• Online tutorials for use on one’s smartphone

Memorable Lunch on a Glass-Topped Boat 

Enjoy a buffet meal on a Vltava river cruise through the center of Prague and take in the sights of the city. 

This Prague Vltava river lunch cruise gets you very close to the historic Charles Bridge in Prague which dates all the way back to the fourteenth century. Enjoy a lavish spread prepared by trained chefs while you take in the sights. Beautiful panoramas of the city’s most famous districts and historic sites are also included.

Highlights

• Starting at € 40/head
• Gorgeous panoramas of Prague Castle, the Rudolfinum, and Vysehrad, among other attractions.
• Here you will see the famous Charles Bridge in all its glory.
• A fantastic spread of Czech and international cuisine at the buffet lunch
• Embark to the tunes of the ship’s band
• Just right for tourists checking out Prague
• Excellent for families
• Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will be refunded in full.

What is included

• Lunch and a two-hour cruise down the Vltava River.
• Aperitif
• Six language options for online audio guide and map (Czech, English, Spanish, German, Chinese, and Russian) are available
• There is a paper map translated into 16 tongues.
• On-board live entertainment
• Free Wi-Fi.

Cruise at night for breathtaking views 

The evening Vltava river dinner cruise should begin at the echv Bridge in the city’s historic district. Relax as you float downstream forward toward the popular Charles Bridge. Cruise via Petn Hill, see the old Vysehrad Fort and check out the Rudolfinum, a neo-Renaissance performance venue.

As you cruise by the iconic Dancing House, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Prague Castle and the surrounding area. While sailing, choose from a wide variety of refreshments to complement your deluxe buffet supper.

Highlights

• Starting at € 49 per head.
• Take in the sights of the lit Prague Castle.
• Enjoy a delicious buffet comprising dishes from around the world.
• Soothe your nerves with live music.
• Take in the deck’s plush decor in comfort.
• Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance will be refunded in full.

What is Included

• Evening buffet with a huge variety of Czech and western cuisine
• Music in the flesh
• Welcome beverage
• Paper maps are available in 16 different languages.
• Free Wi-Fi

Evening Sightseeing Cruise (50 Minutes)

During this late afternoon cruise along the Vltava River, you can take in the amazing scenery of one of the globe’s most well-known cities while learning all about its history and culture from an onboard audio guide. The popular Charles Bridge and the iconic Dancing House are two of the most impressive sights in the city.

Highlights

• Starts at € 14 per head
• Start your river cruise in style by boarding a roomy and luxurious boat. 
• Take photos as you sail by the Petn Tower and the ancient Vysehrad fortress.
•  Explore Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the universe, and the stunning Rudolfinum, a neo-Renaissance concert hall.
• Tend to your needs in comfort aboard a boat equipped with air conditioning and a covered sundeck. 
• You can get an onboard hard copy guide in 16 multiple dialects, or listen to an audio commentary in one of 8 diverse languages to understand the highlights along the way.
• The cancellation process is completely free of charge.

What is Included

• Vltava River cruise for 50 minutes
• There is an audio commentary in eight languages.
• Onboard WiFi 
• Printed guides

Vltava River cruise prices

The Vltava River cruise price varies from one individual to another. While an hour long Vltava River cruise will cost an adult 345 CZK, it will only cost 197 CZK for children.

An iconic part of Prague’s landscape

Discover the enchanting beauty of Prague as you cruise along the Vltava River on a memorable boat trip. Admire the 18 bridges that connect the city, offering breathtaking views of historic architecture and the charming banks of the Vltava. Immerse yourself in the melodies that once inspired the renowned Czech composer while you soak in the picturesque landscapes that have captured the hearts of travelers for generations.

We hope that by answering your question of “Is Prague on a river?”. Prague is a wonderful city and the Vltava River is one of its gems.

Indulge in the serene beauty of Prague’s Vltava river with a stay at Anette hotel, offering stunning views and comfortable accommodations for an unforgettable getaway.

Can you swim in the Vltava river?

Swimming in the Vltava river is at your own risk. Most of the river is clean, but the river contains harmful chemicals from industrial and agricultural pollution.

No trip to Prague would ever be complete without a Vltava river cruise or taking a stroll on the river. Make sure to include these activities in your itinerary to experience Prague from a new dimension through the Vltava River.

The town of Český Krumlov, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Bohemian Forest, boasts a rich cultural heritage, as evidenced by its National Theatre and the awe-inspiring St Vitus Church.