Zbraslav: Where the Berounka flows into the Vltava – A retreat in the south of Prague

If the hustle and bustle of Old Town Square gets too much for you, there’s a place at the southern end of the city where time seems to slow down a little: Zbraslav (Royal Hall). Here, where the Berounka gently flows into the Vltava, you will find a mixture of royal history, stately architecture and expansive river landscapes.

Zbraslav Castle: Former Royal Monastery

The widely visible Zbraslav Castle It was originally a Cistercian monastery, founded by King Wenceslaus II as a burial place for the Bohemian kings (the Přemyslids). Although the castle is now privately owned and the interior is usually closed to the public, the view from the outside and a stroll through the adjacent parkland are absolutely worthwhile. The Baroque facade and the expansive gardens exude an almost meditative tranquility.

Nature experience: The confluence (Soutok)

The real highlight for nature lovers is the Confluence of Berounka and Vltava. It is a fascinating place to observe the power of water.

Tip: Grab a bike! The cycle path along the Vltava River from Podolí to Zbraslav is one of the most beautiful routes in the city. It’s flat, runs alongside the water the whole time, and offers plenty of opportunities for a short break at one of the local kiosks (stánky).

Place to stop & Local Life

Around the market square in Zbraslav, you’ll find cozy Czech restaurants and pastry shops that offer significantly lower prices than in the city center. Here you’ll meet Prague locals enjoying their weekend.

• Activities: Besides cycling, the area is ideal for long walks along the banks of the Berounka river or a hike up the nearby mountain. Závist, where there was once an important Celtic settlement.

Good to know: Zbraslav is not a place for sightseeing stress. It’s a place for a leisurely breakfast, a bike ride along the river, and the feeling of experiencing Prague completely unfiltered and uncrowded.