Little Square & Karlova Street

Malé náměstí (Little Square), tucked behind the Old Town Square, is a charming, slightly quieter corner of Prague’s historic center. Once a medieval market, today it’s lined with pastel façades, arcades, and a mix of cafés and boutiques. At its center stands a Renaissance fountain from the 1560s, once used to supply drinking water to Old Town residents. One standout building is the House U Rotta, with its richly decorated neo-Renaissance façade and historic sgraffito work. Once home to a famous hardware store, it now houses Prague’s Hard Rock Café, blending historical architecture with modern flair.

Leading off from Malé náměstí is Karlova Street (Charles Street), a busy, winding corridor that forms part of the Royal Route, the ceremonial path Bohemian kings took to Prague Castle. While often crowded, the street is a fascinating walk through centuries of architectural styles. Highlights include Baroque and Renaissance façades, hidden courtyards, and original house signs like the House at the Golden Snake, which marked homes before street numbers were introduced. Look up to catch finely detailed stonework, coats of arms, and preserved Gothic elements peeking from behind later renovations.

Further down, on the right-hand side stands St. Clement Church, a historic Baroque church once run by the Jesuits, now serving the Ruthenian Greek Catholic community. Just before Karlova spills out onto Charles Bridge, on the left you’ll find the Colloredo-Mansfeld Palace, a faded Baroque mansion with an original 18th-century ballroom that’s now part of the City Gallery and used for exhibitions.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Despite the bustle, Karlova Street hides peaceful spots—step into a side street like Anenská or Liliová Street to discover quiet courtyards, quirky galleries, or a calm café with a view of church towers above. If you’ve already explored Karlova and are heading from Old Town to Malá Strana, consider using these same side streets as an alternative route. They’re far less crowded and offer a more relaxed, atmospheric walk—especially during peak summer months when Karlova can feel overwhelmingly packed.

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🍴Where to eat : 

(Here are some suggestions. All are within 7 min walking from your current location).

 

[$] 

- Bakeshop Café Bistro (Bakery, café & bistro with fresh pastries) 4.4 ⭐ 

- Coffee & Waffles (All-day breakfast café with sweet & savory waffles) 4.6 ⭐ 

 

[$] 

- Mistral Café (Modern Czech & European cuisine with courtyard seating) 4.5 ⭐ 

- Pasta Fresca (Italian Trattoria) 4.4 ⭐ 

- V Kolkovně (Traditional Czech beer hall & pub) 4.0 ⭐ 

 

[$$] 

- Hard Rock Cafe (American classics & rock ’n’ roll atmosphere) 4.4 ⭐ 

- Brasileiro U Radnice (Brazilian churrasco & steaks) 4.7 ⭐

- Oliva Nera (Elegant Italian dining with seasonal outdoor seating) 4.3 ⭐ 

 

[$$] 

- La Finestra in Cucina (Upscale Italian Dining) 4.6 ⭐ 

- Restaurant 420 (Modern Czech fine dining by Michelin-starred chef) 4.4 ⭐