Straka Academy

Strakova Akademie (Straka Academy), facing the Vltava River at the edge of Letná Park, is one of Prague’s most important political buildings—home to the Office of the Government of the Czech Republic. This elegant Neo-Baroque palace was built between 1891 and 1896 as a residence for impoverished noble students, funded by Count Jan Petr Straka of Nedabylice.

Though the building itself is not usually open to the public, its monumental façade, decorated with ornate gables and sculptures, is worth a stop. The palace is surrounded by a beautifully maintained formal garden, which enhances the serene atmosphere of the site. While public access is limited, the gardens can be glimpsed from the back, offering the best view of the building's full grandeur. On special occasions such as Heritage Days, the palace opens to the public, providing a rare opportunity to step inside.

The surrounding area is ideal for a leisurely riverside walk, offering splendid views of the Prague Castle and Prague’s Old Town, with a particularly striking sight of the Rudolfinum Concert Hall.

💡 Top Tip 💡

Combine your visit with a stroll through Letná Park, located just behind the building, where you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views and see the iconic Metronome standing on the site of a former Stalin monument.

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🍴Where to eat : 

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

 

[$]

- Bagel Lounge (Bagels, sandwiches & coffee in a cozy café) 4.7⭐ 

- Miska Ramen (Japanese ramen & Asian street food) 4.8 ⭐ 

 

[$]

- El Pablo (Steakhouse & European cuisine with cozy ambiance) 4.3⭐ 

- Vojanův dvůr (Historic brewery restaurant with garden) 4.1⭐ 

- Street Burger Bistro (Gourmet burgers & craft beer) 4.7 ⭐ 

- Alebrijes  (Modern Mexican cuisine & cocktails) 4.6⭐ 

[$$]

- SIU Restaurant (Modern European cuisine in a stylish setting) 5.0⭐ 

- Restaurant U Tří Pštrosů (Elegant Czech & international dining in historic setting) 4.0 ⭐ 

 

[$$]

- Brick's  (Modern European cuisine with river views) 4.5⭐

- Kampa Park (Fine dining with river and Charles bridge views and international cuisine) 4.6 ⭐