“Green Walks” Through Metropolises

In cities, we can look for more than traditional monuments in historical centers or the best cafes from social networks. We can also draw some energy. Let’s go for a “green walk” through Bratislava and Prague.

In Bratislava, we can exchange visiting the castle, the Main Square, or the waterfront at the famous shopping center for a picnic in the park, refreshments in the forest lodge, or barbecue in the city forest park.

According to Hana Kucharovičová from the Bratislava Tourist Board, the Janko Kráľ City Park is the oldest in Central Europe. “You’ll find shade under the chestnut trees, a picnic area, and relax in semicircular seating areas with stone zodiac signs.”  The plane trees remember the times of the monarchy. The park was established during Maria Theresa’s reign. The Gothic tower is one of the park monuments. Once towered over the Franciscan church, it is now an indispensable park arbor. Walking to the Tyršák city beach in the summer, you can admire the so-called UFO of the SNP Bridge. Kucharovičová emphasizes that this part on the other side of the Danube is a green oasis where we can enjoy, for example, coffee while watching the river and floating boats.

“Bratislava has had a Mountain Park for almost 150 years, making it one of the oldest in the capital. The forest lodge is the most popular spot, and it now houses a café and a small zoo. An interesting feature is the historic gazebo, a terrace with a monument to Henry Justi, a former mayor who contributed to this green part of the city. Additionally, the park features 242 steps, which pose a challenge for many runners. You can access the Horský Park Gallery with the works of influential Slovak artists in its exterior all year round.”

Another “green destination” of Bratislava is the City Forest Park. “The Iron Well (Železná studnička) has been popular for over 180 years since there were spas. Today, you can do sports here or just refresh your mind while walking. There are designated places for barbecues or bonfires. You can take the cable car from there to Kamzík.”

Hana Kucharovičová reminds us that Bratislava’s public transport also operates “green routes.” We can also take ecological buses to other free-time areas.

Even in Prague, we do not only have to go to “Staromák” or Charles Bridge. Let’s walk from Letná Park through Chotek Park to Jelenia Trench. Klára Janderová from Prague City Tourism advises. “These places follow each other; you can take a long walk just a short walk from the center of Prague. Letenské sady will enchant you with breathtaking views or an evening concert. Chotek Park is adjacent to the Queen Anne Summer Palace and the Royal Garden at Prague Castle. Such a walk is a cultural-historical experience.”

The summer house is Bohemia’s most perfect expression of the Renaissance style. A bronze singing fountain complements the romantic atmosphere. Klára Janderová invites you to take a cycling route from the summer house to Letenské sady.

During the reign of Přemysl Otakar II, a royal park called Stromovka was established. “It has the potential for picnics near water bodies and under leafy trees. There are public barbecue areas with electric grills.”

Walking on the nature trail, you can get familiar with the tree house. The information panels present the local fauna and flora and the park’s history. It is also worth going there with children. They can hang out on a monkey trail or climbing wall.

The young Count Ján Vojtech of Štenberk once liked local villas on his travels around Italy, so he “transferred” one to Prague. The Troja Castle “is the perfect walk for fans of architecture and art. You can find an exhibition of the art collection that belongs to Prague City Gallery.”

The castle is surrounded by a geometrically landscaped French garden and vineyard orchards. The sculptures of the outer staircase are fascinating. You can see the battle of the Titans with the ancient gods, as well as the allegories of day and night and continents.

Text: Eva Vašková, photos: Bratislava Tourist Board, Prague City Tourism