Prague's new riverside beer garden opens for 2022 season

Prague's newest beer garden has just opened for the 2022 summer season, and features some great views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Still something of a secret, check it out over the next few weeks to beat the summer crowds.

Formerly a docking area for pedal boats, zorb balls, and other kitschy tourist attractions, Čapadlo was re-branded as a local-friendly hangout last July and has officially reopened this weekend after closing since last October.

Located on the Vltava river between Prague's Charles Bridge and National Theatre, Čapadlo is accessible from stairs leading down from Smetanovo nábřeží (which is getting its own makeover this summer) as well as a passageway from nearby Divadelní street leading underneath the thoroughfare above.

A bar located in the passageway serves up beer and other refreshments, which can be enjoyed on the waterfront benches and tables by the river. The venue even boasts of authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.

Čapadlo also features a small stage, and live music concerts on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Recreational attractions for kids include a swing and trampoline, with more options planned for the future.

Unlike the popular venues at the Náplavka embankment further up the river, the area around Čapadlo isn't fully built-up: it features additional space and includes trees and greenery leading up from the river. Just watch out for the nutria, which have been known to prowl the area.

The isolated nature of the location also means that it isn't utilized as a running or biking path, unlike Náplavka. It can also be easily missed by passers-by who aren't familiar with the area, meaning it might remain local-friendly despite the city center location.

According to Prague 1 Mayor Petr Hejma, the city plans to maintain Čapadlo as a destination for locals, with cultural events planned for the future. During the winter, while the beer garden was closed, the city operated an ice rink at the location.

"We're glad we got rid of the tourist attractions, zorbing, pedal boats, and other stuff," Hejma stated.

"Unlike in the past, when this place served only as a tourist attraction, we have now managed to return it to the people of Prague. This place should be used for relaxation and meeting one's neighbors."

According to Čapadlo operators, live concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events are currently being prepared for the summer 2022 season. The first event, a Prague 1 neighborhood meetup, is set to take place on May 18.