This post is about the beautiful sunrise I saw in Prague, from a lesser-known island in the Vltava river. The nightlife in Prague is amazing. But I found that the mornings are even better. Prague has many buildings made of sandstones which glow golden at the time of sunrise, which is why it’s called the Golden city.
This is not just another post of sunrise in Prague at Charles bridge. If you don’t already know, Charles bridge is the most visited and most touristy place in Prague. Many people recommend visiting here at sunrise. But I went to a totally different place for my sunrise in Prague. Anyway, whatever time you choose to go here, you will surely find the tourist crowds.
Where to see the best sunrise in Prague?
Witnessing the sunrise in Prague was on my list for a very long time. Now the question was where to find the best sunrise in Prague? Where would I get the silence and good views at the same time?
After some searching on google maps, I headed in the direction of a small island that is located in the Vltava river. There are several other high viewing points in Prague but they need some climbing. And as I was a bit short on time, I wanted someplace on the ground nearby the stunning Vltava river. This island seemed perfect.
Detsky Island
Detsky Island is one of the three islands in the Vltava River. It is also known as the Children’s Island, for the fine playground that is located in the centre of the island. This is the smallest island in Prague and houses a garden and several restaurants. It is connected to the mainland by a high arched bridge. So that any boats on the water can easily pass underneath. And it is the perfect place to watch the sunrise in peace.
I found some chairs and tables on the deck, which I believe must belong to one of the restaurants. This morning all of them were closed, so I had this place to myself. The sun rose up from behind the numerous old golden buildings on the horizon. The waters of the Vlatava reflected this shimmering gold in all its glory. Some striking white swans gave me an enquiring look while gliding away on the water.
Biking in Prague
Prague provides a wide variety of transport options like trams. But it also has some fun types like the Segways, the electric scooter by the Hugo bikes, bicycles, etc. The Hugo bike is essentially a cross between a skateboard and a bicycle. It is known as the electric scooter in Prague. The use of these bikes, in the city, had many raised eyebrows among the locals, in the beginning.
Incidentally, my hotel had a free bike service. They provided us with a skateboard bicycle which we could rent for free after signing a small form. All set with this bike I headed over to Detsky island for my sunrise in Prague. My first time on the bike was completely safe and beautiful. I zoomed down the slopes effortlessly. And going up needed minimal efforts as the bike was manual, not electric.
Prague also has the old cobbled stoned footpaths and pathways from the medieval ages. They might seem challenging for bikes but trust me it is a lot of fun.
Sunrise in Prague
The sunrise in Prague is typically around 6.30 am to 7.00 am. A little earlier or a little late as per the changing seasons. I had reached in time for my sunrise in Prague. And the Detsky Island was already sparkling and waiting to amaze me. I still wish for such mornings every day.
Initially, I had some doubts about the skateboard bike and the safety of biking in Prague. But now I can say I am glad that I did it. It was a nice little adventure that is engraved in my heart forever.
Important links
- Related Article: Read about Cesky Krumlov a bohemian town near Prague which is straight out of a fairy tale.
FAQs about Sunrise in Prague
The sunrise in Prague is typically around 6.30 am to 7.00 am. A little earlier or a little late as per the changing seasons.
Detsky island in the river Vltava.